Amador County – Jackson City Council voted 4-1 Monday to approve a second reading of a new city sign ordinance, which will become effective in 30 days.

The ordinance addressed nonconforming signs, saying “all permanent signs which existed prior to the effective date” and “which do not meet the requirements” of the code “will be considered nonconforming,” and they “may be altered, converted, or changed as long as” the cost to change it “does not exceed 50 percent of the replacement cost of the sign.” Nonconforming signs that are damaged beyond the owner’s control may also be restored.

The ordinance prohibits signs that flash, have changeable copy or electronic display screens, “except for prices of fuel on appropriate fuel station signs, and electronic message centers.” It also prohibits animated signs, including “spinners, balloons, inflatable sings and search lights, except for signs that give public service information such as date, temperature and weather, and barber poles.

Any new signs must “be compatible with the Mother Lode architecture and typography consistent with the historic nature of the city,” the “examples of which are available form the city’s Planning Department.” Signs also must meet requirements including size limits on signs base on road frontage and its footage.

Vehicle-mounted signs are prohibited from being placed or erected in the bed of a truck or on the deck of a trailer or a truck,” except for special events, such as a “parade, circus, fair, carnival or festival.” Banners are also prohibited from being mounted on vehicles.

In the public hearing, the only comment was from Thornton Consolo, who asked if there was any news on election sign enforcement. City Planner Susan Peters said any political signs left out for more than 48 hours will be asked to be removed, but there’s only so much that staff can do. Peters said she would discuss the sign ordinance with sign makers.

The council passed the second reading of the ordinance on a 4-1 vote, with Councilwoman Marilyn Lewis dissenting. Lewis said later that she voted against it because the ordinance obviously has become directed at Merzlak Signs. Lewis said considering the economy, the city should not do anything to adversely affect businesses.

Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.