Fight Over Roseville Sidewalk Signs Pits Promotion Against Vanity
ROSEVILLE (CBS13) — A fight over sidewalk signs in Roseville is getting heated after a recent ordinance expired.
Businesses say they need them, but residents say they're a pain.
A sign is critical to Elite Athletics and Fitness. Tucked in the back of a complex off Industrial Avenue in Roseville, the company says the sign captures attention and brings in business.
"Just recently over the last few weeks since they've been up with had more walking traffic than we've ever had," said Michael Parker
But now Roseville leaders are looking at ways to regulate these kinds of signs, even going as far as imposing fines or confiscating them. Some council members say the A-frame signs can be a safety issue in the way of walkers like this one in the middle of a sidewalk, and in other areas, a distraction for drivers."
Some council members say they've received a lot of complaints. A recent online survey showed more than 50 percent of Roseville residence viewed the signs in a negative light.
Elite fitness's Parker recommended some A-frame guidelines at a recent council meeting.
"Make it an aesthetic restriction they have to be modern, clean," he said.
He says he understands the frustration—he's seen signs that are inappropriately placed and maintained—but he doesn't think responsible businesses should be punished by restricting the signs altogether.
"To eliminate the ability of a business to market especially one like ours where we're off the beaten path by not having temporary signage, I don't think that benefits anybody," he said.
The signs can stay until recommendations from staff are presented to the City Council in June.