City Council reviews revised sign ordinance for public safety and clarity

The Skowhegan Town Council convened on January 21, 2025, to discuss significant updates to the local sign ordinance, aiming to simplify regulations while ensuring compliance with state laws. The proposed changes focus on defining the requirements for permits, particularly for larger and illuminated signs, which have raised concerns regarding public safety and visibility.

During the meeting, council members reviewed a revised version of the sign ordinance, which they described as "stripped down" to its essential elements. The intent is to create a straightforward framework that aligns with state statutes while allowing local flexibility. A key point of discussion was the size threshold for signs requiring permits, with suggestions made to set a limit at 3 by 5 feet to enhance public safety.

The council also addressed the definitions of illuminated signs, emphasizing the need to clarify whether this includes signs with external lighting, internal illumination, or digital displays. Members expressed a desire to prevent overly bright signage that could distract drivers or pedestrians, highlighting the importance of regulating light intensity.

Further discussions touched on the size of signs in relation to the properties they serve, particularly for larger businesses. The council acknowledged that while state regulations already govern billboard sizes, local considerations for on-premises signage should also reflect the scale of the business and its location.

The ordinance will be revisited in future meetings, allowing for further refinement based on feedback and additional insights. The council's proactive approach aims to balance the interests of local businesses with community safety and aesthetic considerations, ensuring that Skowhegan's signage regulations are both practical and effective.