Raymore council considers strict enforcement of election sign regulations

Election Day sign regulations took center stage during the Raymore City Council Work Session on April 21, 2025, as officials grappled with increasing complaints about political signage at polling locations. The discussion highlighted the need for strict enforcement of existing codes to manage the proliferation of signs, particularly those unrelated to the current election.

City staff emphasized the importance of clear communication with candidates regarding the rules governing sign placement. "If we're gonna do it, we gotta do it all the way," a staff member stated, underscoring the commitment to uphold the regulations consistently. The council is considering a proactive approach, notifying potential candidates about the rules and ensuring compliance to avoid the chaos that often accompanies Election Day.

The meeting revealed a significant uptick in complaints about signs, particularly at three polling locations in Raymore. Issues ranged from signs being displayed prematurely to complaints about their size and number. In response to these challenges, the council is weighing three options: maintaining the current lax enforcement, implementing stricter enforcement with advance notice, or amending the code to allow limited signage on Election Day under specific conditions.

One proposed amendment would permit one sign per polling location, provided it is directly related to an issue on the ballot. This approach aims to balance the need for political expression with the desire to maintain order and clarity on Election Day.

As the council deliberates, the outcome of these discussions could reshape how political signage is managed in Raymore, ensuring that the electoral process remains fair and organized. The council is expected to make a decision soon, with the implications of their choice resonating through future elections.