Kingman commission tables decision on I‑40 billboards, seeks chamber input before Lamar contracts renew

The Economic Development Advisory Commission voted to table action on the future of two city‑owned billboards on Interstate 40 and seek further input from the Chamber of Commerce before changing existing lease arrangements. Staff briefed the commission that the city has three historic billboards (erected in 1982) and that one sign was removed as part of the I‑11/I‑40 interchange work. The chamber has managed the remaining two signs under agreements dating to the 1980s and contracted advertising management to Lamar. Those Lamar contracts are set to auto‑renew (one in November 2025 and the other in January 2028), and staff said Lamar has proposed extending terms to 20 years or longer. Commissioners and staff discussed options including taking billboard management in‑house, renegotiating Lamar’s terms, leasing advertising space to third parties through an RFP or continuing a partnership with the chamber. Commissioners expressed concern about very long leases and said long‑term contract terms would need strong performance and exit provisions. Action: Commissioners moved and seconded a motion to table the item pending further discussion with the chamber and possibly a special meeting before the November 2025 auto‑renewal window. The motion passed on an affirmative voice vote. Why it matters: The signs have been used historically to promote tourism at the city’s expense on one face and to sell advertising on the other. Staff said the city already absorbs maintenance obligations and will need to identify an appropriate replacement site for the sign removed during interchange construction if the city regains full control of the assets. Next steps: Staff will work with the chamber and Lamar as needed, explore RFP options should the city decide to sell advertising on one face, and may call a special meeting to resolve contract timing before the November auto‑renewal. Commissioners asked staff to ensure the chamber has an opportunity to speak to the commission as part of follow‑up consideration.