Chandler council debates proposed rule requiring contact information on temporary signs ahead of November election

Chandler City Council members on July 14 discussed a proposed ordinance that would require contact information on all temporary signs and debated whether the city can regulate sign content without running afoul of the First Amendment.

The issue came up during a study session as council prepared to consider introducing the ordinance at a regular meeting later in the week; staff said final approval could come in August so enforcement could begin before Nov. 4 campaign signs are posted.

Why it matters: Council members said they want a tool to remove anonymous or noncompliant signs quickly before the November election, while the city attorney cautioned that any attempt to regulate sign content or truthfulness raises constitutional and Supreme Court issues that could expose the city to legal challenge.

At the session, Council member Harris said, "Mayor, I would like to go into an executive session to to discuss the legal, concerns of this ordinance." Kelly, the city attorney, told council, "this ordinance does not regulate content of the signs. So it does not address false statements or anything…