Willows council opts for minor Year 3 banner updates; staff to work with CGI Communications

The City of Willows City Council reached consensus on Feb. 11 to pursue minimal design changes for Year 3 of a three‑year street banner program run by CGI Communications and to authorize city staff to work with the vendor on final options.

City Manager Martie (staff) summarized the program’s history: CGI installs and maintains banners and solicits sponsorships; the program requires no city funding and was launched after community interest. The program’s theme “Find Your Refuge” and initial designs were developed by the planning commission and earlier councils. Staff said this is the contract’s third and final year and that the program has not delivered strong uptake; staff also flagged limited municipal staffing capacity to manage a more extensive community design process.

Council member Bridal disclosed that her business advertises on the banners and asked whether that created a conflict. City Attorney Walker advised that a conflict depends on whether the council member would experience financial gain or loss from the vote and noted perceived conflicts may also be a consideration; another councilor noted that several polls remain available and that availability reduces concerns about direct competition. “My business does advertise on these banners, and it is a way that we would use to advertise to draw in business,” Bridal said.

Councilors discussed options: (a) staff work with CGI on minor refinements and return a short list of options, (b) create an ad hoc council committee or public committee to design new art, or (c) move the program to a community organization such as the chamber of commerce in future years. Several council members favored option (a), saying the topic ranks low on staff priority and that the city should avoid extensive use of staff time. Council member Busby and Vice Mayor Thomas urged keeping changes small so the banners avoid becoming “white noise.” Staff estimated the typical sponsorship cost and installation for 21 polls to be roughly $16,800 before discounts; CGI’s request for design changes is verbal rather than a contractual requirement.

Council members agreed by consensus on a minimal‑change approach and directed staff to work with CGI Communications on design refinements and return 1–2 final options to the full council. Several councilors suggested exploring whether the Chamber of Commerce or another community group might assume the program after the current contract ends.

Ending: The council’s direction was advisory (consensus) rather than a formal vote; staff will bring final design options back to the council for approval before replacement of the Year 3 banners.