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Hammond council introduces 180‑day moratorium on new billboards to study sign rules
Summary
Councilwoman Gonzales introduced a temporary 180‑day moratorium on off‑premises signs and billboards, citing complaints about density and gaps in the city's Unified Development Code; the council voted to introduce the ordinance for later public hearing.
The Hammond City Council on Jan. 28 voted to introduce an ordinance establishing a temporary 180‑day moratorium on acceptance and processing of permits for off‑premises signs and billboards within the city.
Councilwoman Gonzales, who introduced the measure, said she received complaints about recently placed billboards and believes the Unified Development Code (UDC) lacks adequate controls on billboard density and the approval process. She asked planning staff to provide at least two example ordinances from other jurisdictions so the council can consider updates to Hammond’s UDC.
“I looked at the UDC. I think that it is lacking in controlling density and I have some questions about the approval process,” Gonzales said. “I have prepared this moratorium to give us about six months to come up with the best practices and best changes in the UDC.” She also said a prior moratorium on new billboards had been ended when the UDC was adopted, and the proposed temporary moratorium would allow staff and council time to research alternatives.
The council voted to introduce the ordinance; a motion to introduce passed by recorded voice vote with council members noting “Aye.” The introduction triggers a public notice and a fuller hearing at the next council meeting, at which the council will accept public comment and consider final action.
