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Council approves small consultant study of billboard sites; some councilmembers voice aesthetic concerns
Summary
Council authorized up to roughly $9,070 to engage a consultant to study the viability and economics of up to three billboard sites on or adjacent to city property along I‑5. The motion passed 4–1 after debate about community aesthetics, homelessness near freeway ramps and projected revenue.
Council approved, by a 4–1 vote, a not‑to‑exceed study with Terra Realtor Advisors to analyze three potential outdoor advertising (billboard) sites on city‑controlled properties along Interstate‑5 and other freeway locations. Members and some public speakers noted revenue potential (one existing sign generates roughly $140,000/year for the city) but raised concerns about visual impacts and whether advertising would be appropriate near freeway encampments.
Councilmember Ben Martinez framed the item as revenue generation that could be done at near no up‑front cost to the city (advertiser pays structure costs) and sought council direction to spend a small amount on feasibility. The motion passed and staff said the consultant will return with initial findings; if the sites are viable, an RFP process would follow and the city would retain final approval of sign content and restrictions.
Action taken: approve consultant study (up to approx. $9,070) to evaluate the sites and return with findings. Vote: 4 in favor, 1 opposed.
Speakers included private citizens who opposed further billboards and councilmembers who supported further study.
