Council adopts revised sign code after narrow vote; portable sign amendment fails

On Dec. 2 the Council completed second reading of updates to the City’s sign code (Council Bill 928). The revisions update rules for commercial and temporary signage, clarify zoning references and address enforceability concerns raised since the U.S. Supreme Court rulings affecting sign regulation.

Councilmember Honda proposed a targeted amendment to allow portable signs in rights‑of‑way while a business is open (the amendment would have permitted A‑frames during that business’s posted hours). In debate Honda and others argued the change would better reflect local business operations (many merchants open before 9 a.m.), while staff and legal counsel warned that code‑enforcement staffing hours and the distinction between private property and rights‑of‑way create enforcement challenges.

The amendment failed on a roll call (recorded vote). The main ordinance then passed on second reading with recorded votes. City staff noted that Title 19 code changes require environmental review and publicity if the council makes substantial changes in future; the council indicated it could revisit narrow parts of the code through committee and public process in 2026 if members wish.

Councilmembers emphasized that the new code replaces an unenforceable prior provision and provides staff with an enforceable framework; they also noted that targeted adjustments remain possible without redoing the full code if the council follows the proper public‑hearing and environmental review steps.

Vote: The amendment allowing A‑frames during a business’s hours failed in roll call; the main sign‑code ordinance passed on second reading (recorded vote: 5–2).