Council considers ordinance to allow limited billboards; debate centers on lighting and outreach

City staff presented a proposed amendment to Pasco Municipal Code on Sept. 23 that would permit off-site billboards in specific zoning districts under a regulated framework. The draft ordinance, prepared after multiple workshops, would limit sign face size to 250 square feet, require a minimum of 500 feet between billboard structures and cap the citywide number of billboard sign structures to 25.

Mister Gonzales said the draft clarifies permitted and prohibited areas on an updated map and includes language about a downtown overlay that would further limit placement. He said the applicant provided lighting standards that staff considers consistent with national best practices; those standards include automatic dimming tied to ambient light.

Councilmembers asked staff about visual- and light-pollution studies and whether aesthetic impacts had been independently reviewed. Staff said the applicant provided lighting-control standards and that staff has not conducted a separate aesthetics study; council discussed whether to continue the matter to the Planning Commission or hearing examiner for additional review. Councilmember Blaisdell and others expressed support for the changes while preserving the option for a public hearing if community concerns warrant it.

John Layman, representing Meadow Outdoor (the applicant), told the council the ordinance would create advertising space that could benefit small businesses and offered one city-available message slot on digital boards for public safety or events. Several council members expressed willingness to proceed but noted that additional public outreach or a hearing could be directed by council if members or the community request it.

Ending: The draft ordinance will remain before council for further consideration; staff said it can be routed through the planning process or hearing examiner upon council direction, and no ordinance adoption occurred at the workshop.