Residents urge civility over campaign signs as candidates report thefts and targeted messaging

During the public-comment portion of the meeting, several residents complained about the number and content of campaign signs appearing around Fountain Hills and urged elected officials and campaigns to condemn personal attacks.

"There are some particularly obnoxious signs... they focus on gender identity, which has absolutely nothing to do with the ability to do the job," resident Linda Somo said, asking the mayor to disavow such signs that she said "embarrass the entire community." Another resident, Larry Myers, suggested local political clubs should educate their candidates and volunteers about the town’s sign ordinance to reduce enforcement burdens on staff. "Outsiders... they come in and they break the sign ordinance," Myers said.

Multiple speakers raised theft and vandalism concerns: Council candidate Catherine Myrick reported that she and other candidates had large street signs stolen over the prior week, with a combined value she estimated at "almost $300." She urged campaigns and supporters to keep campaigning civilly.

Other comments ranged from broad criticism of the council’s record to direct appeals for candidates and supporters to avoid divisive tactics. One speaker called on the mayor to condemn negative signage; the mayor did not make an on-the-record statement during those comments at the meeting.

The council did not take formal action on signage at the meeting; some members later asked staff to review related procedures and potential agenda items for future meetings.