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Resident says temporary yard signs block sight lines at Indiana and Jefferson; council to review sign ordinance
Summary
Resident Eric Anderson told the council June 22 that temporary yard signs placed in a planter at Indiana Street and East Jefferson reduce visibility and create a crash risk for drivers in smaller cars; council members agreed to review the sign ordinance and enforcement options.
A Plymouth resident told the Common Council on June 22 that temporary yard signs placed in a planter at the intersection of Indiana Street and East Jefferson are blocking motorists' sight lines and creating a safety hazard.
"My name is Eric Anderson, 401 East Carol," Anderson said. He described vehicles' sight lines being blocked by signs and the marquee for a nearby restaurant, saying he often has to inch into traffic because he cannot see oncoming cars. "I'm too damn old. Take another rock," he said, emphasizing frustration at limited visibility.
Council member Linda introduced the concern after a constituent brought it to her attention and presented photos taken by Lynn, the city treasurer. Members noted that temporary signs are widespread in District 4 and discussed the possibility of reissuing guidance about sign placement and examining ordinance amendments.
Officials cautioned that sign regulation implicates First Amendment protections and said the city must balance free-speech limits against pedestrian and driver safety. Councilwoman Star said staff will look into the existing ordinance and consider potential amendments aimed at protecting traveling spaces without running afoul of constitutional law.
Action and next steps: staff will investigate whether signs in the planter violate current regulations, document the problem at the intersection, and report back to council with enforcement options or recommended ordinance amendments.
