The City of Kirkland should enact more stringent signage rules in public places.

Currently Kit’s Cameras has peppered Kirkland with brightly colored “Going out of business” signs. Recently, several Redmond builders placed dozens of signs along Northeast 85th and surrounding roads. Other temporary commercial signs abound. Real estate signs proliferate on every corner. Open house signs block sidewalks.

I think temporary commercial signs are unsightly and should be banned. Businesses should not be allowed to use our public roadways for free advertising.

In addition, I think that citizens should be allowed to remove illegal signs and either dispose of them, or bring them to a designated location. The city does not have the resources to remove every sign. Like graffiti, the quicker the signs are removed the better.

Scottsdale Arizona has long been a leader in “minimizing visual blight.” Temporary commercial signs are not allowed. Campaign and other temporary non-commercial signs must meet stringent regulations. For example, they may only be displayed on private property and are limited to 120 days. http://www.scottsdaleaz.gov/bldgresources/counterresources/signpermitpacket/CampaignSigns.asp

Off property real estate “for sale” signs are not allowed. Open house signs may not be placed within a median or island, on a sidewalk, in landscaped areas located between the sidewalk and street, or within 15 feet of the street pavement edge.

Human billboards are banned.

Scottsdale’s ordinances have been in effect for many years, and should serve as legal precedent for similar ordinances in Kirkland.

I strongly urge Kirkland to adopt stricter public signage and advertising rules like Scottsdale’s to help make our city a more pleasant and attractive place to live.

Karen Story, Kirkland