Council To Consider Relaxing Sign Codes Again

It's time, once again, for the majority-4 to renew their commitment to relaxed Oro Valley sign codes.  They gave their approval to relaxed codes almost 4 years ago.  At that time, their stated reason was to help business during difficult economic times.  Then, each year, they've approved relaxing Oro Valley's sign codes. Thus, you see the permanent addition of those lovely A-frame signs, for example.

The approvals have occurred absent any evidence that these relaxed standards actually result in a discernible boost to business.  In fact, there's ample evidence that the relaxation makes no difference:

• Down Home Delights had a big banner sign on Oracle Road, They still went out of business.  The reason: Average food a high prices.
• "The Loop." had similar signs.   It went bankrupt. The reason:  Average food a high process.
• Then there's the AFrame that promotes cheap copies in front of the UPS store in Rooney Ranch.   Next to it is one from "Uniquely Nails," promoting pricing, specials and "Walk-ins Welcome."  

Generally, a business succeeds because it provides a value to the customer that exceeds the cost to the customer.  Signs that reinforce this "consumer value equation" can help increase customer count.

Town Economic Director Amanda Jacobs will ask the council tomorrow to continue the relaxed standards for a period covering the next 2 years.  It is regular item 7 on the council's agenda.  According to her:  53 businesses currently use A-Frames;  2 non profits use A-Frames and  21 businesses use outdoor displays.  She further writes:

"Staff recommends the temporary use of A-frames, non-profit signs and outdoor displays be extended for two years until February 1, 2016, due to the economy continuing to recover. The two year extension shows commitment to the business community and allows them to feel confident in their investment to pay for temporary signage."

One of our reader's questions the wisdom of continue the extension, asserting that:

• The economy has shown considerable recovery since the temporary sign program was put in place;
• At most, the council should consider only a 1 year extension;  and
• There is no evidence that the signage makes a difference.

In her request Development Director Jacobs does not engage in any discussion of the existing sign code.  We wonder is she know why the town does not permit A-Frames in its code?  We surmise that she was told to submit the request for extension and that she did so without investigation or question.  

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