Bill Type and Number: Ordinance 2005-718

Sponsor: Council Member Shad

Date of Introduction: June 14, 2005

Date of Analysis: June 17, 2005

Type of Action: Amending Sections 326.103 and 656.1303 - Signs

Bill Summary: The bill amends Section 326.103 (Exemptions) to add "signs on JTA bus shelters" to those signs being exempted from the conditions, requirements, and regulations of the ordinance on signs and outdoor display structures. Also, Section 656.1303 (Zoning limitations on signs) adds "signs on bus shelters" to the class of signs having special exemptions.

Background Information: In 1958, the pre-consolidated City of Jacksonville entered into a perpetual agreement with Atlas Advertisers and Jacksonville Jaycees allowing them to install bus benches at City bus stops and sell advertising on the benches. The agreement did not give the City the right to terminate or renegotiate the contract, nor receive any revenue from the advertising. In 1989, bus bench advertising was removed in all areas outside of the pre-consolidation city limits when the City Council declined to renew a similar agreement with Atlas that did not containing the automatic renewal provision.

A 1985 Jacksonville Community Council, Inc. study on visual pollution recommended the elimination of bus bench advertising throughout the City. On the other hand, some cities in the United States have developed "Adopt A Bus Stop" programs that allow the adopting organization to place tasteful advertising or murals at bus stops and shelters. Others allow posters by sponsors at bus stops and shelters.

Currently, Section 326.103 (Exemptions) exempts 15 classes generally based on a certain size, type, and/or location of the sign along with certain signs at athletic fields. Section 656.1303 (Zoning limitations on signs) exempts only signs related to governmental functions and those of sponsors of signs at school and amateur athletic association sports fields (size, location, number, and colors are regulated).

Policy Impact Area: Bus stop Advertising

Fiscal Impact: Undetermined

Analyst: Weiss