Editorial: How Many Signs Can One Building Support?

A commercial sign erected in 2009 that many citizens found offensive started an effort to revise Cedar Key`s un-enforced and consequently unenforceable sign ordinance. The draft of the revised ordinance seeks to preserve First Amendment rights of free speech while limiting the clutter of advertising signs. The good news is that much of the forty-four page draft is strike-out of unneeded verbiage in an effort for clarity.

Most people will agree that it is impossible to legislate good taste. However, local standards, such as those defined by a well attended community meeting in 2000, can be given consideration. Maintaining our fishing village atmosphere has economic as well as aesthetic value. Tourists and their dollars come to Cedar Key for our quaint setting. Rampant and garish commercial advertising signs detract from the fishing village atmosphere.

The Chamber of Commerce, and ultimately the City Commission, must grapple with the draft ordinance provided by the City Attorney. Grandfather clauses and free-enterprise cliches will fill the air. Let`s hope that the result will be preservation of the scene and heritage of Cedar Key. Stay tuned.