A signage by-law for the upcoming municipal election was a topic of discussion at Quinte West Council’s meeting on Wednesday.
Council approved an amended by-law, directing municipal staff to change the Fees & Charges By-law to remove a $250 election sign permit fee and reduce a violation cost to $2,500.
Candidate signs must be placed at least 100 metres apart from a sign for the same candidate, and can only be placed starting from the last day available to register as a candidate.
Under the original by-law, signs in violation could have led to fines of up to $5,000, which a few councilors were opposed to, saying that cost would be an ‘inhibitor’ to people running for election.
The purpose of the Election Sign By-law is to regulate election and third party advertising signs, particularly during municipal elections and by-elections, and also give staff the tools to enforce sign restrictions during provincial and federal elections when and where necessary.
