Election signs in all the wrong places

A political signage bylaw introduced by the city earlier this year seems to be causing some confusion for candidates in the municipal election.

While putting up his own signs, city council candidate Doug Maxwell noticed that some of the other candidates were not adhering to the locations and rules for sign placement.

Related: Editorial: Everywhere a sign

“I know that all of us received specific instructions with photos of where signs are allowed,” Maxwell wrote to the Western News. “Why would I, or anyone else, vote for you if you cannot follow the rules before you get elected?”

The bylaw describes both the specific locations where election signs can be placed, how much space can be taken up and other common-sense rules like not being too close to a fire hydrant or interfering with traffic sight lines.

Related: City staff suggest 13 locations for election signs

Laurie Darcus, Penticton’s chief election officer, said the city has received a few complaints about election signs, but candidates have been good about correcting the problems.

Some candidates say they weren’t aware of the bylaw, she said, and in other cases, it may be just over enthusiastic volunteers setting out the signs. If a candidate won’t comply, Darcus said the city will take action.

“We can have our bylaw officers go out and remove them. There is the possibility of fines, but that is a last resort,” Darcus said, adding that if there are safety issues, like blocking a sight line, the city will remove the signs immediately.

Darcus said Penticton isn’t unique in having a political sign bylaw, and the goal is to try to make things fair for everyone.

Both the full political signage bylaw and a tip sheet are available on the City of Penticton’s Elections website.