Two Proposals: Put Residents First, Fix the Political Sign Mess

By Solange Whitehead

Monday, I will propose restoring public comment to the beginning of Council meetings.

The Council’s decision to move citizen comments to the end of meetings effectively silenced everyday residents. Listening to the community is free, vital, and helps catch problems early—before they become costly.

I will also propose a council meeting item to establish voluntary campaign sign guidelines. The proliferation of political signs has reached a tipping point, undermining Scottsdale’s tourism appeal and the community’s sense of wellness. While state law severely restricts local authority on these signs, Scottsdale can do better.  My goal is to review the following:

1. Expanded No-Sign Zones

• Issue: State law allows narrow sign-free tourist zones.
• Solution: Expand corridors, such as along the greenbelt, as designated voluntary sign-free zones.

2. Density Caps per Square Mile

• Issue: State law does not limit sign volume, leading to rows of identical signs cluttering single intersections.
• Solution: Limit the number of signs per square mile per candidate or PAC and at intersections.  This will reduce clutter and improve visibility for drivers and pedestrians

3. Size and Height Limitations

• Issue: Current laws allow signs up to 16 square feet in neighborhoods and 32 square feet in commercial zones and no installation height restrictions.
• Solution: Adopt voluntary reduced sign size and height caps.

4. Driver Visibility

• Issue: Poorly placed signs and bad installations create immediate safety hazards for motorists and pedestrians.
• Solution: Establish explicit placement rules and strict maintenance requirements and immediately remove signs that block driver sightlines—exercising legal authority to protect public safety.

5. Sign Removal & Accountability

• Issue: Abandoned campaign signs create cleanup costs for Scottsdale taxpayers.
• Solution: Support statewide legislation allowing cities to fine campaigns for failing to remove signs.

With broad community support for both, this is an opportunity for Council to unite and deliver.