Signage Ordinance Modification Passes First Reading in Council

Tuesday saw the first reading of a modification to the county’s sign ordinance limiting the size and spacing of billboards along the roadways.The ordinance had originated months ago when District 3’s Paul Cain proposed new restrictions and a moratorium on new billboards in the interest, Cain said, of preserving Oconee County’s scenic beauty. Last night District 5’s Glenn Hart claimed such restrictions violate the First Amendment protections on free speech. The ordinance passed 4-1 on first reading, with Hart casting the dissenting vote.