NRH Set to Cut Down Another Sign!

by Ron West

        This small business is the latest victim of the heavy hand of NRH City Government.  After continued harassment from city code enforcement personnel, she finally signed a document similar to the one signed by Mobley's Car Wash, giving her sign to the city - without the remuneration required by State Law.  The choice was to allow the city to remove this objectionable (in the city's opinion) sign or face daily citations that carry $250 each fines.

        State law allows cities to regulate signage in the city but it is supposed to comply with the law that grants such authority.  In the case of NRH, the current sign ordinance is illegal and does not comply with state law.  Owners of signs that any city requires removal of, are entitled - under state law - to payment for the sign based on very specific appraisal guidelines.  The city of NRH is supposed to have a special board that determines the value - but - NRH has no such board.

        To make the situation worse, payment for cutting down the sign - after city coercion - is made with your tax dollars - supposedly from the huge slush fund under the control of City Manager Cunningham.

        Please note that whether you like or despise pole signs is not the issue.  The issue is whether we should live in a city that is unfriendly to small business and operates outside the law.  If such signs are to be removed, then I believe it is incumbent upon our city government to operate within the law - despite the fact that they can run over anyone.  With a city attorney that benefits personally from every lawsuit, why fear any small business person.  With the deep pockets of the city, they can make fighting back so costly that most folks have to give in.

        If you live in NRH, maybe it is time to give your favorite council person or the Mayor a call.  They need to know if you oppose or support such heavy handed treatment of our businesses and their continued operations outside state law.