Election Signs

[-fluffy-]

If this was done without the proper chain-of-command process that's one thing, it is obviously a thing of convenience for the candidates, but from the point of view of that a sign on private property being more meaningful than a sign placed without anyone's permission, then it sort of cheapens the whole election process.

I suppose that openly supporting any candidate by placing a sign on your own property could be an invitation for vandalism, that's something to consider, but I see the whole political process in Canada as losing meaning over the last few decades. Putting candidates in a position where they had to put some effort into seeking support from individuals might just be a step in a direction that could bring some integrity back into the game.

[twobits]

Who here thinks, that if the general public were aware that election signs were only permitted on private property, would want those seeking office to comply? Would there be opposition from the public should a change in the bylaw be attempted?

This so called "relaxation" makes no sense whatsoever. Why would you even bother to have a section specific to election signs if you are just going to "relax" it?

[glassmaster]

Way too many signs this year. The signs tell you nothing about the candidate other than their name. I understand that they are used as a 'marketing tool' ... but think that restrictions on the placement, size and number of signs should be enforced. The electorate would be better served by knowing more about the candidate than their name. If they were not able to cover the city in signs ... it might force them to be clear on 'who they are' and 'where they stand on issues'. The signs help the voter remember their name ... but it certainly doesn't tell us anything about their vision for the community. I would like to see the bylaw on signage enforced.

[twobits]

Apparently I am not too alone in my thinking here. Was looking over some of the past polls here on Castanet and found this one.

November 16, 2011 - 1998 votes
Is it time city's across the province got tough on election signs and banned them from public property?
Yes: 1883
No: 115


Note to Jo- A more obvious location or link to polls might increase participation. Pretty please. :127: