[Mpls] Lawn Signs

[David Brauer]

On Nov 19, 2004, at 11:32 AM, Dean Carlson wrote:

> The recent SW Journal had an article stating that we have to remove =
our
> political lawn signs by November 12.  (Sorry no link, David?)
>
> I think this law is blatently unconstitutional.  I as  U.S. Citizen=20
> have the
> right to free speech, meaning I can put a sign in my yard stating what=20=

> I
> believe (as long as it isn't obscene).
>
Sorry about the lack of link; we're working on it. The full version is=20=

below.

I think one distinction that's made is that the ordinance only covers=20
campaign-related signs. Broader advocacy might be OK. Also, you could=20
argue that once Wellstone died, his signs weren't campaign related.

Anyway, the item:

Sign off

If you put up a lawn sign for this year=92s election, you=92re a fine,=20=

civic-minded citizen.

If the sign=92s still up, you=92re a scofflaw.

The city=92s sign ordinance requires that campaign-related lawn signs be=20=

taken down within 10 days after the election =97 Nov. 12 this year.

The city does not actively seek out offenders, relying on citizens=92=20
consciences. Since you=92re a civic-minded person, that should be =
enough,=20
right?

Anyone who can=92t work out a sign problem with a neighbor should call=20=

the city Inspections Department, 673-5812; ask for Ann. But do try to=20
work it out before soaking up inspectors=92 time.

David Brauer
Kingfield
Editor, SW Journal=