I. RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt the updated Community Pride Sign Policy establishing guidelines and procedures for use of the City’s electronic reader board at its new location.
II. BACKGROUND:
The City of Coalinga maintains an electronic reader board intended to communicate important information, promote community events, and enhance public awareness. The City previously adopted a Community Pride Sign Policy to regulate use of the sign and establish eligibility, priorities, and content standards.
Due to the relocation of the electronic reader board, staff has updated the existing policy to reflect the new location and ensure continued clarity and consistency in how the sign is managed and utilized.
Additionally, the City Council previously adopted a fee structure for for-profit businesses to utilize the sign, ensuring cost recovery for staff time, processing, and maintenance.
III. DISCUSSION:
The updated Community Pride Sign Policy maintains the existing framework for use of the City’s electronic reader board, including eligibility criteria, content limitations, scheduling procedures, and prioritization of messages, while incorporating updates related to the sign’s new location. For-profit businesses are required to submit an application and pay an established fee consisting of a $25 application/setup fee and a $100 monthly subscription, while not-for-profit organizations and special districts remain exempt from fees when meeting policy guidelines. The policy continues to affirm the City’s authority to manage and prioritize messaging and supports the Council’s public engagement goals by providing a consistent and transparent process for community communication.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
Do not adopt the updated policy: The City would continue operating under an outdated policy that does not reflect the current sign location.
Direct staff to revise the policy: Council may request additional modifications prior to adoption.
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
There is no direct fiscal impact associated with adoption of this updated policy. The City will continue to recover costs associated with administration of the program through fees charged to for-profit businesses, including a $25 application/setup fee and a $100 monthly subscription. | | |