Amazing to think, isn't it, that this billboard is the hottest political issue in Vancouver. Not homelessness, the rampant use of crystal meth, or the fact that for a decade a man systematically stalked and killed dozens of hookers and he may yet go free.
This billboard was an especial enemy of one Anne Roberts, who served one term on Vancouver's City Council before voters got tired of her shrill, whiny voice. She's gone, but the billboard's still here. But for how long?
The date for its removal has come and gone many times now, each one considered the death knell. A court ruling on June 17th of this year gave the owners of the building 18 months to remove the sign, which earns the building and its tenants $8000 per year, most of which goes toward upkeep of this cherished century-old landmark.
What's the problem with the billboard?
ReplyDeleteAccording to Anne Roberts it's an eyesore.
ReplyDeletePlus there's some kind of bylaw in play, but this sign may be protected by the grandfather clause, since it predates the bylaw.
What it comes down to is, in Vancouver, companies aren't allowed to advertise their products because it's a blight on the landscape, whereas blighting the landscape in other ways is fine.