Joliet may restrict 'carnival' of commercial signs

JOLIET, Ill. (AP) - The city of Joliet is considering an ordinance to control the use of banners, inflatables and other temporary signs in front of businesses.

The (Joliet) Herald-News reports (http://bit.ly/1yNyecL) the proposal would limit the number of temporary signs, how long they could stay up and how many times a year they could be used. Retailers would have to pay $50 for a permit.

Joliet City Council member Jan Quillman says she's had complaints from citizens about distracting signs that "look like a carnival."

Joliet Planning Director Kendall Jackson says, without regulation, temporary signs tend to become permanent.

But Naveen Karim of Your Choice Autos says the signs have a purpose. The auto dealership manager says the signs bring in customers.

The City Council will take up the matter Feb. 3.