Down with the Billboards
Three months ago, the Blueville City Council passed an ordinance allowing companies to
place billboards in residential areas across the city, including my neighborhood. Within two
weeks, my neighborhood was bombarded with billboards. These billboards advertised
everything from services to personal care products to businesses inappropriate for young
children. The billboards appeared on roads surrounding the neighborhood and in residential
parks. They are unsightly and hazardous to the residents in my neighborhood and the
residents of Blueville.
Many of the residents find these billboards detract from the appeal and beauty of Blueville's
residential neighborhoods. The giant billboards obscure the view of the natural beauty that
attracts visitors to Blueville. They hide our trees and damage flower fields near our parks.
Many photographers and tourists visit Blueville for the beautiful scenery. However, the
cosmetic and fitness services plastered on billboards disrupt the view. A decline in tourism
will hurt many local businesses.
Not only are these billboards unappealing, but they are also hazardous to residents. Because
the billboards are new to our city, many drivers are distracted by the images and new
products and services that are advertised on them. Just within the first month, the number of
minor car accidents increased by 60 percent. There are new billboards at our busiest
intersections, making turns extremely dangerous. The elementary school is at the corner of
Blueville Boulevard and Pine Oak Road, one of the city's busiest Intersections. Two new
billboards at this intersection make it difficult for drivers to pay close attention to students
crossing the streets. Our students' safety surely is worth more than money from billboards.
I understand that our city needs additional income. Last year, two factories relocated to
bigger cities, and this severely hurt residents and negatively impacted the city's budget.
Based on the previous meeting records, this new ordinance could help make up for the lost
money from the factory closures. However, there are other ways of bringing in more money
to the city
I recommend moving the billboards to downtown Blueville. Events such as sports,
conferences, and concerts are all held in the stadiums and arenas located downtown. That
would be the perfect place for billboards.
As Blueville leaders, it is crucial to ensure that your residents are heard and feel safe. It is
essential to think about the future of Blueville and not just short-term monetary gains. Surely
billboards are not more important than pleasing, protecting, and keeping your residents?
OA An increase in advertisements is driving residents away.
OB An increase in advertisements is great for the city.
OC The city needs to find an alternative source of income.
OD Billboards are negatively impacting residents of Blueville.