Business owner Bill Durney appeared before the Escondido City Council on November 2 and asked the city to consider adding a future agenda item regarding easing restrictions and regulations for sidewalk signs used by businesses.

According to Durney, he moved his business (Rancho Computer Networks) to Escondido two years ago and had a sidewalk sign in front of his shop on Escondido Boulevard until he was given a notice of violation by a code-enforcement officer in October.

Durney claimed that several of his customers were drawn into his store because of his sidewalk signage and that removal of his signs would have a negative impact on his shop.

“In this economy, it does not make sense to impede a small-business owner and make it harder to do business,” said Durney. After going to city hall to request a permit for the use of the signs, Durney said he was rebuffed and told a permit would not be allowed.

Durney contended that his neighbors and other merchants on Grand Avenue have been able to use sidewalk signs while his business has had to deal with restrictions.

Mayor Sam Abed acknowledged that city staff is reviewing the signage issue. “Hopefully we are moving forward for a more business-friendly city, said Abed.

(stock photo)