Davis School District leaders know how to lobby politicians. Just ask state lawmakers who have their ears tugged constantly during legislative sessions.
Now they're turning that prowess on the City Council, hoping to avoid a nasty legal battle over a billboard-like sign at Woods Cross High School.The school wants to erect a 36-foot-high sign that would carry large advertisements visible to thousands traveling I-15. Officials say it could make at least $20,000 a year, money desperately needed for academic programs.
But the City Council denied the school's request for an amendment to the city's sign ordinance, which makes it illegal for anyone to have a sign on their property that advertises for a business off-site.
The school's principal and supporters vowed after the decision that they would forge ahead, even if it meant seeking help from a judge or state lawmakers. And now district administrators are behind the plan, suggesting a less-caustic approach.
"I think we don't want to be adversarial now, we're more interested in working with the council . . . yes, with those who voted `no,' " said Garvin Carlile, district area director. "We are definitely proceeding, though."
In other words, lobby, lobby, lobby.
But those who voted against the plan aren't anxious to change.
Said Councilman Larry Landward: "I don't feel good about the sign. I'd have to have a whole lot more information than I've heard to change my opinion."
And before Councilman Wayne Saltzgiver would favor a change, the public would have to speak loudly. "We have to change the law before that sign can go in. . . . If the council and the public want to change the law, then I'd go along with it."
The council worries that one off-premise sign will lead to another, and it is also concerned about having to pay the school to remove the sign if it ever becomes a public nuisance.
"Everybody looks at the shiny side of this apple, namely how much money it can make for the school, but the other side could be very bad for citizens," said Councilman Darin Hicks.
The city, unlike North Salt Lake and West Bountiful, has only one billboard along its limits that border I-15. Its tough ordinance has kept dozens away.
Hicks said the council is sympathetic to the school's need for cash but adds that he thinks there are better ways to find it. Principal Doug Beer says all the fund-raisers ever thought of can't raise $20,000 so quickly.