Plans for convention center sign prompt council to reopen loophole

The Clarion-Ledger, 10/27/8

The Jackson City Council has reopened a loophole in its sign ordinance, possibly clearing the way for a $500,000 digital convention center sign to be installed near the corner of Pascagoula and Lamar streets.

The city’s sign ordinance did not allow the convention center to erect its proposed 25-foot-tall digital sign. But the City Council agreed Oct. 13 to create a process for the convention center and other downtown business owners to lobby for signs that would otherwise be banned.

Several council members, including Margaret Barrett-Simon, said the convention center needs to be able to properly market itself. But she said the ordinance change also may have unwanted consequences – with a wave of business owners seeking special signage.