Some signs are city-approved graffiti

I certainly applaud the efforts of City Council to remove spray-painted graffiti from the downtown area where I live. Graffiti, like pornography, is something “you know it when you see it.”

For me, the numerous A-frame sandwich boards that are strewn along downtown sidewalks fit my definition of graffiti, and these are city approved. Nearly every business uses one of these, and, collectively, they detract from the aesthetic appeal of downtown.

You might also consider them pedestrian obstructions on our already narrow sidewalks, but that rationale seems not to prompt any attention by our city staff, let alone causing actual monitoring compliance with existing rules and regulations for their use.

So, our city leaders have offered our valuable sidewalk space to business owners who already have advertising space in their sidewalk-facing storefront windows, by trading aesthetics and functionality for a “don’t rock the vote of the business community” mentality. Sometimes it’s the little things that count. Visualize an A-frame-free downtown the next time you’re there, and then let your thoughts be known.

Paul Viera
Asheville

SHARE

Thanks for reading through to the end…

We share your inclination to get the whole story. For the past 25 years, Xpress has been committed to in-depth, balanced reporting about the greater Asheville area. We want everyone to have access to our stories. That’s a big part of why we've never charged for the paper or put up a paywall.

We’re pretty sure that you know journalism faces big challenges these days. Advertising no longer pays the whole cost. Media outlets around the country are asking their readers to chip in. Xpress needs help, too. We hope you’ll consider signing up to be a member of Xpress. For as little as $5 a month — the cost of a craft beer or kombucha — you can help keep local journalism strong. It only takes a moment.

About Letters
We want to hear from you! Send your letters and commentary to letters@mountainx.com

Before you comment

The comments section is here to provide a platform for civil dialogue on the issues we face together as a local community. Xpress is committed to offering this platform for all voices, but when the tone of the discussion gets nasty or strays off topic, we believe many people choose not to participate. Xpress editors are determined to moderate comments to ensure a constructive interchange is maintained. All comments judged not to be in keeping with the spirit of civil discourse will be removed and repeat violators will be banned. See here for our terms of service. Thank you for being part of this effort to promote respectful discussion.

Leave a Reply

To leave a reply you may Login with your Mountain Xpress account, connect socially or enter your name and e-mail. Your e-mail address will not be published. All fields are required.