North Port banner idea doesn't fly

NORTH PORT — The North Port City Commission shot down the idea for a banner program that would show appreciation to local, noteworthy people in the city.

The commission decided against the idea unanimously, coming to a 5-0 consensus on Monday morning, at a commission workshop.

The presented project would see banners placed on light poles along well-traveled roads like Sumter and Toledo Blade boulevards. There are 28 poles equipped for banners.

The idea was a citizen proposal. Banners could depict past or present military personnel, North Port Police Department staff or members, fire rescue staff or members, Public Works first responders, medical professionals, educators, or other local leaders.

The honoree would have to have ties to the city.

The plan, for 30-by-60-inch banners that would cost sponsors $139, staying up for 1-year, then being given back to sponsors, was ripped down before they could go up.

The program was scrapped altogether, though.

Vice Mayor Phil Stokes and Commissioner Debbie McDowell started had questions about the banners.

Stokes, for one, said he anticipated problems with "hate" that may come if the plan were implemented. He, too, said the decision-making process for such a broad pool of people may be difficult and cause uproar.

He joked that the endeavor could cause "brain damage" among city officials.

McDowell agreed with Stokes' "brain damage" comment and thought sticking to military and first responders would be better.

“Who would want to see my face up there?” McDowell asked, when explaining how broad the options for honorees would be.

Commissioner Barbara Langdon said things might just descend into a “popularity contest,” when recognizing the individuals rather than collectives.

McDowell asked for a consensus to reject the idea.

Commissioner Pete Emrich reluctantly agreed, asking whether active military can be honored.

McDowell said doing so could cause safety concerns for active personnel.

The commission thanked staff for their presentation after their denial.

To learn more about the proposal, visit

tinyurl.com/599eec9n