COLUMBUS, Ind. — Changes are coming for the city of Columbus downtown banner program. The board of public works and safety unanimously passed new regulations that will eliminate “causes” and “months or weeks of awareness,” and increase cost.
City officials say they want the banners to promote a downtown activity, business or event. The shift would make the United Way of Bartholomew County, Pride Alliance of Columbus, National Family Week and pro-life awareness ineligible for the program.
Board member Jon Pickett said, “Just an opinion, I think what you’re doing makes sense, it’s “fair play.” I understand the groups want to announce it’s their week or month. It makes sense in terms of defining the arts and entertainment district. Personally, I thought it was cool to live in a town where there was a pro-life and a pride fest banner side-by-side. I thought it spoke to the diversity and growth of the community, but that’s not necessarily the purpose of what that banner program should be. It makes sense in terms of defining the arts and entertainment district. If this is the way to draw more tourism downtown, then we’ll have to find another place for those banners.”
A representative from National Family Week asked for a three-year exclusion but the board did not consider the request.
A member of Pride Alliance of Columbus, Inc. would only comment with two Bible verses from John 15:17, and Matthew 25:40.
Other community organizations are looking into other methods to display banners for their causes.
Instead, the banners will be dedicated to the Mill Race Marathon, Biggest Block Party, Ethnic Expo, NeighborFest and POW/MIA Day.
The new regulations will be enforced after January 1, 2017.
