BARRHEAD-Councillors dismissed a suggestion from Town of Barrhead Coun. Dausen Kluin that council look into using the billboards and other signage on the highways entering into town to advertise local businesses.
Kluin forwarded the suggestion on behalf of a constituent, adding the issue to the council's June 10 agenda.
The constituent suggested that each month the town could highlight a different business on the billboards at either end of town, on Highway 33.
"They were under the impression that they were the town's billboards, as was I until a few moments ago," Kluin said, adding he still wanted council's feedback on the merit of the suggestion.
Mayor Dave McKenzie noted that the billboards are owned by B.C. entrepreneur Jim Patterson through his company, Pattison Outdoors and suggested the advertising rate was 'pretty steep'.
Coun. Ty Assaf noted this was not the first time council had such a discussion.
In April 2017, the Barrhead Art Club also made a similar request, asking the municipality to consider installing road signs to promote the not-for-profit organization.
"At the time, I believe we thought it might be more appropriate for a business association," Assaf said. "Because as a municipality, how do we determine what businesses to showcase and how often do we switch it up? Then there is the cost of promoting the business. It all comes at a cost."
Coun. Rod Klumph agreed, saying it would be difficult for the town to administer.
"Advertising is something businesses themselves need to take responsibility for. As a municipality, our job is to look after amenities, infrastructure and ensure that businesses have an environment they can work in."
Mayor Dave McKenzie agreed, saying it would be difficult to single out businesses to promote.
"Any promotion we do needs to be for the community in its entirety. Anything beyond that is not our role," he said.
Kluin said he would pass the information on how to contact Pattison Outdoors and suggest that if they thought the billboards were still viable, that they partner with other businesses.
Barry Kerton, TownandCountryToday.com
