QUESNEL, B.C. — The City of Quesnel’s bylaw on political campaign signs will have an effect on candidates for the upcoming provincial election in May.
Quesnel Mayor Bob Simpson says it allows candidates to have a total of 6 signs on public land.
“It became the question of why do politicians get access to public space for unfettered use, and what a lot of our community members say is it pollutes public space with their signs, during an election period.” said Simpson.
The bylaw has been met with some criticism from political expert Jason Morris, who says it effects the democratic process if candidates can’t get their name out there.
“We have issues with low voter turnout, let’s not do something that could make it worse.” said Morris.
“What’s next? Are we going to go back to having a town crier with a bell in a public square as the only way to know that there’s an election.”
Former Cabinet Minister Pat Bell doesn’t disagree with the bylaw, but believes there should be a much more reasonable number of signs allowed.
“I always loved the idea of having signs on private property because I think that’s a real testament to people that are going to vote for you.” said Bell.
“Signs on public property are irrelevant from my perspective. You look at them and they really clutter up the environment.”
