3/12/99 -- A new city-wide initiative aims to remove the ban on postering Seattle's utility poles and lamp posts. Initiative 46, which could appear on November's ballot this year, was approved by the City Clerk's office in February. The initiative's sponsor, Free Speech Seattle, now has until August 24 to collect nearly 19,000 signatures.
Free Speech Seattle feels that the poster ban is a clear violation of freedom of speech and an example of how a few privileged individuals make decisions for the general public. They say the ban has seriously damaged the local entertainment industry, as few bands have the money or contacts to promote shows via mainstream media. Aside from the promotion of music events, poles are useful as communication tools for people who need to post information about lost pets, yard sales, community events and political messages. The United States in general and the City of Seattle in particular has a long history of using public spaces for posting notices. There are a quarter of a million City Light utility poles, a huge public resource.
Free Speech Seattle does not intend to repeal the entire "anti-postering" ordinance. Instead, I-46 would amend it to allow postering on utility poles and lamp posts. By leaving the rest of the poster ban intact, the initiative would retain the current law against postering on trees, traffic signs, bridges, bus shelters and other City-owned property.
The group plans to place petitions in local clubs and small businesses. A large part of the strategy and a major goal of the group is to register voters who are not politically active. Free Speech Seattle believes that encouraging younger, disenfranchised citizens to vote will have a positive impact on the political climate in our community.
Free Speech Seattle is composed of local business owners, community activists and other concerned individuals. Members include Tim Crowley, Campaign Manager; Ben Livingston, Treasurer; Mike Crowley, Propaganda Coordinator; and Beth Fell, Fundraising Coordinator.
The official ballot title reads as follows: Shall Seattle Municipal code section 15.48.100, "Unlawful Posting of Signs", be amended to delete utility poles and lamp posts from the lists of objects to which handbills, signs, and posters may not be attached?
On Friday, March 19th, The Hi*Score Arcade (at 612 E Pine Street) will host a benefit concert with local bands The Catheters and The Reports. The benefit concert starts at 7p.m.