Spanish Fork leaders say no to large sign for North Park

SPANISH FORK — Would a larger sign advertising developable commercial land help fill it with stores and shops?

The Spanish Fork City Council doesn't think so.

Council members Tuesday denied a request to change the sign ordinance, which allows temporary real estate signs up to 4-by-8 feet.

Joe Johnson of WPI Enterprises, a commercial development and leasing business, asked to change the ordinance to allow a 96-square-foot sign to advertise land near North Park, where the city has 24 acres available for commercial and retail use. Only Home Depot has committed to build there.

Commercial developers were to build the park, as well, but because of the downturn in the economy that slowed development, the city has been completing the park.

Councilman Rod Dart said he opposed changing the ordinance because it would look like city leaders were doing it for themselves. A developer was recently cited for putting up too large a sign, Dart said.

"The best advertising for North Park is the development of the park," Councilman Steve Leifson said.

— Rodger L. Hardy