The majority of the Council was very attentive and supportive. Specifically, we are asking for signs to benefit ALL the businesses in the Historic Downtown Core, which is all of about 5 blocks. The sidewalks are nearly 8 feet wide in some places, so there is certainly plenty of room for sidewalks and signs. As another business pointed out to me yesterday, most view sandwich board signs as an enhancement, rather than an eyesore or tripping hazard.
One interesting issue raised by a supporter included the fact that most farmers markets are asking the Town for money or land to hold farmers market. We are a private venture and not asking for any of this. Another pointed out that it is better to have signs than to have a pretty town with pretty sidewalks, but no customers or businesses. How true!
Others were in support of the Market specifically, and anything that can be done to promote the new business. All true.
We are confident that the Council will discuss the matter, and hopeful that they will come up with new codes, in a timely fashion, though no specific date was given. Everyday that we are not able to direct traffic to the Market is a day that we are not able to maximize our customer potential.
I am reminded of the Rotary organization's Four Way Test. The test, which has been translated into more than 100 languages, asks the following questions:
Of the things we think, say or do
- Is it the TRUTH?
- Is it FAIR to all concerned?
- Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
- Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
We believe that our request embodies all the questions above, and trust the Council will adopt the same methods in determining the best outcome of the new codes.
With that, God speed to the Council! We've done what we can for now, and will wait patiently for the next round of dialog. The Shenandoah Valley Herald was there taking notes, so look for the article to follow soon.