A few weeks ago I wrote about driving to the end of the new road on North Ambergris Caye… and how one of the results of progress on the transportation front has been the proliferation of signs… EVERYWHERE!!!
And those completely devoid of all San Pedro charm.
Residents and tourists alike have voiced their concerns that the excessive signage distracts from the charm and tropical feel of the island we all love. These concerns thankfully, have not fallen on deaf ears as the San Pedro Town Board was quick to recognize the problem.
“I am of the idea that painted signs look much better than those large electronic screens flashing neon lights… We want signs that will blend in with the island,” said the Mayor to the SP Sun.
A group of individuals from both the public and private sector met. Spearheaded by Deputy Mayor Gary Grief, Town Concilor in charge of Housing and Planning Gabriel “Gaby” Nunez, trusted realtor and AREBB leader William Board and noted sign artist Denroy “Smurf” Norales, an advisory committee was formed, the Ambergris Sign Supervisory for Hospitality And Tourism.
Set to function alongside the Ambergris Caye Building Authority, approval for ALL new signage on the island will fall under this newly formed committee. New signs will need to be permitted and will be subject to aesthetic approval and density restrictions.
Much like new construction projects on the island, properly approved signs will be identified with a small sign showing the sign permit number, to be posted in a clearly visible manner next to the sign.
Due to anticipated demand, a contract for 5000 numbered approval signs was awarded to “Smurf”, the costs having been paid in full in advance by a grant from the Republic of Taiwan.
Island residents are encouraged to attend the next committee meeting, to be held Wednesday, May 18th at Sunbreeze Hotel. Following the meeting, the public is invited to enjoy the music of Rompe Raja as well as refreshments and cupcakes.
Chortle….Happy April 1st to you too!
I was getting a spontaneous sign erection reading it !!! Happy April Fools from Paul and Michelle !!
Tee hee. To you guys too. Classic comment!
I love that the acronym for the Ambergris Sign Supervisory for Hospitality And Tourism. is ASSHAT…very funny.
Kinda gave away the joke quick…but worth it!
so…who is bootlegging counterfeit approval signs…?