Signs cheapen Island


To the Editor:


The Town Board is considering proposed legislation that would effectively permit commercial signs in residential zones. The question is: Why? The only thing that this new law will accomplish will be to deface the landscape of the Island with dozens, if not hundreds, of unsightly signs. Although the new law primarily focuses on real estate signs, it cannot exclude other commercial uses.


As a real estate professional, some might think I would be in favor of this change in our sign law. However, I believe that those of us in business who love the Island have the responsibility to preserve its natural beauty and to protect the unique attributes that are so important to the quality of life here.


Actually, I feel that such signage is of questionable value and doesn’t make a significant contribution to promoting increased real estate activity. To the contrary, it cheapens the look of the Island and creates a bargain basement atmosphere, especially in a weak market such as we have recently experienced.


People come to Shelter Island, whether as prospective buyers or renters, because we offer a unique ambience and lifestyle that sets us apart from the increasing urban sprawl on the mainland. An important thing the Town Board can do to protect property values and our local economy is to keep the Island free from the kind of visual pollution that commercial signs will present in every neighborhood.


DON BINDLER


SILVER BEACH