Commission Pops Policy Change On Allowing Businesses To Display Balloons For Advertising

By Nicol Jenkins
Editor

A few balloons hung from an antique bicycle in front of Blue Sky Environments in Coral Springs.

The owner hoped the balloons would signal a welcoming sign for new business. Instead, she was told to take the balloons down.

“Code enforcement came through and said you have to get rid of the balloons,” said Maureen Kantor, assistant designer of Blue Sky Environments, an interior design company. “All we want to do is just be noticed and indicate that we are open. It’s a welcoming sign. We don’t see any harm in little balloons.”
Coral Springs Mayor Scott Brook didn’t either.

“I like balloons. I think it would be okay for business owners to use balloons if we put a limit on art or timing. A business owner brought up the issue, and I think we should have a discussion to allow citizens to discuss the issue. I think it’s okay for a store to have two or three balloons on an antique bike,” Brook said. “Also, we should consider allowing signage for anniversary celebrations.”

In times of economic hardship, Brook suggested discussing the issue of business advertisement, in particular balloons.

However, Coral Springs City Commissioners popped the balloon idea.

“I will not support balloons of any kind. It will get rampant over the city,” said Commissioner Ted Mena. “I like the small businessman and want to help, but I do not think this is the avenue. Attention getting should come from the Chamber, which is a wonderful organization for advertising businesses.”

Commissioner Roy Gold agreed.

“I do not want to see balloons around the city. I don’t think it’s professional,” Gold said Commissioner Claudette Bruck added, “I don’t think this should be on the agenda. There are so many serious issues facing us. I think we need to focus on the big issues.”

Brook decided to table the issue. However, he believes the commission should discuss other ways to help small businesses.

“You do not have to support this,” he said. “But we do need to look at what rules other cities have for advertising and codes. It goes well beyond balloons, what else could we do for small businesses?”

Kantor of Blue Sky Environments says she was disappointed with the commissions’ response.

“I am disappointed to see it was voted down,” she said. “Balloons are a sign of welcome and I do not understand how they would be offensive.”

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