Current Issues
We oppose AB 216
Tell our elected officials that we must protect the taxpayers, trees and vegetation, not billboards companies!
AB 216 has been introduced this session, ostensibly because the current "vegetation control permit process is too difficult and cumbersome".
This bill would require the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) issue permits to the owner of a billboard to trim the trees and/or remove the vegetation in the public right-of-way for the sole purpose of enhancing the view of a billboard.
Billboards, especially non-conforming billboards in agricultural, forest and marsh land, have no right to visibility from the highway. If trees and vegetation, block the view of the sign, then so be it!
The existing tree trimming and vegetation removal process is bad enough, but at least it ensures that planned plantings paid for by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) funds are properly maintained, and only trimmed or removed for highway safety, maintenance or to preserve the health of native species. This process also ensures that public property is not trimmed or removed for an illegal sign (11 of the 122 permit applications were denied because the billboards were illegal) or for a billboard that was erected after the planting, and we are properly compensated for the loss.
WisDOT also reviews and supervises any trimming or removal to ensure that it really is necessary and only those trees and plants that need to be trimmed and/or removed are actually touched.
We urge you to Take Action to oppose AB 216 by going to our Take Action Page and sending them a message. It's all set up for your use and only takes a moment of time to make your opinion heard. We know they listen to your opinions on this matter.
A Small Band of Determined Citizens CAN Quickly Make a Big Change
Currently in both La Crosse and the Fox River Valley (website coming soon), we have local members that are battling the billboard blight in their communities.
Digital Billboards - Coming In Great Numbers - Soon
It's time to be prepared for an onslaught of lobbyists and executives that will soon arrive in our communities across Wisconsin. They will meet with your elected representatives and attempt to negotiate "deals"to convert your traditional billboards into digital. They will frequently attempt to rush what appear to be minor ordinance changes through the process without time for citizen input or for the the officials to start asking questions. These tactics can result in the destruction of local sign codes. Be prepared for them.
Learn about Digital Billboards by going here to our Educational Page and be sure to take action by e-mailing your representatives.
CSW is dedicated to scenic conservation in our state. We are actively engaged in supporting legislation to control billboards. This means fighting the status quo and it is not a simple undertaking. We can use your help and if you would like a membership, please visit our membership page by clicking here.
Citizens for a Scenic Wisconsin, Inc. is a coalition of residents dedicated to preserving and enhancing the scenic character of Wisconsin's communities and countryside.