How Low Can We Go?

Downtown Hudson, NY in 2023

Chapter 244-25 of the Hudson City Code covers the content of signs.  The last sentence in that section states that "It shall be unlawful for any person to display upon any sign or advertising structure obscene, indecent or immoral matter."  If the Green Street Deli's cigarette signs aren't obscene and indecent, I don't know what is.  Does Craig Haigh decide what content on signs may be immoral, indecent or obscene?  

Even the drive-thru cigarette shack on Fairview Avenue in Greenport doesn't have this amount of obscene cigarette advertising out front for all to see.

A few years ago, I got a copy of the sign permit issued by Code Enforcement for this double-sided digital sign.  It cost the deli $50, the same fee as for any simple non-digital sign attached to a wall on a storefront or on a post.  Their sign is constantly changing and flashing, and I have seen it lighting up the neighborhood at night well after the deli was closed.  Our Code stipulates that illuminated signs are to be turned off at the close of business or 11pm, whichever comes first.  There is nothing in the Code that refers to digital signs, but the deli's sign is most definitely illuminated. 

Constantly flashing and
surrounded by houses

Chapter 244-28 is titled Flashing or interfering signs prohibited. 

It states:  "No illuminated sign shall be of the flasher or speller type."