Signs of the Times - 27 East

Letters

Southampton Press / Opinion / Letters / 2158699
May 15, 2023

Signs of the Times

Southampton Village election season has started and, based on recent history, two reminders seem in order.

First, if you are not a resident of Southampton Village, if you do not meet requirements to vote in the village, or if you have voted or planned to vote in another jurisdiction in this same election cycle, it is not legal for you to vote in the Southampton Village election. Doing so may subject you to investigation or prosecution under New York State election laws and could also subject you to examinations regarding your tax residency.

Second, campaign signs may not be placed on public property, including the village-owned right of way in front of most homes in the village. Signs may be placed perpendicular to the street on your lot line but may not be placed in front of your lot line.

In recent village elections, the proliferation of campaign signs in the right of way has blighted our beautiful village. We can hold a spirited and well-publicized campaign without repeating this error, which is both unsightly and a violation of village code.

I and many other village residents hope the candidates instruct their supporters properly on this issue. We also ask that our code enforcement officials provide gentle and consistent reminders of this requirement, and relocate or remove signs that remain in violation.

Rob Coburn

Southampton Village