Commentary; Posted: 2/11/04

How much is too much for FL signs?

Cliff Buchan

We understand that our city leaders are penny wise these days and thatís good, but we still wonder what a prudent expenditure would be to finally put in place city entry signs that correctly list the cityís population.

We hate to harp on the topic but the time is long past for the state or city leaders to change the signs that signal the entry to Forest Lake. The city has been told by the state the signs will cost $4800 and is now exploring other options that may be cheaper.

Weíve long maintained that in the three plus years since the township and city became one community interstate, state highway and county road signs at Forest Lakeís borders should be appropriately changed to reflect the new Forest Lake, not the old city.

While the city councilís desire to save a buck is understood, will this be anything more than a delay that will result in no change? Will the state simply allow the city to put up its own signs? Perhaps but donít bet on it.

We understand the stateís reluctance to go about changing signs at every little whim from the many cities in Minnesota. Forest Lakeís case is far from unique, is certainly not a whim and the changes should be made. If it comes down to dollars, the city should negotiate an agreement and pick up half the cost of state-made signs or bite the bullet and pay for the signs if need be.

And while the state is putting up the signs on I-35, itís time north and southbound motorists were informed of all the exits to Forest Lake.

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