In a recent City Council Workshop held on April 10, 2025, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the potential revision of the city’s sign ordinance. The meeting was prompted by the increasing activity at the local airport and the need for effective communication of events and services to the community.

One of the primary topics was the consideration of allowing electronic message centers (EMCs) for public facilities, including the airport. Council members expressed a desire to learn from neighboring cities, such as Smyrna, Brentwood, and Franklin, which have varying regulations on EMCs. The discussion highlighted the balance between enhancing visibility for local businesses and events while avoiding the cluttered appearance of excessive signage, reminiscent of a commercial strip.

Council members raised concerns about the implications of allowing EMCs, particularly regarding the potential for increased advertising and the challenges of regulation. The idea of limiting EMCs to specific types of signs, such as those displaying gas prices, was suggested as a way to streamline the ordinance while still providing necessary information to the public. The council acknowledged the need for a clear framework to prevent the proliferation of distracting signage that could detract from the community's aesthetic.

Legal considerations were also a significant part of the conversation, with members recalling past legal challenges related to sign regulations. The council agreed on the importance of consulting legal experts to ensure that any changes to the ordinance would comply with constitutional standards, particularly concerning free speech and commercial messaging.

As the council continues to explore this issue, they plan to gather more information from other communities and revisit the topic in future meetings. The next steps include a vote on the initial revisions to the sign ordinance scheduled for the following week, which will set the stage for further discussions on EMCs and their role in the city’s signage landscape.

This workshop underscored the council's commitment to balancing community needs with regulatory frameworks, ensuring that any changes enhance public communication without compromising the city's visual integrity.