Bump out distracting billboards

We applaud The Tribune’s editorial “Billboard in Nipomo will remain another 15 years, despite pressure to reduce highway clutter,” regarding the Board of Supervisors’ missing an opportunity for a billboard to be removed.

The opinion piece mentions a comment by Chairwoman Lynn Compton that people can simply “look away” if they are bothered by billboards. That billboards detract from the county’s scenic attributes while distracting drivers apparently was discounted.

Supervisor Bruce Gibson correctly pointed out that neighboring counties have eliminated billboards. Our experience is that driving Highway 101 in counties with no or few billboards is a pleasure in contrast with San Luis Obispo County. Without billboards, San Luis Obispo County would benefit from increased tourist dollars, while residents would enjoy restored scenery.

This story was originally published February 13, 2016 at 5:08 PM with the headline "Bump out distracting billboards."