Dear Ihatetoledo,

I voluntarily serve as a community member who chairs the Old West End Historic District Commission. In Toledo's historic districts, as with all historic districts across the country, we must follow the guidelines for Historic Preservation as articulated by the Secretary of Interiors of the National Park Service. So built into Toledo Municipal Code, in accordance with NPS guidelines, is a Commission that approves all exterior alterations to a historic structure, including signage.

TMC also requires all signs for businesses to get approval from the City of Toledo Division of Inspections.

The owner of these three parcels didn't seek approval from either body. There is no violation of free speech, but a municpal protocol, well established, and legally sound, that applies to everyone.

Hope that helps.