Philly.com reports that the Philadelphia Arts Commission has given an initial thumbs down to a plan to put billboards on two government owned buildings but invited Interstate Outdoor to come back with new approaches.

Proponents of the plan say that it is an alternative to raising taxes and will raise $500,000 in revenue.

In 2014 city selected Interstate to provide proposals for boards on a mix of city buildings, libraries, recreational facilities and auto garages.

Insider’s take: The plan’s opponents said signs on government buildings “look awful”, “degrade views and set a dangerous precedent for more advertisements”.   This is classic fear of the unknown.  Clear Channel Outdoor has 76 LED screens at the Philly Airport and no one is complaining that they make the airport look awful, degrade the views and set a dangerous precedent.  Clear Channel generates valuable revenues.  Local businesses get to tell their story.  The airport generates operating funds.   Ditto with Philly Transit Authority’s $150 million, nine year transit advertising deal with Titan.

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