Save the California Delta Alliance (STCDA)

CalTrans workers have been removing “Stop the Tunnels” signs from private property near highways. (Note: This does not affect our home lawn signs unless they are on a state highway). Our STCDA legal council is reviewing the legality of CalTrans’ actions.

A Rio Vista paper, the River News-Herald, ran a hilarious cartoon about the sign confiscation caper:

The story came to light when a farmer who was displaying “Stop the Tunnel” signs on his private property on Highway 160 called Restore the Delta to report the “theft”. Originally, CalTrans sited a Code section regarding removal of political signs which raised the question why these would be considered “political” signs when the regulation quoted by CalTrans says a “temporary political sign” is a sign that encourages a particular vote in a scheduled election. No doubt the tunnels are a political issue, but the state plans to build them without a public or legislative vote. Later CalTrans quoted Business and Professions Codes sections 5403, 5405 and 5405.3 which may have some relevance although we wonder why CalTrans leaves the big, annoying Westlands and agribusiness farm signs such as “Congress-Created Dust Bowl” that have been along I-5 for years by tunnel supporters. Obviously the cartoon creator has the same question in mind and provides his answer to the question.

We will let you know when we find out if this action is even legal.

The debacle also caught the attention of Alex Breitler, RecordNet: Caltrans’ sign removal irks Delta backers.

Let us know if you want your own “Save our Delta/Stop the Tunnels” sign by clicking on the “Display a Lawn Sign” link on the right.