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Xcel Energy Says 'No' to Light Pole Banners

by KREX News Room
by Jordan Sherman

Story Created: Oct 16, 2012 at 4:28 PM MDT

Story Updated: Oct 17, 2012 at 7:33 AM MDT

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo.- Xcel Energy is cracking down on cities and towns across Colorado, including Grand Junction, about the misuse of their light poles.

In a letter sent out in May, the power company said to its patrons, "Xcel Energy can no longer permit or approve the installation of banners, flags, decorations or other non-permitted attachments on our facilities."

Robert Osborn, director of community relations for Xcel Energy, said in the past, their lighting fixtures have failed, and banners as well as flower pots have fallen off of their light poles.

Xcel officials say this leaves the door open for the potential injury of pedestrians, and liability for those injuries could be on their company.

Sam Rainguet, communications coordinator for the city of Grand Junction, said, "What we're really doing right now is just trying to asses how this is going to impact the city. There have been about 30 light poles that we use over the years for different types of banners depending on whether it's seasonal or an event coming to town or maybe just general marketing."

Osborn added, "We want to develop something that best meets the safety concerns we have but also helps cities promote what they want to do in their downtowns and their improvement districts."

The ban goes into effect on Jan. 1.

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Betty said on Wednesday, Oct 17 at 8:06 AM

Just think------what a wonderful world it would be without lawyers!

David said on Tuesday, Oct 16 at 9:23 PM

Thank a lawyer...

Rufus said on Tuesday, Oct 16 at 9:22 PM

So, who is going to start screaming at Xcel? Who is going to start putting the blame where it actually belongs--the people and lawyers who are lawsuit-happy?

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