FAQ's

Q: WHY USE THE "GIFT TO THE CITY®" PROGRAM (GTCP)? WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES?

A: 1. Our program has a Federal Trademark (Servicemark) which sets it apart from any other "similar" program.

2. Our program has a Proven Track Record. Since its inception in 1991, we have satisfied and even exceeded the expectations of our client

communities. (see our Letters of Recommendation). This program is not in a "start-up" or "testing" phase.

3. We use the finest materials so that the signs remain beautiful years after installation. Our signage is maintenance-free and guaranteed

guaranteed not to warp, twist, split, delaminate or rot.

4. We provide an extended guarantee on our signs, where most companies will offer a limited, short-term guarantee.

5. This program is not JUST for signs. Before the signs can be delivered, the following SERVICES are also provided through the "Gift to the

to the City®" Program (GTCP):

Consulting/Analysis

Planning

Development

Design

Fabrication

6. The GTCP utilizes our many years of experience and allows the city to use its funds for other projects. .

Q: WE CAN DO THE SAME THING ON OUR OWN - WHY USE YOUR PROGRAM?

A: We bring our proven track record of successful projects, years of consulting, designing and fabricating experience to this program so that the finished signs bring both dignity and elegance to your community. Over the years we have refined our choice of materials so that the signs retain their original beauty and require no maintenance. More importantly, this program allows us to use all of these areas of expertise to the benefit of your city - at No Cost. You will not receive all of these services through a typical "sign maker". With GTCP, you receive more than just a sign.

Q: HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST THE CITY?

A: We cannot over-emphasize this simple fact ---- There is NO EXPENDITURE incurred by the city to participate in the program and to obtain signage through this program. This program DOES NOT cost the City any money.

Q: ARE THERE ANY "BACK-END", "HIDDEN" FEES INCURRED BY THE CITY?

A: No.

Q: "NO ONE GETS SOMETHING FOR NOTHING" - WHAT'S THE CATCH?

A: There's NO catch. The program was developed to help cities across the nation. While most cities indeed have a budget, It is generally allocated to address other "More Important" issues of the city. Signs are generally put on the "back burner...until a later time". The GTCP allows this need to be addressed SOONER rather than LATER. This is also our way of giving back to the City.

Q: ARE THE SIGNS FREE?

A: The signs cost the City no money. The signs are paid for through the Program which is Privately funded.

Q: WHO PAYS FOR THE SIGNS?

A: We secure funding from private reputable sources.

Q: WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR OBTAINING THE FUNDING? (WHO DOES THE LEGWORK?)

A: Once the city formally agrees to participate, we will obtain the funding.

Q: IS THERE A LIMIT TO THE NUMBER OF SIGNS WE CAN GET THROUGH THIS PROGRAM?

A: No. All municipal gateways, parks, buildings, and other properties may be included. We encourage you to create a comprehensive list of

ALL desired signage that can be prioritized and provided in Phases if necessary.

Q: WE ALREADY HAVE SIGNS AT OUR GATEWAYS SO WHY DO WE NEED THIS PROGRAM?

A: 1. Many cities are looking for ways to present a fresh and updated look to their communities. Since there is an ongoing need to attract new

businesses and residents, the GTCP provides an upscale image that makes visitors feel welcome and makes residents want to live, work

and play there.

2. Many times, signs within a city may not properly reinforce the community brand or there may be a limited budget to support signage for all

community properties. The GTCP allows cities to expand and unify their community brand across all municipal properties.

3. The GTCP is not just for Gateway Signs but for ANY signage need identified by the City. (see previous question)

Q: DO WE HAVE A CHOICE OF SIGN TYPES AND STYLES?

A: Yes, we offer a wide variety of sign types and styles.

Q: ARE WE LIMITED TO "COOKIE-CUTTER" DESIGNS?

A: No, we will work closely with your representative to ensure the finished design embodies your desired community brand.

Q: WE WANT SIGNS THAT WILL MATCH THE "LOOK & FEEL" OF OUR COMMUNITY - IS THIS POSSIBLE?

A: Yes. It is important that the signage reflect the architecture of the community.

Q: DO WE HAVE ANY INPUT IN THE DESIGN OF THE SIGN FOR OUR COMMUNITY?

A: YES, we will work closely with your representatives during the planning and development stage to get the necessary input to incorporate into the designs. Due to the fact that all signs designs are "custom" to each community - Absolutely NO signs are fabricated until the design is signed and approved by the City.

Q: CAN YOU USE OUR CURRENT COMMUNITY BRANDING LOGO or THEME?

A: YES. We ask that you provide us with all established branding initiatives that you wish to be included within the design.

Q: WILL YOU WORK WITH OUR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TEAM OR MAIN ST. ALLIANCE?

A: Yes, we will work with whomever is appointed to the project.

Q: WILL YOU WORK WITH OUR CITY MANAGER OR REPRESENTATIVE?

A: Yes. We prefer to work with at least one City representative or contact person. We will also work along with the Chambers of Commerce, Main St. Alliance Committees, District groups, Economic Development Corporations, Community, County or Regional Development Organizations including For-Profit or Non-Profit organizations in your city.

Q: WHAT IS REQUIRED FROM THE CITY TO GO FORWARD WITH THE PROGRAM?

A: The City agrees to participate in the program, to provide all necessary sign ordinances and work with us through the design process, to accept the completed signs as municipal property. The city is responsible for installing and insuring (as applicable) all completed signs. All of the aforementioned details are incorporated in our contract. Once this contract is signed by both parties, the process begins. There is no money exchange involved with the execution of this contract.

Q: DO YOU OFFER OTHER SERVICES?

A: Yes, we offer other services besides the "Gift to the City" Program. We are a Sign Design-Build Firm - not just Sign-makers. Any of our professional services may be provided on a paid consultant basis. If you would like to contract our team, please contact us or submit a request through our "contact" page.

Q: WHY DO WE NEED A SIGN SYSTEM?

A: A Sign System provides a city-wide Standard for signage that currently may be inconsistent, confusing or out-dated.

There may also be many layers of signs that have been provided and installed by numerous independent governmental and private

groups and initiatives.

The "Gift to the City" Program will provide a Sign System that UNIFIES the Community Brand or Theme within the city through attractive, well

designed and strategically placed signage.

Q: HOW MANY TIMES CAN WE USE THIS PROGRAM?

A: Once the City has officially enrolled in the Program and the designs have been approved, the City may enter as many Phases or Cycles as are necessary to satisfy the need for Signage witin the Community. There are NO minimums, maximums or time limitations. (i.e. Original enrollment and signage in 1997, Phase II - additional signage in 2004, Phase III - additional signage in 2010, etc.)