The billboard industry is squarely behind a proposal to allow digital billboards on Texas highways, while many members of the general public oppose the idea, according to comments submitted to the Texas Department of Transportation.

The state received more than 750 comments during a three-month period ending earlier this month. The Texas Transportation Commission has set a February meeting to consider the proposal, which would give cities authority over whether to allow the electronic, changeable billboards in their jurisdictions.

Of the 482 members of the public who sent letters to the transportation department, 386 of them were against digital billboards. All but one of the 241 comments from billboard-industry interests voiced support for the signs.

Critics of the signs said they would be ugly and distracting.

"I believe this change would put our glorious landscapes at risk and could create hazards along our roads," wrote state Rep. Rob Eissler, R-The Woodlands.

Some critics also cited concerns that the billboards would cost more, and therefore would create a more expensive condemnation process if the government wanted the land.

"They have not been shown to be safe for drivers; they will cost more in condemnation costs; they will advertise anything since the city can't control content, and Texans don't want them," wrote Marcie Ince, president of the San Antonio Conservation Society.

Supporters say the billboards are not a safety hazard and note the proposal's restrictions, such as rules against moving images or flashing lights on the signs.

The billboard industry also argued that the signs are good for businesses and the economy, and could be used to broadcast emergency messages.

"Currently, digital technology is operational in 22 states. It is time for Texas cities to be able to utilize this 21st century technology for the good of the traveling public and the Texas business community," wrote Lee Vela, president of the Outdoor Advertising Association. Vela also works for Clear Channel Communications, which has an outdoor advertising company that supports the proposal.

Three state lawmakers signed industry-drafted letters supporting the signs — Democratic Reps. Kevin Bailey of Houston and Joe Pickett of El Paso, and the Texas House Transportation Committee chairman, Rep. Mike Krusee, R-Round Rock.

The letters said transportation officials were showing "foresight and economic sense" by considering the idea.

Some critics questioned whether campaign donations from the billboard industry could affect the commission, whose members are appointed by the governor.

Clear Channel Communications chairman of the board Lowry Mays has given more than $433,600 to Texas candidates' campaigns since early 2000, including $186,400 to Gov. Rick Perry, according to Texas Ethics Commission records.

Transportation department spokesman Chris Lippincott said it's "just wrong" to suggest that campaign contributions will affect the commission's decision.

Gov. Rick Perry spokesman Robert Black said the billboards are a transportation department decision. "We don't have a dog in this hunt," he said.

But Black also added: "The governor believes just about any time you can decentralize government and put more decision-making authority into local officials' hands, the better."