KVUE News Team
Residents ready to say 'bye' to billboard 
06:00 PM CDT on Tuesday, May 29, 2007
A controversial billboard in Williamson County could be coming down this summer. Neighbors have fought to remove the supersized sign for almost two years. The county even sued those who put it up.
Tuesday, a judge ruled on whether the billboard should stay, go, or be changed.
It stands nearly 115 feet tall at the intersection of O'Connor Drive and Ranch Road 620 near Round Rock. It's higher than anything else in sight.
"It was the biggest billboard I've ever seen in my life," said Lisa Birkman, Williamson County Commissioner, Precinct 1.
Birkman says its size violates state law, and changes are coming.
"Not only do I represent that area, but I live in Cat Hollow, it was a personal issue to me as well," said Birkman.
The apartment complex, Mansions on the Green put up the billboard in late September of 2005.
Ever since that time, residents like Stan Bowers have fought back.
"Seems like a long time coming when you live there and see that huge billboard there," said Bowers.
A judge has ruled that the towering sign must come down by July 20 or be lowered to a maximum height of 42.5 feet.
But if the owners choose to lower the sign, they must donate $10,000 to the county. The money would benefit a nature preserve in the neighborhood.
"I would hope that they remove the sign completely, but if they don't, we want to make sure at least some money was given back to the community," said Stephen Ackley, Assistant County Attorney.
The apartment complex is under new ownership now. The judgment, though, binds all parties old and new.
Residents have faith the owners will take down the billboard, and they say they'll be there cheering when that day comes.
"We're going to have our cameras out there to watch when it comes down," said Bowers.
If the sign is not lowered or removed by July 20, the owners will face a $2,000 fine each day thereafter
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