The Town Council approved the formation of the task force, setting in motion a process that could lead to sweeping revisions of the town's current sign rules. Cary's sign laws are considered some of the strictest in the region.

The proposed review comes in part because of concerns raised by business owners and citizens about the flexibility and visibility of signs allowed under current rules.

Since 1999, Cary has considered nearly 20 amendments to its sign regulations, including an approved measure to allow more colors in commercial signs.

Upon completion of the task force's work, Cary could spend as much as $25,000 to hire a consultant to review any recommended changes.

The task force's goals include:

Evaluating current regulations for clarity, consistency and intent

Reviewing input from citizens and the business community

Identifying and discussing recent industry or economic trends that might affect signage

Considering appropriate amendments in light of the evaluation findings.

The group's first meeting will be this month. An official date has not yet been set. Citizens will be able provide feedback during the next two months, according to a timeline provided by the town.