The Iowa City City Council approved its second consideration of an ordinance that would ban the use of electronic signs on Iowa City taxis.

Councilors split on a vote to amend the ordinance to only include flashing lights. Three councilors were concerned the ordinance is too restrictive.

Councilor Regenia Bailey reminded local cab companies that the city had to align with the Iowa Code and suggested the companies contact their state representatives.

“We don’t want local businesses to invest in the signs and then have them be in violation of the state code,” Bailey said.

The council will review the ordinance for its third reading at its March 2 meeting.

—by Kathryn Stinson