Unapproved benches removed from sidewalks

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A Brentwood resident complained at the Monday board of aldermen meeting that a bench on the corner of Manchester and Hanley was unattractive, and wanted to know who approved it. Mayor Pat Kelly told her it was in Maplewood.

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This advertising bench on the sidewalk by White Castle was removed by the city.

The back of the bench was a sign that read, “ADVERTISE HERE,” with a number to call. The seat of the bench consisted of two slats of wood.

An identical bench was placed on Big Bend next to White Castle, and was there Thursday morning.

Both were removed by the city of Maplewood.

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Maplewood Director of Public Works Anthony Traxler said Friday in an email that the benches were not allowed because they were in the right of way. “If the companies want them back they can pick them up at our garage,” he said.

Googling the number on the bench pulls up Indiana Bench Advertising. Calling the number gets a recording: “You have reached the advertising company. Please leave a message.”