BY CHRISTOPHER HARRIS
Councillor Linda Scott moved a motion to create stickers to alert the crowds of people playing Pokemon Go in the City of Sydney where it was welcome.
The motion, which would see the council manufacture stickers that it would then distribute to businesses that welcome players of the game, was not carried.
Later, Councillor Scott took to Twitter saying that Lord Mayor Moore had voted down her motion.
Clr Scott said the game could be leveraged to create more patronage. She said that the game was an opportunity for local businesses, and more fun for residents.
The signs would make it clear where Pokémon players were welcome in their local business.
“I urge you to support the proposal,” and design and print welcome zone signs.
“Really sad @CloverMoore voted down my motion for @cityofsydney to be a #PokemonGO welcome zone […] We need more fun!” Clr Scott said.
After Councillor Scott had explained the intricacies of popular game, including “Pokestops” where users could get potions, and “gyms” where players battle one another’s Pokémon, the motion was debated.
Councillor Green said it was not a good idea, or use of ratepayers funds, to print stickers because they would be redundant by the time the council had printed them.
Councillor Green said that there had been no complaints about the game so far, and said the council should be thankful they had not had the issues that had plagued the inner west.
She described the nightmare of residents in Canada Bay, where otherwise tranquil parks had become popular with Pokémon players, hanging around at all hours, causing havoc and traffic chaos.
She said there were people littering and urinating in the public park.
Councillor Scott said that signage could assist in managing crowds.
Councillor Mandla, who seconded the motion, said that the City should be embracing new technology.
Councillor Foster told the room that the game was a “fad” and the City should not be wasting money on signage.
