A controversial plan to plant huge billboards near major Metro Vancouver bridges is one step closer to reality.
The federal government has given its approval on a proposal to erect six electronic billboards near Vancouver-area bridges.
The Squamish First Nation votes on the plan next week.
Some of the signs, which measure 10 by 36 feet, are slated for the band near the Lions Gate, Burrard and Ironworkers Memorial bridges.
A public backlash erupted when the plan was initially introduced in 2006.
A spokesperson for the First Nation says public opposition is not surprising, but maintains the band must find new ways to generate revenue. The plan could generate millions of dollars.
"The money will be put into our general pot that will help service the programs and the services that we give out to our membership," Chief Bill Williams said after the plan's introduction.
Not everyone in the band supports the proposal.
"It goes against our culture," Squamish Nation great grandfather William Nahanee told reporters at a 2006 demonstration.
"Traditionally, we talk about a sustainable environment and as stewards of the environment. This goes contrary to our beliefs, our teachings."
Nahanee says the band council decided on the proposal without consulting the people.
The often larger-than-life signs have been a contentious issue in North and West Vancouver. All three municipal governments have laws banning billboards, though those regulations do not apply to native lands.
The signs could be installed by Christmas.
