Businesses accuse council of theft

The Napier City Council has been accused of theft after forcibly taking sandwich board signs off the street.

Council workers went through the CBD just before lunchtime today and removed any signs from businesses who had not paid the $100 fee for putting signage on footpaths.

Business owners called police and council workers received abuse as signs were thrown into the back of a large truck.

Shop owner Paula Hadabora says they received no warning from the council.

"It is just theft to me. I can't believe we live in a town like this where they think that's okay.

The signs are not cheap and cost around $400 each, Ms Hadabora said.

- NEWSTALK ZB