Ah, springtime in Butler County during an election year.

The birds are singing, the flowers are blooming and there are political signs rising all over the place.

So much a part of our lives.

Soon,

there will not be an intersection around without signs touting the name of the candidates who want to save Butler County.

That is our way.

The American way.

Now, let us urge caution in placing those signs.

Remember, they should not be within a certain amount of space from polling places and right-of-ways. Remember when you place those signs that sometimes it's hard to see past shrubs, mailboxes and parked cars.

You don't want someone to have an accident because of a sign.

That could cost a vote.

And to all the candidates, do remember when the primary is over, regardless of who wins, you are responsible for taking down those signs.

Nothing is more unflattering than to see political signs up months and even years after an election.

Case in point is a Jim Folsom Jr. sign on Highway 31.

There have been two governors in office since he ran.

If John Q. Public sees that one of his signs has been placed too close to the polling place, then Public should take it upon himself to move it.

If is six months since Mary J. Public ran for county ditch digger and she sees one of her signs, stop the car and pull it down.

It's over.

Move on.

We believe that those who run for office have pride in their community and an honest desire to improve it.

It is safe to say that only a few feel this civic urge.

We respect and honor those who make the commitment to run, but politicians should campaign as they intend to serve — following the rules, with the public welfare in mind at all times, including after the election.