In a move apparently timed to beat the clock on proposed new oversight rules, Lamar Advertising filed late yesterday for permits to transform 42 vinyl billboards in the city of Pittsburgh into digital versions.

The applications came in just before the planned introduction in Pittsburgh City Council of legislation that would require a vote of that body on any proposed sign replacements. Because the legislation is a change to the zoning code, it would take effect immediately upon introduction, effectively putting a moratorium on new billboards.

The billboards to be transformed include at least nine Downtown, four in Oakland, three in the Strip District, three in South Side and two on Mount Washington, with the balance scattered throughout the city, including North Side and South Hills neighborhoods.

Lamar submitted an $85 check for planning and building inspection fees with each application.

A council majority disagrees with a Mayor Luke Ravenstahl administration decision to allow Lamar to place a 1,200-square-foot digital billboard on the front of the Grant Street Transportation Center without any public hearings, votes or bids. Urban Redevelopment Authority Executive Director Pat Ford negotiated the removal of six vinyl signs in return for the new digital billboard, but council members have filed a zoning appeal. Councilman Bruce Kraus drafted moratorium legislation last week after talk circulated that someone inquired with the city about getting permission to double the size of the Bayer sign on Mount Washington.

Mr. Kraus said today that he will go ahead and introduce the legislation. "I don't know what to think," he said when told of the 42 applications. "The purpose of the moratorium was to have a cooling-off period. . . . Unfortunately, this appears to just escalate the matter."

Zoning Administrator Susan Tymoczko said she would check with the city Law Department, which is reviewing the matter of the Grant Street billboard, before acting on the applications.

A Lamar executive was not immediately available for comment.

More details in tomorrow's Pittsburgh Post-Gazette.