An unpopular plan to raise a tax on awnings and signs that jut over City of Hamilton sidewalks has been scrapped, Hamilton Mayor Graeme Outerbridge said.The City last year proposed to tax the structures at $75 each — causing some store owners to walk out of the meeting in disgust when it was announced.However, Mr Outerbridge, fielding questions at a recent town hall meeting, said the tax had been dropped in response to complaints.Hamilton’s Acting Chief Operating Officer Patrick Cooper told The Royal Gazette: “After consultation with the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce and during discussions in the City’s Business Advisory Committee meetings, the City Council made the decision not to increase the permit fee for encroachments and awnings.“The original permit fee of $25 per encroachment or awning has been reinstated. The discussions that took place were important in that both the City and business owners were able to discuss the permit increase and the impact on business.”Useful website: www.cityofhamilton.bm