02-08-2024 Planning Commission Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 8, 2024 4 Commissioner Masrud stated that perhaps the light of the sign is linked to business hours. Commissioner Kulousek stated that they could consider dimming the brightness after a certain time. The Community Development Director commented that there are regulations related to lumens for dynamic signs. Chair Johnson recognized that a requirement to reduce lumens at a set time could have impacts to existing signs or create a situation where a number of signs are grandfathered in, which would become complicated and create an issue of inequity. The Community Development Director commented that she could research some of those suggestions and bring that information back to the Commission next month, or simply bring the additional information for the Council to consider. Commissioner Carlson-Clark asked if that suggestion to dim the sign at a set time would only apply to signs adjacent to a residential district. Chair Johnson confirmed that would be one issue, along with potential for light pollution along Rice Street. She commented that White Bear Lake has done a lot of research on this topic and suggested that staff reach out to that staff to gain information. The Community Development Director noted that Bloomington recently updated their sign ordinance, and she could check with that community as well. Chair Johnson suggested using the language “no less than” rather than providing a range, as some businesses may choose not to change their sign message. She asked and received confirmation that there are no pending sign applications. Commissioner Masrud made a motion to table the consideration of the proposed sign ordinance text amendment to the next Planning Commission meeting. Commissioner Kulousek seconded the motion. The motion was unanimously approved. METRO AREA SALES AND USE TAX FOR HOUSING 0.25% The Community Development Director presented background information on the sales and use tax and the related allocation that cities will receive for the purpose of housing. She presented details on community impact along with some ideas for the use of the housing sale tax. Commissioner Carlson-Clark asked if the allocation was a one-time payment or whether the City would receive that annually.