12-17-2003 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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In regard to location, the Architectural Guidelines state that signs should be located in a manner visually compatible with the area and should fulfill their intended purpose in a non - obtrusive, aesthetically pleasing manner. As shown on the submitted composite photograph, the proposed monument sign utilizes the colors of the buildings within the office park and is visually "softened" by the placement of landscaping at its base. In this regard, the sign is considered well placed, non - obtrusive and aesthetically acceptable. Height. The maximum allowable sign height relates to the gross floor area of the building(s). Depending on building area sign heights ranging from 16 to 25 feet are allowed. At 14 feet in height, the proposed monument sign complies with the maximum height requirements of the ordinance. The City's architectural standards state that signs which exceed the height of the buildings they serve should be discouraged. At 14 feet in height, the height of the proposed monument sign is significantly less than the neighboring two -story office buildings. Area. The maximum allowable sign area for freestanding signs (for commercial and industrial uses) ranges from 66 to 200 square feet depending on the gross floor area of the building(s). The proposed 140 square foot sign corresponds to a building not greater than 7,500 square feet in size. Because the total area of the buildings within the office park exceeds such square footage amount, the area of the proposed monument sign is considered acceptable. Materials. According to the Architectural Guidelines, signs should be constructed of natural materials compatible with prominent building materials. While the finish materials of the sign have not been specified, the sign matches the variations of gray which exist upon neighboring office buildings. As a condition of sign approval, the submitted sign plans should be modified to specify finish materials. Illumination. As shown on the attached composite photograph, the sign is to be illuminated via a ground level floodlight. Such lighting is considered acceptable. To be noted is that the proposed sign includes an illuminated time and temperature feature. According to the Architectural Guidelines, signs using flashing lights should be discouraged. While the time and temperature element is considered acceptable, it should not flash or carry any commercial message. Landscaping. In what is considered a positive feature, landscaping has been proposed around the base of the monument sign. As a condition of sign permit issuance, specific plant locations, varieties and sizes should be specified. Sign Maintenance. To ensure proper sign maintenance, an assurance should be made that the proposed sign is located within a "common" lot within the office park 2