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MINUTES <br />PLANNING COMMISSION <br />NOVEMBER 14, 2024 <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />2 <br />Chair Johnson invited members of the public to provide comments. <br /> <br />Matthew Wyland, Clear Channel, spoke in favor of the sign ordinance amendments which would <br />allow Clear Channel to update their billboards. He explained that the modernization allows <br />flexibility for advertisers, the ability to change messages, and provides more opportunities for <br />local businesses to advertise. He stated that they also provide the ability for public messaging by <br />cities on the signs as well as opportunities for nonprofits and emergency messaging. He <br />explained how the signs are safely operated and monitored with the ability for remote shutoff. <br />He provided more details on their experience in other communities and with the wrapped posts. <br />He stated that the ambient light sensors also adjust the brightness of the sign throughout the day. <br /> <br />Commissioner Kulousek referenced an Amber alert and asked if that would take priority as the <br />only message or whether it would be included in the eight-second rolling messages. <br /> <br />Mr. Wyland replied that in those situations it is the only message for a length of time and then <br />would be incorporated into the rolling messaging. <br /> <br />Commissioner Thorson asked and received confirmation that the existing billboards are all the <br />older tarp style. <br /> <br />The Community Development Director explained that the existing billboards are all <br />nonconforming and therefore cannot be expanded in use under the existing City code. <br /> <br />Commissioner Boe-Schmidt commented that the existing signs are all located on private property <br />and asked about the relationship between the property owners and Clear Channel. <br /> <br />Mr. Wyland replied that Clear Channel has long-term leases with those property owners. He <br />confirmed that the property owner could choose to terminate the lease at the end of the lease <br />period and Clear Channel would then remove the structure. He stated that historically the <br />billboards remain for long periods of time as Clear Channel is purposeful on where it places <br />signs and is a good partner. <br /> <br />Chair Johnson asked about efficiency and the level of energy that is used by these signs. <br /> <br />Mr. Wyland replied that he did not have that information. He commented that the signs are <br />updated about every ten years and each time they become lighter and more energy efficient. He <br />stated that he could provide that information in a follow-up to staff and the Commission. He <br />referenced section eight, which would not allow billboards over parking areas or driveways, and <br />asked that be removed as they operate their signs in parking areas or driveways and provided an <br />example locally. <br /> <br />Commissioner Owens asked about accessibility for young kids to climb these structures. <br />