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<br />• WHEREAS, representatives of the sign industry have issued press releases indicating the
<br />intention to deploy digital billboard networks in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis .and St. Paul and
<br />their surrounding ring suburbs;
<br />WHEREAS, these digital billboards have been observed by the Mounds View Zoning
<br />Administrator, and the. electronic, digital, video, display signs, billboards and billboard networks
<br />were determined to fall within the City ordinance definitions for flashing, traveling or, changing
<br />message signs;
<br />WHEREAS, the City of Mounds View has several existing billboards and pylon signs along
<br />major public roadways within its corporate boundaries that currently do not have electronic, digital,
<br />video, display signs, billboards and billboard network displays;
<br />WHEREAS, the City of Mounds View regulates signs and displays on signs in order to
<br />reduce potential traffic safety hazards and visual blight. A major study on electronic signs prepared
<br />by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) found that "motion or the illusion of motion of
<br />lights or other display features, including animation, has "the greatest potential for motorist
<br />distraction as well as a dominant visual impact on the aesthetic environment". (FHA Report, Part
<br />VI, Section L.) The FHA study also found that control of the message interval and message cycle
<br />as well as appearance of flashing must be regulated to prevent contributing to traffic hazards. (FHA
<br />Report, Part VI, Sections G-J.} Signs, including changing image signs, that display graphics that are
<br />animated, or portray motion, or display rapidly moving messages may contribute to traffic safety
<br />• hazards and /or have adverse aesthetic impacts on the visual environment;
<br />WHEREAS, there is a need to conduct a study so that the City of Mounds View can
<br />consider possible amendments to its sign ordinance and zoning regulations pertaining to electronic,
<br />digital, video display signs, billboards, billboard networks, flashing, motion, animated, changeable
<br />copy and illuminated signs;
<br />WHEREAS, there is a need for an interim ordinance to be adopted for the purpose of
<br />protecting the planning process and the welfare of the citizens of the City until such a study has
<br />been completed. There is a need to restrict certain signage until the study has been completed and
<br />any modifications to the City's sign ordinances and zoning regulations are accomplished; and
<br />WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, section 462.355, subdivision 4, permits .the adoption of
<br />interim zoning ordinances during the planning process.
<br />NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
<br />MOUNDS VIEW, MINNESTOA as follows:
<br />1. The City of Mounds View Staff are directed to undertake a study regarding electronic,
<br />digital, and video display signs, billboards, billboard networks, flashing, motion, animated,
<br />changeable copy and illuminated signs. The scope of the study should include review of
<br />regional and national studies, local research, ordinances in other jurisdictions, review of
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