Agenda Packets - 2007/04/02 (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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306301v1 SJR MU125-11 2 1.05. Representatives of the sign industry have issued press releases indicating the intention to deploy digital billboard networks in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul and their surrounding ring suburbs; 1.06. These digital billboards have been observed by the Mounds View Zoning Administrator, and the electronic, digital, video, display signs, billboards and billboard networks were determined to fall within the City ordinance definitions for flashing, animated or changeable copy signs; 1.07. The City of Mounds View has several existing billboards and pylon signs along major public roadways within its corporate boundaries that currently do not have electronic, digital, video, display signs, billboards and billboard network displays; 1.08. The City of Mounds View regulates signs and displays on signs in order to reduce potential traffic safety hazards and visual blight. A major study on electronic signs prepared by the Federal Highway Administration (FHA) found that “motion or the illusion of motion of lights or other display features, including animation, has “the greatest potential for motorist distraction as well as a dominant visual impact on the aesthetic environment”. (FHA Report, Part VI, Section L.) The FHA study also found that control of the message interval and message cycle as well as appearance of flashing must be regulated to prevent contributing to traffic hazards. (FHA Report, Part VI, Sections G-J.) Signs, including changing image signs, that display graphics that are animated, or portray motion, or display rapidly moving messages may contribute to traffic safety hazards and /or have adverse aesthetic impacts on the visual environment; 1.09. There is a need to conduct a study so that the City of Mounds view can consider possible amendments to its sign ordinance and zoning regulations pertaining to electronic, digital, video display signs, billboards, billboard networks, flashing, motion, animated, changeable copy and illuminated signs; 1.10. There is a need for an interim ordinance to be adopted for the purpose of protecting the planning process and the welfare of the citizens of the City until such a study has been completed. There is a need to restrict certain signage until the study has been completed and any modifications to the City's sign ordinance and zoning regulations are accomplished; and 1.11. Minnesota Statutes, section 462.355, subdivision 4, permits the adoption of interim zoning ordinances during the planning process. Sec. 2. Findings. 2.01. The City Council finds there is a need to conduct a study so that the City of Mounds View can consider possible amendments to its sign ordinance and zoning regulations pertaining to electronic, digital, video display signs, billboards, billboard networks, flashing, motion, animated, changeable copy and illuminated signs. 2.02. The City Council finds that there is a need to adopt a moratorium ordinance for all Zoning Districts within the City while the studies referenced in section 2.01 of this ordinance are being conducted.