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Mounds View Planning Commission May 5, 2021 Regular Meeting Page 3 ________________________________________________________________________ 6. Other Planning Activity A. Discussion – Sign Ordinance Community Development Director Sevald stated previously, the Planning Commission asked to discuss sign regulations. At the March 3rd Commission meeting, the scope was narrowed more toward the brightness of dynamic (digital) signs. A comparison of sign codes specific to city corridors similar to Mounds View Boulevard, for Ground, Wall, and Dynamic signs was reviewed with the Commission. It was noted since the March meeting, information has been added regarding the maximum brightness of Dynamic Signs. Although Mounds View has maximum brightness standards, we do not have a tool to enforce this (costs about $2,000). Rather, the City requires that dynamic displays be installed with a manual override, in the event the sign’s automated dimmer fails. Community Development Director Sevald explained staff was not aware of any complaints about signage (excluding temporary signs), other than complaints generated by other City Staff. The Commission is encouraged to drive the Boulevard a few times, and provide an opinion as to what Commission members would change, if anything. For example, if there is a most favored, or least favored sign characteristics. One thing to note is that older signs which are nonconforming, can be repaired or replaced, but cannot be expanded. This means that some of the lesser desirable signs will likely stay until the property is re-developed. Also, a number of variances have been approved for signs over the years (e.g. McDonalds, BP, & Days Inn, Interactive Playground). Staff commented further regarding the Sign Ordinance and requested feedback from the Commission. Commissioner Nelson discussed how there was a need for the City to control or set regulations for digital signs. He supported the City having requirements in place to ensure digital billboards were not a distraction for drivers. Councilmember Meehlhause commented on the changes that were made to the Sign Ordinance when Messiah Lutheran Church requested an electronic message board. Commissioner Monn recommended the Sign Ordinance be reviewed to ensure all ADA requirements were being met. She expressed concern with the frequency of sign changes and colors that were being used at the Mermaid sign. She questioned if digital menu boards would be addressed under this Ordinance. Community Development Director Sevald reported this would be the case. Chair Rundle stated he believed the digital signs were great for local businesses because they allowed for frequent changes. He indicated he supported businesses being allowed to have digital signs, so long as the changes were made within a reasonable amount of time so as not to be a distraction. Further discussion ensued regarding temporary signs and banners in Mounds View.