HomeMy WebLinkAboutPL PACKET 09192006 Meeting Sheet
IIIIII VIII VIII VIII VIII VIII IIII IIII
104958
Box: 33
Folder: PL PACKETS 2005-2011
Document: PL PACKET 09192006
CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 19,. 2006
7:00 P.M. REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
I. CALL TO ORDER.
II. ROLL CALL.
III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
IV. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA.
V. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES OF AUGUST 151, 2006
VI. COMMUNICATION WITH CITY COUNCIL.
VII. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
V11.1. None
VIII. CONCEPT REVIEWS.
VIIIA. Discussion of Proposed Changes to Sign Ordinance — Roger Bona, Mobil
Station
IX. REPORTS FROM STAFF.
IX.1. Comp Plan Task Force Update- Meeting from September 13, 2006
IX.2. Proposed Manufactured Home Park Closing Ordinance
X. COMMUNITY FORUM. Individuals may address the City Council about any item not
included on the regular agenda. Speakers are r requested to come to the podium, sign their
name and address on the form at the podium, state their name and address for the Clerks
record, and limit their remarks to five minutes. Generally, the City Council will not take
official action on items discussed at this time, but may typically refer the matter to staff for a
future report of direct the matter to be scheduled on an upcoming agenda.
XI. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS.
XI.1 Commissioner Appointment Dates — Nov. 17th
XII. ADJOURNMENT.
FAPlanning\PC Agendas\2006\091906 pc agenda.doc
f
1 CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
2
3 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
4
5 August 15, 2006
6 7:00 p.m.
7
8
9 I. CALL TO ORDER.
10 Chair Stromgren called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
11
12 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
13 Chair Stromgren invited the Commissioners and the audience to join in the Pledge of Allegiance.
14
15 II. ROLL CALL.
16 Commissioners present: Chair Stromgren; Vice Chair Hanson; Commissioners Jensen,
17 Jenson, and Young.
18
19 Absent: Commissioners Hoska and Galyon
20
21 Also present: Assistant City Manager Kim Moore-Sykes.
22
23 III. APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA.
24
25 Motion by Commissioner Jensen, second by Commissioner Jenson,to approve the meeting
26 agenda as submitted.
27
28 Motion carried unanimously.
29
30 IV. APPROVAL OF MEETING MINUTES.
31
32 Motion by Vice Chair Hanson, second by Commissioner Young, to approve the Planning
33 Commission meeting minutes of July 18, 2006 with corrections.
34
35 Motion carried unanimously.
36
37 V. COMMUNICATION WITH CITY COUNCIL.
38 5.1 None
39
40 VI. PUBLIC HEARINGS.
41 6.1 None
42
43 VII. CONCEPT REVIEWS.
44 7.1 None
45
46 VIII. GENERAL BUSINESS.
b
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
August 15, 2006
Page 2
1 8.1 _Review Modifications to the Redevelopment plan for Redevelopment Project area No.3
2 and Modifications to Tax Increment Financing District No. 3 for Confirmation to the
3 General Plans and the Development and Redevelopment of the City.
4
5 Assistant City Manager Moore-Sykes summarized the Staff report received from Stacie
6 Kvilvang, Ehlers and Associates, on the modification to Redevelopment Project No. 3 and TIF
7 District No.3 (Cub Foods). Assistant City Manager Moore-Sykes stated that as part of the
8 modifications reviewed in February 2006,this is another piece of the process the Planning
9 Commission needs to be completed. Assistant City Manager Moore-Sykes explained this goes
10 back to legislation changed in 2005 for Tax Increment Financing laws in that municipalities are
11 required to return or spend any excess increments within nine months of the end of the year,
12 which is September 1, 2006
13
14 Assistant City Manager Moore-Sykes reported the Planning Commission needs to make a
15 recommendation on the modifications and adopt/or not adopt the Findings of Facts which are:
16
17 1. The legislative change to Tax Increment Financing laws in 2005 requiring municipalities
18 to return or spend any excess increments within nine month after the end of the year,
19 September 1, 2006.
20
21 2. TIF District No. 3 (Cub Foods) was created in 1993 and it is determined to be typical of
22 assumptions made by districts created over 10 years ago change significantly over time.
23
24 3. After completing the TIF reporting for the City in response to legislation passed in 2005
25 and due by September 1, 2006, it was noted the budget for the above referenced district
26 was not in compliance and was therefore producing excess increment.
27
28 4. In February the Planning Commission reviewed the Modifications to Redevelopment
29 Project Area No. 3,the Chandler Place Tax Increment Financing District and Tax
30 Increment Financing District 3.5 overview and recommended the City Council adopt the
31 modifications as presented.
32
33 5. At the August 15, 2006 meeting,the Planning Commission continued the process for
34 adopting Modifications to Redevelopment Project No. 3 and TIF District No. 3 (Cub
35 Foods)by reviewing the modifications to determine if they conform to the general plans
36 for the development and redevelopment of the City as described in the Comprehensive
37 Plan.
38
39 6. The Planning Commission does find modifications conform to the general plans for the
40 development and redevelopment of the City as described in the current City
41 Comprehensive Plan.
42
43 Commissioner Jensen asked if finding number two is saying that districts created over ten years
44 ago made financial assumptions that can change significantly over time.
45
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
August 15, 2006
Page 3
1 Assistant City Manager Moore-Sykes replied that is correct and it is not atypical of districts that
2 old because assumptions were made ten years ago based on what you knew was true at that time.
3
4 Motion by Commissioner Jensen, second by Commissioner Jenson,to approve the Findings of
5 Facts items one through six as read and recommend them to the City Council.
6
7 Motion carried unanimously.
8
9 8.2 Comp Plan Task Force Report
10
11 Assistant City Manager Moore-Sykes reminded everyone the next Task Force meeting is on
12 September 13, 2006 at 6:30. She reported Mr. Bill Weber, City Planning Consultant, will present
13 major portions of the plan completed and ready for review by the Task Force.
14
15 IX. ANNOUNCEMENTS.
16 9.1 None.
17
18 X. ADJOURNMENT.
19 Motion by Commissioner Hanson, second by Commissioner Jenson, to adjourn the meeting at
20 7:10 p.m.
21
22 Motion carried unanimously.
23
24 Respectfully submitted,
25 Dianna Wise
26 TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
STAFF REPORT
To: Planning Commission Report No.: VIII.1.
From: Kim Moore-Sykes,Assistant City Manager 0P5
Date: September 19, 2006
Subject: Mobil Service Station
Requested Action: Concept Review
Date Application Received: Not yet received.
Property Address: 2801 Kenzie Terrace
Zoning District: Commercial
60-Day Expires: N/A
Waiver Letter Required: N/A Yes Date Sent; No
*Action on this application scheduled for N/A Council meeting.
Background: Staff was contacted by Mr. Roger Bona, owner of the Mobil Service Station at 2801 Kenzie
Terrace, about the process for submitting a request to install electronic gas price sign. Mr. Bona was advised that
electronic signs are not permitted for any districts except signs in the Recreational/Open Space District located
on property owned by the City or Independent School District 282. Mr. Bona indicated that because the gas
prices are constantly changing,it is difficult at times to keep up with the fluctuations. He said this has been
especially true during the winter months. The plastic numbers are brittle and more difficult to attach to the
pylon sign and using a ladder is a dangerous proposition. In past years, the prices were stable for the most part
but recently they can fluctuate several times in one week. He is concerned with the frequency with which his
staff is required to manually change the gas prices.
Staff researched other Minnesota communities to determine how many,if any, allowed gas stations to have
electronic or changeable price signs. Shoreview,Watertown and Bulverde,TX allow electronic changeable signs
for gas stations and convenience stores; Coon Rapids allow changeable copy for illuminated signs. The City of
Bloomington is considering an ordinance whereby the various types of electronic signs are separated into four(4)
categories to establish development.standards unique to each.sign type.
Action: Provide direction on whether or not to pursue language change to the Zoning Ordinance regarding
electronic gas price display signs.
Attachments:
• Copies of ordinance language from Shoreview,Watertown,Bloomington, Coon Rapids and Bulverde,
TX regarding changeable electronic gas price display signs.
Electronic Gas Price sign091906 Concept Review.doc
City of Shoreview Municipal Code Chapter 200. Development Regulations
208.020 Definitions
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in the City of Shoreview
Code of Ordinances shall be interpreted so as to give them the same meaning as
they have in common usage and so as to give subject code its most reasonable
application.
Sign. Any letter, word or symbol, device,poster, picture, statue, reading matter or
representation in the nature of an advertisement, announcement, message, or
visual communication, whether painted,posted, printed, affixed or
constructed, which is displayed for informational or communicative purposes
and is visible to the general public.
Sign, Banners (or Pennants). A sign constructed of lightweight material designed
as an attention-getting device which resembles a flag or similar type of
advertisement.
Sign, Base. The supporting structure upon which a sign face is affixed and which
must be architecturally compatible with the exterior of the principal structure
in the associated development, in terms of color, form, and exposed material
type(s).
Sign, Canopy or Awning. Any sign that is part of or attached to an awning,
canopy, or other fabric, plastic, or structural protective cover over a door,
entrance, window, or outdoor service area. A marquee is not a canopy.
Sign Cabinet or Canister-Std. A sign that consists of a translucent sign face(s)
to which the lettering/graphic message is painted onto and/or molded into.
Such sign differs from a canopy sign in that the edges of the face(s) are
enclosed by a ridge frame to form a cabinet.
Rev. Date Sign Changeable Copy or Readerboard. A sign used to display individual
12/28/05 lettering or numbers which is changed manually and not controlled by means
Ord. #786 of electronic devices, except as otherwise permitted for Gas Price Display
signs.
Sign,Flashing. An illuminated sign which contains flashing lights or exhibits
noticeable changes in color or light intensity.
Sign, Freestanding. Any sign structure that is self supporting, placed in the
ground, and not affixed to a building.
Rev. Date Sign, Gas Price Display. That portion of a sign that announces fuel prices and
12/28/05 consists of changeable copy,manual or electronic. A Gas Price Display must
Ord.#786 be integrated into a freestanding sign.
Section 208. Signs 208-2
City of Shoreview Municipal Code Chapter 200. Development Regulations
1. Fuel stations may integrate a Gas Price Display sign into a
c a_r a copy sign, provided:
Rev. Date a. Copy height shall not exceed 16 inches;
12/28/05 b. The Gas Price Display shall not exceed 6 square feet;
Ord. 786 c. Electronic copy is limited to numeric characters only;
d. Electronic copy shall not scroll, flash or blink or include
animated copy or graphics.
(ii) Changeable Copy signs shall not be used to display a listing of
tenant names.
(b) In Residential Districts, Changeable Copy signs are permitted only to
display non-commercial or public service announcements when
displayed on the site of an approved public or quasi-public land use,
provided the changeable copy sign does not exceed 30 square feet of
area, unless it faces an arterial roadway,in which case up to 40 square
feet of changeable copy sign area may be permitted.
(4) Civic Event Signs.
(a) The area for such signs shall not exceed 8 square feet when located on
property used for residential purposes and not more than 32 square feet
for any other land use.
(b) Only one such sign is permitted per property unless the site abuts two
or more arterial roadways,than a sign may be displayed adjacent to
each such roadway.
(c) Such signs shall not be posted prior to 30 days in advance of the event
and shall be removed within 2 days following the special occasion.
(5) Construction. A temporary sign placed at a construction site identifying
the project and may include any of the following items of information: the
name(s) of the architect, engineer, contractor, financier, or other involved
parties. Leasing information may be integrated into the sign text.
(a) The face area of such signs shall not exceed 12 square feet for
residential developments and 64 square feet for non-residential uses
and such signs shall extend no higher than twelve feet above the
ground surface.
(b) Only one such sign is permitted per property unless said property
adjoins two or more collector or arterial roadways in which case
identical signs may be displayed along each such roadway.
Section 208. Signs 208-10
,
Welcome to Watertown, MN - Sign Ordinance and Regulations Page 12 of 16
States, and other flags adopted or sanctioned by an elected legislative body of competent jurisdicti
must be flown in accordance with protocol established by the Congress of the United States for the
and Stripes. Notwithstanding the above, the following flags shall not be prohibited by this chapter:
1. Any flag of the United States, the State of Minnesota or any political subdivision thereof, or
2. A flag identifying a corporate, business, commercial enterprise, educational institution, or an%
entity or organization that satisfies the following requirements must comply with the general
provisions for flags and first obtain administrative approval.
a. A size not greater than three feet by five feet,
b. Shall be flown horizontally,
c. In conjunction with and at the same time as a flag of the United States and the State o
Minnesota is flown on the premises,
d. Shall be displayed on a separate flagpole located in close proximity to and no higher th
flagpoles of the United States and the State of Minnesota and in no event higher than
feet. One commercial flag shall be allowed in connection with any lot of record.
3. No flag of a commercial nature may be flown in a residential zone, except an apartment corn
may have one flag in addition to the Stars and Stripes and state flag. A flag not meeting any
the regulations established in this chapter shall be considered a banner sign and regulated a�
4. Flags shall be displayed on flagpoles only. Flags displayed on light poles, utility poles, etc, sh
prohibited, except for those placed along city streets by the City.
5. This flag regulation shall apply only to those uses within the C, P, or, I zoning districts.
Sec. 48-15 Exposed Neon Lights, Murals, or Similar Architecture Details
Subsequent to planning commission and city council approval, exposed neon lights, murals, or simi
may be permitted as part of the theme of the site if it is determined that the architecture detail prc
is intended to create an identifiable theme and will not be detrimental with the surrounding enviror
Sec. 48-16 Directional Signs
Directional signs require administrative approval. Directional signs shall be restricted to eight squat
in sign area and no more than five feet in height.
Sec. 48-17 Home Occupation Signs
Home Occupation signs for permitted home occupations may be permitted, provided such signs sh<
be larger than two square feet in sign area.
Sec. 48-18 Electric Changeable Copy
Electric changeable copy shall be allowed on monument signs for events centers, convenience stop
schools, financial institutions, churches and other public uses, provided however a maximum of 32
square feet or 50% of the maximum sign area, whichever is less, may be dedicated to electric
changeable copy, provided the following conditions are met:
1. Electric changeable message copy may change no more than four times in a one hour period
shall not include any flashing, flowing, alternating or blinking lights.
2. Electric changeable message copy shall be integral to and a part of an approved monument s
3. Electric changeable message copy is limited to one color.
4. Sign copy shall not include any use of logos or symbols and messages shall be limited to
advertisement of events.
5. In the case of convenience stores, electric changeable message copy shall be limited only to
advertise the price of automotive fuels.
6. For events centers, and signs operated by the community, the prohibition of off-premises sig
httn•Uwww ni wate.rtnwn.mn_us/ordinance/ordinances sign.htm 9/7/2006
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MINIMUM LETTER/LOGO HEIGHT:Not applicable
b. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Six feet(6).
c. MAXIMUM AREA:Twenty four(24)square feet.Only one face will be allowed per sign.
d. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS:No more than two(2)signs per site.
e. LOCATION LIMITATIONS:All menuboard signs must be located at the side or rear of the principal
building.If two(2)signs are erected,signs must be at least eighteen(18)feet apart.
C. SUBDIVISION ENTRY SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT:Attached sign may not project above top of wall
b. MAXIMUM AREA:Thirty-two(32)square feet for attached sign
c. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS:One(1)monument sign or two(2)attached wall plaque signs(not
a combination thereof)per street entrance
d. PLACEMENT OF SIGN:Monument sign may be located on median at street entrance if approved by
City Council on Concept Plan,in developer's agreement,or by a separate application.
D. BULLETIN BOARD SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached,monument and/or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MINIMUM LETTER/LOGO HEIGHT:Not applicable
b. MAXIMUM HEIGHT: Six(6)feet
c. MAXIMUM AREA:Eighteen(18)square feet.Only one face allowed per sign.
d. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS: One(1)per subdivision entrance,not to exceed two(2)per
subdivision
e. MINIMUM SETBACK:Not applicable
f. LOCATION WHERE ALLOWED:No closer than one-hundred(100)feet from an arterial. Sign must
be located on designated common area and maintained by the home owner's association.
g. MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS: Bulletin board must have a lockable covering.Masonry requirement
shall not apply.
E. DIRECTORY SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MINIMUM SETBACK: Seventy-five(75)feet from drive entrance at right-of-way.
b. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS:One(1)sign per street entrance.
c. RESIDENTIAL ADJACENCY:Not applicable
d. LOCATIONS WHERE ALLOWED:Only distance measurements shall apply.
F. INSTITUTIONAL SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached and/or monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. GENERAL:
i. Sign must be integral to the permitted sign for the site.
ii. Messages on readerboards,whether electronic or manual,may not scroll,flash,or change more
frequently than once a day.
iii. Manual readerboard signs using alphabetical lettering must have a lockable covering.
b. MAXIMUM AREA:Readerboard display cannot exceed two-thirds(2/3)of the permitted gross
surface area per face of the sign,excluding monument sign border.
c. ILLUMINATION:Internal illumination may be utilized for sign panel.
G. GASOLINE PRICING SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. GENERAL:
23
�V2 rX
i. Sign must be integral to the permitted sign for the site.
ii. Price-per-gallon display,whether electronic or manual,may not scroll,flash,or change more
frequently than once a day.
b. MINIMUM LETTER HEIGHT:Not applicable for the fuel classification(i.e."Unleaded","Diesel",
etc.)and the price-per-gallon display.
c. MAXIMUM AREA:Price-per-gallon display cannot exceed two-thirds(2/3)of the permitted gross
surface area per face of the sign,excluding monument sign border.
d. NUMBER OF SIGNS:One(1)per site.
e. ILLUMINATION:Internal illumination may be utilized for fuel classification and price-per-gallon
panels only.
H. DIRECTIONAL SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached and/or Monument
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. Monument
i. MAXIMUM HEIGHT:Three(3)feet
ii. MAXIMUM AREA:Eight(8)square feet with a maximum of four(4)square feet per sign face.
iii. NUMBER OF SIGNS:Maximum of two(2)signs per site.
b. Attached
i. MIMMUM LETTER HEIGHT:Three(3)inches
ii. MAXIMUM LETTER HEIGHT: One(1)foot
iii. NUMBER OF SIGNS:Maximum of one(1)sign per fagade,not to exceed five signs
SECTION 20:TEMPORARY SIGNS REQUIRING PERMIT
Temporary signs shall not be illuminated.A permit shall be required for the following signs:
A. BANNER
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM AREA:0.5 square feet for every one foot of width of building or lease space not to
exceed fifty(50)square feet.
b. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS:One(1)per site or lease space
c. DURATION:Annual permit;no restriction on number of days during 12 month permit period
d. SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS:A banner shall not function as a the primary sign on a property
B. STREET EVENT BANNER
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Attached between utility poles over a roadway
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM AREA:No longer than the pavement width and no more than four(4)feet wide
b. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS:One per civic organization event at any given time;no more than
one street banner per site
c. DURATION:May be placed no more than thirty(30)days prior to the event and removed within
fifteen(15)days following the event
d. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:Must retain approval from the Texas Department of Transportation for
locations on State right-of-ways and the utility company responsible for the utility poles at the location.
C. MODEL HOME SIGN
1. PERMITTED SIGN STRUCTURE:Monument and/or ground
2. MODIFICATIONS TO GENERAL REGULATIONS:
a. MAXIMUM HEIGHT:Five(5)feet for ground signs
b. MAXIMUM AREA: Sixty-four(64)square feet with a maximum of thirty-two(32)square feet per
sign face
c. MAXIMUM NUMBER OF SIGNS:One(1)sign per builder per subdivision
d. MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS:Not applicable
24
11-2 100 Sign Regulations Page 5 of 17
11-2105 Illuminated Signs.
(1) There shall be no signs having blinking, flashing, or
fluttering lights or which change in brightness or color.
(2)(a)Electronic variable message signs are permitted which
provide public service information or advertise activities
conducted on the premises on which the sign is located.
(b) Electronic variable message signs are defined as those
signs whose message may be changed at reasonable
intervals by electronic process or remote control and whose
only movement is the periodic changing of information
against a solid, colorless background, engineered for
maximum legibility and readability, and having a constant
light level and glare-reducing screens.
(3) The light from an illuminated sign shall not reflect direct
rays of light onto adjacent property or public streets.
(4) No incandescent lamp shall be used on exterior surfaces of
any sign which exceeds 15 watts during nighttime hours.
11-2106 Temporary Signs.
(1) Real Estate Signs.
(a) One (1) temporary real estate sign located on the
premises is permitted for the sale or lease of an existing
building or vacant lot for each street frontage of the parcel.
Such sign shall not exceed six (6) square feet in area in a
residential district or 32 square feet in all other districts.
(b) One (1) temporary development real estate sign not
exceeding 80 square feet in area and located on the property
shall be permitted on each public street frontage of a
commercial, industrial, or residential development with ten
(10) or more dwelling units for rent or sale. No more than
two (2) directional signs not exceeding 80 square feet in area
shall be permitted on a collector or arterial street leading
directly to such development.
(c) Real estate signs shall be removed when 95 percent of
the project is sold or leased or when the lot is sold.
(2) Construction Signs. One (1) construction sign not exceeding
32 square feet in area in residential districts and 64 square feet
in area in all other districts shall be permitted on each street
frontage of a development site. Such signs shall be removed
within 14 days after the development is constructed.
(3) Political Signs. Political signs may not exceed eight (8)
square feet in area in residential districts and 32 square feet in
all other districts, except that these size limitations do not apply
from August 1st in a state general election year until ten days
following the state general election. The City may, without
notice, remove any sign erected in violation of this paragraph
or any other federal, state, or local law or ordinance. Any signs
not claimed within 30 days after removal may be destroyed by
http://viww.ci.coon-rapids.mn.us/citycode/chapter%2011/112100%20signregulations.htm 9/13/2006
Item 4 Case 1000OD-06
GENERAL INFORMATION
Applicant: City of Bloomington
Request: Amend City Code to Establish New Electronic Message Board,Vehicle Sign,Video
Display Sign, and Time and Temperature Sign Standards
PROPOSAL
Based on Council member concerns the City's existing sign regulations do not adequately control the
variety of commercially available electronic changeable message signs, particularly in light of the
constantly evolving technology,the City Council directed that new standards be created to address
changeable message and image signs. Based on input from the City Council and a Focus Group
comprised sign industry professionals, staff has prepared a draft ordinance that would regulate the
operational characteristics of electronic changing message and video display signs. The proposed
ordinance is attached.
BACKGROUND
The City Council approved a three-month moratorium on June 19, 2006 on certain display signs
including rapidly changing image and animation displays. The City Council will be considering
extension of the moratorium at its September 11, 2006 meeting. The Council directed staff to create
new standards related to these types of signs. Staff performed a nation-wide literature review of traffic
studies,policy documents, and zoning ordinances relating to electronic message boards. On August
23, 2006 staff convened a Focus Group comprised of sign industry professionals to gather input on a
draft version of the proposed ordinance.
OBJECTIVES
This ordinance aims to minimize and mitigate the level of distraction from electronic signs to both
motorists and residential areas. Different types of electronic signs present varying levels of distraction
to motorists and must be regulated accordingly. Care is also taken to minimize the visual impacts and
commercial nature of electronic signs on residential and conservation areas.
ANALYSIS
Advanced electronic outdoor display signs have become more technologically advanced and less
costly. The advanced technology,particularly with respect to the more practical and economical light
emitting diode (LED)video display signs, has the ability to produce electronic displays that rival
photographs and television programs in quality and clarity.
Report to the Planning Commission September 14,2006
Planning and Economic Development Division
Case# 10000D-06 Page 4.2
Existing standards
The current sign ordinance does not adequately address the advances made in the electronic and video
display industries. Existing references to changeable message and image signs in the City Code are
minimal, but include the following.
The following provisions are located in Section 19.106 titled"Signs Prohibited in All Districts."
• "No rotating beam,beacon or flashing illumination resembling any emergency light shall be
used in connection with any sign display,unless the sign is a traffic control sign, a public utility
sign, or a public notice."
• "Flashing Signs Prohibited. Flashing signs shall be prohibited."
• "Shimmering Signs Prohibited. Shimmering signs shall be prohibited."
• "Signs Not Listed As Permitted Are Prohibited. Any sign not identified as a permitted sign in
Section 19.105 of this Code and in Sections 19.110 through 19.127 of this Code is prohibited."
The following definition of"flashing sign"is included in Section 19.104:
• "Flashing sign—a directly or indirectly illuminated sign which exhibits changing light or color
effects by any means, so as to provide intermittent illumination which includes the illusion of
intermittent flashing light by means of animation. Also any mode of lighting which resembles
zooming, twinkling, or sparkling."
The following provision in Section 19.85 applies to sexually oriented businesses:
• "All signs shall be flat wall signs. No signs shall be freestanding, located on the roof, or
contain any flashing lights, moving elements, or electronically or mechanically changing
messages."
Driver distraction
While video display signs create mood, interest and energy in pedestrian oriented entertainment
districts, serious highway safety questions have been raised concerning this visual medium by the
Federal Highway Administration(FHWA),National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
(NHTSA), the University of North Carolina Highway Safety Research Center, Municipal Research and
Services Center of Washington and Wisconsin Department of Transportation. A complete listing of
these and related reports is found in the bibliography section of this staff report.
All of the studies conducted reveal that driver distraction continues to be a significant underlying cause
of traffic accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that at least 25%
of police-reported crashes involve some form of driver inattention. Driver distraction is one form of
inattention and is a factor in over half of these crashes.
Because there are many different technologies that can be used to create the image that is seen on a
large video display sign, it is not feasible to develop technology based sign regulations,rather the
regulations must address operational characteristics, capabilities and functions.
Report to the Planning Commission September 14,2006
Division of City Planning
Case# 1000OD-06 Page 4.3
Electronic message boards
The proposed ordinance separates electronic message boards into four categories: changeable copy
sign(electronic), electronic graphic display sign, video display signs, and time and temperature signs.
As summarized below,the disparate nature of these sign types require development standards unique
to each sign type.
• Changeable copy sign, electronic—Text-only electronic displays, typically used to advertise
gas prices at service stations. The proposed ordinance limits the amount of text displayed at
one time to improve readability by motorists. Each electronic message must be displayed for a
minimum of eight seconds; no portion of the message may flash, scroll, or in any manner
imitate movement.
• Electronic graphic display sign—Electronic sign displaying both text and pictorial images.
These signs have the technical capability to display high-quality, photo-like images in addition
to text information. Due to the potential for greater distraction with this type of sign, each
electronic message must be displayed for a minimum of twenty minutes; no portion of the
message may flash, scroll, or in any manner imitate movement.
• Video display sign—Electronic sign whose display is characterized by motion and pictorial
imagery. These signs may possess the ability to display television-like images and programs.
• Time and temperature sign—Electronic sign displaying only time and temperature information.
Each electronic message must be displayed for a minimum of two seconds; no portion of the
message may flash, scroll, or in any manner imitate movement.
Official signs and notices are exempt from the proposed ordinance. These signs are address in the
existing sign code and defined as:
"Official signs and notices - signs and notices erected and maintained by public
officers or public agencies within their territorial jurisdiction and pursuant to and in accordance
with direction or authorization contained in federal, state, or local law for the purposes of
carrying out an official duty or responsibility. Historical markers authorized by state law and
erected by state or local governmental agencies or nonprofit historical societies and star city
signs erected under Section 173.085 may be considered official signs."
The following table represents the percentage range of motorists who would view a message change on
an electronic sign based on the time frequency of change and its visibility:
Percent of passing motorists who would see sign change
'Time sign is visibli(dependent upon traffic speedlgeneral
conditions/etc.
Frequency of sign- 10 seconds 20 seconds 30 seconds
change
8seconds 100% 100% 100%
20 minutes 1.7% 3.3% 5%
60 minutes 0.6% 1.1% 1.7%
Report to the Planning Commission September 14,2006
Division of City Planning
STAFF REPORT
To: Planning Commission Report No.: XI.1.
From: Kim Moore-Sykes,Assistant City Manager i j'�
Date: September 19, 2006
Subject: Application for Reappointment to the Planning Commission
Once again,it's time for reappointment to the Planning Commission. Our records indicate that Jim Hoska,
Victoria Young and Jan Jenson have terms that expire in December 2006. If you are interested in being
reappointed,please submit a letter of interest to Mike Morrison, City Manager by November 17, 2006. He will
then schedule Council interviews on December 4`s after the Truth in Taxation meeting. Appointments will be
approved at the December 11'h Council meeting.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact either Mike or me.
091906 Staff Report re Commission Appointments.doc
PLANNING COMMISSION CONTACT INFORMATION
Updated September 2006
Name Term End Date
Joel Stromgren, Chair 12/08
3108 Croft Drive
St. Anthony, MN 55418
(home) 612-781-7048 (work) 612-278-7690 (e-mail) istrom en&millerdunwiddie.com
Todd Hanson, Vice Chair 12/07
4008 Penrod Lane
St. Anthony, MN 55421
(home) 612-781-6701 (work) 612-781-4730 (e-mail) thansonodgisd.net
Don Jensen 12/08
3004 Armour Terrace
St. Anthony, MN 55418
(home) 612-789-0325 (e-mail) djensenQcpdctnd.com & djtjh2&msn.com
Jim Hoska 12/06
3209 - 31 s`Avenue NE
St. Anthony, MN 55418
(home) 612-781-8836 (cell) 612-325-1662
Victoria Young 12/06
3113 Rankin Road
St. Anthony, MN 55418
(home) 612-781-5928 (e-mail) vm oung&stthomas.edu
Jan Jenson 12/06
2812 Hilldale Avenue
St. Anthony, MN 55418
(home) 612-788-1242 (work) 612-951-5234 (cell) 612-282-0308;jan.jenson a,honeywell.com
Heath Galyon 12/07
3516 Sky Croft Drive
St. Anthony, MN 55418
(home) 612-788-1162 (e-mail) hlgalyon comcast.net
Staff Liaison: Kim Moore-Sykes, Assistant City Manager
City Hall: 612-782-3312 (direct)
Fax: 612-782-3302
E-Mail: kim.moore-sykes is ci.saint-anthony.mn.us
Recording Secretary: Dianna Wise
9900—206'' Street North
Forest Lake, MN 55025
dlwise ,clarus-medical.com
FAPlanning\PC Members List\pc address 2006.doc
CITY OF ST. ANTHONY
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE TASK FORCE
MEETING AGENDA
SEPTEMBER 13,r 2006
6:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M.
COUNCIL CHAMBERS
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. WELCOME— Bill Weber, MFRA
III. INFORMATION AND DISCUSSION — Bill Weber, MFRA
111.1. Review Draft of Community Profile and Land Use Chapters for the Comp Plan
Update.
IV. GENERAL DISCUSSION
IV.1. Public Forum
IV.2. Submission Schedule
V. NEXT MEETING
V.1. October 18, 2006—Tentative
VI. ADJOURNMENT.
F:\Planning\Comp Plan Update 2008\Agendas\091306 task force agendadoc
St. Anthony Mobil,Inc.
New Gas Price Sign
1.)Promoting Safety
Changing the digits on the current gas price sign can be dangerous. During colder
temperatures or windy conditions the hard plastic digits,with sharp edges, can be
released from the changing pole suction cups. Falling digits can and have caused minor
contusions and lacerations.
The retail gasoline market as changed drastically the last couple of years. Historically,
gas prices were changed on average 1 to 2 times per week. The times in which we live
have brought about gas price changes almost daily. This allows more opportunities for
employees to be working in an unsafe environment.
2.)Allowing Business Operations
As a part of normal business operations, St. Anthony Mobil needs to change gas prices on
the sign. During the last three(3)winters we have experience changes in the weather that
have prevented us from changing the gas prices. Increasing instances where rain, snow,
and wind mix during the winter months has cause excessive ice build-up on the current
gas price sign. The ice build-up disallows the changing pole suction cup to grip the digits
for removal and installation. Lacking the ability to change gas prices directly affects our
ability to competitively operate our business.
3.)Definition of Signagee
Under St. Anthony Village City Ordinance Chapter 1400, Section 4, Subsections 6 and 8,
the current gas price sign for St.Anthony Mobil can be classified as the following.
• Changeable Copy Sign, Any sign which is characterized by changeable
copy, letters or symbols, regardless of method of attachment.
• Electric Sign. Any sign containing electrical wiring but not including signs
illuminated by an exterior light source.
The proposed sign can also be classified under these same heading. The proposed sign
would have changeable letters and symbols,and would contain electrical wiring. The
only illumination would be the gas prices. The proposed sign is incapable of changing
messages, scrolling,and/or flashing. The display is stationary.
The city prohibits Electronic Message Signs. We are not proposing an electronic
message sign. We are proposing an electric, changeable copy sign.
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