2008.11.13 PC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Minutes — November 13, 2008 Page 3 Public Hearing for Sign Ordinance Text Amendment Rachel Simone explained to the Planning Commission about the process that staff used to review the current ordinance. She explained that there was a Sign Ordinance Review committee that consisted of 3 Planning Commissioners, and 2 City council members. She stated that the goals of the review committee were to make the ordinance business friendly, seen easily by the public, and made from quality materials. Rachel went through and described the various portions of the sign ordinance to the Planning Commission. She also explained the enforcement and why the changes were added to the proposed ordinance. Schumann acknowledged the time and effort that went into the review committee and thanked the members for their hard work. Schumann opened the Public hearing. Cynthia Petty, 13679 Fiona Ave N, explained that she thought that the ordinance would be limiting to small businesses because the monument signs would be very expensive. She stated that pylon signs could look nice if they were cleaned up. She also thinks that the 60 day rule for special event signs was not long enough, and what regulations were in place for home occupations. Rachel stated that the Home Occupation Ordinance covers signs for home occupations. Katie Riopel, 8089 165th ST N, thinks that box signs and pylon signs are ok and would like to know why they were prohibited. She does not like the electronic scrolling signs and thinks they are a distraction for drivers. Rachel stated that scrolling will be prohibited on the electronic signs. Gaylon Carlson owner of North Country Auto Body, 5451 140th ST N, had concerns that the signs would be too expensive for business owners. He also likes to put out funny quotes on signs from time to time and was concerned about the 60 day event sign limit. Rachel explained that a non commercial speech sign would be allowed without a permit as long as he was within the square ft requirements of his building. Also that public service signs would also be allowed. Chad Wagner owner of the Blue Heron Grill, 14725 Victor Hugo Blvd N, pointed out that by limiting the special event signs, the ordinance would be putting a financial burden on him. He uses the signs to attract customers for certain events and would like to see more days added to the special event sign limit. Bryan suggested to the Planning Commission that maybe all special event signs shall be required to get a permit so they can be regulated as to what is actually a special event sign.