7.3. SR 11-18-2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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proposed Granite Shores sign by regulating sign dimensions based on the height and length of the principle structure. The draft regulations applied to Granite Shores would permit a 20-foot tall, 80-square foot sign. Planning Commission,November 12, 2013 Public Hearing During the public hearing,representatives from the Rivers Edge Business Community spoke in support of monument signs in the downtown district,windows signs covering 80% of an individual window area, and increasing wall signage to 15% of facade area. Steve Anderson,representing Franklin Outdoor Advertising, supported advertising signs (billboards) in the CRT and removing the principal use clause regulating their location. He described the need for the business community to have additional advertising opportunities. Debbi Rydberg, representing the Elk River Chamber of Commerce, supported increasing wall signage to 15% of facade area, billboards in the CRT, and larger monument signs in the downtown district. Planning Commission After receiving public comment,the Planning Commission recommended reducing the setback for freestanding signs in the downtown district from 15 to 10 feet, and relating sign size to building size. The language recommended for adoption was included in an email from the Decklan Group,representing Granite Shores (attached),and limits sign size to 20 feet tall and 80 square feet in sign area. The Planning Commission also discussed permitting advertising signs (billboards) in the CRT zoning district and removing the clause stating that billboards are classified as a principal use. A motion was made to amend the ordinance,but failed to receive a second and the motion died. The remainder of the ordinance was recommended for approval without change. Staff Recommendation Staff continues to oppose freestanding/monument signs in the downtown zoning district, and believes these signs would detract from the unique character and pedestrian scale of the area. The recommended ordinance not only permits monument signs at the Granite Shores building, but potentially 10 other locations with varying sizes. Further, staff believes the proposed language is inconsistent with the goals and objectives of previously prepared plans. The Mississippi Connections Plan outlines ideas to create a destination experience,and design standards encourage "proper mass, scale, and materials that balance new development with rehabilitated and preserved properties." The Comprehensive Plan speaks to the "...character and scale of the Downtown Area" and"existing character of the area". If the Council believes that freestanding/monument signs are appropriate in the downtown district, staff recommends: Recommended language: One (1) Monument Sign is permitted for each Multi-Tenant Facility. Signs shall not exceed six (6) feet in height and 40 square feet in Sign Area. Please note that a changeable copy sign on a particular lot in the downtown district shall not advertise for businesses and services not on that lot. N:\Public Bodies\Agenda Packets\11-18-2013\Fina1\x7.3 sr Sign Ordinance Amendment.docx