5.2 BASR 04-28-2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The applicant states the additional height is needed to "allow outstanding view lines from Highway 10 for customers and their vehicles traveling both north and south on Highway 10." The applicant notes the site is approximately 1,100 — 1,200 feet from the vehicle drive lanes on Highway 10, and that truck traffic and easy location of the dealership is a high priority for drivers /customers and access to the dealership. The sign is located at the entrance to what will become the primary north -south alternative to Highway 10, and is approximately 50' from Twin Lakes Road. Applicable Regulation City ordinance outlines the criteria for the granting of a variance. In order for a variance to receive approval, the request must satisfy all five of the following requirements. The applicant did not provide any language establishing why a variance should be granted. Variances may be granted when the petitioner establishes that the variance: 1. Is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance, and The city's sign ordinance includes height and size requirements for freestanding signs in all zoning districts. Size requirements are based on evaluation of the potential impacts (safety, aesthetics, visibility, etc.) as they relate to each zoning district. Additionally, the sign ordinance is based on the following findings: (1) Exterior signs have a substantial impact on the character and quality of the environment. (2) Signs provide an important medium that may convey a variety of messages. (3) Signs can create traffic hazards and aesthetic concerns, thereby threatening the public health, safety and welfare. (4) The city's zoning regulations include the regulation of signs in an effort to provide adequate means of expression and to promote the economic viability of the business community, while protecting the city and its citizens from a proliferation of signs of a type, size, location, number and character that would adversely impact upon the aesthetics of the community and threaten the health, safety and welfare of the community. The regulation of the physical characteristics of signs within the city has a positive impact on traffic safety and the appearance of the community. 2. Is consistent with the City of Elk River comprehensive plan. The comprehensive plan guides the property for destination retail and office /corporate campuses. The plan also discusses community image and notes that sign ordinances should seek a balance between private and public objectives, and, at a minimum, the size, quality, and appearance of signs should not detract from a positive community image. Variances may be granted when the petitioner establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. Practical difficulties mean that: 3. The petitioner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the ,omng ordinance; The petitioner proposes to construct a sign 20 feet taller than what the ordinance permits. NA Departments\Community Development \Planning \Case Files \V \\' 15 -06 GA1R \V 15 -06 sr GA1R Sign.docx