03-24-2015 BA MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Board of Adjustments Minutes Page 2 March 24, 2015 ----------------------------- Commissioner Konietzko asked if any of the businesses nearby- had a sign which was larger or taller than allowed by ordinance. Mr. Leeseberg stated he was not aware of any signs which did not meet the requirements. Chair Johnson asked if there were any recent requests for variances for signs in this area. Nit. Leeseberg stated no. Chair Johnson opened the public hearing. Commissioner Crook asked the applicant if there were recent changes in the corporate sign requirements. Mr. Tatges stated yes, in August last year. Commissioner Konietzko asked if staff was provided the corporate sign requirements. Mr. Tatges stated no, and stated the reason was they are quite lengthy (50 plus pages) and have mostly to do with color schemes and use of the Farmers Insurance logos. He stated that his current sign is non - -compliant and the new sign has been reviewed by corporate and was deemed compliant. He stated that if the signed were "scaled back" in size, he would be required to re-- submit it for approval. Chair Johnson stated that if changes mentioned by staff were made, it does not appear there world be any problem meeting the city's regulations. Commissioner Konietzko asked if there was some sort of penalty for Mr. Tatges if his sign did not meet corporate approval. Mr. Tatges explained that his commission /compensation is tied to meeting Farmers Insurance requirements for his office and signage. He stated that it is similar to a report card grade; he is scored a letter grade and this grade impacts what percentage he is paid in commissions. A lower grade translates to reduced pay. Commissioner Konietzko asked how the digital/ electronic reader board will be used. Mr. Tatges stated this signage would be used to promote his products and also some public service announcements or events. Commissioner Konietzko asked how much the sign will cost. Mr. Tatges stated the cost was $22,000. Commissioner Konietzko asked Mi. Tatges to consider removing the lower portion of the sign, since there was some duplication of the logo sign on top, thereby allowing the digital reader board and logo signage to be lowered and reduce the square footage of the sign. Mr. Tatges stated he would have to re- submit the change to the corporate office for approval. Discussion followed regarding possible scenarios of acting on the request and postponing the request. Mr. Tatges stated that he was in favor of the Board acting on the request tonight and he could re- submit the sign proposal to corporate with changes. The Board of Adjustments reviewed the five criteria as follows: 1. Is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance. Motion by Commissioner Larson -Vito and seconded by Commissioner Konietzko that the request does not meet Criteria #1. Motion carried 7 -0. 2. Is consistent with the City of Elk River comprehensive plan.