7.2. SR 05-18-2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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They unanimously denied the variance as requested, and found that: • Criteria #1 was not met 5-0 • Criteria #2 was not met 5-0 • Criteria #3 was not met 5-0 • Criteria #4 was not met 5-0 • Criteria #5 was not met 5-0 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 didn't provide any evidence establishing why a variance should be granted. Variances may be granted when the petitioner establishes that the variance: 9. 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 to provide adequate means of expression and to promote the economic viability of the business community,while protecting the city and its residents 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. Thepetitionerproposes to use theproperty in a reasonable manner notpermitted by the Zoning ordinance; The petitioner proposes to construct a sign 20-feet taller than what the ordinance permits. 4. The plight of the petitioner is due to circumstances unique to the property not a consequence of the petition's own action or inaction;and N:APublic Bodies\Agenda Packets\05-18-2015\Final\x7.2 sr GATR Sign Variance.docx