4.2 BASR 09-27-2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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inherently is a beacon,will be more visible from neighboring properties compared to a shorter,compliant sign that may not be. The intent is to limit the height of signs, for permitted nonresidential uses,in a residentially zoned district. When the City Council approved the 20 foot height limit,they determined the height was an appropriate height for permitted nonresidential use signs in a residential district. The general purpose and intent of the ordinance is not met with a sign exceeding the allowed height by more than three times the permitted height. 2. Is consistent with the City of Elk River comprehensive plan. W'e feel that all things considered the additional free standing tower will not alter the essential character of the locality or detract from the look and feel of the neighborhood additionally it would enhance the draw of the church to new and future attendees to help build a stronger community in the Elk River area. Additional Sign The property has a land use designation of residential and the existing institutional use is consistent with the comprehensive plan. However,an additional sign is not consistent with permitted institutional uses in a residential district. Sign Height The property has a land use designation of residential and the existing institutional use is consistent with the comprehensive plan. However,a sign three times the allowed height is not consistent with permitted institutional uses in a residential district. 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 zoning ordinance; There will be no change in property use and will remain in compliance with the toning ordinance regarding use in properly. Additional Sign The subject property is currently being used in a reasonable manner while conforming to the sign ordinance. The existing sign is 11 feet tall,9 feet shorter than what is allowed. The applicant's narrative indicates the increased height will indicate the location of the church. The applicant could increase the height of the existing sign and maintain ordinance standards to accomplish the stated intent of the additional sign. Adding an additional sign would not be using the property in a reasonable manner. Sign Height The intent of the sign ordinance is also to protect the health and welfare of residents and neighbors while maintaining consistency in neighborhoods. The height requirements outlined in the ordinance of 20 feet can be met while still providing wayfinding signage.Providing additional height than what is permitted by ordinance does not protect the health and welfare of residents as the taller sign,which inherently is a beacon,can be more visible from neighboring properties where a shorter,compliant sign,may not. With an increased sign height of a second sign,the property would not be used in a reasonable manner. N:\Departments\Community Development\Planning\Case Files\V\V 16-10 Gateway Church\4-Planning Commission\V 16-10 sr BA 9-27-16.docx