5.3. BASR 08-27-2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

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This Zoning Lot is allowed one (1) wall and one (1) freestanding sign. The table to the right shows the current and proposed signage on the campus. Several of the existing signs are legal non- conforming signs and can be maintained as well as replaced in the same location; given they are the same size and height. Approving a variance for the existing signs will make them all legal conforming signs under the terms of the variance. Applicable Regulation (The applicant’s responses are italicized with staff’s notes after.) Variances may be granted when the petitioner establishes that the variance satisfies all five of the criteria described below. The variance is: 1. Is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance, and This property is for institutional use, this sign is to recognize this institution. The intent is to provide non-residential uses the ability to advertise without adversely affecting the residential neighborhood. The campus is comprised of three different uses on five parcels. If each of these uses were allowed one wall sign and one freestanding sign, there could be three wall signs and three freestanding signs in the subject area/neighborhood. The applicant is not requesting anything beyond the purpose and intent. The request is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance. 2. Is consistent with the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan. The plan guide is residential, churches are allowed in residential districts. The property is guided for residential and religious institutions are allowed in residential districts. The request is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. 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; The applicant is requesting a second freestanding sign for the church use to be located on a heavily traveled street. There is a freestanding sign on Irving Ave. for the school use and a th freestanding sign for the church use near the entrances from 4 St. The applicant is requesting a third freestanding on the east side of the campus along Gates Ave., which does not have signage. It is not unreasonable to have multiple signs on a campus with multiple uses and entrances, especially those fronting multiple public roads.