5.1.BASR 03-26-2024 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

1. Is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance, and The new sign is in harmony with the purpose of the sign ordinance because it enhances the commercial communication requirements of this sectors of the business community. The taller sign will allow the motoring public along Hwy 169 to see our services. The purpose and intent of the sign ordinance is to balance the advertising needs of the business community against adverse effects on the public. Signage heights for commercial districts along Highway 169 are currently around 30-40 feet depending on the zoning. As the 169 Redefine project is nearing completion, the city is in the process of determining appropriate signage along the new corridor and it is premature to determine if the proposed request will be in harmony with the future purpose and intent. 2. Is consistent with the City of Elk River comprehensive plan. The 169 Redefine project will be complemented by new gateways and wayfinding signs that ensure residents and visitors alike know when they are entering Elk River and how to get to key destinations like the downtown area and riverfront. Our sign will notify motorists including semi-truck drivers that there is gas available as well as traditional gas station services such as restrooms and food. The property is guided as Highway Business where commercial businesses with signage are expected. The proposal 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 means that: 3. The petitioner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; This gas station will be used in a reasonable manner by providing gas and facilities for the traveling motorist. Installing a sign that is a little over 2.5 times as tall as what is currently allowed is not reasonable. City staff have been working with the Planning Commission and City Council on an ordinance amendment that will allow taller signs along Highway 169. The ordinance would allow a freestanding sign up to 40-feet above the main-line if the adjacent highway. The request is twice as tall as what is recommended under the ordinance amendment. 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 The reconstruction of Hwy 169 is not a circumstance that Holiday caused. We are trying to continue our business with a sign that can be viewed along Hwy 169. We had a monument sign that was removed due to the construction. We just want to be able to continue to be able to notify those motorists along Hwy 169. The recent reconstruction of the interchange at Highway 169 and School Street is a unique circumstance to the property. A freestanding sign, that is 30-foot tall, is still visible above the grade/bridge from 1,700 feet away, which is prior to the northbound exit ramp. The staff exhibit shows this relationship. While the plight is unique, the request does not satisfy other standards for issuance of a variance at the requested height.