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<br />The purpose and intent of the sign ordinance is to balance the advertising needs of the business community against <br />adverse effects on the public. The maximum sign size for commercial districts (C3) is 150 square feet. Exceeding the <br />maximum sign area by ~184% is not in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance. <br /> <br />2. Is consistent with the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan. <br />The property is guided as Highway Business where commercial businesses with signage are expected. The proposal is <br />consistent with the comprehensive plan. <br /> <br />Variances may be granted when the petitioner establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with <br />the zoning ordinance. Practical difficulties mean that: <br /> <br />3. The petitioner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning <br />ordinance; <br />Signage that exceeds the sign area limits by ~184% is unreasonable. Significant deviations from the established <br />regulations can disrupt the visual harmony of the area, potentially creating an imbalance in the aesthetics and <br />functionality intended. <br /> <br />4. The plight of the petitioner is due to circumstances unique to the property, not a consequence of the <br />petition's own action or inaction; and <br />The recent reconstruction of the interchange at Highway 169 and School Street is a unique circumstance for the <br />property. A freestanding sign meeting the 150 square-foot size limit is still visible from Highway 169, and while the <br />plight is unique, the request does not satisfy other standards for issuance of a variance at the requested size and <br />height. <br /> <br />5. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. <br />If approved, the proposed 276 square-foot sign would be the largest, by square footage, freestanding sign in the area <br />and would alter the essential character of the locality. <br /> <br />Financial Impact <br />None <br /> <br />Mission/Policy/Goal <br />Ethical, efficient, and responsible. <br /> <br />Attachments <br />1. Board of Adjustments Staff Report dated 6-25-2024 <br />2. Presentation <br /> <br /> <br />Page 279 of 389