09-10-2008 PC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Planning Commission Minutes September 10, 2008 Page 4 Commissioner Scott stated that he applauded the City Council in their efforts, but he was not sure now is the time to draw the line. He supported taking a firm approach with the next PUD that comes in for development. Commissioner Staul concurred with Commissioner Scott. He stated that denial of the request takes away the ability of the business to share in visibility. He agreed that Dollar Tree is not visible from Wal-Mart. Commissioner Staul stated he also agreed they should start by maintaining consistency with original standards in the next PUD. Mr. Barnhart stated that even though this PUD is largely built-out, there will always be another PUD. He stated it was clear what the PUD regulations were when the business purchased the property, and should not have been purchased based on changing them. He stated that applicant has presented a good argument to support approval, but that the Commission should be cautious on their reasons. Chair Westgaard asked how much of the site is left to be developed. Mr. Barnhart stated there are 2 or 3 lots left. Chair Westgaard stated that the design standards specified what signage was allowed, and that he would have to recommend denial since the request did not meet the standards. Mr. Funderburk stated that he understood Chair Westgaard's reasoning, but felt that the development is a highly competitive, commercial area, and citizens would wonder why Dollar Tree would not have more signage. He did not feel the business should be restricted to guidelines that have not been followed in the past. Commissioner Austad concurred with Commissioners Scott and Staul. He stated that given the commercial activity in the area and the applicant's strong argument, he would support a recommendation for approval. Chair Westgaard questioned the precedent issue. He asked what would happen if Wal-Mart and Home Depot requested to advertise on the back and sides of their buildings. Mr. Barnhart stated that this request does not open the door to them and they are still governed by the original standards. He noted that these businesses are advertised on the large pylon sign. Commissioner Westberg asked if there was an opportunity for Dollar Tree to advertise on the large pylon sign. Mr. Funderburk stated they have already explored that option and they are not allowed to use it. Commissioner Westberg asked the applicant if the size of the signage was "set in stone". Mr. Funderburk stated that 36-inch letters are consistent with other signage in the area, with the exception of one of Taco Johns' side signs, because it would not fit on the building. Commissioner Staul stated that he would like to be consistent, but that the exception is the rule in this case. He did not see the distinction between this building and others, and at this point, he saw no reason to deny the request. Chair Westgaard stated that regardless of past actions, the Planning Commission's job is to hold the benchmark. The intent of the standards was to keep the lighting away from the residential areas. He stated that the smaller businesses have a 360-degree exposure and require more signage than the larger buildings.