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1 <br /> Not Approved J <br /> Because the applicant has already purchased the new, 25 SF manual reader board, the only means to <br /> allow it is to change the code. This type of request would impact the entire City, not just the applicant's <br /> property at 409 Old Highway 8 NW. <br /> City Planner Gundlach explained this request is unique in that it isn't an amendment directed by the <br /> Planning Commission, City Council, or City staff, any individual has the right to request an amendment <br /> to the Zoning Code. These types of signs have been prohibited since 1977, likely because: <br /> 1. They are less appealing aesthetically <br /> 2. They require a certain amount of maintenance not required of other signs <br /> Staff finds these reasons to be valid and would not recommend changing the code at this time. <br /> City Planner Gundlach suggested a broader policy discussion occur if the commission wishes to change <br /> the code. Staff would recommend that rather than simply deleting these types of signs from the <br /> prohibited signs list, the Commission might want to consider placing conditions on the use of these signs. <br /> City Planner Gundlach reported that a notice for a public hearing was published in the September 8th <br /> edition of the local Sun Focus. No inquiries have been received. <br /> Staff recommends denial of the requested Zoning Code Amendment to allow manual changeable copy <br /> signs. <br /> Commissioner Meyers asked if a larger electronic reader board sign would be permitted. Ms. Gundlach <br /> confirmed that it would be, noting a permit would be required. <br /> Public Hearing was opened at 7:11 pm by Chairperson Howard. <br /> Tim Larson, the owner of the Dairy Queen at 409 Old Highway 8 NW commented that currently there <br /> are several illegal signs in the city, speculating that business owners may be attempting to avoid codes. <br /> Mr. Johnson also stated that if the City were to amend the zoning code, this may address the issue of <br /> illegal signs. <br /> Regarding esthetics: Mr. Larson stated the following possible problems with digital boards: they can be <br /> weathered, the LED can go out, the wi-fi can go out, and repairs are more costly. <br /> Mr. Larson reported that digital signs are very expensive, costing approximately $24,000; compared to a <br /> manual reader board sign costing $ 1,200. <br /> Chairperson Howard asked if Dairy Queen has any sign specifications and/or requirements of regarding <br /> the maintenance of signs. <br /> Mr. Larson responded more guidelines are given on purchasing new signs. Dairy Queen does have <br /> modernization requirements, including annual inspections; and signage is included as part of that. <br /> Commissioner Nichols-Matkaiti questioned the reason a changeable sign is requested. Mr. Larson <br /> responded he would like to be able to advertise various specials in order to keep a competitive edge. <br /> Commissioner Meyers asked Mr. Johnson why he purchased a new sign. Mr. Johnson explained that the <br /> sign was part of Dairy Queen's modernization requirements and he wanted to include Orange Julius on <br /> the sign. <br /> Chairperson Howard stated he thought Mr. Larson has a valid point regarding the illegal signs in the <br /> City. Ms. Gundlach commented most of the illegal signs are temporary, and the temporary sign <br /> ordinance has not been enforced in over a year. Council directed staff to look at the temporary sign <br /> regulations, stating that during the review process, staff is not to enforce the current code. <br /> 2 <br />