2020.08.18 Planning Commission - Laserfiche WebLink

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Nonconforming Use Variance Request – Valtinson Sign (386 Cleveland Avenue) Planning Commission Report; 8-18-20 Page 11 Staff Rec:  Denial of the requested 12-foot height variance for a new ground sign.  Denial of the variance to increase sign size by 35 square feet.  Approval of the minimum height variance needed to accommodate a conforming, 36 square foot sign (either 10’ or 11’ depending on the desired final dimensions of the sign). This would require the applicant to amend the application and seek a conforming sized sign using specific dimensions. While a recommendation of denial can easily be justified, staff’s recommendation is intended to be as fair to the applicant as code allows.  The City mistakenly permitted a wall sign on this building in 2003, and the applicant purchased the property in 2015 with the understanding it included a sign facing the freeway.  The applicant’s sign will no longer be visible due to the MnDOT sound wall.  By reducing the sign size from 40 square feet to a conforming 36 square feet, the applicant qualifies for changes under the City’s nonconforming use codes.  A conforming sign meeting all requirements of code could be constructed at a height not to exceed 31 feet. Conclusion: The applicant is requesting a 12-foot variance from the 20’ height maximum, and a 27-square foot variance to the 36-square foot maximum. Commission Options: The Planning Commission has the following options: A) RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF ONE OR BOTH REQUESTS based on the applicant’s submittals and findings of fact. B) RECOMMEND DENIAL OF ONE OR BOTH REQUESTS based on the applicant’s submittals and findings of fact. C) TABLE THE ITEM and request additional information. Based on an application date of 7/28/20, the 60-day review period for this application expires on 9/26/20. This deadline can be extended an additional 60 days if more time is necessary.