What: a variance to convert an existing pole sign along Interstate 90 from an on-premise sign to a joint identification sign for several lots in a new commercial development accessed from North La Crosse Street, keeping its 65-foot height and 320-square-foot size. Code limits joint identification signs to 15 feet and 100 square feet.
Where it stands: approved by voice vote on October 22 with no opposition heard, on staff's recommendation (from captions; minutes not read).
Next: none; staff said it will look at whether joint identification signs along the interstate should be allowed to be taller.
Details
The sign dates to 1985 and had variances in the late 1990s (65 and 70 feet); its size has ranged from 320 to 680 square feet.
The applicant said the existing pole would be reused with a new cabinet for five lots, two pole signs on La Crosse Street would be removed, and smaller monument signs would be used on street frontages rather than five on-premise pole signs up to 45 feet.
Staff said the joint sign option limits total sign area and clutter; the board's finding was that it is a permitted use in the district, special circumstances exist next to the interstate, and it does not appear injurious to the neighborhood.
Staff noted the sign code was written over a committee process of more than three years and the 15-foot limit came from other communities' interstate practice.