AgdaPkt 2002-06-03 - Laserfiche WebLink

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· Two "fan" type pole banners (totaling 154 square feet). · Window signage (totaling 168 square feet). Site signage totals 638 square feet. The site is allowed a maximum total area of 225 square feet (per the Sign Ordinance). Analysis The Sign Ordinance allows up to fifteen (15) feet in height for freestanding signs (Sec. 3. 79c). The Ordinance further states that if certain findings can be determined, an exception can be made and up to 24 feet in height can be allowed with the following criteria: · "The proposed sign is part of or incorporates an architectural feature such as a tower or spire that enhances the design of the project." The ARC felt that this pole sign did not meet the criteria for an exception, plus, according to Section 3.79 of the Sign Ordinance, the freestanding sign exceeds the parameter of the height exception by two feet (see attachment 3). · The sign would qualify to be forwarded to the Historical Resources Advisory Committee (HRAC) to seek a classification as an historic sign (Sec. 3.132) based upon the following findings: 1. The sign was installed prior to 1950 and/or reflect unique historical characteristics of the development and heritage of Redwood City; 2. The sign reflects exemplary technology, craftsmanship or design of the time period in which it was built; 3. The sign is in architectural harmony with buildings on the property; and 4. The sign is structurally sound and complies with the requirements of the Sign Ordinance. The ARC could not make any findings to justify the forwarding of this application to the HRAC. Therefore, the ARC determined that the subject nonconforming sign be amortized for the seven-year period, with a removal date of June, 2006. The ARC recommended that the owners consider replacement signage that conforms to the current standards of the Sign Ordinance (such as a six to eight foot high monument sign). The ARC explained that tall freestanding signs are typically only allowed on business sites located immediately adjacent to freeways (where longer vistas and high vehicle speeds occur). Monument signs are allowed on commercial corridors (such as Broadway) and typically incorporate landscaping. Alternative Allow the nonconforming freestanding sign to stand as an exception. However, this decision would serve as a precedent for the review and approval of future sign applications for exceptions and affect subsequent enforcement efforts to remove these types of signs. Fiscal Impact None. Conclusion In order to achieve continuity and maintain a basis for code enforcement of the Sign Ordinance, a determination qualifying the level of exceptions granted by the ARC needs to be demonstrated. The confirmation of the Architectural Review Committee's findings in this case will reflect this.