Martinsville planning commission tables proposed oversized sign for 10 North Main

The Martinsville Planning Commission on Nov. 25 tabled a request to replace a downtown storefront sign at 10 North Main, citing concerns the proposed sign would be larger than the existing sign and could obscure windows on the historic storefront.

Applicant Jasmine Gazzotta told the commission she sought permission to replace the current sign and provided multiple dimensions during her presentation. "We just wanted to get permission to put our sign up," Gazzotta said. Commissioners and staff, however, cited conflicting measurements and asked for a full elevation drawing showing the sign on the building before taking action.

A staff member noted the existing sign’s lettering measured 23 inches, while the applicant supplied different figures in the meeting packet and orally. Commissioner (recorded speaker 4) pointed to the Downtown Historic District sign rules and quoted the ordinance: "signs shall not be placed on a building so as to obscure any window or door opening." The commission asked the applicant to provide a rendering showing the proposed sign in context so members could assess scale and whether the sign would obscure windows or doorways.

Commissioner Jim Burkhart moved to table the application so the applicant could work with staff and submit an elevation rendering; the motion was seconded and approved. The commission instructed the applicant to consult with the staff member familiar with downtown code and return with a visual showing the sign in place at the next meeting.

The action is procedural: the application was tabled for more information and no permit or variance was granted or denied at the Nov. 25 meeting.