Commission approves projecting sign, window sign and planter baskets for Walson Wine Bar on East Ojai Avenue

The Ojai Historic Preservation Commission voted to approve a sign permit and related minor work permit for the Walson Wine Bar at 338 East Ojai Avenue, a contributor to the Downtown Ojai Historic District. Staff recommended approval, saying the proposed signs and window planters meet the Arcade Plaza and East Ojai Avenue design guidelines.

Staff described the projecting sign as a "suspended 2 sided sign" hung from an existing bracket, "made of brass plate with routed text" and "approximately 1.75 square feet," and said the window sign would meet required standards. The three black-iron window flower baskets include a copper planter pouch; staff said the flower types were not specified and the installation method was not included on the plan packet.

Several commissioners sought clarification about planter dimensions and whether baskets would extend into the public right-of-way. Staff noted the plan did not include dimensions for the baskets and said that "if the baskets are within the public right of way, they... would require an encroachment permit." The commission discussed conditioning approval to require encroachment permitting if necessary or deferring final approval of the baskets until dimensions are provided.

A motion to approve the signage and minor work permit carried on roll call with five affirmative votes and no recorded opposition.

The approval allows the applicant to install the projecting sign and window sign as shown in the approved plans; staff will follow up on any encroachment permits or conditions for the baskets if the planter boxes are found to intrude into the public right-of-way.