York City board approves 20‑square‑foot digital sign for First Presbyterian Church at 225 East Market

The York City Historical Review Board voted May 28 to approve a 20-square-foot electronic display for First Presbyterian Church at 225 East Market Street.

Sean Kronister of STSG Digital, speaking for the church, said the sign’s base will be built of brick to match the building and that the display will be configured to disallow animation, flashing or scrolling. Kronister described an auto-dimming sensor that reduces brightness at night or during storms and said the church intends to use the sign primarily for community notices and emergency alerts rather than paid commercial advertising. "One of the big points is that ... this isn't for commercial advertising. This is for community communication," Kronister told the board.

Supporters on the board said the applicant had demonstrated good-faith design choices to limit visual impact. One member moved to approve the application; the motion was seconded.

Opponents argued the church occupies one of the city’s most architecturally significant sites and noted the city’s 250th anniversary and nearby historic markers. A board member who opposed the sign said some other district signs (cited examples in the transcript as Asbury and the Strand) have evolved into brighter or animated displays, and urged caution about setting a precedent. "This is one of the most significant historic sites in the city," the member said.

After debate the board voted. Members on the record voiced four "I" votes in favor and two "Nay" responses were recorded; the chair announced that the motion carried. The board’s approval is an advisory decision and will be forwarded to York City Council for any subsequent procedural steps required by zoning or permit processes.

Next steps: staff will forward the recommendation and the applicant will coordinate required permits and operational settings for the sign.