Staff recommends conditional use for electronic signage at 1 South High Street with static-image limit

Planning staff presented a conditional-use request to allow two wall-mounted electronic message center signs at 1 South High Street that would extend to 25½ feet above grade, exceeding the 24-foot height limit in the form-based code.

The presentation described the proposed panels as 16 feet high by 6 feet wide and said they would replace temporary wall signage on the northwest corner of the structure facing Market and High streets. "Electronic message center signage, if not obtrusive to surrounding properties, can contribute to a healthy business climate by providing a desirable means to communicate," the presenter (Jim, planning staff) said, but staff recommended limiting animations and video to avoid distracting motorists. "Therefore, the plan staff recommends that all imagery be static for a minimum of 8 seconds before changing," the presenter said.

A sign contractor, Sam Kuk, identified himself at the public microphone; no substantial opposition or technical objections to the proposal were recorded in the afternoon hearing. The committee closed the afternoon comment period and will revisit the item at 5:00 p.m. for possible recommendation to full council.