Planning commission approves zero-foot front setback for new sign at 1824 Reliance Road

The Goshen City Planning Commission on June 24 approved a developmental variance to allow a new freestanding sign to sit at the front property line at 1824 Reliance Road.

City staff described the request (Item 26-09D) as necessary because a circular drive on the property reduced available lawn area, leaving no practical location that meets the 5-foot minimum front setback. Staff noted the multi-use path lies roughly 10 feet from the property line and concluded the proposed sign would be "in keeping with the character of the street," recommending approval with conditions.

Todd Layman of Scient Sign Services, who identified himself as the petitioner’s representative, told the commission the current sign is deteriorated and the new sign includes an electronic portion "that allows them to communicate with the community," which the business believes is increasingly important. Layman said the proposed sign would occupy roughly the same location as the old sign and acknowledged a concern that vehicle mirrors could strike the sign; he said the applicant will insure it.

Commissioners asked about placement closer to the sidewalk; staff responded that utilities and the right-of-way prevent moving the sign into the right-of-way, making the zero-foot setback necessary. No members of the public spoke on the item.

A motion to approve the variance with the conditions recommended by staff was made, seconded and carried by voice vote. The transcript does not record mover/second names or a roll-call tally.

The approval is limited to the variance described in Item 26-09D and includes the conditions staff outlined during the hearing; any work in the right-of-way or that affects utilities will remain subject to separate permits and reviews by the city’s public works/engineering staff.