Council previews text amendment to limit awning and rooftop displays downtown

Planning staff presented a text amendment (MMTA 2026‑03) proposing changes to the town’s unified development ordinance to clarify display standards for awnings and rooftops.

"It would be displays and decorations shall not be installed on awnings or rooftops on buildings used for nonresidential purposes even if the display or decoration does not advertise a service or item for sale except between November 1 and January 31," planner James Coley read to the council. He said the amendment would also allow rooftop and awning displays in the traditional downtown district during that seasonal period but would limit such displays to six feet in height as measured from the awning or rooftop surface.

Coley told the council the planning board recommended approval by a 6–1 vote. Several commissioners signaled support for the concept but asked staff to extend the permitted seasonal display period; Mayor Carney asked staff to "stretch that to October 1," a change Commissioner West also supported. No final council action was taken at the pre‑agenda session; the amendment will return for formal consideration on the regular agenda.