06/06/2016 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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2. A variance to the sign face area measurement standards. Code permits - The sign face area shall be the area of the smallest of these regular polygons - circle, ellipse, triangle, rectangle, trapezoid, pentagon or hexagon - that completely contains the sign message, background of the message and contiguous trims or frames. Applicant shows three (3) portions of sign not in the same plane and desires the measurement to be taken individually for three (3) sign sections, Section 1163.02. Mr. Aspery stated that the applicant is requesting a variance of 45 sq. ft. for a proposed ground sign of 95 sq. ft. Code allows 50 sq. ft. Typical ground signs have message areas that are back to back and staff will take the area of one side as the total sign face of the sign. The applicant is proposing a ground sign where the message areas are not back to back, therefore the "sides" are counted separately. The applicant is also seeking a variance to the sign face area definition established in 1163.02(m). Code says that sign face is calculated as the area of the smallest polygon that can completely surround the sign's message area. The message areas are in three locations, in three different planes. Since a polygon could not be drawn around these three message areas, a variance is requested from the method of calculating total sign face area. Previous variances were granted by the BZA for additional ground signs (the current drive through menu board and pre-menu board). Mr. Swidrak stated that the proposed sign is in a V- shape. The sign shape would allow for more visibility for cars going multiple directions through the intersection. The applicant is hopeful that the higher visibility will increase desire for tenants to move in. The plaza has multiple tenants in relation to neighboring businesses so more sign space is needed. The sign base would be split-face with a stone cap. The Starbucks logo was chosen as the large anchor sign to attract more people into the plaza. The smaller tenant signs will increase as they get closer to the bottom to increase the visual appeal. Mr. Swidrak discussed the landscape and lighting elements that will be installed. Mr. Aspery reminded the commissioners that their roles are to determine variance for the signage only, not the other features that were presented. Ms. Meredith asked why a variance is needed when the applicant stated that he would be able to create a sign that could comply with the code. Mr. Allain pointed out that the sign that is installed needs to be easily read by passersby. Mr. Raig agreed and said the sign would complement the intersection well. Mr. Allain added that the applicant has minimal signage for all of the signs incorporated into the proposal. Ms. Meredith believed the goal could be achieved without the large anchor sign. Mr. Allain noted that the applicant did not have the anchor sign included on top of the other signs. Ms. Meredith moved, seconded by Mr. Allain, to grant the following variances as written for 16-5995; Cornerstone Plaza; 23420 Lorain Road: 1. A 45 sq. ft. variance for ground sign area; code permits 50 sq. ft., applicant shows 95 sq. ft., Section 1163.27(c). 2. A variance to the sign face area measurement standards. Code permits - The sign face area shall be the area of the smallest of these regular polygons - circle, ellipse, triangle, rectangle, trapezoid, pentagon or hegagon - that completely contains the sign message, background of the message and contiguous trims or frames. Applicant shows three (3) portions of sign not in the same plane and desires the measurement to be taken individually for three (3) sign sections, Section 1163.02. Motion passed 3-1, Ms. Meredith voted no.