LEGISLATIVE ACTION ITEM
SPONSOR: City Council President Brian Spencer
SUBJECT:
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PUBLIC HEARING - AMENDMENT TO THE LAND DEVELOPMENT CODE SECTION 12-2-21 PALAFOX HISTORIC BUSINESS DISTRICT
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RECOMMENDATION:
recommendation
That City Council hold a public hearing to consider an amendment to the Land Development Code (LDC) Section 12-2-21 (F)(4)(a) prohibiting internally illuminated signs in the Palafox Historic Business District (PHBD).
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HEARING REQUIRED: Public
SUMMARY:
Currently, Land Development Code Section 12-2-21 Palafox Historic Business District does not specifically address the issue of internal illumination.
At the September 12, 2017 meeting of the Planning Board, the Board, at Council’s request, reviewed Section 12-2-21(F)(4) (a) - Signs. The Board considered a possible amendment to the LDC addressing the issue of internal illumination of signs within the PHBD.
Recently, on two separate occasions, the Architectural Review Board (ARB) has interpreted the Code to authorize the denial of internally illuminated signs within the PHBD. On appeal, the City Council has reversed the ARB on this issue, speaking to the lack of direction or specific prohibition within the Code, noting that within the Pensacola Historic District there exists a prohibition of such signage that is lacking within the PHBD.
Board member Monk stated that he was concerned with the continued compromise of the ordinance, stating that you either want bright lights or preservation of the historic aesthetic. Board Chairman Ritz advised that if the Board stated internally illuminated signs shall be prohibited, that would answer the problem and the ARB could then enforce the rule in the district. Further stating, that such language would give the ARB a position from which to rule.
Board member Grundhoefer explained that the ARB was attempting to maintain and preserve the integrity and history of the city, and if the Planning Board also has that as a mantra, then the Board should be proud to take that on as well.
A motion was made to prohibit internally illuminated signs within the PHBD. This motion passed unanimously.
PRIOR ACTION:
August 10, 2017 - City Council forwards Internal Illumination issue within the PHBD to the Planning Board for review and recommendation.
FUNDING:
N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None
STAFF CONTACT:
Don Kraher, Council Executive
ATTACHMENTS:
1) Proposed Ordinance
2) Planning Board Minutes 9.12.17
PRESENTATION: No