Agenda - Council - 08/12/2008 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Case # ADOPT ORDINANCE TO AMEND SECTION 9.12 (SIGNS) OF CITY CODE TO INCORPORATE "DYNAMIC DISPLAY" SIGN REGULATIONS: CASE OF THE CITY OF RAMSEY By: Sylvia Frolik, Asst. Community Development Director Background: As part of the series of changes to be made to bring the City's sign ordinance up to date, staff has. been. conducting research with regard. to the regulation of electronic signs. These signs have. many different names, but generally refer to signs .with electronic or dynamic messages that automatically change. The impetus for the regulation of these signs is that there is a potential for these .signs to be distracting to drivers and can compromise the aesthetics of the surrounding environment. While staff recognizes the importance of .emerging. technologies in the ability to adequately advertise both on-premise and off-premise businesses, it is also important to consider the negative- effects of these signs, and provide regulations to mitigate these factors. Observations: On July 22, 2008, the City Council introduced an ordinance to amend the sign regulations to regulate electronic or `dynamic display' signs. In summary, the proposed ordinance amendment will: • define "dynamic display"; • establish performance standards for brightness, size, and speed of change in message. The following items are enclosed for your review: • Proposed ordinance • Draft City Council meeting minutes dated July 22, 2008 Funding Source: Ordinance amendments are processed with City Staff time. There are no anticipated financial impacts of the proposed ordinance. Recommendation: The .City Council introduced the ordinance on July 22, 2008. In accordance with the City Charter, the ordinance is now eligible for adoption. Council Action: Motion to adopt Ordinance #08-_ amending Section 9.12 (Signs) of City Code to establish dynamic display standards. -311-