Agenda - Planning Commission - 09/16/2010 - Special Meeting

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Recommendation: The City has now responded to several similar requests concerning off -premises signs that, by the definition found in City Code, are considered billboards. Thus far, none of the requests have been for signs that one would commonly consider a billboard, but nonetheless, they are regulated as such due to our definition of billboard. Staff will be reviewing the sign ordinance and will be bringing forth some proposed amendments regarding signage within The COR and how we define billboards. If a Northstar commuter rail station is awarded to Ramsey, the platform for that stop would be on the south side of the tracks, directly adjacent to the subject property and would appear almost as an extension of the property. Considering the likely amendments to sign regulations, proximity to the potential commuter rail stop, and the inclusion of an electronic message board that will be available to promote various community events and activities, Staff would recommend approving this request to exceed the sign restrictions in the H-1 Highway 10 Business District. Funding Source: All costs associated with processing the application are the responsibility of the applicant. Commission Action: Motion to recommend that the City Council adopt Resolution #10-09- adopting Findings of Fact # relating to the City of Ramsey HRA's request for an interim use permit to deviate from sign restrictions established in City Code; - and- Motion to recommend that City Council approve Resolution #10-09- approving the City of Ramsey HRA's request to deviate from sign restrictions on the property identified by PID # 28- 32-25-31-0002 and declaring terms of same contingent. - or- Motion to recommend that City Council deny the City of Ramsey HRA's request to deviate from sign restrictions as proposed, based on the Findings of Fact # Attachments: A. Site location map B. Aerial view showing proposed location of new ground sign C. Schematic drawing showing details of proposed sign D. Letter from Applicant E. Proposed findings of fact F. Proposed interim use permit Review Checklist: Planning Manger Associate Planner PC: 9.16.10 34