Agenda - Planning Commission - 11/21/2024

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Regular Planning Commission Meeting Date: 11/21/2024 Primary Strategic Plan Initiative: 7. 1. Create a positive image for residential neighborhoods, business districts and key corridors. Information Title: Continue discussion on the Sign Code Update pertaining to Wall Signage Purpose/Background: Ramsey's Sign Code (currently split between Chapter 117, Article II, Division 8, and the COR Framework) has been updated several times over the years as individual issues or topics have surfaced. Staff have noted several areas, mostly minor items, that need to be cleaned up, clarified, or rearranged. One of the major items that needs to be addressed is how to incorporate the signage regulations in the COR Framework into the rest of the City's Sign Code for consistency in application and administration. The goals of updating the Code are the ease of use by property owners, developers, businesses, and staff: • Consistency in terms and definitions • Clear purpose and intent of the sign code • Clear distinctions between what sign types and sizes are allowed in each zoning district • Consistency with how the Sign Code is interpreted and administered • Reorganization of Chapter 117 and the COR Framework language to eliminate redundancies and contradictions • Streamline processes • Create an improved Sign Code that is easier to read and understand for all users. Following the Planning Commission meeting on October 24th, it was the consensus of the Commission to draft Code language pertaining to wall signage for the Commission to review and give recommendations. The draft code is attached to this case for reference and review. Staff is also looking for guidance on how to organize the new sign code, and wall signage will be the first section brought forward to the Commission for review. The new sign code will be located in a new chapter, Chapter 108, of Ramsey City Code. All proposed code sections within Chapter 108 are preliminary and included solely for categorizing information, such as definitions, bulk standards, and performance standards. After all sections of the code have been drafted and reviewed, Staff will bring forward a comprehensive document for the Commission to review and make a formal recommendation to City Council. Notification: None required at this stage. Funding Source: The Sign Code Update is being handled through Staffs normal duties. Recommendation: Provide direction to Staff to develop clear, consistent, and simplified regulations for wall signage in all zoning districts. If additional time is needed, the discussion of this topic can continue at a future meeting. Outcome/Action: