08-20-2018 Planning Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION Monday, July 16, 2018 6:30 o'clock p.m. Barnhart noted home occupations are licensed separately and are allowed signage, which is one issue, and that another issue that needs to be addressed is someone who wants to advertise a commercial business in a residential zoning district, which would have to be allowed if the other requirements are met. Acting Chair Lemke opened the public hearing at 8:03 p.m. Richie Anderson, 3205 Crystal Bay Road, stated what he would like to bring up is the scuba guys that put their sign on the corner of Bohn's Point. Anderson stated years ago the city inspector used to pick everybody's signs up and bring them to City Hall where they could pick them up. Anderson noted the election is coming up, which will result in more signs out there. Anderson suggested the City consider including something in the newsletter explaining the rules. Curtis stated the candidates receive a packet of information when they file stating the requirements. Anderson asked if the signs can be in the right-of-way. Curtis indicated they cannot. Anderson stated he remembers someone complaining last election cycle that the signs were too close to the road and that the City should perhaps have a policy about removing those signs that are in the right-of-way. Acting Chair Lemke closed the public hearing at 8:07 p.m. Ressler asked if permitting is based on whether the sign is political, commercial, etc. Ressler noted if he wants to put a sign on the outside of his building, he needs a permit issued by the City. Barnhart stated there is temporary sign language that has been included in the ordinance, and that what Staff did overall was to look at what is required, what a prohibited sign would be, and whether a permit would be required. In addition, the proposed ordinance does not require a permit to change the face of the sign. Barnhart indicated he is trying to simplify it as well as lessen the paperwork for the applicant. Libby asked whether the City regulates developments to allow for the temporary placement of signs over the weekend for open houses but requires their removal by Monday. Barnhart stated the City has temporary signage language but that Staff does not drive around on the weekend looking for those types of signs. Barnhart noted the City also regulates special events, which are allowed four times a year, and would cover those folks who have a garage sale periodically. Barnhart stated signs located in the right-of-way are often garage sales or open house signs and are not permitted. Curtis noted real estate signs are allowed on the property but not in the right-of-way. Libby moved, Berg seconded, to table Application No. LA18-000059, City of Orono, Text Amendment -Signs. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. Page 12 of 13