PC 032509 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Otto replied that there is a note in the Program that states that while these signs may add up to more than the allowed area, they are limited to what the maximum total sign area is. He noted that in situations where the applicant got close to the limit, the size of the signs could be reduced in order to not exceed the limit. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Steve Peterson, applicant, stated that he would allocate his time to the different representatives of the project. He then introduced Bradley Lancaster of CB Richard Ellis to present the item. Mr. Lancaster thanked the Commission and staff for their review, requested the Commission to approve the Comerica Bank signs as shown in Exhibit A-2, with the exception of Condition No. 2.a. He stated that the Master Sign Program for the building has always recognized that a nationally recognized logo scheme was envisioned and that their intent from the beginning has been clear as to what they desired to see with respect to signage. He indicated that staff desires to retain some consistency in the building signage, and added that they believe the Comerica signage provides an appropriate level of consistency with the Master Sign Program while preserving the integrity of the Comerica Bank logo. He noted that there is consistency in the materials utilized in signs, the mounting details, and the lighting and that it provides a good balance between the staff’s desires and Comerica’s requirements for national brand recognition and consistency. Mr. Lancaster stated that staff has also suggested a redesign of the Comerica signs to conform to the Master Sign Program and has provided an example. He emphasized that re-designing the signs degrades the Comerica brand and compromises the brand and Comerica’s national logo, which is extremely important to them. He re-emphasized that the Comerica program complies with regulations and guidelines stated in the Downtown Revitalization District and Downtown Design Guidelines and is supported by the Pleasanton Downtown Association. Commissioner Narum noted that this is the City’s flagship building and that she was not comfortable with the potential amount of window signage across the front on the first floor. She inquired how important it was for Comerica Bank to put their logo on every single window. Mr. Lancaster replied that they do not have an emotional attachment to window signs; however, they would like to use the sign program they had submitted to staff with respect to the two overhang signs on Main Street and Division Street and the cantilevered blade sign that runs perpendicular to Main Street on the north side of the building. In response to Commissioner Narum’s inquiry if painted window signs such as “3% Interest Rate on CD’s” would be permitted, Mr. Otto said no. He noted that the sign program limits signage to the business name and logo. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, March 25, 2009 Page 13 of 27