PC 05/25/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

~ ~ RZ-94-03. Citv of P1easanton To consider an amendment to Chapter 18.96 of the Municipal Code (1) to allow temporary relaxed sign regulations for bnsinesses in the vicinity of the I-5801H0pyard Road interchange, and (2) to allow the Planning Director to grant temporary exceptions to the sign ordinance regulations during future constmction projects. Mr. Swift presented the staff report on the application to relax the sign ordinance for the 1- 580/Hopyard interchange during the freeway bridge construction, much like that done for the downtown businesses during the Main Street Project. This code amendment would also allow staff to institute these liberalized signage regulations when major construction interferes with the normal course of business. Staff recommends that the code be amended as proposed in the staff report. Commissioner Hovingh referred to Exhibit C and indicated that some of the businesses have a sufficient amount of freeway signage. He feels these businesses should not be eligible for the temporary code regulations. Mr. Swift stated although they have freeway signage, freeway traffic cannot easily get to the stores because of interchange construction and should be able to have additional banners if they so choose. ~ Commissioner Michelotti inquired how long the sign relaxation period would last. Staff advised the time frame would be on an individual basis dependent on the type and amount of construction. Commissioner Michelotti stated for the record her belief that the code amendment did not apply to the type of business per se, but rather their proximity to the construction. Staff concurred and added that not all businesses will feel they need to have additional signage. Chairman McGuirk inquired how the affected businesses would be notified when the temporary signage period is over. Mr. Swift stated staff would send notices on a case by case basis, giving the business approximately two weeks to remove their banners. PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Michael Raasch, 2639 Calle Reynoso, is the manager of the Buttercup Pantry and made the initial request to the City for temporary sign relaxation. Mr. Raasch stated with the east and westbound 1-580 interchange closings, his sales revenue is down 25-30% on a daily basis from last year. They would like to use some banners to advertise specials, not necessarily for freeway traffic, but for local traffic in an effort to attract more business. Mr. Raasch stated that so far during this construction period, the Buttercup Pantry has suffered a $50,000 loss in revenue. He is seeking the Commission's approval to relax the sign ordinance, whereby he can hopefully recoup some of the lost revenue. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Planning Commission Minutes Page 6 May 25, 1994 ... -