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Ms. Mohr referred to the four-foot area around free-standing signs. Is there some <br />way to make sure that four feet is near the building or near the curb, but not in the <br />middle of the sidewalk? She also inquired if the number of flags, in addition to the size, <br />was part of the approval process? <br /> <br /> Mr. Swift indicated staff would have to approve a sign and its location and would <br />make sure it was placed appropriately. He stated the number of flags was regulated. <br /> <br /> Ms. Mohr was in favor of as much flexibility as possible. She felt there were <br />some creative people downtown that could produce something really charming and <br />pleasing. She wanted to be sure there was a way to curtail those few who might cause <br />problems. She clarified that this can be tried for a period, but any sign that has been <br />approved would be allowed to stay. <br /> <br /> Mr. Swift indicated that was correct. If Council did not like the effect of approved <br />signs on the first two buildings, it could change the regulations, but the first two would <br />remain as non-conforming. There are, however, ways to amortize prior approvals. He <br />believed staff would use good judgment. <br /> <br /> Mayor Tarver declared the public hearing open. <br /> <br /> Harold Coursey, 610 Main Street, representing the Downtown Association, <br />introduced Lily Ault, the new Executive Director for the Downtown Association. Mr. <br />Coursey indicated the Downtown Association strongly recommends approval of the <br />proposed ordinance. Many meetings have been held with staff in the drafting of this <br />ordinance. The goal is to make the downtown more bright and cheerful and signs will <br />help do that. Two committees have been formed: a Beautification Committee and a Sign <br />Committee. He indicated the Association will do ~nost of the policing itself to make sure <br />the signs are appropriate. The Association is striving to unify the downtown district and <br />wants to have signs that will lead to a business not on Main Street. <br /> <br /> Ms. Michelotti is happy the Downtown Association will take an active part in <br />monitoring the area. She had concerns about "decorations", but so long as staff has <br />discretionary review and the Downtown Association is involved, she believes there will <br />be a win/win situation. <br /> <br /> Mr. Coursey indicated the chairman of the Sign Committee is walking the streets <br />regularly to encourage the business owners. <br /> <br /> There being no further testimony, the public hearing was closed. <br /> <br />03/07/95 - 22 - <br /> <br /> <br />