07-19-2012 Planning Commission Minutes

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flashing and revolving, portable and digital, without a Conditional Use Permit, on any lot `-' in town without any restrictions or public input. The Off-Site restriction would have been removed allowing any sign on any lot. It did not pass, but may come up again. Mr. Burslie explained last month there was confusion regarding Sign Concept Plans. Commercial property owners wanting more signage can apply for a Conditional Use Permit, notices are sent to neighbors and the newspaper, and a public hearing is held. It is costly to the applicant; $450 for a commercial Conditional Use Application. Residential property owners could not apply for a Sign Concept Plan. The amendment is for any property in town, not just commercial, without fees, etc. The proposed change was added to the General section. Staff recommends approval of the amendment which gives the Planning Commission the ability to allow more signage. Chairman Pederson stated that costs are incurred by the City to go through the process and the fee is not profit for the City. There would still be the $100 Sign Permit fee. Mr. Adams stated that the City will still have costs associated with the Sign Concept Plan such as paperwork, Staff time, etc. The fee is too high; a lower fee might be appropriate, such as $100. Mr. Adams further stated that he is comfortable having the concept review for Commercial districts, but residential areas may need a voice from neighbors; residents may have concerns. Residential areas should have the opportunity for public input; we lose that opportunity without a Conditional Use Permit process. Neighbors need to be \.. notified. Mr. Snyder concurred. Mrs. Seils stated that a Conditional Use Permit or a Variance require a public hearing. Staff stated neighbors can be notified of the Concept Plan without holding a public hearing. Staff stated that timing is an issue. Notices need to be mailed out. Applications would need to be received 30 days in advance of the Planning Commission meeting Agenda they wish to be included. Most businesses or home occupations in a residential zone need a Conditional Use Permit to do a business, but signage is not always part of those initial thoughts. Staff was directed to bring back an amendment including the following: • Separate residential and commercial standards; • Notification of neighbors in residential zone, no notification in commercial zone; • Eliminate Conditional Use Permit for all zones; • Make recommendation to change Fee Schedule. A motion was made by Bill Habein, seconded by Tom Adams, to table this ordinance amendment until the suggested revisions are completed. Minutes 2 Pequot Lakes Planning Commission July 19, 2012