07-21-2011 Planning Commission Minutes

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With respect to the size of the parcel,the larger sign is not intrusive. The existing sign is non-conforming, but could be refaced, in present location. Mr. Marohn explained the following options: the applicant could keep existing sign, reface it, and light it, or move it and adapt to the new code. The third option would be to place the sign parallel to the road. Mr. Marsolek stated he felt the owners of Heritage House would like to consider the options. Any one of those 3 options would be an over- the-counter permit. The sign would have to meet the code with lighting approval tonight; no special permitting would be needed. A motion was made by John Derksen, seconded by Tom Adams,to approve a lighted sign, based on the following Findings of Fact: 1. The request for a conditional use permit is for an area identification sign in the Rural Residential Zone. 2. The proposed sign meets the one foot setback requirement. 3. The existing signage (located approximately 300 feet north of the driveway) will be removed upon construction of the proposed sign (located approximately 100 feet north of the driveway). 4. The proposed sign measures 8' x 3' with a 1' bump-out on top and will read, "Minnesota Heritage House of Pequot Lakes". 5. The request is to allow approximately 50 sq. ft. (25 sq. ft./side) of signage to be placed in the Rural Residential zone while typically 32 sq. ft. of total signage is `., allowed. 6. The proposed sign is approximately 6.5' in height while signs in the Rural Residential District may not exceed 8' feet in height. 7. The proposed sign would be located at the entrance to the development which is near the top of a hill and surrounded by trees. 8. The existing sign would be removed upon construction of the proposed sign. The proposed sign would be the only sign for the development. 9. The lighting of the proposed sign would be external, downward directional and hooded. 10. The subject property is in the Rural Residential Zone and is adjacent to County Highway 107. 11. The signage will be used to identify the Heritage House of Pequot Lakes. There will not be any negative aesthetic impacts from the proposed signage. 12. The proposed sign, with conditions, is appropriate within the Rural Residential Zone. The area is heavily wooded and hilly, ensuring that the sign will not affect neighboring properties. 13. The Comprehensive Plan does not specifically address this request. 14. The use of the signs, with conditions, would be compatible with the existing neighborhood. 15. The proposed use will not impair values nor substantially diminish properties in the immediate vicinity. 16. The proposed sign will not impede the normal and orderly development and improvement of surrounding vacant properties. MINUTES 2 Pequot Lakes Planning Commission July 21, 2011