In a recent government meeting, the proposal for a new banner sign at 99 Wooster Street, home to the mattress and bedroom furniture retailer Thuma, sparked significant discussion among commissioners. The applicant, Matt Calvo, presented plans for a unique flag-style banner that would be mounted on the second-floor facade of the building, located in the historic Soho cast iron district.

The proposed banner measures 130 inches tall and projects 40 inches from the building, designed to swing freely. Calvo emphasized the historical context of the site, noting that it once housed a firehouse and had previously displayed flags, including during its time as the Gay Activist Alliance.

However, the proposal faced scrutiny from the commissioners, particularly regarding the banner's size. Commissioner Chiu raised concerns about the cumulative effect of multiple banners in the area, while other commissioners echoed sentiments that the proposed banner was excessively large and could obscure the building's architectural features. Suggestions included reducing the banner's size or opting for a more traditional bracket sign that would conform to existing regulations.

Public testimony was also heard, with Christina Conroy from the Victorian Society in New York arguing against the banner, stating it would detract from the building's historic significance and recommending a more appropriate sign type. The Manhattan Community Board 2 also recommended denial of the oversized banner, advocating for a historic blade sign instead.

After deliberation, the commissioners expressed a consensus that the current proposal was not acceptable in its present form, suggesting that a smaller, more historically appropriate sign would be more fitting for the landmarked building. The hearing concluded with a motion to close, leaving the future of the banner proposal uncertain as the commissioners prepare to make a final decision.