Residents rally against Chick Fil A's oversized signage plan

In a recent government meeting, community members voiced strong opposition to Chick-fil-A's request for exceptions to signage regulations at its new location in The Woodlands. Representing over 140 residents, a spokesperson from Friends of Walnut Creek argued against the fast-food chain's proposal for larger and more numerous \"chicken head\" signs at the prominent corner of Oak Grove and Citrus.

The spokesperson highlighted that the city has already approved all of Chick-fil-A's requests despite significant community pushback. They described the proposed signage as excessive and unnecessary, asserting that it would transform the entrance to The Woodlands into an overwhelming display of advertising. The speaker criticized the city staff's report for failing to acknowledge the community's concerns and for presenting a one-sided view that favored the fast-food chain.

The discussion centered around two key questions: whether Chick-fil-A should be allowed larger signs and whether it should be permitted to install additional signs. The spokesperson emphasized that the current signage regulations are designed to maintain the character of the neighborhood and prevent visual clutter, arguing that the proposed signs would violate these principles.

The speaker also challenged the staff's comparisons between the new location and other Chick-fil-A sites, asserting that what is appropriate in one area of Walnut Creek should not automatically apply to another. They pointed out that the previous tenant, Bank of America, had significantly smaller signs, and questioned whether Chick-fil-A would agree to similar limitations.

In conclusion, the spokesperson urged the city council to reject the signage exceptions, advocating for adherence to existing regulations to preserve the visual integrity of the neighborhood. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between community interests and commercial development in Walnut Creek.