Kaysville City Council approves electronic sign for Barnes Memorial Park

In the heart of Kaysville, under the warm glow of city hall lights, the Planning Commission convened to discuss a significant upgrade for Barnes Memorial Park. The meeting, held on March 13, 2025, focused on the installation of a new electronic message center (EMC) sign, a project that has navigated a complex approval process.

Cole Stevens, the Parks and Recreation Director, presented the plans for the new sign, which will mirror the existing monument-style sign in size and design. The key difference lies in its orientation; the sign will face north-south, allowing visibility for both east and westbound traffic. This strategic positioning aims to enhance communication with the community, ensuring that important messages are easily seen by all.

The commission discussed the sign's illumination, confirming it would be lit on both sides to maximize visibility. Stevens reassured the commission that the sign's brightness and blinking features would be carefully regulated to minimize disruption. “It’s straightforward,” he noted, emphasizing the thoroughness of the review process that the project has undergone.

The sign's journey to this point has been extensive. Since Barnes Park is located within the Kaysville City Business Park, it required approval from the architectural review committee before moving forward. This committee, which has been in place for about 20 years, oversees all developments in the business park, ensuring they align with community standards.

In a notable twist, the funding for the sign comes from the RAMP tax, a local initiative aimed at supporting recreational projects. While the sign itself will not prominently display this acknowledgment, plans are in place to recognize the funding source in the surrounding area.

As the discussion wrapped up, the commission acknowledged the historical significance of Barnes Memorial Park, named in honor of Reuben and Emily Barnes. Future plans include additional interpretive signs to educate visitors about the park's history and its namesakes, enriching the community's connection to the land.

With a motion on the table to approve the conditional use permit for the EMC sign, the atmosphere in the room was one of anticipation. The commission members prepared to cast their votes, marking a step forward in enhancing Kaysville's community spaces and communication. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that this project not only represents a technological upgrade but also a commitment to honoring local history and fostering community engagement.