Kenjo Outdoor seeks approval for 65-foot digital billboard at 800 Flora Avenue

The City of Akron Council Committee convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on proposals for outdoor advertising displays. The meeting began with a presentation from Kenjo Outdoor Advertising, which is seeking permission to erect a double-sided, V-shaped digital billboard at a height of 65 feet, located approximately 450 feet east of the west end of the property on Flora Avenue.

The proposed billboard, featuring digital panels measuring 48 feet in width by 14 feet in height, would be supported by a steel monopole column. The structure's base would be elevated about 10 feet above the interstate surface, reaching an overall height of 65 feet. The petitioner indicated that the location was chosen to comply with the Ohio Department of Transportation's requirement of maintaining a distance of 500 feet from expressway ramps. However, adjustments to the placement may occur based on further evaluations.

During the presentation, it was noted that the zoning code allows for conditional use of advertising displays, and this proposal meets most of the established standards. The height of the billboard aligns with several recently approved displays, and it is believed that it will not negatively impact the surrounding area. A lighting study has been submitted, indicating that the digital display would adhere to national lighting requirements, ensuring minimal disruption to nearby residences.

Following the presentation, the public hearing was opened, allowing community members to voice their opinions. Dan Nielsen, representing Kenjo Outdoor, spoke in favor of the proposal, highlighting the property's suitability for a billboard due to its location in a high-traffic area surrounded by industrial sites. He emphasized the company's commitment to supporting local businesses through effective advertising.

Committee members raised concerns regarding the potential impact of the billboard's lighting on nearby residential properties. In response, it was clarified that the lighting study indicated minimal light spill at a distance of 500 feet, comparing it to the illumination from a standard 100-watt light bulb.

The committee then moved on to discuss a second item on the agenda, which involved a request for a static outdoor advertising display at the same location. Similar to the digital billboard proposal, this display would also be 65 feet tall and meet the necessary zoning requirements. Both the planning staff and the planning commission recommended approval of this proposal, subject to conditions.

The meeting concluded with no further public testimony, and the committee members expressed their support for the proposals, recognizing the potential benefits for local businesses while addressing community concerns regarding visibility and lighting. The next steps will involve further evaluations and potential adjustments to the proposals before final approval.