The Taylor Zoning Board of Adjustments convened on October 7, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, including a variance request for signage at a new Panda Express location. The meeting began with the approval of a variance for a property owner, citing limited alternative uses for the area and compliance with city and state standards.

The primary focus of the meeting was a public hearing regarding a variance request from the land development code for the property located at 3000 North Main Street, known as Taylor Plaza. The request included several modifications to signage regulations, specifically an increase in the number of allowed signs and their height. The applicant sought to increase the quantity of attached building signs from one to two, raise the height of certain signs from three feet to a maximum of six feet, and allow for a specific sign to reach a height of nine feet ten inches.

City staff reported that no public responses were received regarding the variance request. The discussion highlighted the need for visibility of the signage, particularly given the location's proximity to T.H. Johnson Elementary School and the busy intersection nearby. The staff noted that the proposed signage would not exceed the 15% coverage requirement for building facades, which aims to prevent visual clutter.

Board members expressed concerns about setting a precedent for future signage requests, emphasizing the importance of maintaining consistency with existing regulations. They acknowledged that the current land development code may not adequately address the needs of standalone buildings like Panda Express, which typically require larger signage for visibility from a distance.

The applicant's representative argued that the proposed signage is essential for safety, as smaller signs would be difficult for motorists to see at higher speeds. The board ultimately leaned towards supporting the variance, recognizing that it would align with the signage of other businesses in the area, such as Starbucks and Burger King.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to approve the variance request, allowing Panda Express to proceed with its signage plans while ensuring compliance with the city’s development standards. The board's decision reflects an ongoing effort to balance business needs with community standards in Taylor.