Commission backs special-exception signage request for HTO at 2126 Rufe Snow Drive

The City of Color Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously on Aug. 26 to recommend approval of two special exceptions for an HTO beverage location under construction at 2126 Rufe Snow Drive.

Staff said the property is zoned retail and that the applicant had already received attached-sign permits for three elevations (north, east and one southern permit issued by staff). The UDC allows one attached sign per elevation, and the applicant requested exceptions to permit a second attached sign on the southern elevation and to allow sign materials (aluminum with a vinyl-printed graphic) not explicitly listed in the UDC materials table.

Mr. Jonathan Lovelace, who identified the business address during the hearing, said the proposed sign is a static graphic sized at 52 square feet and reflects a current corporate branding change. Commissioners asked whether the sign would be illuminated, if it would be static (not digital), and whether comparable HTO locations use similar signage; Mr. Lovelace said the sign would be static and that other local locations employ comparable signs.

Staff noted the UDC criteria for exceptions include public safety considerations, harmony with adjacent property, increased quality or standards and aesthetic appropriateness. Commissioners said the proposed sign appeared to meet those criteria in this retail context and that it was consistent in scale with other commercial signage in the area.

Commissioner Scott moved to approve the special exceptions and Commissioner Lyce seconded. The commission voted unanimously to forward a recommendation of approval to the Sept. 16 council agenda.