Scotties bail bonds window signage at 127 N. Division tabled; tenant told to submit revised design

The Historic Preservation Commission on Aug. 4 agreed to table consideration of existing window signage at 127 North Division Street (Scotties North Bail Bonds) and asked the occupant to return with a prepared design showing material and dimensions. The commission voted unanimously to table the item until the September meeting.

Planning staff said the business had installed signage that had not been through the commission’s approval process during earlier downtown assessments. The tenant — who identified himself as a renter of the space — told the commission he did not know he needed historic district approval and said the signs are inside the window, not attached to the building. He explained he had purchased professionally made rigid plastic signs but was willing to consider a roll‑on mesh product that would be applied to the inside face of the glass and permit visibility from the interior.

Staff recited the design guideline that signage should generally cover no more than 30% of glazed surface. Commissioners discussed mesh vinyl that allows outward visibility but still presents a background for lettering. Staff said some downtown businesses use a dark tinted/mesh look; commissions noted that any design still must comply with the 30% rule and the historic district appearance standards.

The commission asked the tenant to submit a drawn design or digital mockup of the proposed mesh solution and set a 60‑day allowance for temporary signs already in windows (a typical temporary sign allowance). The motion to table passed 5–0. Commissioners offered staff help in clarifying the town site code and design guidelines and suggested the applicant work with staff to produce an approvable mockup before the September meeting.