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Commission approves neon sign for downtown grocer with design tweaks
Summary
The planning commission approved an architectural‑review request for a projecting neon sign on St. Helens Street, asking for a darker background or a bordered cabinet to reduce the boxy look.
The St. Helens Planning Commission on May 13 approved an architectural review for a new projecting neon sign for a downtown grocery (Sherlock's) at 161 St. Helens Street, contingent on a revised cabinet appearance.
Staff said the proposed sign met size limits in the sign code (12.5 sq. ft.; allowed up to 20 sq. ft. per face and code guidance allows up to 12% of a building elevation) and that the sign’s lettering height is 8 inches. The commission’s design discussion focused on materials and background: commissioners and staff suggested a darker background or a narrow painted/vinyl border (suggested mint/green) to reduce the appearance of a plain white box and to better match the city’s historic downtown aesthetic.
The applicant’s sign fabricator explained the sign will mount under an existing awning and will not require visible guy‑wires; the assembly will be attached to the building wall. Commissioners asked the applicant to add a narrow border or darker face to the cabinet; the applicant agreed. A motion to approve the sign consistent with architectural guidelines and subject to incorporation of a border passed by roll call vote.
Staff will include the requested design condition in the sign permit and proceed with ministerial building/permit review once final fabrication drawings reflect the commission’s direction.
