Design Review Board approves new signage, window graphics and trim repainting for 114 N. Fort Thomas Ave.

Owners of The Mortgage Exchange received Design Review Board approval to refinish and illuminate an existing rooftop sign, add window and door graphics and repaint trim at 114 North Fort Thomas Avenue.

The board approved the application after hearing from applicants Michael Piccola and Robert Hacker, who identified themselves as managers of The Mortgage Exchange and owners of the building. Michael Piccola told the board, "We fell in love with it right away and hoping that, the sign choice and colors that we were thinking worked for you all." The applicants said they plan to refinish the existing mounted sign, apply frosted window graphics and repaint the trim from green to a shade of navy associated with the business brand.

Board members reviewed the materials and regulations, noting that the existing large sign is a pre-existing nonconforming feature that may be reused under the board's rules. A board member summarized the conditions the board placed on the approval, saying the window graphics must not exceed the 30% coverage limit per the city's sign/window rules and that the color should be "compatible with the neighborhood and the building." The applicants said the existing sign will be refurbished and illuminated; an electrician will inspect and reconnect the sign's power.

In discussion the board also asked staff to record findings of fact documenting that the changes would not adversely affect public health, safety or welfare and that the alterations would be visually compatible with the neighborhood. The board's motion to approve the application was seconded and carried by voice vote (three aye votes recorded).

The board asked staff and the applicant to confirm the measured dimensions referenced in the application (applicants noted the pane of glass shown as roughly 38 by 16.5 inches) and to ensure any signage or graphics comply with the 30% window-coverage calculation for each glass pane. The board also asked that the refurbished illumination reuse existing electrical connections where feasible.

The owners left the meeting with approval to proceed subject to the conditions discussed and with staff to provide the board-approved findings of fact.

Notes: The board recorded the approval by voice vote; the motion and second were not recorded with individual mover/second names on the transcript.