Shelton panel approves storefront sign for Orcas Family Cuts after building official inspection

The Shelton Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-0 Wednesday to approve the sign for Orcas Family Cuts at 415 Bridgeport River Road, contingent on a site inspection and written sign-off by the city's building official.

The approval followed public questioning about why the sign had been installed before the application was reviewed. Marilyn Burgos, the applicant, told the commission she had not realized a permit was required and said she was told to contact the health department but encountered "a lot of miscommunication" when she did. "When I called originally, they told me to call the health department. But when I called the health department, it was just a lot of miscommunication between everything," Burgos said.

Commissioners and staff reviewed the sign's attachment and lighting. Chairperson Virginia Harder asked whether the sign was attached to the awning or the building; Burgos said it was bolted into metal under the awning and could be lit with LED strips. Assistant administrator Miss Castro recommended a site visit. Commissioner Kelly made a motion to approve the sign application contingent on building official Mr. Bolero going to the site and signing off; Commissioner Parkins seconded. The commission voted 6-0 in favor.

The commission placed two conditions on the approval: Mr. Bolero must inspect the bracketing and wiring and confirm compliance with the city's sign regulations, and the applicant must return for approval if the sign or any lighting is altered. Harder told Burgos, "If there's any changes in your signage in the future, you must come back." Burgos said she would comply.

Staff advised Burgos about additional requirements in the city's sign and window coverage regulations and offered to review those details with her.

Actions at the meeting were limited to the conditional approval and directions for inspection; no fines, enforcement actions, or permits were issued at the meeting itself.