Macomb ZBA approves two sign exceptions so Goddard School can add a ground sign

The Macomb Township Zoning Board of Appeals voted to grant two sign exceptions for the Goddard School during its regularly scheduled meeting that began at 6:30 p.m. The board approved (1) a second ground sign for the development’s boulevard island and (2) a reduced 4-foot setback from the boulevard curb where the ordinance otherwise requires a 10-foot setback.

The exceptions, introduced by township planning staff, were framed as sign exceptions under section 10 (table 27) of the zoning ordinance. Planning staff said the school’s building sits far to the rear of the development and the existing wall sign is difficult to see from Hayes Road; a second ground sign in the boulevard would improve visibility. Planning Director Mr. Box told the board, “staff does not object to the sign, considering that it meets the intent of the ordinance,” and noted departments reviewing the request had no objections to the proposed location and dimensions.

Petitioner Mary Beth Ginsinger, listed in the record as owner of the Goddard School, and Karen Wieca, the school's director, told the board temporary signage had produced increased inquiries and that a permanent monument sign would likely improve enrollment visibility.

Board members discussed whether the lower panel on the proposed sign should be reserved for a particular future unit in the development (the Normandy Optical unit was referenced in the discussion). The board included a condition limiting how the additional panel is to be used; the motion recorded that the additional panel be used for the next least-visible business or, as later clarified in the public record, for the building to the northeast of the site. The board also debated the precise parcel identifier to place in the motion; the record contains multiple parcel numbers cited during the discussion and motions (see clarifying details).

The motions to grant each exception were made separately. The motion to allow the second ground sign was moved by Mr. Yamiche and supported by Mr. Mazara. The board then approved the reduced-setback exception (allowing a 4-foot setback where 10 feet is required) on a separate motion by Chair Aaron Tuckfield, supported by Mr. Piper. Roll-call votes on both exceptions were recorded as unanimous among members present: Mr. D'Amico (yes), Mr. Mazara (yes), Mr. DeCoster (yes), Chair Aaron Tuckfield (yes) and Mr. Piper (yes). Both requests were recorded as approved.

The board and staff noted this relief is intended to be minimal and to meet the sign ordinance’s purpose of giving notice to motorists and the public. Planning staff recommended conditions to ensure the sign does not adversely affect aesthetics or public safety, and the board attached a usage condition for the additional panel as described above.

The board closed the item after the roll call and thanked the petitioners for attending; no members of the public spoke on the item during the public-comment period for this application.

The approvals apply only to the sign exceptions described on the record and do not modify other code requirements for signage elsewhere on the parcel.