Board recommends approval of electronic message monument sign for First American Bank

The Village of Gurnee Planning and Zoning Board on May 7 recommended that the Village Board approve a special‑use permit for a monument sign with an electronic message center for First American Bank at 7005 Route 132.

Dan Olson of Parvin Klaus Sign Company, the petitioner’s representative, described the bank’s proposed electronic message center and said the bank typically uses its LED message centers in a muted way. "First American Bank really doesn't use their electronic message centers the way most commercial businesses do. It's really much more passive," Olson said, adding that the bank would follow Gurnee’s restrictions on electronic messaging.

The item was heard as a public hearing; Olson was sworn in before speaking and the petitioner stated they would meet the village’s limitations on the sign’s content and usage. The petitioner noted the request intends to meet the 10 standards required by the zoning ordinance for an electronic message center sign.

After a brief public comment period with no speakers, a motion was made for a favorable recommendation to the Village Board, incorporating applicable design standards and the petitioner’s testimony. The motion was seconded and carried by roll call; board members voting in favor included Campbell, Martin, Morgan, Papp, Ware and others as recorded on the meeting audio.

The board’s action is a recommendation; final approval is the responsibility of the Village Board. Staff noted that special‑use permits of this type are usually considered under new business and are not typically placed on the consent agenda, so the petitioner should plan to attend the Village Board meeting for final action.