Board approves reduced sign for new laundromat at NW 70 Third after trimming applicant’s request

The Board of Adjustment on a voice vote approved a sign variance for Huntley Holdings LLC at 2914 Northwest 70 Third Street, allowing a free‑standing sign no taller than 20 feet overall, a maximum sign face of 50 square feet and non‑EMD (non‑electronic) signage.

The applicant, Jana Copps, the property manager for Huntley Co Holdings, told the board the business had been remodeled into a laundromat and asked for a larger sign to improve on‑site visibility. “We are requesting a 19 foot pole with a 72 square foot sign, so it would be 12 by 6,” Copps said during her presentation.

Board members said the original request was substantially larger than the new sign code allows and expressed concern about a tall, highly visible sign adjacent to R‑1 residential zoning. One member noted the city adopted a new sign code on Feb. 13, 2024, and said the board should not undermine that policy while another member noted the property had been purchased before the code change and that an older sign had been removed before the current owner closed. The applicant said the deed was stamped “9123” but did not provide a precise purchase date for the record.

After discussion the board offered a compromise to allow a larger sign than current base limits but smaller than the applicant sought. The motion to approve the variance as conditioned — maximum height 20 feet, maximum 50 square feet and non‑EMD — passed on a recorded voice vote.

The board’s action permits the owner to replace or install a new pole sign within the approved dimensions; the applicant will need to submit final sign drawings and permits to planning/permits for compliance review.