Commission postpones decision on Bruno’s sign removal and new sign at 1528 West Michigan until March 18

The Kalamazoo Historic District Commission voted to postpone consideration of a proposal to remove the existing Bruno’s sign and install a new sign at 1528 West Michigan until its March 18, 2025 meeting and directed the applicant to be present.

Staff summarized the application as the removal of an old sign and installation of a new restaurant sign. Staff also said that when the West Main Hill historic district was formed the building at the Bruno’s site was classified as a noncontributing structure; that classification affects how the commission reviews changes. A staff member noted that the sign may have been made by a local neon sign maker and that the applicant had discussed an auction to fund removal costs.

A commissioner moved to postpone the item to the commission’s March 18, 2025 meeting and to direct the applicant to attend. The motion was seconded and approved by roll call: Katie — yes; Christie — yes; Dana — yes; Dan — yes; James — yes. Staff said it would send a postponement notice to the applicant.

Commission discussion included questions about whether a noncontributing building requires historic-district approval to remove an existing sign; staff cautioned that removing or altering features without following required channels can create ramifications and advised that the applicant should follow the proper process.

The item will return to the March 18, 2025 agenda with the applicant present.