BZA approves Connection Point Church sign variance with revised landscaping plan

The Board of Zoning Appeals on Feb. 24 approved a variance to allow a larger-than-permitted wall sign on the Connection Point Church building at 2955 East 90 Eighth Street, with conditions requiring adoption of a revised landscaping plan.

The variance (docket PZ202400243) was granted after the petitioner and staff described a discrepancy between the approved sign panel dimensions and the panel that was constructed. "We're seeking a variance from the development standards for a wall sign that is on the church's building located at 2955 East 90 Eighth Street," said Steve Unger of Bozeman Kinney and Evans, who represented the church. The board voted 5-0 to approve the request with the new landscaping plan.

Why it matters: Planning staff had previously administratively approved the project but later discovered that one wall sign exceeded the UDO limits because the actual panel built was smaller than the plans. The variance resolves that nonconformity and pairs the approval with a landscaping plan that staff and the applicant agreed would address visibility and streetscape concerns.

Details of the request and conditions: Unger and project manager Sarah Zimmerman said the property — a rehab of the former Lighthouse Tabernacle Church — submitted building and sign plans in late 2023 and received administrative approval in July 2024. The petitioner later discovered a discrepancy: the constructed sign panel resulted in a sign that measures 97.5 square feet and is, in the petitioner’s accounting, about 8.4 inches taller than the numeric height allowed for the panel. Carmel staff raised the discrepancy, prompting the variance application in December 2024.

Planning staff recommended approval of the variance if the board adopted the revised landscaping plan. The parties negotiated a new plan with the city’s street department; the agreed plan calls for five red oak trees (2.5-inch caliper) placed roughly 25 to 50 feet apart along Keystone, with locations adjustable to avoid easements. Darren Midham from the street department was cited in the discussion as the staff contact who helped finalize the plan.

A public hearing drew no speakers. After staff recommended positive consideration, a board member moved to approve with compliance with the new landscaping plan and the board adopted the motion unanimously.

Next steps: The board’s approval allows the existing sign to remain under the variance condition and requires the applicant to install the agreed landscaping. Any related permits or inspections will be handled through the city’s normal permit process.