ZBA approves three sign exceptions to allow Hartford Communities to replace entry sign

The Macomb Township Zoning Board of Appeals approved three sign exceptions at its February 2025 meeting to allow Hartford Communities to replace an existing entry sign at a neighborhood entrance.

Planning staff (Jeff Box) told the board the applicant seeks three exceptions: (1) to allow a sign in the boulevard island, (2) to allow the sign 6 feet from the 24 Mile Road right-of-way where 10 feet is required, and (3) to allow the sign 9.5 feet from the Ansonia Way right-of-way where 10 feet is required. Staff noted the sign was already located in that place and the applicant reduced the sign base height from above the permitted height to 16.5 inches so a fourth variance was no longer needed.

Molly Smith, who identified herself as a Signs and More representative for Hartford Communities, asked the board to approve the replacement sign: "So please approve our sign," she said.

Board members said the requested exceptions would maintain existing site aesthetics and avoid removing mature boulevard trees. The first exception (sign in boulevard island) was moved and seconded and passed by roll call vote with all members recorded as yes. The second exception (6-foot setback from 24 Mile) passed after a roll call in which one member voted no; the third exception (9.5-foot setback from Ansonia Way) also passed with a majority recorded in favor.

Planning and building staff raised no engineering or fire objections. The board attached findings of fact on the record for each granted exception, citing maintenance of existing aesthetics and visibility at the entrance as primary bases for approval.

The approvals allow Hartford Communities or its contractor to install the replacement sign at the existing entry location, subject to any standard permit conditions and the reduced base height.