Board forwards positive recommendation to allow digital message boards by special-use permit for public emergency entities

The Zoning Board of Appeals voted to forward a positive recommendation for a zoning code text amendment that would allow digital message boards by special-use permit only, with the board asking staff to change the proposed language so message signs “shall only be erected by entities that provide public emergency services.” The calendar reference for the item is 25A-02 (also spoken as 29 alpha 02 during the hearing).

The amendment, as discussed, would replace language that originally limited message boards to a “taxing body.” Board members and staff raised concerns that the wording “taxing body” could be overly broad or discriminatory and suggested narrowing the eligibility to entities that provide public emergency services; the board debated whether schools should be included under that phrase. Jonathan North and staff contributed to drafting discussions; Jim and other board members asked about whether schools are designated emergency sites. One board member argued the sign’s community utility in an emergency — for example, to notify residents of a critical situation or to relay time-sensitive community information — supported permitting signs for public emergency entities.

A motion to forward a positive recommendation with the caveat to change the language to “entities that provide public emergency services” passed on a roll call. The action was a recommendation to the legislative/code-adoption body; it is not a final ordinance. The transcript records several board members voting in favor; no public opposition was recorded during the hearing.

Next steps would be for the city (the applicant) and staff to finalize recommended text and forward the amendment to the appropriate body for final consideration and adoption; the transcript records the board’s instruction that schools could apply for a special-use permit if deemed appropriate under the refined language.