Gigi Market seeks permission to replace sign face with digital price-only display; staff and commissioners supportive with conditions

Gigi Market sought commission approval for an alternative sign plan that would replace its existing sign face with an electronic numeric display to show fuel prices. Staff planner Kimberly Atley told the commission the applicant has agreed to lower the sign to 8 feet, a common requirement when replacing nonconforming signs, but that the sign sits within 250 feet of single-family residences, which requires commission review rather than staff approval.

The applicant, Chinua Pergala of 617 South Water Avenue, said the change would make it easier to update gas prices during extreme weather and to improve visibility for customers, noting the nearby Dollar General and site geometry reduce sight lines. When asked whether the current sign was illuminated, Pergala said yes and that it has been in place about four years. Commissioners said the proposed numeric display appears less intrusive than some digital signs that include animation or flashing and noted the planned reduction in height as an improvement.

Staff asked the applicant to provide sight-triangle information to ensure the new configuration would not create a traffic visibility hazard at the corner of South Water Avenue and Witherspoon Avenue. Commissioners expressed support and indicated they expected to see the resubmittal with the lowering to 8 feet and any requested safety details.

Ending: Staff will continue processing the application and the applicant will return with final materials; no formal vote was recorded in the transcript.