Planning commission allows replacement pole sign at Slidell gas station with three waivers

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved a request to replace an existing 120-square-foot pole sign with a proposed 116-square-foot pole sign at a gas station on the southeast corner of Highway 190 and Thompson Road in Slidell, granting three waivers from the Unified Development Code.

Staff explained the new unified development code (UDC) restored a conditional-use review for pole signs and that the request required three waivers: (1) the UDC generally disallows pole signs within 500 feet of residentially zoned districts or single-family structures; (2) a required 10-foot clearance between the sign base and highest adjacent grade; and (3) the cumulative pole sign area limit for single-occupancy businesses, which is 75 square feet. Staff noted the existing sign already exceeded the new 75-square-foot limit (currently 120 sq. ft.) and that the proposed 116-square-foot sign would be more conforming than the existing condition.

Owner Kevin Krayes told commissioners the current sign was old and in poor condition and that the proposed sign would improve the property’s appearance. Commissioner Arcement moved to approve; Commissioner Robert seconded. Commissioner Daughtry asked the owner to address standing water in a ditch appearing on site photographs; the owner was asked to coordinate ditch maintenance as appropriate.

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The commission’s approval with waivers allows the owner to replace the sign, subject to any conditions recorded in the staff/permit review. The owner was advised to address on-site drainage issues identified during the staff presentation and public comments.