BZA splits on church sign request; wayfinding approved, larger temporary-sign request tied and sent to next meeting

The Elkhart City Board of Zoning Appeals on Aug. 14 approved a limited set of on‑site wayfinding signs for First Presbyterian Church but deadlocked on the church's broader temporary-sign request and held the larger request over to the next meeting.

Bruce Carter, an elder at First Presbyterian, and the Rev. Dr. Sally Wicks described a multi-event outreach program — including Vacation Bible School, Trunk or Treat, Music and More, Ashes to Go and other events — and said yard signs have been crucial to drawing neighborhood attendance. The church sought permission for 12 roadside yard signs, six interior wayfinding signs and one banner for up to 70 days per year.

Planning staff recommended a compromise: allow 12 temporary yard signs and one banner for 36 days per year, and permit six wayfinding signs on campus through Dec. 31, 2026, to give the church time to develop a permanent wayfinding program. Staff emphasized that temporary signs should be placed on church property, not in the public right-of-way, and noted the city’s ongoing ordinance update will clarify allowable temporary sign types.

At the meeting, the board first voted to approve the wayfinding signs (the motion carried). The board then considered a motion to adopt the petitioner’s full request (70 days for 12 signs and a banner). The roll-call vote on that motion resulted in a tie, and the board chair announced that means no action and that the matter will be returned for consideration next month. As a result, the larger request remains unresolved.

Staff reported 38 letters were mailed and two were returned in favor. Board and staff noted that any signs proposed for placement in the city’s tree lawn or other public right-of-way would require separate approval from the Board of Public Works.

Church representatives said they would meet with staff to explore permanent wayfinding and signage solutions before the next hearing.