Commission and staff flag downtown sidewalk dining, feather signs and possible sign violations; plan enforcement and outreach

Commissioners raised multiple downtown concerns: debris at a parking lot near the skateboard park, sidewalk dining and tables that may impede pedestrian access, and a growing number of real-estate feather flags and other signs from a local firm described in the meeting as "East Coast Realty." Staff said they are documenting each sign, determining which are permitted, and will coordinate with property owners and businesses before issuing notices of violation.

A commissioner said a coffee shop has placed tables and signage at a corner that may narrow the pedestrian path and cause accessibility problems. Staff said the city has an outdoor-dining guide that requires a maintained clear path for pedestrians and that businesses should submit a simplified site plan for outdoor dining. Staff also said A-frame signs are allowed only downtown under certain placement rules and that secure weights or other methods may be needed to stop windblown signs from creating hazards.

On the proliferation of East Coast Realty signs, staff said the first step is documentation and outreach; if voluntary compliance fails, the next step would be notices of violation. Commissioners noted an instance in which a blown-over A-frame struck a car and emphasized public-safety risk.

Staff said they will work with the Downtown Business Association and the Public Works department, and suggested forming a working group to evaluate a uniform downtown signage approach. The commission asked staff to coordinate with county landowners where debris was observed and to follow up on enforcement where permits were not filed.