Historic zoning commission discusses Superama digital sign and state audit; no formal action taken

The McMinnville Historic Zoning Commission reviewed a state audit of its Certified Local Government (CLG) procedures and debated follow-up steps after commissioners concluded that Teagan Superama’s recently installed digital sign did not match the product the commission approved.

Chair Michael Griffin summarized the state auditors’ visit, saying auditors review advertising, meeting procedure and minutes. Griffin said auditors recommended steps to avoid the appearance of impropriety when commissioners have a personal connection to items under review—such as having a representative leave the dais while their project is discussed. Griffin asked commissioners to consider that guidance for future meetings.

The conversation then focused on Teagan Superama’s digital sign. Commissioners said they had made an exception to allow a digital display in the West End of Main Street but said the installed sign’s final appearance and detailing did not meet the “exceptional” product they expected and that the sign’s current form could undermine the intent of the earlier approval. Michael Griffin told the commission the goal was to hold the applicant to the standard shown at the time of approval.

Commissioners debated the larger policy question of whether the historic district should treat the West End and East End of Main Street the same. Some commissioners said the West End receives less public investment and argued for more flexibility there; others said a clear, consistent rule on digital signage is needed to avoid precedent-driven inconsistency. The transcript records comments calling for either a firm yes or no on digital signs and for clearer classification in the guidelines.

Staff and commissioners discussed an administrative step to reduce future confusion: issuing a COA document or resolution that explicitly lists conditions and creates a clearer record for grant reimbursement and follow-up compliance checks. Sean (staff member) said producing a signed COA document would give applicants clear proof of approval and would help staff enforce or verify compliance later. Commissioners agreed to revisit the issue at the next meeting and to consider sending a letter to Teagan (Superama) asking that the final installation conform to the approved design; the transcript records no formal vote on enforcement or penalties.

No formal enforcement action was taken at the meeting. Commissioners instructed staff to prepare a clearer COA record and to follow up with Teagan and with Main Street/state grant administrators to clarify whether the installed sign meets the terms of any reimbursement and grant approvals. The commission directed staff to report back at the next meeting.