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Commission moves to differentiate murals from signs and create a murals program
Summary
Planning staff proposed a text amendment to Article 9 to distinguish murals from signs, allow limited murals by-right, create admin and council SUP thresholds for larger murals, and grandfather existing murals. The commission initiated the amendment and recommended approval, 6-0.
Planning staff presented a zoning text amendment to Article 9 of the sign ordinance to treat murals independently of the sign regulations and to encourage public art while retaining review thresholds. Rachel Drescher explained the aims: create a purpose statement and definition to allow flexibility for murals; include a legacy clause to grandfather existing murals that might not fit new provisions; and establish review levels (allowed-by-right for limited text/scale, an administrative SUP for larger text, and council SUP for the largest murals).
Commissioners expressed support for the ordinance’s structure and the legacy clause that protects existing artwork. Commissioner Brown commended staff for researching best practices in other jurisdictions and for arbitraging a balanced approach. The commission voted to initiate the amendment and to recommend Council approval; both motions passed 6-0. Staff will prepare final language for Council review and continue targeted outreach to arts stakeholders.
