Commission approves storefront sign changes at two South Raiford Street properties, one contingent on size compliance

The Thomas Selma Appearance Commission on Dec. 15 approved certificates of appropriateness for two South Raiford Street properties, while placing a size condition on one of the approvals.

For 103 South Raiford Street, applicant Anthony Nguyen sought permission to add a blade sign and repaint the facade — including painting the door black and changing worn green trim to white. Staff noted the applicant’s proposed design followed a blade sign style similar to an adjacent building’s sign and presented an AI render of the proposed look. Planning technician Taylor Graham told the commission that an approval could be made contingent on the sign size being compliant with the town code: “if the applicant would be comfortable with having the contingent approval being it's consistent and compliant with the town code, I believe that would suffice in your motion to approve.” The commission approved the certificate contingent on size compliance and authorized the presiding officer to sign the final order.

At 123 South Raiford Street the commission approved a certificate to alter the existing aluminum‑backed 4 by 8 wall sign to reflect new tenant Selma Hibachi. Applicant Alan Tran confirmed he would repaint the facade and reinstall the updated sign face. Commissioners found the change consistent with the historic district’s character and approved the request and the presiding officer’s signing of the final order by voice vote.

Both approvals were recorded with motions and second and carried on voice votes; the 103 South Raiford approval includes the explicit condition that final sign dimensions comply with town code.