Board approves electronic message sign for Castle North Middle School with conditions

The VCA approved a special-use permit on a motion to allow a 5-by-9-foot electronic message pole sign at Castle North Middle School along State Road 261.

The board’s approval followed a staff report on surrounding zoning and notice procedures and testimony from the applicant’s representative about moving the sign out of an easement. Kevin Davis, identified in the record as the manager of construction and facilities for WCSC, said the plan is to move the sign about 110 feet south and set it back roughly 11 feet so “we’ll be 25 feet off the sidewalk there, which will get us out of the easement.” Sean Harris, representing the installer, was sworn before his testimony.

The board read a set of required findings and approved the application subject to conditions including obtaining an improvement location permit and building permit, maintaining compliance with Warrick County zoning, ensuring all utility easements are in place, and restricting sign operation. One condition prohibits flashing, moving or intermittent lights except white light; another bars use of words such as “stop,” “danger” or other terms that could confuse traffic. The application had been advertised on Dec. 11, 2025.

No members of the public registered opposition at the meeting. The motion to approve was made and seconded and the board chair announced the motion carried.

The next procedural step is for the applicant to secure the required permits and conform the sign to the plot plan filed with the application. Staff advised the applicant to comply with the listed conditions before installing the electronic display.