Zoning board denies sign-variance request at 366 North Street; applicant told smaller sign is an option

The Middletown Zoning Board of Appeals declined an application for a sign variance at 366 North Street, finding the proposed signage significantly exceeded local limits and urging the applicant to consider a smaller sign that would comply with current code.

The applicant (identified in the record as Jamal) said he installed the sign to attract customers after the business had been closed for years, telling the board he was "trying to bring some customers in." Staff summarized the relevant code (corner structures with up to 20 square feet permitted per frontage under section 394(12) for wall signs) and calculated the applicant’s signage at roughly three times the permitted square footage on the front and substantially above the side limit.

Board members discussed alternatives, including using a smaller sign that would fit within the code so the applicant could avoid a variance. Counsel and staff noted painted wording on the brick also qualifies as a sign and would need to be removed or treated as a sign under the code.

A motion to consider and vote on the requested front-and-side sign variances was made and seconded; when polled, every board member recorded a 'nay' vote (Keith Hollick, Tracy Racine, Mark Woody, Jim Burdes and Wendy) and the motion was declined. Board members described the proposed signage as “a bit much” for the area and directed the applicant to the option of a smaller permitted sign or return with a modified request.