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Antioch board reviews sign and window rules after code compliance concerns
Summary
Staff recommended updating sign and window‑signage rules after staff and trustees noted electronic message boards and some storefront windows do not match existing code; debate focused on public‑safety brightness, enforcement capacity, and stakeholder engagement.
Director Mark Janek presented two related code items — electronic message boards and window‑signage opacity — and urged the board to consider code revisions or stepped enforcement.
On electronic message boards, Janek told trustees that several installed signs "do not meet the code requirements" in areas such as allowed colors, background and hold time. He recommended either enforcing the existing code against out‑of‑compliance signs or updating the code to reflect contemporary LED technology, and suggested engaging stakeholders before voting on any ordinance change.
Trustees raised safety concerns about brightness and hold times; one trustee said the code's 10‑second hold time currently in the ordinance is often exceeded in practice, while staff noted most local signs are operating at about a six‑second hold and that the code requires nighttime brightness at 40% of daytime levels. Trustees also discussed enforcement capacity: Janek warned that enforcement would be labor intensive and suggested a phased approach with stakeholder outreach, written notice and time to comply before adjudication.
On window signage, Janek reviewed current opacity limits (25% in downtown, 35% elsewhere) and showed examples of businesses that appear to exceed those allowances. Trustees and staff debated exceptions for medical/privacy needs, liquor‑license conditions and the practicality of enforcing strict percentages for small windows. Several trustees supported updating the code and then starting a public‑education and enforcement program rather than immediately fining businesses.
What's next: staff recommended stakeholder meetings and drafting potential code amendments for future hearings and feedback before formal legislation or enforcement begins.
