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Commissioners pause Ojai Music Festival color change as lantern policy and 2011 exception are reviewed
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Summary
The Historic Preservation Commission continued consideration of a sign permit for the Ojai Music Festival after commissioners disagreed on whether previously allowed lanterns set a precedent; staff will verify the 2011 approval language and consult the city attorney before the item returns.
The Ojai Historic Preservation Commission on March 12 voted 4–2 to continue review of a sign‑permit application from the Ojai Music Festival so staff can verify earlier approvals and seek legal advice on whether decorative lanterns remain an exception to the city’s pennant policy.
The permit (S26004), presented by Maura Macaluso, principal planner and HPC liaison, sought approval for a color update to pennants used in the arcade and a design that includes Chinese lantern elements that have been displayed in the past. Macaluso told the commission the change before them was a color adjustment; size changes previously proposed were withdrawn. “Staff is recommending approval of what’s been submitted and presented to you tonight,” she said.
Several commissioners objected to lanterns on policy grounds. One commissioner said the 2015 pennant policy allows only pennants and prohibits other decorative items unless previously approved, and called the lanterns an art installation inconsistent with the arcade’s historic character. Anna Wagner, representing the Ojai Music Festival, said the lanterns are hung on the main arcade arch and on stakes leading into the park; the applicant said they would restore prior pennant designs if the commission denied the current change.
After a brief recess so staff could consult the city attorney, staff reported the central legal question was the exact language of the 2011 approval that allowed the festival to place lanterns as an exception. The commission then voted to continue the item to the next meeting so staff can locate and present the 2011 approval text and any attorney guidance. Commissioner Sharon McCatton moved to continue the item; the motion carried 4–2.
Why it matters: Commissioners said the decision could set precedent for what decorative elements are allowed downtown. Staff told the commission that denying the current color change would not remove previously approved displays — the applicant could revert to earlier colors and installations unless the 2011 authorization explicitly limited use to a single event.
Next steps: Staff will research and present the 2011 approval language and, if practicable, obtain a formal attorney opinion before the item is re‑noticed for decision at a future meeting.
