Mona City Council denies variance for roadside billboard

The Mona City Council denied a variance request for a roadside billboard after prolonged discussion about code compliance and precedent. Applicant Troy Linton told the council he had built the sign without a permit because the parcel’s boundary discrepancies and topography left the lot “completely useless” for other development, and he described vehicle‑safety concerns near Highway 54.

Council members questioned the sign’s size and construction material and raised the risk that approving an exception would invite others to seek similar relief. One council member said, “If we can’t follow the ordinance, why should anybody?” and emphasized the need to preserve the integrity of the sign code.

Troy Linton argued the property is exceptional, noting a missing 24 feet on his east boundary and utility easements that reduced usable area. He said he was willing to “reskin it and make it a little more presentable and sturdy” and to paint it as suggested, but he also said he had been negotiating with city staff and the attorney and had not removed the sign because the matter was not resolved.

After discussion about enforcement history and the sign’s rental to third parties, a council member moved to deny the variance; the motion was seconded and the council voted to deny the request. The chair thanked the applicant for his presentation and the council moved to the next agenda item.

The denial is a policy decision about zoning enforcement and precedent rather than a determination of the applicant’s broader property claims; the applicant may pursue further administrative or legal options if he wishes.