HOA wins approval to place neighborhood sign in Sellersburg right‑of‑way

Tom Gettlefinger, president of the Woods of Coverbridge Homeowners Association, asked the Sellersburg Board of Zoning Appeals for a variance to place a neighborhood identification sign on the Wingfoot Drive island because the Unified Development Ordinance prohibits signage in public rights of way.

Staff described the application as minor in scope but flagged traffic‑safety and visibility concerns that must be addressed in final design. Staff recommended approval with conditions if the board finds a practical difficulty because the island is the only feasible location for the neighborhood entry feature and the sign would not be adjacent to private property.

During the hearing board members asked who would maintain the sign if damaged; Gettlefinger said the HOA already maintains the island and would continue to do so. One board member raised a possible appearance‑of‑impropriety concern because of an officer’s affiliation, and another suggested recusal and temporary transfer of presiding duties if appropriate.

A board member moved to approve petition 2026‑03‑DV‑05 with suggested conditions. The motion was seconded and carried 3–0. Conditions include installing the sign substantially in accordance with the submitted site plan, ensuring the sign does not obstruct sight distance or traffic visibility as determined by the town, subjecting final design and placement to review by the building commissioner and the town engineer, and obtaining any required permits prior to installation.

Next steps: applicant must finalize design to the town’s satisfaction and secure required permits before installation begins.