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Lexington board denies Parker’s Kitchen sign variance for 5387 Augusta Road
Summary
The Town of Lexington Board of Zoning Appeals voted to deny a variance request that would have allowed eight signs totaling 460.37 square feet at 5387 Augusta Road; the board said the applicant did not demonstrate the extraordinary conditions required by state law.
The Town of Lexington Board of Zoning Appeals voted to deny a variance sought by Anchor Sign on behalf of Parker’s Kitchen that would have allowed eight signs totaling 460.37 square feet at 5387 Augusta Road.
The board declined to grant the variance after reviewing the four statutory criteria required under the state Comprehensive Planning Act. Board members said the applicant did not demonstrate the “extraordinary and exceptional conditions” tied to the parcel that would justify relieving the site from the town sign ordinance limits, which allow a maximum of four signs and 225 square feet for properties with frontage on two roads.
Collins Corbett, speaking for Anchor Sign, said the new building will sit roughly 150 to 200 feet back from Augusta Road and that a fuel canopy in front of the building will block visibility from the road, arguing the additional signs are needed for safety and wayfinding. Daniel Ben Israel, real estate development manager for Parker’s Kitchen, told the board the applicant would be willing to remove one proposed sign (Sign D) but noted the company was still seeking roughly twice the allowed number of signs and square footage under the ordinance.
Board members pressed for evidence that the parcel’s size, shape, or topography presented conditions unique to this property compared with nearby sites. After discussion a member moved to deny the variance; the motion was seconded and carried on roll call: Brad Cunningham — yes; Ron Fischer — yes; Troy Bice — yes; Justin Brown — yes; Brian Maddox — yes. The board’s action means the applicant’s proposed signage as presented will not be permitted under town rules.
The board reminded those present that variance decisions may be appealed to circuit court within the time limits provided by state law. The applicant and stakeholders may pursue administrative options including seeking changes to the town sign ordinance through the planning commission and town council processes, which staff said are forthcoming.
Notes and clarifications: the applicant-provided figure for combined display area was 460.37 square feet; the town sign ordinance cited in staff remarks was identified as sections 159-07-02D and 159-07-02A. The parcel around the proposed site was described in the hearing as roughly 7 or 8 acres (approximate).
