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Gurnee board approves 6‑foot height increase for American Legion electronic sign over objections
Summary
The Gurnee Planning & Zoning Board approved a minor sign exception allowing American Legion Post 771 to raise its electronic message sign from 12 to 18 feet, 4–3, after members weighed visibility needs against neighborhood character and grading constraints.
The Gurnee Planning & Zoning Board voted 4–3 on June 17 to grant American Legion Post 771 a minor sign exception to raise its electronic message sign at 749 Milwaukee Avenue from 12 feet to 18 feet.
Board members heard from a representative of Northshore Sign, who said a six‑foot increase is the minimum needed to clear a nearby bridge guardrail and restore westbound visibility. “We lost about four feet when we moved it back,” the representative said, explaining the sign was set back 10 feet to meet current code and now sits lower relative to the roadway.
Staff and several commissioners questioned whether a 50% height increase fits the character of the C2 community‑commercial district. Planning staff noted nearby signs—such as a BP sign permitted at 15 feet—had different site conditions, and commissioner Dave said, “to ask for a 50% increase in height, um, to me doesn't quite match up with what I think under these particular circumstances aligns with the spirit of it.” Commissioners discussed grade changes, sightlines and the possibility of tree trimming to improve visibility rather than increasing sign height.
Supporters of the exception argued the grade and guardrail literally obscure the sign for westbound traffic: one applicant representative described the concrete barrier and higher guardrail as the reason the existing sign was not visible until drivers passed the location.
After discussion, Chair Sula called the motion. The roll call was Blair (yes), Campbell (no), Nordan Tooff (no), Half (yes), Morgan (no), Stevens (yes) and Sula (yes). The motion carried, allowing the sign to reach 18 feet.
The board recorded that the American Legion may need to pursue tree‑trimming permits and to address erosion concerns near the bridge location before implementing the change. The decision is a local administrative approval of a minor sign exception; the sign owner will proceed with permitting and any required site work.
The board’s approval marks the conclusion of the agenda item; commissioners moved on to the next items on the calendar.
