Commission forwards zoning text amendment to allow historic markers, clarifies it is not a preservation regulation

Kettering — The Kettering Planning Commission on June 15 recommended City Council approve a zoning code text amendment that would allow an additional historic marker sign for properties designated as historic by federal, state or local authorities.

Planning staff (Mr. O'Brien) told commissioners the proposed ordinance and code change establish a local historic resources designation process and permit one additional marker sign subject to size, placement and material standards. The amendment would allow, for example, a 16‑square‑foot ground sign or a smaller secondary sign in specified districts, and would prevent internal illumination and changeable copy on such markers.

Staff emphasized the program is intended to recognize historic resources locally and is not a historic‑preservation regulatory program. The record states that designation could be rescinded if a designated structure is demolished, but the program does not create additional design restrictions such as window or exterior‑material requirements. Staff recommended forwarding the proposed text amendment to City Council with a recommendation for approval, and the commission voted 3‑0 to do so.

Commissioners asked clarifying questions about the sequencing of the local ordinance and the zoning code change; staff said the local designation would be in place before the zoning text amendment is adopted at the Council level. The commission closed the public hearing on this item and adopted the staff findings by motion; roll call recorded yes votes by Ken Lackey, Troy Purvis and Don Rothman.

The commission’s recommendation will be included in materials provided to City Council; the text amendment will next be considered by Council in a future meeting.