Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Directional Signage topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves directional finger sign at 11 Pit Street amid discussion about murals and precedent
Summary
The Berlin Historic District Commission approved a dimensional, non-illuminated fingerpointing sign for an upstairs business at 11 Pit Street. Commissioners and attendees raised concerns about setting a precedent for murals or cartoon imagery; staff reiterated approvals are decided case-by-case.
The Berlin Historic District Commission approved a dimensional fingerpointing sign for an upstairs tenant at 11 Pit Street after a brief presentation and discussion about materials and visual precedent.
Elizabeth Maloof, representing 11 Pit Street, and Melissa Maluth described a lightweight, dimensional finger sign intended to direct pedestrians upstairs. Commissioners asked about materials and illumination; applicants said the sign is composite or fiberglass, non-illuminated and removable. Commissioners noted the sign’s purpose is to increase foot traffic for a small business and asked that it meet standard clearance and mounting rules.
Several attendees expressed concern that allowing quirky or cartoon-like signage could lead to more murals or cartoon characters on other downtown buildings. One attendee said, “I never want to see any in Berlin,” and discussed a preference for a ‘clean historic look.’ In response, commissioners and staff said that visual approvals are handled on a case-by-case basis and that an earlier request to place a mural on a different façade had been compromised by relocating graphics to the front.
A commissioner moved to approve “HDC case 7-1-26-22 as presented.” The motion was seconded and approved by voice vote; the applicant was told she could hang the finger sign. Commissioners encouraged the applicant and noted that future applications are evaluated individually under the commission’s visual review practice.
