ZBA clears Liberty Bank to install decorative 'torch' features on two Main Street buildings

The Middletown Zoning Board of Appeals granted variances that allow Liberty Bank to install three-dimensional torch features on two downtown buildings at 291 and 315 Main Street.

Attorney Rich Corolla, representing Liberty Bank, and Tad Regala, director of real estate for the bank, presented the request and argued the town’s sign regulations are ambiguous about whether three-dimensional architectural features are “signs.” Corolla reviewed precedents on Main Street and contended that the best interpretation of the code permits multiple building signs per storefront and that the proposed torches—externally lit three-dimensional objects roughly five feet tall—are consistent with the street’s existing signage pattern.

Corolla framed the hardship partly as regulatory ambiguity and said the torches are compatible with other Main Street features. Regala noted the torches are part of Liberty Bank’s branding and commemorated the bank’s 200th anniversary; the fixtures will be externally lit rather than internally illuminated.

Board members asked about lighting and visibility, and applicants confirmed the torches will be lit from the exterior. Commissioners referenced existing precedent for multiple signs on corner storefronts and said the proposed fixtures are consistent with downtown character. The board voted to grant the variance for 291 Main Street and, separately, for 315 Main Street.

Applicants thanked the board and noted the installations are intended to be decorative, not functional signage that changes permitted uses or increases building footprint.