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Board allows 5th Third signs at 151 S. Rose, conditions approval on removal of larger signs elsewhere
Summary
The ZBA approved a dimensional variance so 5th Third Bank can install rooftop‑sized identification signage at 151 S. Rose Street, with the condition that the bank remove four larger nonconforming signs from 136 E. Michigan; the board voted 6–0.
The Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals on July 9 approved a dimensional variance allowing replacement of rooftop panels with 5th Third signage at 151 South Rose Street, but required the applicant to remove larger nonconforming signage elsewhere in downtown as a condition of approval.
Kevin Carlson of Valley City Sign told the board the proposal preserves the existing sign footprint and is not intended to increase size, height, setback or illumination. He argued the building’s scale and viewing distances create a practical difficulty under the sign code. "This request simply allows long established building identification systems to continue serving the building's intended purpose," Carlson said.
Staff originally recommended denial but changed course after the applicant disclosed that four larger nonconforming 590‑sq‑ft signs would be removed from another building the owner controls at 136 East Michigan Avenue. Pete, speaking for staff, said that because the project will reduce overall nonconforming sign area downtown the city would support the variance.
Board member Gary moved the finding of fact and then moved approval with a condition that the 5th Third signage be removed from 136 East Michigan. After discussion about safety and building‑code review for large rooftop signs, the board took a roll‑call vote; the motion passed 6–0. Chair noted the building‑permit process and building‑inspector sign permits would ensure structural and code compliance before installation.
The board’s approval preserves the applicant’s requested sign dimensions at 151 South Rose but ties the variance to the removal of nonconforming signs elsewhere, a compromise staff said advances the ordinance’s broader goal of reducing sign clutter downtown.
