Planning commission reviews sign ordinance, considers pump-house mural; residents question annexation

Phil Snyder reported that the Planning Commission received a zoning certificate application in the Critical Area for a porch modification and that the project qualified for approval without planting requirements because of its square footage. Snyder also said the Planning Commission completed a review of the sign-ordinance section of the Zoning Ordinance and expects to finalize a draft soon.

Commissioners and Planning members discussed a previously suggested mural on the Del Rhodes Avenue pump house. The idea — discussed years earlier as a possible town map — was revisited; Planning will consider possible parameters and outreach. Barry Waterman is expected at the next meeting to present tentative outlines of potential development for the Wheatlands property. President Willis asked whether the owner of the old Getty station had provided plans; Snyder said he would send a letter asking the owner for her plans.

During public comment, Perry Stutman (a Planning Commission member and resident) reiterated concerns about the Dudley annexation, saying he saw little present benefit to the town and that the Dudleys had not proposed rezoning or development plans. Matt Reno, also a Planning Commission member, suggested that if a mural is approved the town should reach out to middle and high school art teachers and structure a contest so the mural reflects Queenstown. Ms. Di Quynn-Reno announced the 13th annual Town Yard Sale on Oct. 6 (rain date Oct. 7) and asked that the event be smoke-free; commissioners indicated support for a smoke-free event.

The Planning items were informational and procedural; no final mural decision or property redevelopment plan was adopted at the meeting.