Placentia planning commission finds proposed freeway digital sign consistent with general plan

The Placentia Planning Commission on a unanimous vote (one member absent) adopted Resolution PC-2025-14 finding that a proposed freeway‑oriented entry sign on city‑owned property at 1470 South Placentia Avenue is consistent with the city’s general plan.

City staff told the commission the parcel’s land‑use designation is industrial and cited California Government Code section 65402(a) as the statute governing general‑plan conformity findings. Staff also said the proposed digital display would be used for public service announcements, nonprofit messages, city notices, special events and limited paid advertising to support local businesses.

Commissioners asked whether nearby residents would be notified and whether the display could cause glare at adjacent homes. Leslie Whitaker and other staff said the item before the commission was a conformity finding, not approval of a sign improvement; staff reported that light‑and‑glare studies had been performed and that modern digital displays include automatic brightness controls and dimming to minimize spill‑light. Staff added there would be additional environmental and design review if the project later proceeds to City Council for project approvals.

Vice Chair Rock moved to adopt the staff recommendation; the motion passed on roll call with Commissioners Evans, Navarro, Smith, Vice Chair Rock and Chair Perez voting yes and one commissioner absent. The commission’s finding does not authorize construction of the sign itself; future design and permit approvals would be subject to subsequent review.