Design Review Board approves Twist Market front sign, defers second sign pending special permit

The Needham Design Review Board on July 13 approved a front-door sign for Twist Market at 30 Wexford Street but did not approve a second rear sign that may be visible from the highway.

Catherine, the applicant, told the board the front sign would replace the existing tenant sign “same size, different design” and would not change lighting: “We're looking to simply replace that sign, just put our name on it instead of what is there currently.” Chair Mark said the front sign conforms to the bylaw and the boarder's design concerns and moved to approve it. The board approved the motion by roll call.

On the second, rear sign the board noted that some nearby signs had been installed without permits and that permitting rules restrict additional building-mounted signage. Chair Mark told the applicant that a second sign would require either a special permit to exceed usual allowances or a separate application so neighboring businesses could be notified. He said the board would not review that second sign tonight and directed the applicant to contact staff (Alyssa) about the special-permit process.

The action taken: the board approved the Wexford Street front sign as submitted; the second sign was not reviewed pending either a reduced size application or a special permit. The meeting record notes the board reviewed illumination rules and that any lighting must meet town permit hours and conditions.

The board advised the applicant to work with staff and the building department to ensure correct permits and to contact billing/permit staff if illegal signs are found in the building.