Commission allows State Farm ground sign at reduced setback, requires white posts

The Village of Richfield Planning & Zoning Commission on June 9 approved Case No. 22‑2026 allowing a ground sign for State Farm at 4025 Broadview Road, subject to conditions on color and placement.

Director Brian Frantz told the Commission the proposed 6' x 3' (18 square feet) ground sign complies with the sign‑size standard (Section 1163.17(e)) but does not meet the 15‑foot setback from the road right‑of‑way. Under Section 1163.17(e)(8) the Commission may approve a reduced setback if the sign will not interfere with sight lines and the required setback is unreasonable given site conditions. Frantz said the proposed location would not hinder sight visibility and recommended approval of the reduced setback.

Applicant Jay Springer said he preferred white signposts to match other signs in the Historic District. Mayor Michael Wheeler noted the business's corporate color is red; commissioners ultimately required white signposts for consistency with the Historic District. Councilperson Carol Campbell asked whether the sign would be illuminated; Mr. Springer said there would be no electric run to the sign and no lighting was planned. Director Frantz clarified that external lighting pointed directly at a sign or internal illumination is permitted within the Historic District but that illumination is neither required nor prohibited.

On a motion moved by Sue Ann Philippbar and seconded by Denise Ready, the Commission approved Case 22‑2026 with the conditions that the sign posts be white and that the reduced right‑of‑way setback is acceptable because sight lines are preserved. The motion passed unanimously on roll call.

The applicant intends to install landscaping and mulch at the sign base as shown in submitted renderings.