Board splits on timeshare sign: height variance fails, setback and copy‑area variances approved with conditions

The board reviewed a request from a timeshare property to replace a nonconforming pole sign with a monument sign. Planning staff explained that because the existing pole sign was installed prior to 2011, the replacement cannot be a pole sign under current code; the applicant sought three variances: measuring height from property grade (which would raise the effective height), reducing the 5‑foot front setback so handicap parking and access remain, and permitting a larger copy area relative to the base. Staff recommended conditional approval to preserve landscaping and avoid removing a handicap space.

Board members and residents raised concerns about the sign’s visual impact. One board member asked whether a slightly lower sign or trimmed landscaping could achieve the same result; staff said trimming could help but moving the sign back 5 feet would remove a parking spot that the timeshare needs. The board voted down the first request to measure height from property grade (motion failed on roll call). The second request — to allow the sign closer than 5 feet — passed after the board amended the approval to include staff conditions that all parts of the sign remain east of the retaining wall and that a building permit is required. The third request to allow copy area to exceed 10% of the base width passed with the same staff conditions.

Next steps: the applicant will meet the staff‑required conditions (sign entirely on private property east of the retaining wall; building permit) and submit final sign and building permit documents for review.