Board approves variance for three electronic marquees at New Smyrna Beach Sports Complex

The City of New Smyrna Beach Planning & Zoning Board on May 4 approved a variance permitting three electronic message readerboard monument signs at the New Smyrna Beach Sports Complex.

Planning staff presented the request and recommended approval, saying the complex—located off Turnbull Bay Road near Sunset Drive and adjacent to industrial zoning—lacks a changeable sign and that electronic marquees would improve event promotion and public safety messaging. "These electronic marquees would allow my department and my team to better promote the activities the city's got going on," Leisure Services Director Rob Salazar said, asking the board to support the staged installation.

Staff reviewed the variance criteria in the Land Development Regulations and concluded the request represented the minimum relief necessary and would not cause substantial detriment to surrounding properties. Staff noted architectural treatments would include brick accents and cornice tops and that installations would comply with copy area, structural and operational requirements.

Board members asked whether existing identification signs would be removed (Salazar: "Yes") and whether three signs would be sufficient; Salazar said the signs were positioned strategically and would be budgeted over multiple years rather than installed simultaneously. A motion to approve the variance passed on a 5‑0 roll call.

Next steps: staff will finalize permit and site details and the installations will proceed per the city's permitting and inspection process.