Citizen Portal
Sign In

Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!

Get email alerts on the Signs Variance topic

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.

Council grants variance to replace decades-old billboard in same location

City of Decatur City Council · April 27, 2026
AI-Generated Content: All content on this page was generated by AI to highlight key points from the meeting. For complete details and context, we recommend watching the full video. so we can fix them.

Summary

Council approved a variance allowing the removal and replacement of an existing non-digital billboard that staff said has been in place for roughly 31 years; staff did not recommend approval but council approved the variance by voice vote.

The council considered a variance request from property ownership (Carl Kliment) to remove and replace an existing billboard at the same property, in the same size and approximate location.

Planning staff explained that the current sign ordinance generally prohibits billboards and off-premise signage, but the ordinance permits council to consider variances under four criteria. Staff noted the sign has been in place for about 31 years and the replacement would not be digital; staff said the application did not meet all four criteria and therefore could not recommend approval, but left the decision to council.

Council moved and seconded to approve the variance; the mayor announced the motion passed by voice vote. If the variance is implemented, the owner must obtain demolition and a new sign permit before replacement; council discussion emphasized the sign's long-existing status and the intent to keep the replacement non-digital.

Why it matters: the variance is an exception to the city's current sign rules and clarifies how longstanding, nonconforming signs are handled when owners seek to replace damaged structures.

Next steps: applicant to apply for demolition and replacement permits consistent with council's variance approval.