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Commissioners debate exceptions for unique West End properties and variances
Summary
Commissioners split on whether to create an exception or discretionary review for some properties (such as West End buildings without sidewalks) or leave details to the general plan; commissioners noted the high bar for variances based on physical hardship.
Several commissioners questioned whether the one-sign rule should allow narrowly tailored exceptions for properties with unusual frontages, such as historic buildings on the West End that lack sidewalks and have multiple frontages. Commissioner Jim Eaton and others suggested evaluating limited allowances for a second sign in hardship cases, while Chair LeGrand and Commissioner Lisa Bist said they were concerned about visual clutter and liability in the village.
Commissioners and staff noted the legal standard for a variance is high and typically requires a physical hardship showing rather than economic hardship; several commissioners suggested the general plan update could be a better venue to craft targeted exceptions. The commission discussed options including memorializing criteria in the general plan, proposing a specific discretionary review process, or deferring to council direction; no amendment to the motion was made and the commission voted to forward the ordinance recommendation.
