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Planning commission approves Dahlstrom Middle School sign variance with shielding, conditions
Summary
The Buda Planning & Zoning Commission approved a variance allowing a changeable electronic monument sign at Dahlstrom Middle School with conditions limiting illumination, image timing and requiring shielding above the electronic portion to reduce light pollution and maintain Rural Heritage character.
The City of Buda Planning and Zoning Commission approved a sign-variance application for Dahlstrom Middle School after staff recommended conditional approval and commissioners negotiated additional shielding to limit light pollution.
Planner Alejandro Hernandez summarized the request as a multi-section variance (V-2405) for a changeable electronic variable message (CVM) monument sign at 3600 FM 967 that conflicts with several Unified Development Code provisions for the R-2 district and Rural Heritage Overlay. Hernandez told the commission that staff’s recommendation would require the CVM portion to “strictly adhere to all requirements set by UDC section 4.0206(b)(2), particularly the requirements of maximum illumination, image display time, prohibition on the display of a solid white background, and prohibition on animation and special transitions.”
Commissioners debated safety and visual compatibility along FM 967. Several members raised concerns that a bright, internally illuminated CVM could distract motorists near the busy corridor and noted the Rural Heritage Overlay’s emphasis on a less urbanized aesthetic. "We do still have kids that walk to school," Chair Jones said during the discussion, calling out pedestrian safety as a factor.
An applicant representative said the new sign would reuse the existing stone monument base, has not been purchased yet, and can be dimmed or configured to meet readability needs. "Anything’s possible," the vendor said when asked whether the CVM size could be adjusted.
A commissioner moved to approve the variance with conditions that the CVM meet the UDC illumination and image standards and that shielding be added above the electronic portion to mitigate light spill and protect the Rural Heritage appearance. The motion was seconded and passed; one commissioner recorded opposition during the vote. The commission’s approval allows the applicant to proceed under the stated conditions; staff will enforce the UDC limits on display time, brightness and prohibited animations.
