Historic panel approves Queen B sign despite debate over color count

The Boerne Historical Landmark Commission voted to approve a certificate of appropriateness for a new two-panel sign for Queen B Consignment at 404 South Main Street.

Planner Ben Simmons presented the application, describing the proposed replacement as two 3-by-10-foot panels (60 square feet total), printed with UV lamination and using an earth-tone marble/ombre palette including gold, brown, blue and white. Simmons said the property is zoned C-3 and located within the historic district as a non-contributing structure.

Commission discussion centered on how many distinct colors the ombre treatment constitutes. One commissioner said they were not in favor of “this sign with this many colors,” while a staff member noted the guideline’s limits and how the commission applies them. As staff put it, “It is worth noting that the 4 color rule is part of the guidelines, which is open to the interpretation and enforcement of the HLC. It is not a, city code requirement.”

After debate the commission approved the application on a 3–2 vote. The certificate allows the applicant to proceed under the HLC-approved design; staff will retain responsibility for enforcing any conditions the commission attached at the time of permitting.