07/14/1986 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Beginning comments by councilors, Ms. Ehrman said she does not think the proposed awning with lettering will be offensive. She said it would help e security in the area. She suggested a revision of the sign code to permit such signs. Mr. Rutan said pedestrians have always used 11th Avenue and perhaps the 11th Avenue and Alder Street area should be designated the Pedestrian Sign District. However, the counci 1 cannot do that now. The council must consider the appeal. Ms. Schue agreed with Mr. Rutan. She said the the proposed awning with lettering is definitely not permitted in the Outlying Commercial District but she does not know why the lettering is prohibited. She said the owner probably cannot wait for the Sign Code to be changed. Mayor Obie suggested the council deny the appeal and request the Planning Commission to review the Sign Code to permit back-lit awnings. Ms. Wooten said other businesses in the neighborhood will want back-lit awni ngs wi th lettering. She suggested the City initiate a sign code boundary change to the Pedestrian Auto Sign District for the area. She said it would be fruitless for the council to revise the Sign Code again so soon. Mr. Hansen said some awnings are impediments and the counci 1 should carefully consider permitting them everywhere. Ms. Schue pointed out that awnings are permitted in the Out lyi ng e Commercial District but signs on the awnings are not permitted. Mr. Hansen moved, seconded by Ms. Ehrman, to deny the appeal to the.decision of the Sign Code Board of Appeals which denied a variance to the Sign Code for the Alder Street Market. Mr. Hansen said an awning protects people but lettering on an awning makes it a sign. He said the council should carefully define signs and awnings if they are permitted in more places. Ms. Bascom said the proposed awning will enhance the area. She hopes the council will consider permitting lettering on awnings. The motion carried unanimously, 7:0. Ms. Wooten moved, seconded by Mr. Rutan, to direct the Planning Commission to consider a Sign District Boundary change to Pedestrian Auto Sign District for a four-block area including 11th Avenue. Mr. Holmer said awnings which include advertising might be appropriate for many areas of the city. He suggested the change be considered for all sign districts. e MINUTES--Eugene City Council July 14, 1986 Page 10