This amendment modifies language to the UDO in regards to Electronic Message Center Signs.
The current UDO under Article 5 Section 14-504-10 does not allow the placement of an electronic message sign in public right-of-way except for the purpose of federal law. With ongoing efforts by the City’s Parks Department to promote community centers such as the Farmers Market, the Downtown Square, and engage citizens on community events happening at City Hall, a review of this section has been revised to allow use of signs in the right-of-way for other government purposes.
To provide a more usable changeable copy sign, under Article 5 Section 14-505-14-G and H the face of any changeable copy sign has been increased from 25 percent to 65 percent. It has been observed by staff that many changeable copy signs within our region have this percentage of the sign face used for the purpose of changeable copy messages.
To provide guidance on the construction of any freestanding Electronic Message Center Sign, specifications on required base materials for monument signs with embedded electronics have been added to include durable masonry, concrete, brick or stone like materials.
For the purpose of safety in the use of Electronic Message Center Signs, a more clear and precise measure of sign brightness has been amended. These measurement standards are in line with neighboring communities on how brightness is set on electronic message signs and are a reflection of industry standards for safe and usable brightness for the public and motorist. Specifications have been added to clarify that only static displays are allowed for Electronic Message Center Signs. Scrolling, flashing, or any appearance of movement from the sign are not allowed.
Draft Planning Commission minutes:
"Case 21-175-05 – UDO Amendment #49 – Sign Regulations
Staff Presentation
Rick Arroyo advised this amendment would modify language to the UDO regarding Electronic Message Center signs. The current City code does not cover use of electronic message boards to promote areas of our City using public right-of-way or public spaces except for purpose of federal law. This amendment would increase the face size of any changeable sign from 25 percent to 65 percent and provide guidance on the construction of freestanding electronic message centers regarding materials and specifications. The amendment also addresses safety of brightness and would prevent scrolling, flashing, or any appearance of movement. These measurement standards are in line with neighboring communities. This would be under Section 14-505-14 of the UDO.
Public Comments
No public comments.
Motion
Commissioner Preston made a motion to approve Case 21-175-05 – UDO Amendment #49 -Sign Regulations. Commissioner Ferguson seconded the motion. The motion passed with six affirmative votes."