Planning Commission Agenda 05-05-2015
AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING - MONTICELLO PLANNING COMMISSION
Tuesday, May 5th, 2015 - 6:00 p.m.
Mississippi Room, Monticello Community Center
Commissioners: Brad Fyle, Linda Buchmann, Sam Murdoff
Council Liaison: Charlotte Gabler
Staff: Angela Schumann, Steve Grittman (NAC)
1. General Business
A. Call to Order
B. Consideration of approving minutes
C. Consideration of electing officer
D. Consideration of recommending appointments
E. Consideration of adding items to the agenda
2. Public Hearings – None
3. Regular Agenda
A. Consideration of a report regarding Temporary Signs, Chapter 4, Section 5 of
the Monticello Zoning Ordinance
4. Added Items
5. Adjournment
PlanningCommissionAgenda:5/05/15
1
1B.Considerationofapprovingminutes (AS)
A.REFERENCEANDBACKGROUND:
TheminutesoftheregularApril7th,2015PlanningCommissionmeetingareincluded
forreviewandconsideration.
B.ALTERNATIVEACTIONS:
1.MotiontoapprovetheminutesoftheregularApril7th,2015Planning
Commissionmeeting.
2.MotiontoapprovetheminutesoftheregularApril7th,2015Planning
CommissionmeetingwithchangesasdirectedbythePlanningCommission.
C.STAFFRECOMMENDATION:
StaffdeferstothePlanningCommission’srecommendationonthisproceduralitem.
D.SUPPORTINGDATA:
PlanningCommissionMinutes–April7th,2015
MINUTES
MONTICELLOPLANNINGCOMMISSION
Tuesday,April7th,2015-6:00PM-MississippiRoom,MonticelloCommunityCenter
Present:BradFyle,LindaBuchmann,SamMurdoff
Absent:None
Others:AngelaSchumann,SteveGrittman(NAC),CharlotteGabler(CouncilLiaison)
1.Calltoorder
BradFylecalledthemeetingtoorderat6:00p.m.
2.CitizenComments None
3.Considerationofaddingitems
McDonald’s(Gabler)
O’Ryan’sKwikTrip(Gabler)
Kramerresignation(Schumann)
4.ConsiderationofapprovingPlanningCommissionminutes
SAMMURDOFFMOVEDTOAPPROVETHEMARCH3RD,2015SPECIALMEETING
MINUTES.LINDABUCHMANNSECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
BRADFYLEMOVEDTOAPPROVETHEMARCH3RD,2015REGULARMEETING
MINUTES.SAMMURDOFFSECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
5.ContinuedPublicHearing–ConsiderationofarequestforAmendmenttothe
MonticelloZoningOrdinance,Chapter5,Sections1–UseTable,Section2–Use-
SpecificStandardsandSection3–AccessoryUseStandardsandChapter8,Section4–
DefinitionsasrelatedtoregulationsforSolarEnergySystems,PlanningCaseNumber:
2014-054
SteveGrittmanreportedthatanumberofbillshadbeenintroducedduringthecurrent
legislativesessionwhichrelatetosolarenergysystemregulationasaprincipaluse.He
recommendedthatthePlanningCommissiontableactiononthisissueuntiltheJune
meetingpendingadditionalinformation.
GrittmanindicatedthatthePlanningCommissionhadtheoptiontoconsideramending
thelanguagerelatedtosolarenergyasanaccessoryuseatthistimeasitisnotlikelyto
beaffectedbylegislativechanges.
FyleaskediftheCommissionwouldhaveavoiceinthesolarfarmissue.Grittman
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
2
pointedoutthatiflocalgovernmentlandusereviewisapplicable,thematterissubjectto
thejurisdictionoftheMonticelloOrderlyAnnexationArea(MOAA)orWrightCountyat
thistime.HenotedthatthePlanningCommissionwouldhaveinfluenceasitrelatesto
zoningauthorityifthepropertyweretobeannexedintothecity.HeindicatedthatCity
staffhavebeenincontactwiththedevelopersonaregularbasis.
LINDABUCHMANNMOVEDTOTABLEACTIONONTHEAMENDMENTSAND
CONTINUETHEHEARINGTOTHEJUNEMEETINGOFTHEPLANNING
COMMISSION,PENDINGADDITIONALINFORMATION.SAMMURDOFF
SECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
GrittmanpointedoutthatWrightCountyisconsideringlanguageforitsownsolar
ordinance.StaffagreedtokeeptheCommissioninformedastothestatustheproposed
WrightCountyordinance.
AngelaSchumannnotedthataproposedjointPlanningCommissionandCityCouncil
meetingcouldbescheduledoncethelegislativestatusoftheseissuesaremorecertain.
6.PublicHearing–ConsiderationofarequestforAmendmenttotheOfficialMonticello
ZoningMaptorezonepropertyfromAgriculturalOpenSpacetoLightIndustrial(I-
1),PreliminaryandFinalPlatforFirstLakeSubstationAddition,ConditionalUse
PermitforUtilitieswithintheLightIndustrial(I-1)District,VariancetotheZoning
Ordinancetorequiredsetbackfromthesouthpropertyline,andVariancefrom
Chapter4,Section8(E)(2)(C)Surfacing,Applicant:XcelEnergy,PlanningCase
Number:2015-007
SteveGrittmansummarizedthatXcelEnergyproposedtoconstructanewelectrical
powersubstationalongthetransmissionlinesthatborderthewestedgeofthecity.He
pointedoutthattheCityCouncilhadrecentlyapprovedtheannexationofthe10acre
parcelandthatthematterwascurrentlybeingreviewedatthestatelevel.
Grittmanindicatedthattherequestinvolvesapprovalsrelatedtorezoningtheparcelfrom
AgriculturalOpenSpace(A-O)toLightIndustrial(I-1),platting,conditionaluse
permittingandtwovariances.
GrittmannotedthattherezoningrequestmeetscriteriainSection2.4.B.5ofthe
MonticelloZoningOrdinanceinthatitaddressesneedsarisingfromachanging
condition,trend,orfactaffectingthesubjectpropertyandsurroundingarea,andis
consistentwithachievingthegoalsandobjectivesoutlinedintheComprehensivePlan.
Grittmanexplainedthattheapplicantsproposetoplattheannexedparcelintoasinglelot
andblock,alongwitharightofwaydedicationontheeastsideofthepropertyfora
futureextensionofDaltonAvenuetothesouthboundaryoftheproperty.Theapplicants
wouldpayashareofroadwayconstructionupondevelopment.
Theplatincorporatestheexistingeasementsforpowerlinecorridorsalongthewestern
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
3
boundaryoftheproposedlot.
Grittmanexplainedthatthesubstationwouldoccupyabout1.5acresinthesouthwest
cornerofthepropertyandcontainthesubstation,apond,andsupportimprovements.The
propertywouldbeaccessedviaadrivewayfromthetemporaryexistingimprovedcul-de-
sacofDaltonAvenue.Landscapingisproposedalongtheeastboundaryline,anda
portionofthewestboundaryline.Grittmanrecommendedthatadditionalplantingbe
includedinthewesternareatoscreenthemainfacilityfromviewoftheBertramChain
ofLakesRegionalParkproperty.
Grittmanpointedoutthattheapplicantsarealsoseekingaconcurrentapprovalofthe
finalplattoaccommodatetheirconstructionschedule.PlanningCommissionactionisnot
requiredonthefinalplat.
GrittmanpointedoutthatthePlanningCommissionhasdecision-makingauthorityon
variances,subjecttoappeal.
GrittmannotedthatUtilities-MajorarelistedasconditionalusesintheI-1District,with
thefollowing“AdditionalRequirement,”(a)Anelectricalpowerfacility,substation,or
transmissionstationshallbesetbackatleast100feetfromalllotlines.Thesouthernmost
pointofthestructuresitsapproximately60feetfromthesouthboundaryline.Grittman
explainedthattheproposedvariancetosetbackrequirementsrequestisreasonable
becausetheproximityofthegaspipelineonthepropertyconstitutesapracticaldifficulty.
Grittmannotedthattheapplicantalsorequestedavariancefrompavingrequirementsto
allowforconstructionofaClassVgraveldriveway.Grittmanrecommendeddenialofthe
proposedvariancetopavingrequirementsrequestasitdoesnotinvolveunique
conditionsrelatedtothepropertythatcreatepracticaldifficultiesincomplyingwiththe
pavementstandards.Grittmanpointedoutthattheapplicantshadsuggestedanalternative
optionofpavingthedrivewaytoacertainpointandlocatingagateonthesitemarkinga
changeofusebetweenpavedandaggregatesurface.
BradFyleopenedthepublichearing.
SeannLawler,SitingandLandAgentwithXcelEnergy-Minneapolisexplainedthat
Monticellocurrentlyreliesonseveralneighboringsubstationstoservelocalenergyneeds
becausetheLinnStreetsubstationisatmaximumcapacity.Thenewsubstationwould
eventually,withtheadditionofasecondtransformerinthefuture,beapproximately
twicethesizeoftheLinnStreetsubstation.
LawlersaidthatXcelrequestedavariancetothepavingrequirementsbecauseofthecost
topaveandcontinuallymaintain600feetofdriveway(andcommunicationcables,
telephonewiresanddistributionfeedersunderthedriveway),basedonaccessthroughthe
southeastcorneroftheproperty.Hesuggestedthattheoptionofinstallingagateatthe
bendinthedrivewaywouldaddresstheintentofthecodeandkeepgraveloffthe
roadway.
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
4
Lawlerrespondedtoquestionsrelatedtofencing.Hedescribedasevenfoottall
galvanizedsteelchainlinkfencetoppedbyafootofbarbedwire.
NathanStewart,ofXcelEnergy’ssubstationengineeringgroup,saidthatthegalvanized
flashingonthefenceisusedtodeteranimalsfromclimbingthefencehaddrastically
reducedoutages.
XcelEnergy’sCommunityRelationsrepresentativeScottJohnsonconfirmedthat
substationoutagesareoftenduetosquirrelsinthetransformers.
Stewartalsoindicatedthatsoundlevelsatthesubstationwouldmeetstateregulationsand
besubstantiallylessthannoisythanattheLinnStreetsubstation.
LawleragreedthattheconditionsinExhibitZareachievable.HeaskedthatthePlanning
Commissionconsideracompromiserelatedtothevariancetothepavingrequirements.
MarkAnderson,of10057DarrowAvenueNE,askedwhythesitehadbeenselected.
LawlerindicatedthatXcelhadconsideredothersitesinthetownshipandwithinthe
industrialparkbutsaidthatthissitewaspreferredbecauseofitsproximitytocustomers
andexistingtransmissionlines.Andersonalsoaskedifinstallationofthesubstation
wouldaccelerateannexationproceedingsinthearea.Heexpressedaconcernaboutthe
nearbyfarmlandbeingrezonedforlightindustryinthefuture.Grittmansuggestedthat
thepaceofdevelopmentwouldlikelybedeterminedbydeveloperinterest.
Hearingnofurthercomments,thepublichearingwasclosed.
Decision1.RezoningfromA-OtoI-1,LightIndustrial
SAMMURDOFFMOVEDTOADOPTRESOLUTIONNO.PC-2015-008
RECOMMENDINGAPPROVALOFTHEREZONINGOFTHESUBJECT
PROPERTYFROMA-OTOI-1,LIGHTINDUSTRIAL,BASEDONFINDINGS
STATEDINTHERESOLUTION.LINDABUCHMANNSECONDEDTHE
RESOLUTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
Decision2.PreliminaryPlatforXcelFirstLakeSubstationAddition
LINDABUCHMANNMOVEDTOADOPTRESOLUTIONNO.PC-2015-008
RECOMMENDINGAPPROVALOFTHEPRELIMINARYPLATANDFINALPLAT
FORFIRSTLAKESUBSTATIONADDITION,BASEDONFINDINGSSTATEDIN
THERESOLUTION,ANDTHECONDITIONSLISTEDINEXHIBITZOFTHIS
REPORT.SAMMURDOFFSECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
Decision3.VariancefromSetbackrequirementsintheI-1District,providingfora
60footsetbackfromthesouthpropertyline
SAMMURDOFFMOVEDTOADOPTRESOLUTIONNO.PC-2015-008
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
5
APPROVINGTHEVARIANCETOTHESETBACKREQUIREMENT,BASEDON
FINDINGSSTATEDINTHERESOLUTION,ANDTHECONDITIONSLISTEDIN
EXHIBITZOFTHISREPORT.LINDABUCHMANNSECONDEDTHEMOTION.
MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
Thecommissionersnotedsomeconcernaboutsettingaprecedentbyapprovingthe
requestedvariancetopavingrequirements.
Grittmanaskedifthecommissionerswouldbewillingtoconsiderthealternativeoption
suggestedbytheapplicant.Lawleraddedthatthegatecouldbeinstalledatthefirstbend
headingsouthalongthedrivewaytolineupwiththeproposedlandscapescreening.He
offeredtoincludeadditionallandscapingalongthedrivewayaswell.Hepointedoutthat
thegatewouldnotbeseenfromtheroadfrontage.
Decision4.Variancefromthepavingrequirementscallingforpavementof
driveways
SAMMURDOFFMOVEDTOMODIFYRESOLUTIONNO.PC-2015-008AND
APPROVETHEVARIANCETOTHEPAVINGREQUIREMENTS,REQUIRING
THATTHEAPPLICANTPAVETHEDRIVEWAYBETWEENTHEACCESSPOINT
TODALTONAVENUEANDTHEENTRANCETOTHEUSE,ASMARKEDBYA
GATELOCATEDAPPROXIMATELY250FEETFROMTHEPUBLICSTREET,
BASEDONFINDINGSIDENTIFIEDATTHEPUBLICHEARINGANDTHE
CONDITIONSLISTEDINEXHIBITZ.LINDABUCHMANNSECONDEDTHE
MOTION.MOTIONCARRIED2-1WITHBRADFYLEVOTINGINOPPOSITION.
Decision5.ConditionalUsePermitforUtilitysubstationinanI-1zoningdistrict.
LINDABUCHMANNMOVEDTOADOPTRESOLUTIONNO.PC-2015-008
RECOMMENDINGAPPROVALOFTHECONDITIONALUSEPERMITFORA
SUBSTATIONFACILITYONTHEPROPERTYTOBEKNOWNASLOT1,BLOCK
1,FIRSTLAKESUBSTATIONADDITION,BASEDONFINDINGSSTATEDIN
THERESOLUTION,ANDTHECONDITIONSLISTEDINEXHIBITZOFTHIS
REPORT.SAMMURDOFFSECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
EXHIBITZ
Rezoning,PreliminaryandFinalPlat,ConditionalUsePermit,
VariancetoSetback,andVariancetoPavementStandards
Lot1,Block1,FirstLakeSubstationAddition(asplatted)
1.Additionallandscapescreeningalongthewestboundarytoscreenthesubstation
enclosureareafromtheBertramParkproperty.
2.PavementoftherequireddrivewayfromtheconnectionbetweenDaltonandthe
entrancetothefacility.
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
6
3.CompliancewiththeconditionsidentifiedintheCityEngineer’scommentletter
datedMarch27,2015.
Schumannnotedthattherewasstillworktodoonthedevelopmentagreementand
assessmentagreementassociatedwiththisproject.Actionsrelatedtorezoning,
preliminaryandfinalplat,andConditionalUsePermitwillmoveforwardforCity
CouncilconsiderationatthesecondCouncilmeetinginApril.
7.ConsiderationofanAdministrativeLotCombinationandSimpleSubdivisionfor
Lots14and15,Block34,OriginalPlatofMonticello.Applicant:Monticello
EconomicDevelopmentAuthority,PlanningCaseNumber:2015-011
AngelaSchumannexplainedthattheEconomicDevelopmentAuthority(EDA)had
requestedapprovaloftwoactionstofacilitatemovingforwardwithintersection
improvementsatHighway25andCountyRoad75.
ThefirstactionwouldcombineLots14and15,Block34,(100EastBroadway)tocreate
oneparcel.Thesecondactionwouldsubdividethenewlycombinedparcelintotwo
parcelslegallydescribedbymetesandbounds.ParcelAwouldbeconveyedtoMnDOT
forroadrightofwayassociatedwithrightturnlaneconstructionfromnorthbound
Highway25toeastboundCountyRoad75.ParcelBwouldberetainedbytheEDA.The
existingbuildingontheparcelisscheduledfordemolitionbyJune1,2015.Schumann
pointedoutthattheparcelwouldberestoredtoturfasthereisnoimminent
redevelopmentproposalatthistime.
Therewassomediscussionrelatedtotheintersectionconfigurationandpedestrian
accessibility.Schumannindicatedtherewouldbelongercrosswalksatthenewrightturn
lane.Shenotedthatcrosswalkswouldincludecountdowntimers.Differentconstruction
materialswillbeusedtoincreasecrosswalkvisibilityforpedestrianandvehiculartraffic.
LINDABUCHMANNMOVEDTOADOPTRESOLUTIONPC-2015-009
RECOMMENDINGAPPROVALOFTHEADMINISTRATIVELOTCOMBINATION
ANDSIMPLESUBDIVISIONFORLOTS14AND15,BLOCK34,ORIGINALPLAT
OFMONTICELLO.SAMMURDOFFSECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTION
CARRIED3-0.
SchumannnotedthattherecommendationwouldmoveforwardforCityCouncil
considerationontheconsentagendaattheApril13th 2015meeting.TheEDAis
scheduledtoconsiderconveyancetoMnDOTatitsMaymeeting.
8.ConsiderationofareportregardingTemporarySigns,Chapter4,Section5ofthe
MonticelloZoningOrdinance
AngelaSchumannprovidedanoverviewofsigndefinitionsaccordingtoordinanceand
providedexamplesofthetypesofsignageinplaceinthecommunity.Sheaskedthatthe
commissionersreviewthesignordinance(Chapter4,Section5),visuallysurveythe
communityandbringquestionsandanyrequestsforinformationtotheMaymeeting.
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
7
Schumannoutlinedpermanentsignprovisionsasapointofreferenceandnotedthat
theseparametersseemedtobeworkingwell.Signsmustnotbelocatedwithinapublic
rightofwayoreasementoronpublicproperty.Non-profitorganizationsareallowedto
advertisecommunityeventsoncitypropertywhichhasaprincipleusewiththesigned
approvalofthepropertyowner.
Schumannbrieflysummarizedtheexistingtemporarysignordinance,thecurrentinterim
ordinanceandtheamendedordinanceproposedbutnotadoptedin2012.
Theexistingordinanceallowsforone32squarefoottemporarysignperparcelfor40
days.Theinterimordinanceallowsforone40squarefoottemporarysignperbusiness
per75linearfeetofrightofway(locatedontheparcelonwhichthebusinessislocated)
foranunlimitednumberofdays.Theordinanceamendmentsproposedin2012would
allowforone40squarefoottemporarysignperbusinessper75linearfeetofrightof
way(locatedontheparcelonwhichthebusinessislocated)for150days.
Schumannexplainedthattheproposedamendmenthadbeendevelopedafteraseriesof
discussionswithbusinesscommunityandananalysisofpermitdata,enforcementissues
andvisualobservations.ShenotedthatpreviousPlanningCommissionshadsoughtto
achieveacertainaestheticthroughsignageincentivesratherthanrestrictions.Schumann
indicatedthattheeconomicclimatehadimpactedthecouncil’sdecisiontokeepthe
interimordinanceinplace(andadoptitagaininsubsequentyears)inthatitseemedtobe
abenefitforthebusinesscommunity.
Grittmannotedthatsomecitiesallowtemporarysignsatintersections(nomatterthe
content)beginningonThursdaysbutrequirethattheyberemovedbyMonday.
Schumannindicatedthatthegaragesaleandrealestatesignprovisionscurrentlyinplace
seemtobeworking.
Grittmanindicatedthatthereisanexemptionforsize,quantity,andlocationandinstate
lawforpoliticalsignagerelatedtoelections.
SchumannsuggestedthatthePlanningCommissionfocusondevelopingconsistent
regulationsthatbalancecreatingattractivecorridorswhichrepresentastrongandvibrant
placetodobusinesswiththeactualadvertisingdesiresofthecommunity.
9.ConsiderationtoacceptresignationsofCommissionersHeidemannandKramer
AngelaSchumannnotedthatstaffhadreceivedformalnoticeoftheresignationsof
CommissionerAlanHeidemannandCommissionerAmberKramer.Sheindicatedthat
thevacancieswouldcontinuebeadvertisedthroughApril28th,2015.
SchumannalsopointedoutthatthePlanningCommissionwouldalsobeaskedtoelecta
ViceChairatitsMaymeeting.
PlanningCommissionMinutes:4/07/15
8
BRADFYLEMOVEDTOACCEPTTHERESIGNATIONSOFCOMMISSIONER
HEIDEMANNANDCOMMISSIONERKRAMER.LINDABUCHMANN
SECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
10.Addeditems
PlanningApplications (Schumann)-Staff hasnotreceivedanynewplanning
applicationsforconsiderationattheMaymeeting.
McDonald’s (Gabler)-SchumannreportedthatMcDonald’sisnolongeroperatingat
the7th Streetlocation.Sheindicatedthatthepropertyownerhadsubmitteda
RemovalsandReplacementspermitrelatedtoeliminatingbrandidentificationfrom
thebuilding.TheCityhasnotreceivedanylanduseapplicationsorbuildingpermits
relatedtoanewuser.AnyproposedchangestothesitewouldbesubjecttoPlanning
CommissionreviewasitwouldinvolveamendmenttotheUnionCrossingsPlanned
UnitDevelopment(PUD).
O’Ryan’sKwikTrip (Gabler)–SchumannindicatedthattheBuildingDepartment
hadreceivedapermitapplicationforaninteriorremodelattheO’Ryan’ssitelocated
atNEcornerofCountyRoad75andCountyRoad18.Thisprojectdoesnotinclude
anamendmenttotheConditionalUsePermit(CUP)atthistime.
11.Adjournment
BRADFYLEMOVEDTOADJOURNTHEMEETINGAT8:10PM.LINDA
BUCHMANNSECONDEDTHEMOTION.MOTIONCARRIED3-0.
Recorder:KerryBurri__
Approved:
Attest:___________________________________________
AngelaSchumann,CommunityDevelopmentDirector
PlanningCommissionAgenda:5/05/15
1C.Considerationofelectingofficer (AS)
A.REFERENCEANDBACKGROUND:
ThePlanningCommissionisaskedtoelectanofficertoserveasViceChairof
theCommissionfor2015.
TheCitycoderequiresthatthePlanningCommissionelectaChairandaVice
Chairfromitsappointedmembersforatermofoneyear.TheViceChairactsas
theChairintheeventofabsence.
CommissionerFylecurrentlyservesasChairofthePlanningCommission.Former
CommissionerHeidemannservedasViceChair.
B.ALTERNATIVEACTIONS:
1.MotiontonominateCommissioner_____________toserveasViceChair
ofthePlanningCommissionfor2015.
2.Motionofother.
C.STAFFRECOMMENDATION:
None
D.SUPPORTINGDATA:
CityCodeTitle2,Chapter1-PlanningCommission
MONTICELLOCITYCODETITLEII/Chapter1/Page1
CHAPTER1
PLANNINGCOMMISSION
SECTION:
2-1-1:Composition
2-1-2:Organization;Meetings
2-1-1:COMPOSITION:
(A)ThePlanningCommissionshallconsistoffivemembersappointedbythe
Council.AllmembersshallberesidentsofthecityofMonticelloand
shallhaveequalrightsandprivileges.
(3/10/14,#593)
(B)Allmembersshallbeappointedforthreeyearterms;however,saidterm
maybeterminatedearlierbytheCouncil.Onemembershallholdoffice
untilDecember31,2000;twomembersshallholdofficeuntilDecember
31,2001andtwomembersshallholdofficeuntilDecember31,2002.
Annuallythereafter,appointmentsshallbemadeforthetermofthree
years.Saidtermsaretocommenceonthedayofappointment.Vacancies
duringthetermsshallbefilledbytheCouncilfortheunexpiredportionof
theterm.Everyappointedmembershall,beforeenteringuponthe
dischargeofhisduties,takeanoaththathewillfaithfullydischargethe
dutiesofhisoffice.Allmemberswhoattendatleastonemonthlymeeting
shallreceivecompensationof$50.00forthatmonth.
(1/10/00,#337)
(C)Allmemberswhoattendaspecialmeeting,requestedbyanapplicantwho
paysaspecialmeetingfeesetbytheCity,shallreceiveadditional
compensationof$50foreachspecialmeetingattended.
(11/22/99,#336)
2-1-2:ORGANIZATION;MEETINGS:
(A)TheCommissionshallelectachairfromamongitsappointedmembersfor
atermofoneyear,andtheCommissionmaycreateandfillsuchother
officesasitmaydetermine.
(B)ThePlanningCommissionshallholdatleastoneregularmeetingeach
month.ThismeetingshallbeheldonthefirstTuesday.Regularmeetings
shallcommenceat6:00p.m.Hearingsshallbeheardassoonthereafteras
possible.ThePlanningCommissionshalladoptrulesforthetransaction
ofbusinessandshallkeeparecordofitsresolutions,transactions,and
MONTICELLOCITYCODETITLEII/Chapter1/Page2
findings,whichrecordshallbeapublicrecord.
(C)SpecialmeetingsmaybecalledbytheChair,asneeded,andshallbe
coordinatedwithcitystaff.
(3/10/14,#593)
PlanningCommissionAgenda:05/05/15
1D.ConsiderationofrecommendingappointmentstothePlanningCommission
(AS)
A.REFERENCEANDBACKGROUND:
ThePlanningCommissionisaskedtorecommendthattheCityCouncilappoint
twonewcommissioners;oneforthevacancycreatedbyCommissioner
Heidemann’sresignationandasecondforthevacancycreatedbyCommissioner
Kramer’sresignation.Commissiontermsarestaggeredinthreeyearincrements.
CommissionerHeidemann’stermexpiresattheendof2015.Commissioner
Kramer’stermexpiresattheendof2016.
Alistingofthecurrenttermsisprovidedbelowforreference.
LindaBuchmann3yr12/2017
SamMurdoff3yr12/2017
Open3yr12/2015
BradFyle,Chair3yr12/2016
Open3yr12/2016
CharlotteGablerCouncilliaison
TheCityCouncilwillratifyappointmentstotheCommissiononMay11th,2015.
B.ALTERNATIVEACTIONS:
1.Motiontorecommendtheappointmentof_______________toa
PlanningCommissiontermendingDecember31st,2015andthe
appointmentof_________________toaPlanningCommissionterm
endingDecember31st,2016.
2.Motionofother.
C.SUPPORTINGDATA:
CityCodeTitle2,Chapter1-PlanningCommission
MONTICELLO CITY ORDINANCE TITLE II/Chpt 2/Page 1
CHAPTER 1
PLANNING COMMISSION
SECTION:
2-1-1:Composition
2-1-2:Organi zati on; M eetin gs
2-1-1:COMPOSITION: The Planning Commission shall consist of five (5) members
appointed by the Council. No member of the Planning Commission shall hold any
ot he r p ub li c o ff ic e i n t he Ci ty.
All members shall be appointed for three year terms; however, said term may be
terminated earlier by the Council. One member shall hold office until December 31,
2000; two members shall hold office until December 31, 2001 and two members shall
hold office until December 31, 2002. Annually thereafter, appointments shall be made
for the term of three years. Said terms are to commence on the day of appointment.
Vacancies during the terms shall be filled by the Council for the unexpired portion of
the term. Every appointed member shall, before entering upon the discharge of his
duties, take an oath that he will faithfully discharge the duties of his office. All
members who attend at least one monthly meeting shall receive compensation of
$50.00 for that month.
(1/10/00, #337)
All members who attend a special meeting requested by an applicant who pays a
special
meeting fee set by the City shall received additional compensation of$50 for each
special
meeting attended. (11/22/99, #336)
2-1-2:ORGANIZATION; MEETINGS: The Commission shall elect a chairman from
among its appointed members for a term of one year, and the Commission may create
and fill such other offices as it may determine.
The Planning Commission shall hold at least one (1) regular meeting each month.
This meeting shall be held on the first Tuesday. Regular meetings shall commence at
seven o'clock (7:00) p.m. Hearings shall be heard as soon thereafter as possible. The
Planning Commission shall adopt rules for the transaction of business and shall keep a
record of its resolutions, transactions, and findings, which record shall be a public
record.
Planning Commission Agenda: 5/05/15
1
3A. Consideration of a report regarding Temporary Signs, Chapter 4, Section 5 of the
Monticello Zoning Ordinance (AS)
A. REFERENCE & BACKGROUND:
The following report is provided as additional reference to support the Planning
Commissioners in their review and recommendation on temporary sign regulations.
As previously noted in April’s background report, the City of Monticello adopted an
interim ordinance in January of 2015 allowing for an expansion in allowances for
temporary signage. Interim ordinances allow a municipality the opportunity to study an
issue as related to official controls, such as zoning ordinances.
As part of the 2015 adoption of the interim ordinance, staff’s recommendation to the
Planning Commission and City Council was to provide direction over the course of the
year on amendments to the temporary sign ordinance to replace the interim ordinance for
2016.
In April, staff requested that the Planning Commission review the existing temporary
sign ordinance for purposes of developing questions and comments for the May meeting.
Staff also requested that the Commission tour the community, focusing on the temporary
sign issue for purposes of additional feedback to staff.
For the Commission’s reference, staff is also providing a set of excerpts of temporary
sign regulations from a sampling of surrounding communities. In addition, staff has
provided links to these communities’ sign regulations should Commission wish to review
additional sections or provisions of the ordinances in more detail.
Staff has also provided as supporting data the staff report from the April packet. The
April staff report provides an overview of the allowances under the current ordinance
and the interim ordinance.
At this time, staff is requesting that during the May meeting, the Commissioners provide
their questions and comments on the materials and data presented thus far. These
questions and comments will allow for additional research as needed and provide for
direction on ordinance development.
B. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
None.
C. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
At this time, staff is seeking only to provide background information for Commission
analysis and for the Commission to provide question and comment for staff response.
Planning Commission Agenda: 5/05/15
2
D. SUPPORTING DATA:
A. City of St. Michael, Excerpt, Sign Regulations:
http://www.amlegal.com/nxt/gateway.dll/Minnesota/smichael/cityofstmichaelminnes
otacodeofordinances?f=templates$fn=default.htm$3.0$vid=amlegal:stmichael_mn
(Chapter 155.4)
B. City of Big Lake: Excerpt, Sign Regulations
Link to online regulations:
http://www.biglakemn.org/vertical/Sites/%7B26A9BB2A-42D0-495E-BEE3-
6A09F4974216%7D/uploads/%7BE414FC04-D838-4C35-814A-
2DC9C894C72C%7D.PDF
C. City of Becker: Excerpt, Sign Regulations
Link to online regulations:
http://www.ci.becker.mn.us/vertical/sites/%7BC7773ACF-6EFD-49C3-92E6-
9C66D821361B%7D/uploads/Chapter_11_-_Done_10_29_13.pdf
D. City of Delano: Excerpt, Sign Regulations
Link to online regulations:
http://www.delano.mn.us/city-services/city-codes-and-ordinances/zoning-and-land-
use#SECTION_51.03
E. City of Buffalo: Excerpt, Sign Regulations
Link to online regulations:
http://www.ci.buffalo.mn.us/city-ordinances/
(Chapter 13.06)
F. City of Albertville: Excerpt, Sign Regulations
Link to online regulations:
http://www.sterlingcodifiers.com/codebook/index.php?book_id=460
G. Interim Ordinance #609
H. Monticello Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 4, Section 5
I. Monticello Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 8.4, Definitions, Excerpt
J. April 7th, 2015 Planning Commission report
ORDINANCE NO. 609
CITY OF MONTICELLO
WRIGHT COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AN INTERIM ORDINANCE PROVIDING TEMPORARY EXPANSION OF
TEMPORARY SIGNAGE ALLOWANCES WITHIN THE CITY OF MONTICELLO
THE MONTICELLO CITY COUNCIL ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS.-
WHEREAS,
OLLOWS.
WHEREAS, the City of Monticello shall adopt this ordinance to allow the City of
Monticello time to study and adopt appropriate land use controls regulating temporary signage;
and
WHEREAS, the City of Monticello is presently conducting a planning study for the purpose
of considering amendment of official controls for temporary signage; and
WHEREAS, there is a need for a study to be conducted so that the City can review its land use
zoning regulations pertaining to temporary signage uses; and
WHEREAS, there is a need for an interim ordinance to be adopted for the purpose of protecting
the planning process and the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City until such a
study has been completed.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Monticello,
Minnesota:
1. Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 462.355, et seq., the City hereby adopts and approves the order
for interim ordinance temporarily relaxing Monticello Zoning Ordinance Temporary
Sign regulations 4.5(I)(1), 4.5(I)(2) and 4.5(I)(3) within the City of Monticello.
2. This ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage
and publication. It shall remain in effect until the adoption of the official
controls contemplated herein or January 26th, 2016, whichever first occurs.
3. One temporary sign per business shall be allowed by permit.
4. When multiple temporary signs are permitted per parcel, such signs shall be
spaced 75 lineal feet apart.
5. The total number of temporary signage days allowed per business shall be
unlimited in number. Signage days used must be tracked for a permit to be
considered valid.
6. One additional temporary sign device shall be permitted for a restaurant business with
outdoor seating on for a period of up to 150 days, to be located within or along their
outdoor seating area.
ORDINANCE NO. 609
7. One additional temporary sign shall be allowed per street frontage on non-residential
properties when a property is seeking to hire or employ personnel, subject to the
provisions contained herein.
8. Signs must be constructed of durable materials and may not be constructed of
unfinished or untreated materials. All temporary signage must be kept in good
repair and may not constitute a nuisance as defined by Title 7, Chapter 1 of City
Code.
9. Temporary sign area shall be limited to a maximum of 40 square feet.
10. The interim ordinance does not include a relaxation of standards pertaining to
sandwich boards, as defined by ordinance.
11. Signs must be located on the property on which the business activity is located,
with the permission of the property owner.
12. Prohibition of all off -premise temporary and permanent signage shall continue
per Monticello Zoning Ordinance regulations 4.5(D)(2), 4.5(D)(9) and general
allowable use regulations (5.1).
13. Signs may not be located within any public easement or right-of-way.
14. The City may enforce any provision of this ordinance by mandamus, injunction, or any
other appropriate civil remedy in any court of competent jurisdiction.
ADOPTED BY the Monticello City Council this 26th day of January, 2015.
CITY OF MONTICELLO
Brian Stumpf, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jeff 1, City Administrator
VOTING IN FAVOR: Stumpf, Gabler, Hilgart, Perrault, Posusta
None
VOTING IN OPPOSITION:
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
Page 452 City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance
SHELTER, FALLOUT: An accessory building specifically designed and used for the
protection of life from radioactive fallout.
SHELTER, STORM: An accessory building specifically designed and used for the protection
of life from weather events.
SHORE IMPACT ZONE: Land located between the ordinary high water level of a public
water and a line parallel to it at a setback of 50 percent of the required structure setback.
SHORELAND: Land located within the following distances from public water:
(A) 1,000 feet from the ordinary high water mark of a lake, pond, or flowages.
(B) Three hundred (300) feet from a river or stream, or the landward extent of a flood plain
designated by ordinance on such river or stream, whichever is greater. The limits of
shorelands may be reduced whenever the waters involved are bounded by topographic
divides that extend landward from the waters for lesser distances and when approved by
the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources or the commissioner’s
designated representative.
(C) The area included in the recreational land use districts for the Mississippi River as
defined in Minnesota Rules Chapter 6105.0800-0950.
SHRUB: A woody plant, smaller than a tree, consisting of several small stems emerging from
the ground, or small branches near the ground. Shrubs may be deciduous or evergreen.
SIDEWALK SALES & DISPLAY, OUTDOOR: Outdoor sale and display, conducted as an
accessory, incidental activity by the proprietor, of products normally sold inside a retail
establishment, subject to the limitations identified in this ordinance.
SIGN: Any letter, word or symbol, poster, picture, statuary, reading matter or representation in
the nature of advertisement, announcement, message or visual communication, whether
painted, posted, printed, affixed or constructed, including all associated brackets, braces,
supports, wires and structures, which is displayed for informational or communicative
purposes.
SIGN FACE: The surface of the sign upon, against, or through which the message of the sign
is exhibited.
SIGN STRUCTURE: Any structure including the supports, uprights, bracing and framework
which supports or is capable of supporting any sign.
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance Page 453
SIGN, ABANDONED: Any sign and/or its supporting sign structure which remains without a
message or whose display surface remains blank for a period of one (1) year or more, or any
sign which pertains to a time, event or purpose which no longer applies, shall be deemed to
have been abandoned. Signs applicable to a business temporarily suspended because of a
change in ownership or management of such business shall not be deemed abandoned unless
the property remains vacant for a period of one (1) year or more. Any sign remaining after
demolition of a principal structure shall be deemed to be abandoned. Where a sign has
received a special permit or other City approval, such approval shall run with the principal use
of the property, and such a sign shall be considered to be abandoned under this definition
when it meets the conditions specified in this section, notwithstanding the prior special
approval.
SIGN, AREA IDENTIFICATION: A freestanding sign which identifies the name of a
neighborhood, a residential subdivision, a multiple residential complex consisting of three (3)
or more structures, a shopping center consisting of five (5) or more separate business
concerns, an industrial area, an office complex consisting of three (3) or more structures, or
any combination of the above located on contiguous property.
SIGN, AWNING: A building sign or graphic printed on or in some fashion attached directly
to the awning material.
SIGN, AREA: A sign identifying a series of related parcels or uses, rather than a specific
parcel or use.
SIGN, BALLOON: A sign consisting of a bag made of lightweight material supported by
helium, hot, or pressurized air which is greater than twenty-four (24) inches in diameter.
SIGN, BILLBOARD: See definition of Off Premises Sign.
SIGN, BUILDING: Any sign attached or supported by any building.
SIGN, CANOPY: Any sign that is part of or attached to a canopy, made of fabric, plastic, or
structural protective cover over a door or entrance. A canopy sign is not a marquee and is
different from service area canopy signs.
Canopy Sign
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
Page 454 City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance
SIGN, CHANGEABLE COPY: A sign or portion thereof that has a reader board for the
display of text information in which each alphanumeric character, graphic or symbol is
defined by objects not consisting of an illumination device and may be changed or
rearranged manually or mechanically with characters, illustrations, letters or numbers that
can be changed or rearranged without altering the face or surface of the sign structure.
SIGN, CHANGEABLE COPY (ELECTRONIC): A sign or portion thereof that displays
electronic, non-pictorial text information in which each alphanumeric character, graphic, or
symbol is defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combinations of light
emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs or other illumination devices within the
display area. Electronic changeable copy signs include computer programmable,
microprocessor controlled electronic displays. Electronic changeable copy signs include
projected images or messages with these characteristics onto buildings or objects. Electronic
changeable copy signs do not include official signs. Electronic changeable copy signs may
also be dynamic display signs if the definition of dynamic display sign is met.
SIGN, COMMUNITY EVENT: A sign displaying information related to a community event
open to the public when such event is sponsored or operated by a person or organization in a
not-for-profit capacity. Qualifying organizations shall include:
(A) Any organization established under Internal Revenue Code Section as a not-for-profit;
(B) Any other organization or individual registering with the Secretary of State as a not-for-
profit;
(C) Any other organization or individual registering with the City of Monticello and
meeting the requirements established by the City Council.
SIGN, DYNAMIC DISPLAY: Any characteristics of a sign that appear to have movement or
that appear to change, caused by any method other than physically removing and replacing the
sign or its components, whether the apparent movement or change is in the display, the sign
structure or any other component of the sign. This includes displays that incorporate
technology or methods allowing the sign face to change the image without having to
physically or mechanically replace the sign face or its components as well as any rotating,
revolving, moving, flashing, blinking or animated display and any display that incorporates
rotating panels, LED lights manipulated through digital input, digital ink or any other method
or technology that allows the sign face to present a series of images or displays. All dynamic
displays are changeable copy signs, but not all changeable copy signs are dynamic displays.
Changeable Copy
Sign
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance Page 455
SIGN, ELECTRONIC GRAPHIC DISPLAY: A sign or portion thereof that displays
electronic, static images, static graphics or static pictures, with or without text information,
defined by a small number of matrix elements using different combinations of light emitting
diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs or other illumination devices within the display area
where the message change sequence is accomplished immediately or by means of fade,
repixalization or dissolve modes. Electronic graphic display signs include computer
programmable, microprocessor controlled electronic or digital displays. Electronic graphic
display signs include projected images or messages with these characteristics onto buildings or
other objects.
SIGN, FLASHING: A directly or indirectly illuminated sign or portion thereof that exhibits
changing light or color effect by any means, so as to provide intermittent illumination that
changes light intensity in sudden transitory bursts and creates the illusion of intermittent
flashing light by streaming, graphic bursts showing movement, or any mode of lighting which
resembles zooming, twinkling or sparkling.
SIGN, FREESTANDING: Any sign which has supporting framework that is placed on, or
anchored in, the ground and which is independent from any building or other structure.
SIGN, HEIGHT OF: The height of the sign shall be computed as the vertical
distance measured from the crown of the adjacent street surface at centerline to
the top of the highest attached component of the sign.
SIGN, IDENTIFICATION: Signs in all districts which identify the business or
owner, or manager, or resident, and set forth the address of the premises where
the sign is located and which contain no other material.
SIGN, ILLUMINATED: Any sign which contains an element designed to
emanate artificial light internally or externally.
SIGN, MARQUEE: Any building sign painted, mounted, constructed or attached in any
manner, on a marquee.
Marquee
Sign
Sign Height
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
Page 456 City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance
SIGN, MONUMENT: Any freestanding sign with its sign face mounted on the ground or
mounted on a base at least as wide as the sign and which has a total height not exceeding
fourteen (14) feet.
SIGN, MULTI-VISION: Any sign composed in whole or part of a series of vertical or
horizontal slats or cylinders that are capable of being rotated at intervals so that partial
rotation of the group of slats or cylinders produces a different image and when properly
functioning allows on a single sign structure the display at any given time one (1) of two (2)
or more images.
SIGN, OFF PREMISES: A commercial speech sign which directs the attention of the public
to a business, activity conducted, or product sold or offered at a location not on the same lot
where such sign is located. For purposes of the Sign Ordinance, easements and other
appurtenances shall be considered to be outside such lot and any sign located or proposed to
be located in an easement or other appurtenance shall be considered an off premises sign.
SIGN, OFFICIAL: Signs of a public noncommercial nature including public notification
signs, safety signs, traffic signs, direction to public facilities when erected by or on behalf of a
public official or employee in the performance of official duty – See also “Public Sign”.
SIGN, POLE: See definition of Pylon Sign.
SIGN, PORTABLE: Any sign which is manifestly designed to be transported, including by
trailer or on its own wheels, even though the wheels of such sign may be removed and the
remaining chassis or support is converted to another sign or attached temporarily or
permanently to the ground since this characteristic is based on the design of such a sign.
SIGN, PROJECTING: Any sign which is affixed to a building or wall in such
a manner that its leading edge extends more than two (2) feet beyond the
surface of such building or wall face.
SIGN, PUBLIC: Any sign posted by a governmental agency of a public, non-
commercial nature, to include signs indicating scenic or historical points of
interest, memorial plaques, and the like, and signs for civic interest groups
within the City of Monticello when signs are erected by or on order of a
public officer or employee in the performance of official duty – See Also
“Official Sign”.
Projecting Sign
Monument Sign
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance Page 457
SIGN, PYLON: Any freestanding sign which has its supportive structure(s) anchored in the
ground and which has a sign face elevated above ground level by pole(s) or beam(s) and with
the area below the sign face open.
SIGN, ROOF: Any sign erected and constructed wholly on and above the roof of a
building, supported by the roof structure, and extending vertically above the
highest portion of the roof.
SIGN, ROOF SIGN, INTEGRAL: Any building sign erected or constructed as an
integral or essentially integral part of a normal roof structure of any design, so that
no part of the sign extends vertically above the highest portion of the roof and so
that no part of the sign is separated from the rest of the roof by a space of more
than six (6) inches.
SIGN, ROTATING SIGN: A sign or portion of a sign which turns about on an axis.
SIGN, SANDWICH BOARD: A sign placed near the entrance of a business,
usually on the public or private sidewalk, advertising particular aspects of the
business goods or services.
SIGN, SHIMMERING: A sign which reflects an oscillating sometimes distorted
visual image.
SIGN, SUSPENDED: Any building sign that is suspended from the underside of
a horizontal plane surface and is connected to such surface.
SIGN, TEMPORARY: Any sign which is erected or displayed for a specified
period of time, including, but not limited to, banners, search lights, portable signs,
streamers, pennants, inflatable devices.
SIGN, TIME AND TEMPERATURE: A sign that displays only current time and temperature
information.
SIGN, VIDEO DISPLAY: A sign that changes its message or background in a manner or
method of display characterized by motion or pictorial imagery, which may or may not
include text and depicts action or a special effect to imitate movement, the presentation of
pictorials or graphics displayed in a progression of frames that gives the illusion of motion,
including, but not limited to, the illusion of moving objects, moving patterns or bands of light,
or expanding or contracting shapes, not including electronic changeable copy signs. Video
display signs include projected images or messages with these characteristics onto buildings or
other objects.
Sandwich Board Sign
Pylon Signs
CHAPTER 8: RULES & DEFINITIONS
Section 8.4 Definitions
Subsection (B) Lots
Page 458 City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance
SIGN, WALL: Any building sign attached parallel to, but within two (2) feet of a wall,
painted on the wall surface of, or erected and confined within the limits of an outside wall of
any building or structure, which is supported by such wall or building, and which displays
only one (1) sign surface.
SIGN, WINDOW: Any building sign, picture, symbol, or combination thereof,
designed to communicate information about an activity, business, commodity, event,
sale, or service, that is placed inside a window or upon the windowpanes or glass and
is visible from the exterior of the window.
SIGNIFICANT HISTORIC SITE: Any archaeological site, standing structure, or
other property that meets the criteria for eligibility to the National Register of Historic Places
or is listed in the State Register of Historic Sites, or is determined to be an unplatted cemetery
that falls under the provisions of Minnesota Statutes, section 307.08. A historic site meets
these criteria if it is presently listed on either register or if it is determined to meet the
qualifications for listing after review by the Minnesota state archaeologist or the director of
the Minnesota Historical Society. All unplatted cemeteries are automatically considered to be
significant historic sites.
SPECIAL EVENT: An event which plans for or can reasonably expect to attract more than
100 persons at any one time such as cultural events, musical events, celebrations, festivals,
fairs, carnivals, etc.
SPEECH, COMMERCIAL: Speech advertising a business, profession, commodity, service or
entertainment.
SPEECH, NON-COMMERCIAL: Dissemination of messages not classified as commercial
speech which include, but are not limited to, messages concerning political, religious, social,
ideological, public service and informational topics.
SITE LANDSCAPING: Required vegetative material consisting of trees and shrubs that are
placed on a development site to soften built edges and provide transitions. [See Section
4.1(H)]
SHOPPING CENTER: An integrated grouping of commercial stores under single ownership
or control. See also “RETAIL COMMERCIAL USES”
SLOPE: Means the degree of deviation of surface from the horizontal, usually expressed in
percent or degrees.
SOLAR ENERGY: Radiant energy (direct, diffuse, and reflected) received from the sun.
Window Signage
Planning Commission Agenda: 4/07/15
1
8. Consideration of Consideration of a report regarding Temporary Signs, Chapter 4,
Section 5 of the Monticello Zoning Ordinance (AS)
A. REFERENCE & BACKGROUND:
In January of 2015, the City of Monticello adopted an interim ordinance allowing for an
expansion in allowances for temporary signage. Interim ordinances allow a municipality
the opportunity to study an issue as related to official controls, such as zoning ordinances.
As part of the 2015 adoption of the interim ordinance, staff’s recommendation to the
Planning Commission and City Council was to provide direction over the course of the
year on amendments to the temporary sign ordinance to replace the interim ordinance for
2016.
For the Commission’s reference, staff has provided below a comparison of temporary
sign provisions under the interim ordinance and existing ordinance, as well as past
recommended amendments. During the meeting, staff will also provide an overview of
the current permanent sign allowances.
At this time, staff is seeking only to provide background information for the Commission
in order to provide a reference point for future discussions on ordinance development.
______________________________________________________________________
The Monticello Zoning Ordinance defines temporary signs as follows:
SIGN, TEMPORARY: Any sign which is erected or displayed for a specified period of
time, including, but not limited to, banners, search lights, portable signs, streamers,
pennants, inflatable devices.
Temporary signs are permitted accessory uses all districts, subject to regulations as
outlined within Chapter 4, Section 5 of the Monticello Zoning Ordinances.
In 2011, an interim ordinance regulating temporary signs was first adopted. The interim
ordinance was intended to allow the City an opportunity to analyze the temporary sign
usage issue over a period of time, including concerns raised by temporary sign permittees
regarding allowable number of days and location.
The provisions of the interim ordinance essentially superceded the existing ordinance
regulations in place. The intent of the interim ordinance was to determine whether
amendments to the “Signs” sub-section of the zoning ordinance were necessary to
address issues raised with the existing ordinance.
The primary issues for evaluation were number of allowable days of use, allowance for
signs per business versus building or parcel, and sign size.
The following table illustrates a comparison in flexibility between the existing zoning
ordinance and that as allowed under the interim ordinance (which is in place for 2015).
Planning Commission Agenda: 4/07/15
2
Code Requirement Existing Ordinance Interim Ordinance
Signs Allowed Per parcel Per business, sign must be
located on parcel on which
business in located
Number of Signs per
Location
1 1 sign every 75 linear feet of
ROW, 1 sign per business
Number of Days (Annual) 40 Unlimited
Square Footage of Sign 32 sq. ft. 40 sq. ft.
Permit Required Yes Yes
The interim ordinance also provided additional temporary sign allowances as follows.
Subject to other provisions of Section 4.5(I), one (1) additional flag device
shall be permitted for a restaurant business with outdoor seating for a period
of up to one hundred and fifty (150) days, to be located within or along their
outdoor seating area. Such signage shall not be limited by the provisions of
Sections 4.5(I)(1).
One (1) sign shall be allowed per street frontage on non-residential properties
when a property is seeking to hire or employ personnel, provided that:
o Sign may be up to forty (40) square feet in area.
o Sign must be on the property on which the business is located.
o Sign may not be located within a public right of way or easement.
In December of 2012, after a series of discussions with businesses and an evaluation of
analysis prepared by the Community Development Department, the Planning
Commission recommended to the City Council the amendment of the temporary sign
provisions within the existing zoning ordinance rather than extension of the interim
ordinance for 2013. However, the City Council elected to continue study of the issue,
again adopting an interim ordinance for 2013 and in subsequent years, through 2015.
The amendments recommended by the Planning Commission in 2012 are shown below
and are compared to both the existing ordinance and interim ordinance provisions.
Planning Commission Agenda: 4/07/15
3
Code Requirement Existing
Ordinance
Interim
Ordinance
Proposed
Ordinance
Signs Allowed Per parcel Per business, sign
must be located on
parcel on which
business in located
Per business, sign
must be located on
parcel on which
business in located
Number of Signs per
Location
1 1 sign every 75
linear feet of ROW,
1 sign per business
1 sign every 75
linear feet of ROW,
1 sign per business
Number of Days
(Annual)
40 Unlimited 150 Days
Size 32 sq. ft. 40 sq. ft. 40 sq. ft.
Permit Required Yes Yes Yes
B. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
None.
C. STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
At this time, staff is seeking only to provide background information for Commission
orientation and analysis. The Commission is asked to review the staff report and sign
ordinance for question and comment.
D. SUPPORTING DATA:
A. Interim Ordinance #609
B. Monticello Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 4, Section 5
C. Monticello Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 8.4, Definitions, Excerpt