2026-01-22-tc meeting.pdf
Other January 22, 2026 · 39 page(s)
This packet includes the Town Council agenda for January 22, 2026 and minutes from the January 8, 2026 meeting; at the January 8 meeting the Council approved a $125,605 contract with Martin’s Excavation & Hauling to complete demolition at 2647 Centreville Road (demolition to begin Jan 15 after a Jan 14 deadline for the owner to remove items) and a $1,495 temporary privacy fence from Sun Belt, with demolition costs to be paid from interest earned. The Council also approved Resolution 01-2026 (amending timing for employee merit increases) and Resolution 02-2026 (allowing excess annual leave to transfer to sick leave for retirement), received an unmodified FY25 audit from SB & Company and requested more detail on public safety expense variances, and moved forward with zoning text amendments on signs (Ordinance 15-2025/15-2026) with a public hearing scheduled for Jan 22; a Symphony Village request for an engineering/traffic study and discussion about opening Taylor Mill Road was noted.
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THE TOWN OF CENTREVILLE 101 LAWYERS ROW CENTREVILLE, MD 21617 410-758-1180 FAX 410-758-4741 WWW.TOWNOFCENTREVILLE.ORG AGENDA Town Council of Centreville Meeting January 22, 2026 7:00 PM Liberty Building 107 Liberty Street, 2nd Floor Meeting Room I. Convene – Council President II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Moment of Silence – For Military & Public Safety Personnel (Past & Present) IV. Agenda Review V. Review of Minutes from Past Meetings a. January 8, 2026 Meeting Minutes VI. Citizens Forum (Citizens are requested to keep their comments to three minutes.) 7:05 P.M. – PUBLIC HEARING: a. Ordinance 15-2025- -Zoning Text Amendment – Chapter 170 – Signs – Second Reading- Council President VII. Old Business a. Ordinance 15-2025- -Zoning Text Amendment – Chapter 170 – Signs – Consideration- Council President VIII. New Business a. Wastewater Treatment Plant- Cyber Security Update- Clifford Matthews- Director of Public Works IX. Reports of Boards and Commissions a. Maryland Municipal League b. Council of Governments c. Economic Development d. Park Advisory Board e. Planning Commission X. Reports of Department Heads a. Town Manager b. Chief of Police c. Town Attorney d. Finance Officer e. Director of Public Works f. Human Resources Manager g. Town Clerk XI. Citizens Forum (Citizens are requested to keep their comments to three minutes.) XII. Council Roundtable a. Kiel b. Beu c. McNeil d. Huffer e. Kaiser XIII. Motion to Adjourn – Council President Upcoming Events/Meetings: • January 22, 2026 - Town Council Meeting – 7:00 p.m. – 107 N. Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room • January 26, 2026 – Board of Appeals Hearing – 7:00 p.m. – 107 N. Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room • February 3, 2026 – Park Advisory Board- 6:00 p.m.- Town Hall • February 5, 2026- Town Council Meeting – 7:00 p.m. – 107 N. Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room • February 18, 2026 – Planning Commission Meeting – 7:00 p.m.- 107 N. Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room • February 19, 2026 – Town Council Retreat- 9:00 a.m.-The Wharf Building- first floor meeting room • February 19, 2026 – Town Council Meeting- 7:00 p.m. 107 N. Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room • February 26, 2026 – Board of Appeals Hearing- 7:00 p.m.- 107 N. Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room **Please note: One or more Centreville Town Council members may be attending these events/meetings. Town Council of Centreville January 8, 2026 7:00 p.m. M I N U T E S The January 8, 2026 Town Council meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by President Ashley H. Kaiser at the Liberty Building located at 107 North Liberty Street, 2nd floor meeting room. The following members and staff were present: Ashley H. Kaiser, President; Sandra L. Huffer and Fred M. McNeil, Members; Carolyn Brinkley, Town Manager; Sharon VanEmburgh, Town Attorney; Karen Luffman, Finance Officer; Gary Phillips, Operations Manager, Chief Robert Hobbs, Centreville Police Department; Krystel Ebaugh, Human Resources Manager; and Gaye Adams, Town Clerk. As there were no changes to the agenda, Ms. Kaiser asked if there were any changes or edits to the minutes from the December 04, 2025, meeting. There being no changes, Mr. McNeil made a motion to approve the meeting minutes as presented. Ms. Huffer seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. Citizens Forum No citizens provided comments. Appearances • Mr. McNeil handed out the trophies for the Holiday Parade winners, and Mr. Rich Ryan from the Parks Advisory Board handed out the trophies for the Christmas Tree Decorating contest winners. • Chris Lehman – SB & Company – FY 25 Audit- Virtual • In summary, SBC stated that the Town was issued an unmodified opinion on the financial statements, there was no fraud discovered or made aware of, no material weaknesses identified, and they received full cooperation from management. 2026-01-08-TC-Draft-Minutes 1 | Pag e • The Council requested additional information to better understand the variances in expenses, particularly public safety spending. Mr. Lehman will provide further information to Ms. Luffman, who will then present the details and explanations to the Council. Old Business a. Updated Demolition Quote for 2647 Centreville Rd.– Council President • Ms. Kaiser updated the Council on the current state of the Mill. Several attempts have been made to work with the property owner to fulfill his obligations. • Gary Phillips, Operations Manager, provided an updated quote. • Ms. Huffer asked how final communication with the property owner would be handled. Ms. Brinkley stated that the Town will continue communicating as it has previously—via certified mail, regular mail, and email. The property owner will be given a deadline to remove all personal property before demolition. After extended discussion, January 14 was set as the final date for item removal, with demolition scheduled to begin on January 15. • Mr. Phillips proposed installing a temporary privacy fence during demolition. The fence would be provided by Sun Belt for one month for $1,495, which includes installation and removal. • Mr. McNeil made a motion to approve the updated quote from Martin’s Excavation & Hauling for $125,605 to complete the remaining demolition at 2647 Centreville Road. Ms. Huffer seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously. • Ms. Huffer made a motion to approve the temporary privacy fence for $1,495. The motion was seconded by Mr. McNeil and passed unanimously. • Ms. Luffman stated that the demolition costs will be paid using interest earned on the Town's accounts. New Business a. FY 2027 Budget Timeline- Karen Luffman, Finance Officer • Ms. Luffman shared the budget timeline with the Council: 2026-01-08-TC-Draft-Minutes 2 | Pag e b. Resolution 01-2026 – Amend Employee Performance Evaluation-Council President • Resolution 02-2026 was presented for the purpose of amending the employee performance evaluation policy. • Ms. Ebaugh explained that the change defines the policy governing the timing of employee merit increases in writing, • Ms. Huffer motioned to approve Resolution 01-2026, Mr. McNeil seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. c. Resolution 02-2026- Amend the Annual Leave Policy- Council President • Resolution 02-2026 was presented for the purpose of amending the annual leave policy. • Ms. Ebaugh explained the requested change to the annual leave policy. The current policy requires that leave balances exceeding 400 hours at year-end be forfeited. This request is to approve transferring those excess hours to an employee’s sick leave balance instead, allowing them to be applied toward retirement. • Mr. McNeil made a motion to approve the transfer of leave balances to the sick leave balances. Ms. Huffer seconded the motion, which passed unanimously. d. Ordinance 15-2026- Zoning Text Amendment- Chapter 170- Signs- First Reading- Council President • Ordinance 15-2026 was presented for the purpose of amending the Town of Centreville Zoning Ordinance, which is Chapter 170 of the Code of the Town of Centreville, to update the definitions, design standards, sign charts, and code provisions regarding signs. • Ms. Kaiser stated the Council has received a letter from the Planning Commission unanimously forwarding a favorable recommendation for Ordinance 15-2026. • Ms. VanEmburgh stated that the original ordinance was presented back in April, but after several amendments from the Planning Commission, the ordinance changed significantly, thus requiring a new number. • A public hearing is scheduled for January 22, 2026. 2026-01-08-TC-Draft-Minutes 3 | Pag e e. Symphony Village – Request for Support- Engineering and Traffic Study – Council President • Ms. Kaiser explained that this study was requested by a resident of Symphony Village. • Ms. Kaiser stated that a more comprehensive solution needs to be discussed with Queen Anne's County about opening Taylor Mill Road. • Mr. McNeil provided background that Delegate Steve Arentz suggested a petition. The community simply wants to gather information. • Mr. McNeil motioned to have that engineering and traffic study done. • Ms. Huffer indicated that a letter of recommendation to County Roads regarding Taylor Mill Road is not warranted at this stage and agreed that a discussion with County leadership is prudent. • Ms. Kaiser requested that Ms. Brinkley schedule a meeting with the County to present Symphony Village’s concerns. f. Maryland Municipal League • Nothing at this time. g. Council of Governments • Next meeting is February 11, 2026 h. Economic Development • Ms. Kaiser provided the following update: • Attended the County's Economic Outlook this morning. Ms. Kaiser participated in a panel on region- specific economic developments, challenges, and opportunities. • Continued work on filling in the Centreville Economic Development Association Board. i. Park Advisory Board • Mr. McNeil reported the following: • Looking forward to the tree pruning event on Tuesday, January 13th, with Bartlett Tree Services. • There are beautiful benches throughout the town. Mr. McNeil encouraged walking around the town and sitting to take in the views. j. Centreville Planning Commission • Ms. Huffer provided the following update: • Last meeting wrapped up the signage revisions in Ordinance 15-2025 • The Work session was great as it scheduled projects for the year. • Interested in a parking survey for the Town and Ms. Huffer supports putting this into the budget. Reports of Department Heads a. Town Manager • Ms. Brinkley reported the following: • Held three meetings: one with Senator Guy Guzzone, Chair of the Maryland Budget and Taxation Committee, to discuss the wastewater treatment plant and potential funding; and two additional meetings with Ms. Kaiser, Jake Weissmann, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Budget and Management, and Dylan Goldberg, Director of the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs, to discuss town-related issues and wastewater treatment plant funding. • On January 8, Ms. Brinkley attended the County’s 2026 Economic Forum. • Ms. Brinkley is scheduled to speak to the Veterans group at the American Legion on January 12th. • Attended the Planning Commission work session on January 7th. b. Chief of Police • Chief Hobbs reported the following: October October 2025 November 2025 Criminal Arrests (Adult) 7 5 Criminal Arrests(Juvenile) 0 0 2026-01-08-TC-Draft-Minutes 4 | Pag e Traffic Citations 22 27 MV Warnings 168 153 Safety Repairs 39 14 Parking Citations 1 1 Incidents 652 735 Enforcement November 2025 December 2025 Criminal Arrests (Adult) 5 7 Criminal Arrests(Juvenile) 0 0 Traffic Citations 27 18 MV Warnings 153 127 Safety Repairs 14 11 Parking Citations 1 1 Incidents 735 728 • The Chief also discussed the many special assignments for November and December, including the Thanksgiving Turkey Trot at the YMCA, Holiday Parade, Tree Lighting, Providence Farm Holiday Light judging, and the Symphony Village Holiday Light judging. • Ms. Kaiser thanked the police for having a presence at the Menorah lighting; it was comforting to have them there. c. Town Clerk • Nothing at this time Citizen Comments: • No citizens provided comments. Council Roundtable • Mr. McNeil thanked Ms. Brinkley for her incredible response to all his emails and texts. He appreciated her quick response. • Mr. McNeil thanked Clifford Matthews and the Department of Public Works for fixing a broken water pipe in bad weather. • Ms. Huffer mentioned the Spark exhibit at the Kennard African American Cultural Center ends Sunday, January 11, 2026. She encouraged anyone that had not attended to please take a moment to visit the exhibition. • Ms. Kaiser has worked through the retreat agenda for February. Once the Council approves it, Ms. Kaiser will email it to everyone. There being no further business, Ms. Huffer made a motion to adjourn. The Town Council meeting adjourned at 8:13 p.m. Respectfully submitted, R. Gaye Adams Town Clerk Council Action Items: 1. Approved December 4, 2025, Meeting Minutes 2. Approved Resolution 01-2025- Amend Employee Performance Evaluation 3. Approved Resolution 02-2025- Amend the Annual Leave Policy 4. Approved updated demolition Quote for 2647 Centreville Rd. 2026-01-08-TC-Draft-Minutes 5 | Pag e PUBLIC HEARING CENTREVILLE TOWN COUNCIL Ordinance 15-2025 – Ethics Ordinance January 22, 2026 7:05 P.M. TOWN COUNCIL PRESIDENT AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF CENTREVILLE AMENDING THE TOWN OF CENTREVILLE ZONING ORDINANCE, WHICH IS CHAPTER 170 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF CENTREVILLE, TO UPDATE THE DEFINITIONS, DESIGN STANDARDS, SIGN CHARTS, AND CODE PROVISIONS REGARDING SIGNS I WILL NOW CALL ON THE TOWN ATTORNEY TO PROVIDE BACKGROUND ON THIS ORDINANCE. (Ms. VanEmburgh to give background) TOWN COUNCIL PRESIDENT: I WILL NOW CALL GAYE ADAMS, TOWN CLERK, TO PRESENT EVIDENCE OF THE PUBLISHED NOTICE OF THIS HEARING. (Read the notice) ********************************************* TOWN COUNCIL VICE PRESIDENT: WE WILL FIRST HEAR FROM ALL THOSE IN FAVOR OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE 15-2025, AND THEN HEAR FROM THOSE OPPOSED. PLEASE KEEP ALL COMMENTS TO THREE MINUTES. YOU ARE WELCOME TO PROVIDE WRITTEN TESTIMONY TO THE TOWN COUNCIL AS WELL. (Clerk reads the public comment guidelines.) WE WILL NOW HEAR FROM ALL THOSE IN FAVOR OF PROPOSED ORDINANCE 15-2025. WE WILL NOW HEAR FROM ALL THOSE OPPOSING PROPOSED ORDINANCE 15-2025. THE CENTREVILLE TOWN COUNCIL WILL CONSIDER ALL COMMENTS PRESENTED THIS EVENING BEFORE MAKING A FINAL DECISION REGARDING PROPOSED ORDINANCE 15-2025. DO I HEAR A MOTION TO ADJOURN THIS HEARING? SECOND? ALL IN FAVOR. I NOW DECLARE THIS HEARING ADJOURNED. TOWN COUNCIL OF CENTREVILLE ORDINANCE NO 15-2025 AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF CENTREVILLE AMENDING THE TOWN OF CENTREVILLE ZONING ORDINANCE, WHICH IS CHAPTER 170 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF CENTREVILLE, TO UPDATE THE DEFINITIONS, DESIGN STANDARDS, SIGN CHARTS, AND CODE PROVISIONS REGARDING SIGNS WHEREAS, the Town Council of Centreville has the authority under Section 5-213 of the Local Government Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, to adopt regulations; WHEREAS, Section 4-102(6) of the Land Use Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland authorizes the Town Council of Centreville to regulate the location and use of buildings, signs and structures on the land; WHEREAS, the Town desires to amend Chapter 170 of the Code of the Town of Centreville to amend the definitions, design standards, sign charts, and code provisions regarding signs; WHEREAS, the Town Council received a _____________ recommendation on the zoning amendment from the Centreville Planning and Zoning Commission; and WHERAS, the Town Council held a public hearing on the zoning amendment on ___________. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Town Council of Centreville: Section 1. The recitals set forth above are incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this Ordinance. Section 2. Section 170-38 Signs of the Centreville Town Code is hereby amended as shown on the Exhibit A attached hereto. (Language to be deleted from the existing Ordinance is indicated in bold strikethrough format and language to added is indicated by bold italics text) Section 3. Section 170-70 Definitions of the Centreville Town Code is hereby amended as shown on the Exhibit B attached hereto. (Language to be deleted from the existing Ordinance is indicated in bold strikethrough format and language to added is indicated by bold italics text) Section 4. Chapter 170 Attachment 9 Table 3 – General Commercial C-2, Planned Business District (PBD), and Light Industrial (I) Sign Types and Dimensional Regulations by Zoning District is hereby amended as shown on the Exhibit C attached hereto. (Language to be deleted from the existing Ordinance is indicated in bold strikethrough format and language to added is indicated by bold italics text and/or highlighted) P ag e | 1 Section 5. Chapter 5 Signage of the Centreville Design Standards is hereby amended as shown on the Exhibit attached hereto. (Language to be deleted from the existing Ordinance is indicated in bold strikethrough format and language to added is indicated by bold italics text and/or highlighted) Section 6. If any section, clause, paragraph, sentence or phrase of the Ordinance or the application thereof to any person, or circumstances is held invalid or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, the invalidity or unconstitutionality shall in no way effect other provisions or any other application of this Ordinance which can be given effect without the invalid or unconstitutional provision or application, and for this purpose the provisions of this Ordinance are declared severable. Section 7. This Ordinance shall become effective twenty days after its enactment. ATTEST: THE TOWN COUNCIL OF CENTREVILLE ____________________________________ R. Gaye Adams Ashley Heffernan Kaiser, Esq., President Town Clerk _____________________________________ First Reading: Jeffrey D. Kiel, Vice President Second Reading: Enacted: Effective: _____________________________________ Sandra L. Huffer, Member _____________________________________ Frederick E. Beu, Member ______________________________________ Fred M. McNeil, Member P ag e | 2 EXHIBIT A SIGN AMENDMENTS 170-38 Signs A. Purpose. Signs obstruct views, distract motorists, displace alternative uses of land, and pose other problems that legitimately call for regulation. The purpose of this section is to prescribe the standards for location, design, illumination, height and size of all types of signs within the Town of Centreville in order to protect the unique and small town character of the Town. This section also intends to promote the following: 1. To encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication for the convenience of the public by preventing their overconcentration, improper placement and excessive size; 2. To maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment while promoting creativity and the Town's ability to attract sources of economic growth and development; 3. To minimize the potential adverse effects of signs on nearby public and private property; 4. To enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations without regulating the content of any sign. To accomplish this objective, this subsection must be interpreted in a manner consistent with the First Amendment guarantee of free speech. B. General regulations. 1. Signs requiring permits. Other than temporary signs provided for in Subsection D herein and exempt signs as provided herein, no sign shall be erected, enlarged, or altered without a permit from the Zoning Administrator. Applications for permits shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator. Each application shall be accompanied by drawings and written material showing the area and general appearance of the sign, the method of illumination, the exact location of the proposed sign, and the method of construction and/or attachment of such sign to the building or structure. Signs that do not extend over seven feet above existing grade and are completely screened from view, inclusive of light, from public roadways and other parcels by on-site buildings, structures, evergreen landscaping, and/or grade differences are exempt from the sign provisions of this chapter including the requirement to obtain a permit. [Amended 6-6- 2019 by Ord. No. 07-2019] 2. Nonconforming signs may not be enlarged, substantially altered, moved, or replaced except to bring the sign into conformity with these regulations. Nonconforming signs may be repaired and maintained to the original sign specifications. Notwithstanding the language herein, nonconforming electronic message centers that are grandfathered may be replaced if the existing sign is ever damaged or destroyed. 3. Signs shall be maintained in good condition. The Zoning Administrator may order the removal of any sign, sign structure or awning that is not maintained in accordance with this Code. P ag e | 3 4. Traffic control devices on private or public property must be erected and maintained to comply with the Maryland Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. 5. No sign, except for a traffic, regulatory, or information sign, shall use the words "stop," "caution," or "danger," or shall incorporate red, amber, or green lights resembling traffic signals, or shall resemble "stop" or "yield" signs in shape and color. 6. No sign shall be erected which is affixed to a fence, utility pole, or tree, shrub, rock, or other natural object. 7. Signs shall not cover architectural details such as, but not limited to, arches, sills, moldings, cornices, and transom windows. 8. No sign shall be permitted which becomes unsafe or endangers the safety of a building, premises or person. The Zoning Administrator is authorized to order such signs to be made safe or be removed and such order shall be complied with within seven days of the receipt of such order. 9. No sign, sign structure or part thereof shall be located so as to obstruct or conflict with traffic sight lines, or traffic control signs or signals. No lighting of signs shall be permitted which is of flashing, intermittent, rotating, or other animated type, or which would tend to blind or distract motorists, or which would shine directly onto any dwelling. 10. Noncommercial content may replace the message on any permitted or exempt sign. 11. Official notices or advertisements posted or displayed by or under the direction of any public court officer in the performance of official or directed duties shall not be subject to the provisions of this section, provided that all such signs shall be removed by the property owner no more than 10 days after their purpose has been accomplished or as otherwise required by law. 12. Where a federal, state, or local law requires a property owner to post a sign on the owner's property to warn of a danger or to prohibit access to the property either generally or specifically, the owner must comply with the federal, state, or local law to exercise that authority by posting a sign on the property. If the federal, state, or local regulation describes the form and dimensions of the sign, the property owner must comply with those requirements; otherwise, when not defined, the sign shall be no larger than two square feet and located in a place on the property to provide access to the notice that is required to be made. 13. All illuminated signs located on a lot adjacent (includes across a street) to any residentially zoned or residentially used parcel shall be turned off between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. 14. The Town may designate areas for the placement of civic signs on public property. C. Permitted sign types, sizes, and standards by zoning district. The Official Tables of Sign Types and Dimensional Regulations are included at the end of this section in Tables 1 through 4.1 P ag e | 4 There is no table for the Traditional Neighborhood Development District (TND). The sign provisions for the TND District are included in § 170-29.1. D. Temporary signs. The following regulations shall apply to temporary signs. 1. Except as otherwise provided herein, temporary signs shall not exceed four square feet in area and 4.5 feet in height. 2. A property owner may place one temporary sign on the property without restriction on time. 3. In addition to the one sign allowed without restriction on time, one temporary sign may be located on the property when the property is being offered for sale or lease for a period ending 15 days following the date on which a contract of sale or lease has been executed by a person purchasing or leasing the property. If the sign face is attached to a post, the top of post shall be no more than six feet above grade. 4. In any calendar year, for up to 60 days in a residential district and 30 days in a nonresidential district, a property owner may display temporary signs in excess of the two signs expressly allowed by this section. 5. No temporary sign shall be attached or secured to a building, fence, porch, railing, tree, or any other object or structure. 6. No temporary sign shall be located within 10 feet of a public road right-of-way, nor shall any such sign be located in a required side yard setback or within two feet of a side property line in the CBD. 7. Temporary signs provided in Subsection D(2), (3), and (4) herein shall be exempt from the requirement to obtain a permit. 8. One temporary sign that exceeds the qualitative standards set in Subsection D(1) above may be allowed only by permit under the following conditions: a. It complies with all other sign standards and requirements of this chapter for the district where it is located and the land use as regulated. b. A temporary sign permit will allow the property owner to display a sign only at the specific location on the site and/or building noted on the permit. c. The temporary permit will entitle the owner to interchange one temporary sign with any other temporary sign with the same dimensions. d. Under the permit, the display of the temporary sign shall be limited to 90 days during the 365-day period the permit is valid. e. Failure to obtain a permit for any temporary sign not otherwise expressly allowed without permit by this Subsection D(8) or to comply with the conditions of this Subsection D(8) subjects the sign and/or property owner to the enforcement provisions of this chapter. P ag e | 5 f. A temporary sign permit as provided in this Subsection D(8) shall automatically expire one year after its issuance or after the 90th day of the display of the sign, whichever shall occur first. 9. One temporary sign associated with the opening of a development or subdivision may be allowed by permit, provided the following requirements are met: a. It is no greater than 32 square feet in size for development tracts less than 1/2 acre or 50 square feet for tracts larger than 1/2 acre. b. It is not greater than eight feet in height. c. It is removed within 90 days of its installation, except that for developments involving the dedication of public streets, the sign may remain in place until the dedication of associated public streets and/or utilities or for a complete and uninterrupted one-year period, whichever occurs first. d. Signs permitted pursuant to this Subsection D(9) shall also comply and be subject to Subsection D(8)(b) and (e). E. Supplemental standards for sign types. The following supplemental standards apply to specific sign types: 1. Awning signs. All drop awnings attached to buildings shall not, when let down to the full extent, be less than seven feet above the sidewalks of the Town at all points. The lowest portion of all display signs fastened to, suspended from, or supported by a building or structure so as to project therefrom at an angle shall be not less than seven feet vertically above the surface of the sidewalks of the Town at all points. 2. Directional signs. Directional signs are permitted in all zoning districts. Directional signs shall not exceed two square feet in area, shall not exceed three feet in height, and shall not contain any advertising material. 3. Electronic Message Centers. New electronic message centers (EMCs) are permitted for governmental and institutional uses as a freestanding sign in non-residential zones along State roads, excluding the Central Business District (CBD), where the same or more intense zoning (excluding the Central Business District), where the same or more intense zoning (excluding the Central Business District) exists across the State road as more particularly shown on Table 4 (Attachment 10 to the Zoning Ordinance). ). EMCs are also permitted for public schools as a freestanding monument sign in residential zones along State roads, where non-residential zoning exists across the State road as more particularly shown on Table 4(Attachment 10 to the Zoning Ordinance). The four existing EMCs are grandfathered and considered nonconforming signs for the purpose of § 170-38. The following provisions shall apply to new and existing EMCs including nonconforming EMCs: a. Duration of message change interval. Each message on an EMC can be changed no more frequently than once every five minutes, and the actual change process is accomplished in two seconds or less with no face in or fade out. P ag e | 6 b. Transitions/flashing/animation. The EMC shall display only static messages that remain constant in illumination intensity and do not have movement or the appearance or optical illusion of movement (no revolving, flashing, moving, scrolling, or rotating). Also, the EMC shall consist only of alphabetic or numeric characters on a plain black background and may not include graphic, pictorial, or photographic images. c. Dimming. The EMC shall be equipped with a fully operational light sensor that automatically adjusts the intensity of the billboard according to the amount of ambient light. d. Brightness levels. EMCs shall not exceed a maximum illumination of 0.3 footcandle above the ambient light as seen at a distance of 150 feet for the time period between sunset and sunrise. The applicant shall provide written certification from the sign manufacturer that the light intensity has been preset not to exceed the levels specified above, and the intensity level is protected from end-use adjustment. e. Colors. EMCs shall be a single color on any given message or display (i.e., they shall be mono color signs) and shall always use only one color. f. Time restrictions. EMCs located on a lot adjacent (includes across a street) to any residentially zoned or residentially used parcel shall be turned off between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. g. Audio speakers. Audio speakers are prohibited. h. Malfunctions. EMCs shall be designed to either freeze the display in one static position, display a full blank screen, or turn off in the event of a malfunction. i. Annual Permit Requirement. (1) All existing and future EMCs permitted under this section shall require a permit from the Zoning Administrator which shall be reviewed and renewed annually. (2) Annual renewal applications shall be submitted no later than thirty (30) days prior to the permit’s expiration. (3) As part of the annual permit review, the Zoning Administrator shall confirm compliance with: (a) All operational and display standards of this section; (b) Applicable safety, brightness, and timing requirements; and (c) Any conditions imposed at the time of permit issuance. (4) Failure to demonstrate continued compliance may result in suspension, non-renewal, or revocation of the EMC permit, or fines. (5) Renewal fees, if applicable, shall be established by the Town Council by resolution. 4. Freestanding Signs. Freestanding signs may be dual-sided. For the purposes of sign area calculation, only one side of a dual sided freestanding sign will be considered. Freestanding sign height shall be measured from the average contact grade to the P ag e | 7 highest point of the sign or supporting structure. Sign area calculation does not include any portion of the sign containing architectural features or addresses. F. Prohibited signs. The following signs are prohibited: 1. Pennants, streamers, and spinning or similar type signs, except feather signs. 2. Any sign that flashes or rotates. 3. Any sign fastened to, and supported by, or on the roof of a building, and no projecting sign shall extend over or above the roof (including mansard roofs) of a parapet wall of a building. 4. Off-premises signs. Any sign advertising or identifying a business or organization which is not located on that premises, other than temporary signs. Existing off- premises signs for which a valid permit has been issued will be permitted to remain for a period of one year from the date of the adoption of this ordinance. 5. Signs in the public right-of-way, except easel/placard signs placed on the sidewalk in front of a business, provided that the sign doesn't impede pedestrian traffic. 6. Signs that are obscene, illegal, hazardous to traffic, imitative of official government signs (i.e., Stop, Danger, Caution, etc.) or obstructive to public visibility so as to create a hazard to the public. 7. New electronic message centers (EMCs) and digital electronic signs of any kind, are prohibited, except for governmental and institutional signs in non-residential zoning districts (excluding the Central Business District) and for public school signs in residential zoning districts and subject to the supplemental standards contained in § 170-38.E(3) and Table 4 (Attachment 10 to the Zoning Ordinance). G. Shopping Center Signage. The following shall apply to Shopping Center Signage. 1. Subject to the following, the Planning Commission may approve a Comprehensive Signage Plan as part of a new development, or redevelopment of a shopping center in the C-3 and PBD Districts. (Additional Standards are found in Attachment 9, Table 3 of Chapter 170). In its review, the Commission shall consider the request in the context of the site, the compatibility and consistency of the signs with themselves and with respect to the unit(s) or building they are identifying, safety/visibility concerns, lighting and other neighborhood compatibility issues. Signage shall be reasonably consistent throughout the shopping center for architectural features, materials, and lighting, and appropriate for the architectural design of the building(s. Directory signage shall be included as part of the above considerations. Signs included with the Comprehensive Signage Plan shall be exempt from the maximum total signage per property, but must comply with the maximum signage area for each sign type per business. 2. A Comprehensive Signage Plan shall include a detailed overall design and treatment of signs throughout the shopping center. At a minimum the Plan shall include: a.Sign Dimensions. b.Materials. c .Lighting and illumination used for the sign. d. Color Scheme. e. Lettering or Graphic Style P ag e | 8 f. Location of each sign g. Exceptions to the size limits allowed as approved by the Planning Commission of standardized corporate identity signage for anchor stores. 3.Freestanding Shopping Center Signage. a. The location of Freestanding Shopping Center sign as part of an approved Comprehensive Signage Plan may be permitted on a separate parcel if the parcels share a common entrance, provided the separate parcel is included in the Comprehensive Signage Plan. b. Freestanding Shopping Center Signage is limited to one (1) sign per approved shopping center development or re-development. Placement of the sign in close proximity of the entrance is encouraged. c. Freestanding shopping center signs shall have a minimum setback from the property line of 10 feet. 4. The Planning Commission may allow for increases in the individual sign size limits contained in Attachment 9, Table 3 of Chapter 170 for standardized corporate identity signage of anchor stores where appropriate. 5. Amendments. The periodic replacement of individual signs as tenants change shall not require modification of the Comprehensive Signage Plan, unless the Zoning Administrator determines the proposed signage substantively deviates from the approved Plan. Should this occur, the review and approval of the proposed change to the Comprehensive Shopping Center Sign Plan by the Planning Commission shall conform with all the requirements of this Ordinance. P ag e | 9 EXHIBIT B DEFINITIONS The following definitions shall be added or amended. All other definitions shall remain unchanged. 170-70 Definitions: For the purposes of this chapter, certain terms or words herein shall be interpreted as follows: ………… ANCHOR STORE. A large, prominent retail store in a shopping center that serves as the main customer draw. COMPREHENSIVE SIGNAGE PLAN. A series of scaled drawings diagrams that indicate the location, size, and types of signage, including signage materials, color scheme, illumination and graphics that will be used within a Shopping Center. SHOPPING CENTER. A complex of three (3) or more commercial establishments, located proximately with at least 20,000sf of building surface area, consisting of a minimum of two (2) or more freestanding buildings utilizing shared entrance(s) and parking. SIGN. A structure or device designed or intended to convey information to the public in written or pictorial form. For the purposes of this definition, the term "sign" shall not include scoreboards. More specific sign definitions are given below. [Amended 3-7-2019 by Ord. No. 01-2018;4 6-6-2019 by Ord. No. 07-2019] A. AWNING SIGN. A sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy or other protective cover over a door, window or entrance. B. BANNER. A sign of a temporary nature, possessing characters, letters, illustrations or ornamentation applied to a paper, plastic, or fabric of any kind intended to be hung with or without frames. National flags, flags of political subdivisions, and other such flags shall not be considered banners. C. BULLETIN BOARD. A changeable copy sign, which identifies and announces schedules or other activities. D. DIRECTIONAL SIGN. A sign, located on premises, directing traffic movement onto or within the premises and containing no advertising material, including signs marking entrances and exits, parking area, loading zones, or circulation direction. E. DIRECTORY SIGN. A sign which displays the names and locations of occupants or the use of a building. F. ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER (EMC). An electrically activated changeable sign whose variable message and/or graphic presentation capability can be electronically programmed from a remote location or automatic means. Also known as an "EMC." EMCs typically use light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a lighting source. G. EXTERNAL ILLUMINATED SIGN. A sign that is illuminated by an external light source. H. FLUTTERING OR FEATHER SIGN. A vertical portable sign made of lightweight material that is prone to move in the wind and that contains a harpoon-style pole or staff driven into the ground for support or supported by means of an individual stand. It includes such signs of P ag e | 10 any shape, including flutter, bow, teardrop, rectangular, shark, feather, and U-shaped. (See figure below.) I. FREESTANDING SIGN. A self-supporting sign resting on or supported by two or more elements in a fixed location or any other type of base on the ground. Freestanding signs include, but are not limited to, ground signs and monument signs. A single supporting element sign is permitted if the support is at least 50% of the width of the sign. J. ILLUMINATED SIGN. A sign with an artificial light source incorporated internally or externally for the purpose of illuminating the sign. K. INTERNAL ILLUMINATED SIGN. A sign that is illuminated by a light source contained within the sign structure or housing. L. PLACARD/EASEL SIGN. A freestanding sign usually hinged at the top, or attached in a manner, and widening at the bottom to form a shape similar to the letter "A." Such signs are usually designed to be portable. M. PROJECTING SIGN. A sign, perpendicular to the facade other than a wall sign, which projects from a structure or building face. N. SHOPPING CENTER SIGN. A Freestanding sign that displays the various tenants of a Shopping Center as a whole, usually located near the entrance to the property or properties associated being unified by the shared entrance. O. SIGN AREA. The surface area of a sign shall be calculated as including the entire area within a regular geometric form or combinations of regular geometric forms comprising all of the display area of the sign and including all of the elements of the matter displayed. Frames and structural members not bearing advertising material shall not be included in the calculation of surface area. P ag e | 11 P. TEMPORARY SIGN. A banner, poster or advertising display of a transitory or temporary nature intended to display commercial or noncommercial messages. Q. WALL/FLAT SIGN. A sign painted on or affixed to and mounted parallel to a building facade or wall in such a manner that the facade or wall becomes the supporting structure for the sign and which has only one sign surface. R. WINDOW SIGN. A sign installed on the inside or outside of a window, which is visible from the sidewalk or street. P ag e | 12 EXHIBIT C CHAPTER 170 ATTACHMENT 9 TABLE 3 SEE ATTACHED P ag e | 13 TABLE 3 -- GENERAL COMMERCIAL C-2, INTENSE COMMERCIAL C-3, PLANNED BUSINESS DISTRICT (PBD), AND LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (I) EXHIBIT C SIGN TYPES AND DIMENSIONAL REGULATIONS BY ZONING DISTRICT Zoning District SignTypes Number of Signage Area Maximum Maximum Illumination Other Provisions Refer Permitted Signs Allowed Determination Signage Area for Height Permitted to Table Notes each sign type limited by max signage area (only max 25% area of internal or Not less than 7 feet Awning signage part of awning vertically Must be external awning) mounted minimum 8ft clearance from grade. limited by max max 24 sq ft internal or See Table 4 for EMCs for 1 per lot with front signage area 6 ft external governmental and yard, 2 per corner lot Free Standing institutional uses (1 ea. Frontage) Approved as C-3 & PBD Zoning Free Standing 1 per development part of a internal or Districts Only Shopping max 130 sq ft 15 ft Comprehensive external Center Sign Shopping General Commercial Center Signage (C- 2), Plan Intense Commercial ( P C la - n 3 n ) e , d Business mi m n. a h x e h ig e h ig t h 7 t ft c i a n a d . n v f ' e r t o r N t m is o e t f r b t o o u n s e t i b x n u t e e i s l n d s d in c m o g n o & d r u e c c a t t h n e a d o n i n n 3 l y 0 Not to exceed building attached (DG can't not District (PBD), limited by max building height or to exceed 6 in. thick,. Corner lots Light Industrial (I) Projecting signage area 10 sq ft 15 ft above internal or may have one sign facing each grade, whichever external street). Must be mounted minimum 8 ft. clearance from is lower. grade. max 32 sq ft per limited by max internal or Wall/Flat sign Can't Not to project more signage area external total less than than 18 in. 100 sq ft cumulatively Includes any sign cannot exceed viewable through Window 25% on first floor internal or window even if space and 10% above external between window and first floor sign. Placard 1 per business of Must not impede foot 6 sq ft 5 ft traffic and must be or easel building frontage type footage removed daily TABLE 3 -- GENERAL COMMERCIAL C-2, INTENSE COMMERCIAL C-3, PLANNED BUSINESS DISTRICT (PBD), AND LIGHT INDUSTRIAL (I) SIGN TYPES AND DIMENSIONAL REGULATIONS BY ZONING DISTRICT 1 exterior directory per building internal or entrance Directory: 2 sq ft per tenant 10 sq ft 5 ft external 5 sf per sign Can be wall mounted or freestanding Other Not included in internal or Not to contain Directional signage area external commercial messaging calculations 1 fluttering or feather Must be removed daily sign per business Maximum total signage per property shall be 1 sq ft/linear ft of buildingstreet frontage Window signs, directory signs and placard/easel signs shall not count towards maximum sign limit lBimulilteltimini tb.o ards can be included in free standing, projecting, or wall/flat For shopping centers, Maximum total signage per shopping center will be determined as part of a Comprehensive Shopping Center Signage Plan in C-3 and PBD Zoning EXHIBIT D DESIGN STANDARDS CHAPTER 5 SEE ATTACHED P ag e | 14 5. SIGNAGE ________ _ A. SIGNAGE Intent-The purpose and intent of this Section is to assure that signage is aesthetically pleasing while allowing the property owner to display the business as well as the preserving the small Town character of Centreville. The Town Zoning Code will state the requirements regarding permitted signs, off-premise signage and allowable dimensions. 1. Definitions Awning Sign - Sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy, or other protective cover over a door, window or entrance. Banner - A sign intended to be hung with or without frames, possessing characters, letters, illustrations or ornamentations applied to paper, plastic, or fabric of any kind. National flags, flags of political subdivision, and other such flags shall not be considered banners. Bulletin Board- A changeable copy sign, which identifies and announces schedules for churches, schools, or other noncommercial uses or activities. Directional Sign - A sign, located on premise, directing traffic movement onto or within the premise, including signs marking entrances and exits, parking areas, loading zones, or circulation direction. 2 Free-Standing Sign- A self-supporting sign resting on or supported by two or more supporting elements or any other type of base on the ground (ground and monument). A single supporting element sign is permitted if the support is at least 50% of the width of the sign. . Ground Sign - A sign suspended or supported by one or more uprights or braces anchored in the ground with no more than 30 inches clearance from the bottom of the Formatted: Strikethrough sign to the ground below. Single support elements must be at least 50% of the width of the sign. 3 Hanging Sign- A sign parallel to the façade which hangs from the underside of the roof of a porch or covered walkway. For the purposes of sign calculations, hanging signs are considered wall/flat signs. Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic, Underline Incidental Sign- A sign whose main purpose is to direct or inform the reader, but not to identify or advertise the primary business, organization, institution, product or service located on the premise. Examples include Placard/Easel signs indicating hours of business, entrance, exit, vacancy, office, menus, carry-out window, open house, garage sale, and yard sale. Incidental signs are removed daily. Monument Sign - A free-standing sign which rests directly on the ground and not on a pole. 4 Projecting Sign - A sign, perpendicular to the façade other than a wall sign, which projects from a structure or building face. An example includes an awning sign. Formatted: Strikethrough Roof Sign - A sign located or erected on or attached to a roof and which extends above the ridge or peak of the roof. Also included is any sign which receives partial or total support from a roof by means of girders, wires, etc., attached to, located or erected on a roof. Roof Signs are prohibited. Wall/Flat Sign - A sign painted on or affixed to and mounted parallel to a building facade or wall in such a manner that the facade or wall becomes the supporting structure for the sign. 5 Window Sign - A sign installed on the inside or outside of a window, which is visible from the sidewalk or street. 6 2. General Provisions Intent-To assure that signage is consistent with the architectural features of the buildings on which it is placed allowing the merchant and property owners with a way to effectively communicate without creating sign clutter. Required Standards • All permitted signs shall be subject to the following regulations: o Signs shall not cover significant architectural detail. o Signs shall be treated as an architectural element of a building or project and shall be designed to be compatible and complimentary. o Signs shall not project above the roof, parapet, or exterior wall. • Elements of the sign shall create an overall cohesive design, reflect simplicity, avoid visual clutter and ensure legibility. Each sign shall: o Be consolidated into a minimum number of elements, whether words, symbols, or graphics, o Have appropriate contrast, o Be designed with a limited number of, and harmonious use of, colors, o Be constructed with a minimum number of materials. • The message shall be easy to read from the intended vantage point - public street, public sidewalk, or public parking lot - but not be out of scale with the building, site or streetscape. Encouraged Guidelines • Signs should be of a coordinated color scheme and materials which reflect the architectural style of the buildings, commercial complex or product service. 7 • Signage should be on a pedestrian scale and visible by pedestrian at grade/sidewalk level. • Projecting signs, supported by ornamental brackets and oriented to pedestrians and passing vehicles are strongly encouraged. 3. Calculating Sign Area Intent-To assure that the individual signs placed directly on buildings be designed to be compatible with and complement the appearance of the building and that the size and shape of the sign shall be in proportion to the space the sign is to occupy. The calculation of sign area shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 170 of the Centreville Code. 4. General Sign Construction and Materials Intent-To ensure the signs is of quality construction and material as well as incorporates good overall design. Required Standards • All signs shall be framed, constructed, and erected so as to compliment the overall appearance of the building and site as well as the overall appearance of the sign. • Sign Graphics. A sign’s graphic elements shall be executed in a professional manner. • General Sign Construction o All signs shall be constructed, and erected in a professional and workmanlike manner. o Signs shall be structurally sound, maintained and located to pose no threat to pedestrian or vehicular traffic. • Materials o Signs shall be fabricated on and of materials that are of permanent quality, good durability and are complimentary to the building to which they relate. o Materials used shall be those that weather well and reduce maintenance. • Framing and Supports. o Visible frames or supports for freestanding or projecting signs shall be: 8 ▪ In scale with the size and character of the building; ▪ Designed either as a key element of the sign or minimized so as not to detract from the sign. o All signs attached to buildings shall be attached in a manner that preserves the historic integrity of the building. Encouraged Guidelines • Signs should have a matte finish, not have a glossy or reflective finish. 5. Integration with Site/Building Design Intent-To ensure that exterior signage is part of the overall design approach to a project. Required Standards • Signs shall be treated as an architectural element of a building or project and shall be designed to be compatible and complimentary. • The design of buildings and sites shall identify locations and sizes for future signs. Multi-tenant buildings and those which could be multi-tenant buildings must submit a sign plan depicting the method of signage and area allowances. Revisions in the sign plan may be submitted for Planning Commission approval by the management/owner of a building. A part of each sign permit request shall be an explanation of how the sign complies with the sign plan which shall include the building management approval of the proposed sign. As tenants install signs, it is expected that such signs shall be in conformance with an overall sign plan that allows for advertising which fits with the architectural character, proportions, and details of the development. • All signs shall be reviewed for their impact on the overall building facade. • The sign and associated lighting fixtures shall complement the architecture of the building on or near which it is placed and should be placed in an appropriate location on the building facade. • If the building design or architecture does not clearly identify the appropriate placement for a sign panel then individual letters are encouraged unless there is a clear location for adding sign panels, such as establishing one or more repetitive, common architectural features in order to create a repetitive sequence 9 • Whenever a new or renovated sign is proposed for an existing building: o It may be determined that building alterations are needed in order for the proposed sign to be properly placed on the building facade. o Any inappropriate and extraneous elements from past previous signage shall be removed prior to the installation of the proposed sign to improve the clarity and design of the proposed sign and restore the intended character of the building. Encouraged Guidelines • A sign should be confined within the facade consistent with signs on adjacent buildings and shall not extend beyond the identified signable area on the building or over the edges of the sign panel. • In multi-occupant buildings, signs for first floor occupants should not extend above the window sill of the second. • Colors of the sign and the sign background should be compatible with the building’s colors. 6. Prohibited • Including, but not limited to: Portable signs, inflatable signs, kites or other unattended flying device which are meant to advertise or identify a specific business, product, or event. • Temporary or portable signs with changeable letters and numbers and portable trailer signs with changeable text panels, unless otherwise permitted. 10 • Digital electronic signs of any kind, except for governmental and institutional uses in non-residential zoning districts and public school uses in residential zoning districts and subject to operational and other supplemental standards as contained in the Zoning Ordinance. • Revolving signs • Pole mounted signs Signs with a single supporting element less than 50% of the width of the sign. • Roof signs B. DESIGN STANDARDS FOR PERMITTED SIGNS Intent-To ensure that exterior signage is part of the overall design approach to a project and must not exceed the allowable size of the applicable zoning regulations. 1. Awning Signs • Any portion of an awning containing advertising copy shall be treated as a wall or building sign and shall be included in the overall area calculations for such signs. Squared off, text only, symbols or graphics. • Signs may be attached flat against awnings made of rigid materials, and shall not project above the awning. Awnings of non-rigid materials (e.g. canvas) shall have signs only appliquéd or painted on them. • There shall be a minimum clearance of at least eight (8) feet between the bottom of the awning and the ground at grade. • One awning sign, the size of which shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the area of the awning. The location of the sign shall not exceed the limits of the awning. 2. Directional Directory Signs (InstructionalInformational) Formatted: Strikethrough Formatted: Strikethrough Directory signs may be provided to identify individual businesses or occupants of the same building or building complex, in accordance with the following: • The display board shall be of an integrated and uniform design. • No more than one sign panel not to exceed two (2) square feet in area is permitted per directionaldirectory sign. Formatted: Strikethrough, Not Highlight • DirectionalDirectory signs shall be placed in one or more groups nearest the Formatted: Strikethrough pedestrian entrances adjacent to the building complex only., and may be wall- mounted or freestanding signs. Such signs shall not exceed three (3) feet in height. • DirectionalDirectory signs shall not contain advertising copy. Formatted: Strikethrough 11 • The directionaldirectory sign shall not be placed in areas that would obstruct Formatted: Strikethrough motorists’ vision of traffic. 3. Freestanding Signs • All new or replacement freestanding signs shall be as defined herein. Such signs shall be consistent with the architectural character of the site and building(s), incorporating Formatted: Not Highlight at least one of the primary materials, colors, or design elements of the associated Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic, Underline, Not Highlight structure(s). The signs shall utilize complementary materials or elements as a primary feature to create visual continuity. • The top of the sign shall not be more than fifteen (15) feet in height above ground level and shall not exceed the height of the first floor. • Berming shall not be used to exceed the maximum allowable height of signs. • The base or support elements of freestanding signs should be integrated with the surrounding environment. Landscaping may be required to buffer such signs. • Freestanding signs should be sited so that they integrate with the location of street trees and other site landscaping, • Freestanding signs shall not be placed where they obscure adjacent signs and important architectural features such as entrances, display windows, or decorative elements when viewed from the public right-of-way. • Freestanding signs must be designed to relate to and share common design elements with the building and the sign(s) attached to the building, including multi-occupant buildings. • A freestanding sign that provides a directory of occupants for a multi-occupant building should have simplicity of design to compensate for the additional amount of information provided. • Approved year-round landscaping shall be used around the base of the sign to screen lighting fixtures and utility sources in compliance with the Landscaping and Parking lot design sections of this document. • The design and placement of signs and associated lighting fixtures shall complement the overall visual appearance of the site. 12 • Freestanding bases shall utilize similar high-quality materials as utilized on the primary structure. Other examples include: • Sandstone or similar type of stone; • River cobblestone; • Brick; • Color tinted and textured concrete masonry; • Metal or iron detailing; • Or other material as approved by the Planning Commission. 4. Freestanding Monument Signs Formatted: Font: Italic, Underline, Strikethrough, Not Highlight • Monument signs shall be designed with consistent design elements, such as a base material, height, and lettering style, to create a visual continuity and quality to development. Monument sign bases and/or signs shall utilize one of the following complementary materials or elements as a primary feature to create visual continuity throughout the Town: • Sandstone or similar type of stone; • River cobblestone; • Brick; • Color tinted and textured concrete masonry; • Metal or iron detailing; • Other materials of similar high-quality as utilized on the primary structures. • Or other material as approved by the Planning Commission. Monument-type signs shall be attached to the ground with a base whose width and length are at least as large as the bottom edge of the sign face. • The top of the sign shall not be more than fifteen (15) feet in height above ground Formatted: Strikethrough, Not Highlight level and shall not exceed the height of the first floor. • Approved year-round landscaping shall be used around the base of the sign to screen lighting fixtures and utility sources in compliance with the Landscaping and Parking lot design sections of this document. 5. Freestanding Ground Signs Formatted: Font: Italic, Underline, Strikethrough, Not Highlight • The design and placement of ground signs and associated lighting fixtures shall complement the overall visual appearance of the site. • Approved year-round landscaping shall be used around the base of the sign to screen lighting fixtures and utility sources in compliance with the Landscaping and Parking lot design sections of this document. 6. Projectioning Signs 13 • Projecting and suspended signs shall be treated as building signs and shall be included in the overall area calculations for building signs. • The two sides of a projecting or suspended sign shall be parallel back to back, and shall not exceed six (6) Formatted: Not Highlight inches in thickness, and ten (10) square feet in area. • A projecting sign shall be hung at right angles to the building and shall not extend more than thirty (30) Formatted: Not Highlight inches from a building wall. • Projecting or suspended signs shall have a minimum clearance of eight (8) feet above grade and shall not project into a vehicular or public way. • The top of the sign, if suspended, should be in line with whichever is the most successful application of scale, linear continuity or visibility as determined by the Planning Commission. • The maximum height of any projecting sign may not exceed the height of the building to which it is attached or fifteen (15) feet above grade, whichever is lower. • Buildings on corner lots may have one projecting sign facing each street. • The size of the lettering and graphics on a projecting sign must be appropriate for viewing by pedestrians. 7. Wall/Flat Mounted Signs • For each business on a separate propertysingle tenant commercial structure and/or Formatted: Strikethrough single tenant commercial parcel, wall-mounted signage for each street frontage is permitted with a maximum area of one (1) square foot of signage per one lineal foot of street frontage, but in no case measuring an aggregate of more than one hundred (100) square feet per structure. • Buildings which have multiple businesses accessed by separate entrances For each Formatted: Strikethrough, Not Highlight business in a multi-tenant commercial structure with separate entrances, wall- mounted signage shall be permitted with a maximum area of one (1) square foot of Formatted: Font: Bold, Italic, Underline, Not Highlight signage building sign per linear building frontage of each business with of a Formatted: Strikethrough, Not Highlight maximum of thirty-two (32) square feet per business. Formatted: Strikethrough, Not Highlight 14 • When two (2) or more businesses occupy one (1) building with common entrances (i.e. without separate entrances) they shall be considered one (1) business for sign computation purposes. This means that for wall or building signs, buildings of this nature are limited to one building sign per street frontage plus one directory sign per common entrance. • Structures abutting more than one street may have wall signs on multiple sides of the structure, with an aggregate size as described above, calculated by a maximum area of one (1) square foot of signage per total lineal foot of frontage of each street with a maximum of one hundred (100) square feet per structure. for each wall Formatted: Strikethrough, Not Highlight facing a street. • The depth of wall signs on multi-tenant buildings should be consistent. • The size and location of wall signs shall be reviewed in terms of their relationship to the building entry, height of sign fascia, or size of wall where the sign is to be installed and the relationship to other signs on a building, as well as visibility from the street, sidewalk or parking lot. • On multi-tenant buildings wall signs should be evaluated for compatibility as part of a sign program with the building and character of neighboring signs in terms of size, color, lighting materials, sign style, and quality. 8. Window Signs • Permanent window signs must be comprised of individual letters, logos, or design elements that are not encompassed by a solid opaque background so as not to obscure the view through the window. • Shall not cumulatively exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the area of the window on which they are placed on the first floor and ten (10) percent on all floors above the first floor. • Signs of temporary or seasonal nature do not require a sign permit. 15