01-21-2003 - Zoning Exemption for Signs Related to Historical Structures•
City of West Covina
Memorandum
AGENDA
ITEM NO. G-3
DATE January 21, 2003
TO: Andrew G. Pasmant, City Manager
and City Council
FROM: Douglas N. McIsaac
Planning Director
SUBJECT: ZONING EXEMPTION FOR SIGNS RELATED TO HISTORICAL
STRUCTURES
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommend that the City Council consider this matter, and if deemed appropriate,
initiate a code amendment to consider amending the Zoning Code to permit certain
exemptions for signs related to historical structures, and refer the matter to the Planning
Commission for study and recommendation.
DISCUSSION:
Councilmember Miller has requested that an item be agendized to discuss the possible
initiation of a code amendment to permit certain exemptions for signs related to historical
structures.
This matter has arisen specifically in relation to a proposal by the Hurst Ranch Foundation
to construct a windmill structure on the Hurst Ranch site at 1227 S. Willow Avenue.
Suburban Water Systems has proposed to pay for the windmill structure in exchange for
the opportunity to place a sign on the structure. While the proposal would provide an
additional amenity to the Hurst Ranch facility at no cost to the Hurst Ranch Foundation,
Councilmember Miller has raised a concern that such a sign could be considered to be an
"offsite commercial sign," which is not permitted under the Zoning Code. An "offsite
commercial sign" is essentially defined as any sign that identifies or advertises a
commercial business or activity not located at the site upon which the sign is located. In
this case, a sign identifying Suburban Water Systems at the Hurst Ranch facility could be
considered to fall under this definition.
In order to address this, Councilmember Miller has suggested that the Zoning Code be
amended to make a specific exemption for offsite commercial signs related to historical
structures and sites. This would remove any question as to the ability of Suburban Water
Systems to be identified on a sign on the proposed windmill structure, and could provide
an opportunity for similar appropriate signs to be allowed in relation to the restoration of
other historical structures, including the Taylor House at Heritage Park.
The Hurst Ranch Foundation is desirous to move forward with its plans for construction of
the proposed community building at the site and other improvements, including, the
windmill. Should the Council elect to initiate a code amendment, the matter could be
expedited and considered by the Planning Commission at its meeting of February 11, 2003,
and be considered by the City Council at its meeting of either March 4, 2003 (election day)
or March 18, 2004 (swearing in of new councilmembers), if so desired.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None
Douglas
Planniul'
ZACity Council4SFRPTSDMIsigns.hist.bldgs..doc