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Variance No. 2004-07 November 22, 2004 Page 7 to be hazards to the motoring public as they are a distraction to vehicle operators . Given the various agreements between the applicant and the City regarding the future of both billboards have yet to be finalized, staff is recommending that both structures remain as billboards until the expiration of the current leases. Two additional signs were installed prior to the August 23 Planning Commission hearing: a painted wall sign within the courtyard area and a painted sign on the back of the unpermitted monument sign. These signs have been determined to be exempt from the zoning code as these signs are intended to be viewed from the interior of the project. At the September 27, 2004 Planning Commission hearing, the Commission took action on all of the variances except for Variance B for Sign Nos. 2 and 3 and Variance E for Sign No.6. Variance B, which was a proposal to construct two changeable copy signs, was referred to the Historic Resources Commission (HRC) to determine the best treatment for one of the openings on the north elevation in the event only one changeable copy sign was approved. On October 7, 2004, the HRC recommended that the applicant install the changeable copy sign above the existing garage door. The applicant has since submitted revised plans showing the two signs above the garage door. Staff is supportive of this request as the new location and concept complements the building. However, staff recommends that the applicant modify the signs to have the appearance of a building marquee. The other sign continued by the Planning Commission was Variance E for Sign No.6, which requested approval of a cabinet sign on the east elevation. The Commission continued this item to allow staff and the applicant the ability to review additional details related to the construction of the sign. After reviewing these plans with the applicant and his sign contractor, staff has determined that the proposal is considered a cabinet sign per the Sign Code. However, the sign incorporates neon letters that maintain the appearance of individual letters, which meets the intent of the Sign Code. Further, approval of the cabinet sign will minimize the need for drilling holes into the building faQade and will minimize damage to the historic structure. Staff remains concerned with the proliferation of signage and the potential for visual blight. The applicant's investment in the building, including the recent exterior and interior rehabilitation of the structure, has resulted in an adaptive reuse of a high quality building. In addition, the building is located at a major City intersection which has resulted in the need for consistent, quality signage with minimal sign clutter. 31A-10