6.c 1 Staff Report - Federated Co-op signage
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: February 7, 2017
To: Planning Commission
From: Neil Soltis, Administrator
Re: Federated Co-op signage
Background:
Federated Co-op has purchased Todds and is in the process of converting it to a SuperAmerica.
A building permit application has been submitted and approved for the interior renovations and the
addition of a door. This work is underway. In checking with Chuck Preisler, the work to update the
façade and gas canopy for the SuperAmerica brand does not require a building permit and is
considered maintenance. He has dealt with this situation in other communities. This distinction is
important since the Architectural Design Guideline that are referenced in the Development Code
require compliance with the Guideline for new structures or exterior alterations. Sherri & I have
discussed the applicability of the guidelines and, if a building permit was required, compliance would
have been required with plan review by the Planning Commission and a recommendation to the City
Council.
Federated has also seeking to modify the signage, which requires an administrative permit. Pictures
of the proposed signs and current signs follow this report. One of the general standards for signs is
a review for compatibility with the Scandia Architectural Design Guidelines, as applicable. The Design
Guidelines related to signs were amended in November, 2015 to allow for backlit and illuminated signs.
The guidelines contain the following criteria related to the design of storefront signs:
• Signs should be kept subordinate to the building and fit within the existing features
of the facade.
• Signs should not cover up architectural details on the building.
• Window signs should not obscure the display area.
• Sign colors should complement the colors of the building.
• Signs should be clear, concise and easy to read.
• Storefront signs should display the business name only, using one line of lettering in
simple, bold letters.
In terms of the off-building sign, the submittal is to replace the existing sign. The location of the
existing sign was granted through a variance since it is closer than 10’ from the front property line.
The design guidelines related to monument signs call for the following:
Monument signs should be placed near the building’s entrance drive.
Signs should be low to the ground. Keep in mind that Scandia is rural and in many
neighborhoods signs will be viewed from a local street.
If the building also has storefront signs, match the colors and styles to the building
signage.
Consider giving the building a name and making that the predominant message on the
free-standing sign, with business names in smaller print below, all in the same or similar
lettering size and style. Using print in a consistent size, style, and coordinating colors helps
make it easy for passers-by to read and absorb information.
The amount of information on signs should be no more than is necessary to provide
reasonable identification of the business.
Issue: Are the submittals are reasonably compatible with the design guidelines?
Recommendation: This location has been a gas station since construction in 1971 and is a product of
its time and not a part of Scandia’s historic architecture. Similar to the treatment of industrial
buildings, strictly applying the architectural guidelines to this building would not be practical. The
proposed signage is consistent with the guidelines as amended and the quantity of sign lighting is
kept to a minimum. Though not included in the application, the plans call for replacing the fixtures
under the gas canopy with LED lighting to minimize the impact outside of the property boundaries
which will further help to maintain a dark sky.
Representatives of Federated Co-op will be attending the meeting and will be able rto respond to
any questions.