Assistant City Planner Luke Sims gave a summary of the request and consideration by the Heritage Preservation Commission.
The Mayor opened the public hearing.
Nate Hillesheim, owner of Erberts & Gerberts, stated that he purchased the new sign to replace an existing one, and doesn't believe that having a lit sign would detract from the historic nature of the building. He also noted that the new sign is smaller than the current one, and that other downtown businesses are permitted to have lit signs.
Peter Shortridge, member of the Commission, stated that the request was denied mainly due to its plastic components, and cautioned the Council from deviating from the sign standards.
There being no one else present to speak to the matter, the Mayor closed the public hearing.
Moeller stated that the rules for signage are laid out clearly, and have been consistently applied in the past, and she concurred with HPC ruling.
Young was sympathetic to the concerns of a small business, but he felt the Council should uphold the ruling of the HPC.
Alexander likes the sign, but since the materials and size do not meet the requirements, she will concur with the HPC decision.
Eyden also was sympathetic to Mr. Hillesheim's request, but agreed with the HPC that the new sign did not suit the historic nature of the building.
Borzyskowski asked what type of materials are allowable for signage. Mr. Sims replied that bronze, copper, and wood products are allowable, as are metal signs if the finish replicates bronze, copper or wood.
Repinski stated that he didn't see an issue with the sign, and felt that the building was well maintained.
Mayor Sherman concurred with the HPC, and appreciates their efforts.