Amador County – Jackson holds a third sign code workshop with business owners 10 a.m. Tuesday in the Civic Center, seeking input on pending and existing sign code, as Jackson City Council must consider some draft code changes proposed by the Planning Commission, and potential enforcement action.
City Manager Mike Daly said Wednesday the Planning Commission’s revisions may overstep the Council’s intention. As rewritten, the code would limit pole signs to 6 feet in height, meaning signs would have to be mounted on 2-foot poles. Amortization would require compliance by all signs in five years, if revisions are approved.
Daly told business owners “we need to get feedback in writing,” including comments on the draft ordinance, and individual impact letters they received from the city.
Maura Gillman of Mel & Faye’s Restaurant said some people want Jackson to “like it used to be,” but old pictures show neon lights everywhere in downtown Jackson. City Planner Susan Peters said it depends on the era they want to resemble. She said the main aim for new code and enforcement of existing code is to get rid of the clutter of banners and temporary signs used in permanent fashion. It also seeks self-compliance by businesses. Peters said tattered, old and faded banners are one of the issues, and the Commission prefers a move to “monument” signs.
Gillman said her father’s business has monument signage and “not one sign is effective.” Visitors can’t find businesses in the complex, and the lettering is useless for vehicle traffic.
Daly said the idea was to limit influx of pole signs, but existing signs may be grandfathered in, depending on Council preference. Daly went to Fresno this summer and it was “one pole sign after another,” basically making it so busy that none of the signs were effective.
One woman said “monument signs feel too modern,” and she did not like half-lit signs. She said lit signs at Mel & Faye’s and Jackson Tire did not bother her.
Phil Bovero of Jackson Tire said he has used a banner for 2-and-a-half months, announcing they were voted best in the county. His wife Wendy said: “I understand clutter,” but turning off signs at night just increases the likelihood they will have more tires stolen. She said lit signs and illuminated businesses and lots at night help the city with security.
Bart Gillman said “back-lit signs are to pull people off the highway the best we can.” He said “businesses don’t want to be throwing money at their signs right now.” Daly said the city’s Façade Improvement Program, which includes a 50-50 match, can be used for signs too.
The next city sign code workshop is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 10 at the Civic Center.
Story by Jim Reece This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
