2023-04-10 SB Packet - Released - Laserfiche WebLink

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� u� II� � u� u u u u� Lexington Sign Bylaw Update Name of Project: . . Economic Development Office Pro�ect Cost. � Department. Cost Basis: We received some quotes from other towns that recentl went through such a process such as Medford. We also reached out the some consu tants to get high level cost associated with such effort. Please describe the project: The ED office started working with the Center Committee, EDAC, and the staff to look at the existing zoning requirements for signs in Lexington. We have identified the issues in the existing language and also have some thoughts on changes that will help make sure the process gets streamlined for the businesses. However tfie next ste s re uire more research on what is the standard re uirements that com communities have ado ted and also takin into consideration what si n develo ers recommend for commercial versus map street businesseg for a si n size. g p g Although we hoped to complete the entire bylaw update in-house by staff, we may not be able to meet our deadline to bring a zoning bylaw change that has been fully vetted by the businesses, Center Committee, EDAC HDC DAC Zonin board Select oard and Plannin board . We could reall use a consultant to , , , g , , g ) Y help us with the research, develop a zoning language, add design elements, and help us with the public outreach required for such an effort. I would like to request$75,000 for hiring a consultant to help us move this project forward so that we can start proceeding with several proJ'ects in the pipeline. This will also help us improve the process by coordinatin with Zonin Board Desi n Advisor as well as Historic District Commission to u date all , desi n uidelines. Than ou for our consideration. g g y y Please describe how this meets the Select Board's Nexus with COVID Pandemic: As we look at our current vacancy rate in the Center and East Lexington which has been a result of the pandemic, the Economic Development office's role has been to help streamline the permit process to hel businesses chose Lexington. However, we have been struggling with the first step o the permit process with the sign bylaw. We have received several complaints from new businesses who have struggled with signs in Lexin ton. The last time the sign bylaw was updated with an amendment was by the Center ommittee in 2016. Date Submitted to the Town Manager: 4/1 /2023 Su bm itted By: a n a e r