2016-07-28-ZBA-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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BOA Meeting July 28, 2016 4 A Board Member, Mr. David G. Williams, stated that the prices are already evident by the sign on the side of the road. He understands that law requires them to have a pump topper with the prices but it is rare to have the price changed in the middle of the day. The lights are intrusive and what they have now is appropriate. A Board Member, Mr. Ralph D. Clifford, asked the Zoning Administrator if other gas stations in the area have LED price toppers (Mr. George does not know of any other gas stations in Lexington that have LED price toppers). A Board Member, Mr. Williams, stated that at the Shell station that previously came in front of the Board, was not allowed to have LEDs on the price toppers. Ms. Parker asked why the LED price toppers wouldn’t be allowed since they are not flashing or alternating and are under a canopy. The Chairwoman, Ms. Jeanne K. Krieger asked when the price toppers would be illuminated (the hours of the store, 6:00 am to 11:00 pm). An audience member, Mr. DJ Modoono of 336 Marrett Road, stated that he is an abutter to the gas station. He is in opposition to the petition. He has been to other gas stations that have the same LED price toppers. Studies have shown that the LED lighting is bad for the eyes and also could be distracting to drivers at night. At this gas station, the pump lights are sometimes left on for 24 hours because the clerks forget to shut them off. Adding the LED price toppers would be adding more lights to the property. He has been at the station when the magnetic prices are changed and he has never seen the clerk close the lane for it. They price change is done very quickly. An audience member, Mr. David Turnquist of 321 Concord Avenue spoke. He stated that there is already too much light pollution on that corner already and it would be an additional eyesore for the town. The applicant, Ms. Parker, stated that the LED price toppers wouldn’t be adding any more light pollution than what’s already there. She will make sure that the lights get shut off every evening along with the music. They are looking to receive a Special Permit for the lowest light setting. A Board Member, Mr. Williams, stated that he is in opposition to the petition. The lights are distracting and intrusive for abutters (Ms. Parker responded that it’s not going to add any more light). A Board Member, Mr. Barnert, asked how they can approve this if the petition states they are proposing red lights but the example in front of them shows white lights (The Chairwoman responded that it would be just as bright). A Board Member, Mr. Hank Manz, asked if they can view the price topper with the lights out (lights were shut off momentarily). The Chairwoman closed the hearing at 8:08 pm.