2016-11-10-ZBA-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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BOA Meeting November 10, 2016 2 A Board Member, Mr. Ralph D. Clifford, stated that his concern is that the sign is in a residential neighborhood and just because it's recognized as a Commercial business, doesn't make it allowable. The applicants asked the Board if they recommend taking down the signs. Mr. Kursen stated that there is no public harm done with putting in a new sign. It's more attractive and easier to read. It's a public benefit for safety and appearance. It would be awkward for Dr. Davidson to talk to his neighbor about spending more money on a joint sign. A Board Member, Ms. Martha C. Wood, stated that her concern is that it adds to the clutter of the residential neighborhood (the sign is an upgrade to the existing one). Dr. Davidson asked the Board if there were any concerns received from the neighborhood about the sign. A Board Member, Mr. Clifford, stated that their job is to enforce the Lexington zoning ordinances and this is a residential area. A Board Member, Mr. Nyles N. Barnert asked what the rational is for a double sided sign since Muzzey Street is a one -way street (it's visible for walkers). Ms. Kursen stated that there is another dentist sign across the street and there are a lot of walkers. They just want to take down the unattractive sign and put up a new sign and make it look fresh. A Board Member, Mr. Williams, stated that they are all in favor of a 2 sided sign. Mr. Williams asked the applicants what the problem is with asking the other tenant about putting their names on one sign. It's not a hardship to ask the neighbor. There were no further questions from the Board. There were no comments from the audience. The Chairwoman closed the hearing at 7:42 pm. On a motion by Martha C. Wood and seconded by Nyles N. Barnert, the Board voted 2 -3 (David G. Williams, Martha C. Wood, and Ralph D. Clifford in opposition) to grant a SPECIAL PERMIT in accordance with sections 135 - 5.2.8.3 and 135 -9.4 of the Zoning Bylaw (Chapter 135 of the Code of Lexington) to allow a free standing non - illuminated sign. A 4 -1 vote was needed so the motion was denied.