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7.1. SR 08-19-2013 City of Elk - Request for Action River To Item Number City Council 7.1 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Public Hearings August 19, 2013 Chris Leeseber ,Park Planner-Planner Item Description Reviewed by Appeal Request by Decklan Group/Granite Shores Jeremy Barnhart,Deputy Director, CODD Regarding Interpretation of Sign Regulations for Reviewed by Free-Standing Sign in Downtown District (633 Cal Portner, City Administrator Main St), Case No. V 13-04 Action Requested Staff recommends the City Council deny the appeal that would allow a new freestanding sign in the Downtown District (DD) based on Sections 30-860 and 30-872, for the following reasons: 1. Freestanding and monument signs are not listed as allowed signs in the Downtown District in Section 30-872. 2. Section 30-872 is the more specific ordinance and,pursuant to Section 30-860(e),prevails over the general regulations in Section 30-866. 3. There are no performance standards in Section 30-872 for free-standing or monument signs. Background/Discussion The Board of Adjustments (BOA) reviewed an appeal to staffs interpretation of the ordinance as it relates to signs in the Downtown District (DD). During the BOA July 9, 2013, meeting,the applicant provided information that the Board wanted to clarify with the city attorney so they postponed action. The city attorney's opinion on the ordinance, along with other information was presented to the BOA at their August 13, 2013, meeting. The BOA denied the applicants appeal to staff interpretation; as a result, the appeal is automatically appealed to the City Council. As suggested by city staff and the city attorney,if a sign is simply a "good idea", then the Council should deny the appeal and direct staff to undergo an ordinance amendment to allow signs in the downtown district,with appropriate standards and criteria. To approve the appeal,the City Council must determine that the BOA,the city attorney, and city staff have erred in their interpretation of the ordinance as it pertains to freestanding signs in downtown. All of the supporting documents and reports supporting staff s recommendation are attached for your review. The applicant was notified of their opportunity to include information in the packet for the City Council to review. P a w E R E U 6 Y NaA f RE] Financial Impact None Attachments • Board of Adjustments staff report dated July 9, 2013 • Board of Adjustments staff report dated August 13, 2013 • Applicants email dated August 14, 2013 • Narrative from Application • Letters of support N:\Public Bodies\Agenda Packets\08-19-2013\x7.1 sr£docx El REQUEST FOR ACTION RiVer TO ITEM NUMBER Board of Adjustment 3 AGENDA SECTION MEETING DATE PREPARED BY Board of Adjustment July 9, 2013 Chris Leeseber ,Park Planner-Planner ITEM DESCRIPTION REVIEWED By Consider Appeal Request by Decklan Group/Granite Shores Jeremy Barnhart,Deputy Director, regarding the interpretation of sign regulations for free-standing CODD sign in DD district(633 Main St), Case No.V 13-04 REVIEWED BY ACTION REQUESTED Staff recommends denial of the appeal that would allow a new freestanding sign in the Downtown District (DD) based on the reading of Section 30-872, for the following reasons: 1. Freestanding and monument signs are not listed as allowed signs in the Downtown District. 2. There are no regulations for the size, height, and setbacks or freestanding and monument signs. BACKGROUND Staff received a permanent sign building permit application (2013-00727) on May 3, 2013 from the Decklan Group (applicant) on behalf of their client, Granite Shores. The application was submitted after conversations staff had with the applicant. Staff indicated that they would not be able to issue the permit because freestanding and monument signs are not listed as allowed signs. The applicant believes freestanding signs are allowed. Staff recommended they submit the permanent sign building permit application, staff would then deny the application,thus giving the applicant standing to appeal. Staff received the permanent sign building permit application from the applicant on May 3, 2013 and responded with a letter, dated May 8, 2013, denying the application. The formal letter of denial was reviewed by the city attorney. Downtown District Section 30-1026 (c) (7) allows signs as an accessory use as permitted in section 30-851 et seq. Section 30-872 (b) (1) indicates prohibited signs (freestanding signs are not listed in this area) Section 30-872 (b) (2) indicates one wall-mounted sign and one projecting sign shall be allowed. (no other types of signs are listed as an allowed sign) Permitted Uses Ordinance are created and used to guide property by indicating what uses are allowed in certain zones. Drafters of an ordinance cannot identify every conceivable use in the listings of permitted,conditional, or prohibited uses. Items not listed are not permitted,unless a logical case that the use is consistent with those listed. An extreme example: Heavy Manufacturing is not specifically listed as prohibited in the Single Family Zoning Districts; this is not interpreted to mean that someone can operate a foundry in their backyard. The same is true with the DD;just because freestanding signs are not specifically listed as P O 11 E R E 0 BY NATURE] Case File:V 13-04 Granite Shores Page 2 prohibited does it mean they can be installed. The DD does not list them as an allowed uses in any manner. If it did,it would also regulate the size, height, and setbacks which it does not. The ordinance is clear as to its intent and desire. Freestanding vs. Monument Signs The applicant is suggesting that staff has made its decision based on the definitions of the two sign types. Staff indicated in their letter dated May 8, 2013 to the applicant that new freestanding or monument signs are not allowed as a permitted, conditional, or accessory use as the only signage allowed by the city.zoning ordinance in the DD is wall-mounted and projecting signs. The definitions of the sign types are irrelevant to the decision. ATTACHMENTS • Location Map • Section 30-1026 • Section 30-872 • Appeal of Zoning Decision Application Project Narrative • Staff letter to applicant dated May 8, 2013 • Building Permit • Definitions • Email from applicant to Wendy Simenson date July 2, 2013 • Chamber of Commerce letter dated June 18, 2013 • Decklan Group letter dated March 20, 2013 Action Motion by Second by Vote Follow Up N:\Departments\Community Development\Planning\Case Files\V\V 13-04 Granite Shores\V 13-04—Staff report granite shore decklan group 7-9- 13.docx +Z W oc 0 LL, � z o 0 z z� v LU .J- o cd O � � O� w > O ct CL v _CL J (n V) V) V) 0 M L E z U � a A At a 30-1024 ELK RIVER CODE Sec. 30-1.026. DD Downtown district. (a) .Purpose. As Downtown Elk River changes, future, preservation as well as any new construc- tion should reinforce the general character and quality of the existing downtown. The design of new construction should take into consideration the location of the proposed building(s) as well as incorporate traditional design elements and tech- niques that are currently represented in existing structures. Supp.No.28 CD30:132 LAND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS §30-1026 The intent of the downtown district is to pre- dards for the approval of conditional use permits serve this distinctive character with the appear- set forth in sections 30-651 through 30-659 of this ante that there are multiple buildings that are chapter: distinctly different from one another yet will (1) Nonprofit clubs, lodges or halls. allow a uniform mass of building with the appear- ance of vertical separation.These standards shall (2) Licensed day care facilities. be the framework for any new development and (3) Institutional uses. designs shall strive for creative traditional archi- tectural character, while clearly being an expres- (4) Commercial and residential parking lots sion of the architecture of its own time. and ramps. (b) Permitted uses. The following uses shall be (5) Multiple-family dwellings without com- permitted uses in the downtown district, subject mercial on first floor. to the design standards set forth in subsections (6) On-sale liquor establishments. (e) and M and the site plan review process set forth in subsection (g) of this section: (7) Commercial recreational facility, acces- (1) Business and professional offices. sory to permitted or conditional principle use. (2) Financial institutions. (8) Convenience store. (3) Retail stores and shops. (9) Funeral parlor. (4) Personal service establishments. (10) Single-family dwellings. (5) Outpatient health care facilities. (6) Multiple-family dwellings provided that (11) Restaurants, (Class II). business/commercial uses at street level (12) Governmental buildings and facilities. occupy the floor. (13) Produce markets. (7) Hotels. (1.4) Sauna establishments. (8) Restaurants, (Class I). (15) Dry cleaning establishment. (9) Public parks. (16) Governmental offices. (10) :Physical recreation and training. (c) Accessory uses. Accessory uses in.the down- town district are as follows: (1) Off-street parking facilities. (2) Off-street loading facilities. (3) Telephone booths. (4) Private recreational facilities. (5) Public shelters and essential services. (6) Sale of firearms. (7) Signs as permitted in section 30-851 et seq. (d) Conditional uses. The following uses shall be conditional uses in the downtown district, subject to the design standards set forth in sub- sections (e) and (f) and the procedures and stan- Supp.No.28 CD30:133 ¢30-872 ELK RIVER CODE Sec: 30-872..DD downtown district. (11) With the exception of individual letters, only externally illuminated signs are al (a) Temporary signs as permitted,in section 'lowed. 30-851 et seq. (12) Monument signs shall not be allowed. (b)-Permanent signs.Signs should be designed Existing monument signs erected prior to to fit with the character,,proportions and scale of the date of the,adoption of this section can the individual building and should complement, be rebuilt to the same size in the same rather than compete with,the character of down- location. town, (13) Aside from a date and name stone not (1) Prohibited signs:back-lit signs•(excluding exceeding three square feet, no signage ind.ivid.ual letters),molded plastic cabinet shall be placed within the parapet panel signs, smooth/flat plastic signs and signs area. with strobe lights, flashing elements or (14) Window signs and temporary on-site signs distracting actions. attached to or.painted on a window may (2) One wall-mounted sign and one project- not cover more than 50 percent of the ing sign shall be•allowed on each primary window surface area. facade and on one secondary facade,which (15), Portable signs shall be limited to unlit does not extend above the roofline of an A-frame signs with a maximum height of adjoining building. three feet and a total area of six square feet per side.Such signs shall not obstruct (3) A total of one square foot of wall mounted signage per one linear foot of unit width, Pedestrian traffic nor impede vehicular traffic. not to exceed 32 square feet shall be allowed. (16) Only one portable sign may be displayed directly in front of a business at any given (4) Wall-mounted signs shall not exceed 24 time and shall be displayed only during inches in height nor project out more than business hours. eight inches from facade. (17) Street numbers must be prominently dis- (5) Wall-mounted signs shall not be higher played at the main entrance to every than the bottom of the stringeourse. business and be visible from the street. (6) Projecting sign(s) shall not exceed six (Ord. No. 09-06, §-2, 7-20-2009) square fees in area,shall not project more than four feet from facade and shall not be thicker than six inches. (7) Aprojecting sign shall project out perpen- dicular from facade. (8) Projecting sign and structural elements shall not be lower than eight [feet] from the sidewalk nor shall be higher than the bottom of the sill of the second floor win- dows. (9) Signage shall:be constructed of metal, wood, stone, plastic (with three-dimen- sional reliefs) and/or cloth. (10) The brackets and structure for projecting signs shall be ornamentally designed. Supp.No. 19 CD30:104.2 Granite Shores Permanent Sign Application Appeal of Zoning Decision Application Project Narrative Sign Application Process In early March 2013, Granite Shores and its representatives began discussions with city staff in regard to the construction of a freestanding sign in front of Granite Shores, 633 Main Street, downtown Elk River. The conversations with staff and Decklan Group (representing Granite Shores), resulted in a disagreement as to what is allowed as signage in the Downtown District (DD). Elk River staff has taken the position that freestanding signs are not permitted in the DD despite the fact that they are not listed as a "Prohibited Sign" in Sec. 30-872 of Elk River City Code. Decklan Group asserts that freestanding signs are not listed among the five specifically prohibited sign types in Sec. 30-872 and are therefore allowed within the DD. On March 20, 2013, Decklan Group met with Deputy Community Operations and Development Director Jeremy Barnhart to obtain clarification on the zoning ordinance and to outline the process moving forward to construct the sign. Mr. Barnhart instructed Decklan Group to first apply for a sign permit. He indicated city staff would deny the application based upon their abstract interpretation of unrecorded prohibitions within Elk River City Code. Mr. Barnhart went on to suggest that upon receiving the letter of denial from city staff, Decklan Group could file an appeal of the decision, thus placing the burden of facts in front of the seven member Board of Adjustments to overturn staff's decision. Decklan Group accepted this as part of the approval process and confirmed with Mr. Barnhart that a completed sign application would be submitted at a future date. During the March 20th meeting parties also discussed the materials and design of the proposed freestanding sign. Decklan Group outlined that the sign would be designed and constructed to directly reflect and mimic recent City projects in the DD completed in 2005 (River's Edge Commons Park, Kiosk, Plaza, and Gazebo) , as well as meeting and exceeding the minimum DD Design Standards as set forth in Sec. 30-1026 in Elk River City Code. Staff agreed that the proposed materials and design were within the DD Architectural Standards and Guidelines per subsection (f) Sec. 30-1026 of Elk River City Code. On May 3, 2013, Decklan Group submitted a permanent sign application for a freestanding sign to be located at 633 Main Street, downtown Elk River. Decklan Group received a letter of denial from Park Planner/Planner Chris Leeseberg, dated May 8, 2013, which indicated that new freestanding or monument signs are not allowed as a permitted, conditional or accessory use, and that this could only be changed by amendment of Section 30-872 of the zoning ordinance to allow freestanding or monument signs in the downtown district. Granite Shores- Appeal of Zoning Decision Narrativ ��I Facts to Consider Definitions per Elk River Minnesota Code; Current Version as adopted December 16th, 2002 Article 1. Sec. 30-1 - Definitions Sign, freestanding, means any sign not attached to a principal or accessory building. Sign, monument, means a freestanding sign supported by an internal structural framework covered by solid structural feature such that the support structure is not visible. The solid structural feature shall be at least 75 percent of the sign width. Elk River City Code clearly defines Monument and Freestanding signs as two entirely different structures. Within these definitions, it clearly states a Monument sign is a sub-type under the larger Freestanding sign group, therefore making the heading of Freestanding inclusive of the sub-type Monument. City staff asserts that the inverse is also true,that the sub-type Monument is inclusive of the group Freestanding. This assertion by city staff is based on faulty, unsound, deductive logic. If the city staff's conclusion were factual, there would cease to be reason in defining the structures separately, as they would be interchangeable and therefore definable under one universal term. In Subdivision II. Sec. 30-859. — Prohibited Signs, there is no reference to the Freestanding sign group in its entirety. In Subdivision II. Sec. 30-872. — DD Downtown District sub-section (b), there is no reference to the Freestanding sign group in its entirety. Number (12) of sub-section (b) does specifically disallow the sub-type Monument sign; however it does not disallow any other form of the Freestanding sign group. As you can see, Monument signs specifically, and the four other sign types specified under Subdivision II. Sec. 30-872. Sub-section (b) Number (1) are the only sign types prohibited in the DD. The sign group defined as Freestanding signs, are nowhere collectively prohibited and therefore allowed assuming they are not of the Monument sub-type, or any other prohibited sub-type. Decklan Group therefore respectfully requests that the Board of Adjustments overturn city staff's denial of our sign permit application and grant the permit with the contingency of the necessary Conditional Use Permit required for the size of the proposed electronic message board. Notables: There are currently no less than nine monument signs in the DD, and an additional six freestanding signs. ranite. Shores- . . o ecisl -� City of River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River,MN 55330 May 8,2013 Annie Deckert 812 Main Street,NW Suite 250,Elk River IVIN, 55330 RE: Sign Permit Application Dear Ms. Deckert, We received a Permanent Sign Building Permit Application (2013-00727) on May 3, 2013 from you on behalf of your client Granite Shores,LLC. for a freestanding sign to be installed at 633 Main Street. This property is zoned Downtown District. The only signage allowed by the city zoning ordinance (Section 30-872)in the Downtown District is wall-mounted and projecting signs. Monument signs erected prior to the date of adoption of the Downtown District section of the zoning ordinance can be rebuilt to the same size in the same location,but new freestanding or monument signs are not allowed as a permitted, conditional, or accessory use. This could only be changed by amendment of Section 30-872 of the zoning ordinance to allow free standing or monument signs in the Downtown District. Because freestanding signs are not allowed in the Downtown District by the zoning ordinance, a building permit cannot be issued for the proposed sign and we are returning your Permanent Sign Building Permit Application. Enclosed is a copy of Section 30-872 of the city code for your reference. Please let me known if you have any questions. Sincerely, Chris Leeseberg,Park Planner/Planner City of Elk River 763.635.1033 ceeseberg ct,Ellaiver?\-II\T.gov CC: Jim Soderberg,President Soderberg Apartment Specialists Seri Graphics Sign Systems Peter Beck, City Attorney Encl. Phone:763.635.1000 P 0 W E R E 0 B Y Fax:763.635.1090 wm""AAm TU I?E www.ci.elk-river mn.us I IN OKIX \ 'STAFF REVIEW RESIDENTIAL SITE PLAN CH E I F \a I L!(L€J1�1G PE,R I6T _ "E S€ 3M MID � � C�ITACTvA iE,"., TT-8 ti .,..: \ EGA ftJECTRTE Ji iRCt l 3 LDG �tL It fi �\" E7'aT ' # t � Een c be corn Iedr rcvoea are c�rcu( te �v Y ' } r V4. . I L C DEPAR. NT In. B'=DIN i CEP W T r7alees�c� y \ front Y E ER \ CHI v E .. Read` 1 co e Yes _ No rner Lots have,2 C}21t sethadcs ZONING IC" C��xster C# �.. icitb fDriwwa}� 0'� R exmi�ted v N£ ° l.tt co verae `v v ` tI v v� on s LJs Niue,. aeS flI i.two Access�axy Sttuct�res \� Tar ce Re tx xed Approved* Acceptable Bitsltluzg: nterz lls - Case # - Maiq.pt.rice exceed " Conditional Use Rei A pp � �\ \ Case CU " " z, little *Che ctdxex Case ,nxacated �. \ w . 2 D � � -Atsx�mu�•Eitght u, 77 ... + ` ( l?xivate�xzxe Rl z ; "014ay Read-(. ---686 x zt Re di d ley Co y) des pplicant oon eted eriied Reeexpt of C � Permit Yesr tllectc�rlAaI(Lzrrs�tcessj ' Ne \ A �bid y `\ C ik�j, C y Y Drsae c � 7thexeczf�} T s- r v� Structure Setb l v 5 pp TT++�� yisS,, � y �•a l+pt 5..- 1✓t ft $ iStaf item m k PIS 621 Checl Iixt:riot 3 0 yl era Datc BUILDING PERMIT APPLICATION PERMANENT SIGN JOB ADDRESS, ENGINEER FEE ................. APPLICANT IS, 0()Nvnc��' 7 171 PERMIT LEGAL DESCRIPTION STATE SURCHARGE Subdivision Lca B4icL, PID-- SUNNIER ............ ........ . ........... PROPERTY OWNER NAME ADDRESS PHONE# T'ftO—RNfY"FEE Wif "I' ... ......... LICENSE S F'Z i I­E1 C,,i. CONTRACTOR/RESPONSIBI.E PARTY LICENSE# 1',j -Ai�IFH--ECK ........... ............. CONTRACTOR ADDRESS- 'PHONE# TOTAL &�n ARCHITECT/ENGINEUR(for Commercial Work) RECEIVED BY N a-me i i,; t'j 4�kP� Address -nc P� APPROVED FOR ........ ISSUANCE BY CLASS OF WORK. 0',\1cNk, 0 Addition D Remodel 0 F)CM0 CONSTRUCTION Ivi– TYPE OCCUPANCY GROUP VALUATION OF WORK: $ �AVISIO�N v7hi4permil becomes null andvoidif work orconwe ctw?t awhww ii;�m.,comment ed witbin M-dap,or if or mark ia 180 z4iysai wry time Fier work iiiaminmr-ed. TOTAL SQ FT OF I bereb-r cutiVy Aw I have read anal"arriowd ibis apqwan on,and know ibe mroe to It,i,-ue and correa Vl BLDG Provisiom oft lawi ant on inan(es goveming tbi�type oi`Work"kil",h!owip"U"!W.'?h whelber 1), n ,E), ot. 'nkgrantin a penrit does not presitwe�t,.givcjulbwlzy it) or(w)('67 ofany athm, #OF STORIES st.tie or lora constriatioll or al pv fomiayxe ofim,5trac.,s0n. MAX OCCUPANT LOAD nSi ul'e of- o tract /Responsible Party Print Name Date IOU Ai,, ,It TEiRs Signature of Properti Owner Print Name Date FIR E spRi—P 0 y I"S �p Tt Phone 761635.1060 * FAX 763.635.1090 0 No ........... Planning Department Building Department. Date 1);d,�vnuv' Aj-,,;tivmi,nm h,-,DW, t&A"r_,,, w'l i- ej numb' DECKLAN 0 4b 0 G R 0 t-) p 612.564,0795- j)ffice - WWW_kjecklangroup (:.Om .......... .......—..........-'.—...... ....... .......... March 20,2013 City of Elk River ATTN:Chris Leesoberg 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River,MN 55330 RE:Granite Shores,CUP 60 d2Y waiver Dear Mr,Leeseberg, This letter serves to notify you that Decklan Group has entered into a contract with Jim Soderberg, President of Soderberg Apartment Specialists and owner of Granite Shores,633 Main Street,Elk River, MN 55330 to work on their behalf for the following applications: • Permanent Sign Application • Conditional Use Permit • Appeal of Zoning Decision If YOU have any questions,Please contact me at 612-564-0795,Or email me at Respecttull , (Z 51 Annie B. Deckert President Jim derbe; Decklan Group Pre dent _rberg A artment Specialists .......... ...... ................. ...... ....... I A L A DECKLPVN e:TRAKiT Permit Applied Date: 51312013 Permit No.: ELE1306-00811 Minnesota Issued Date: 51312013 Department of Labor and Industry Status: ISSUED ° ELE EXST MULTI FAM 443 Lafayette Road N St Paul, MN 55155 'Site Address: 633 MAIN ST Default inspector: Kelly Johnson ELK RIVER MN,55330 Applicant: ARNIE BILLMARK ELECTRIC Project name: INC GRANITE SHORES Address: 14700 ARMSTRONG BLVD NW ANOKA MN 55303 Phone: (763)427-5533 i Owner: MIKE TEMPLE&NEXUS REAL Description of Work: ESTATE WIRE NEW MONUMENT SIGN/MESSAGE Address: 633 MAIN ST BOARD ELK RIVER MN 55330 1 Phone: 952221113 FEES Amount Receipt# Paid Date ELE SURCHARGE FEE 55.00 WEB5722505/03/201:3 ELE PERMIT INSPECTION FEE $,'0.00 WEB5722505/03/2013 TOTAL FEES $75.00 TOTAL FEES PAID $75.00 l TOTAL FEES DUE $0.00 * LE1305-00811* NOTICE The work for which this permit is issued shall be performed according to: (1)the terms of this permit; (2)any associated approved plans and specifications;and(3)the applicable provisions of the State Building Code and the High Pressure Piping Codes.This permit is valid only for the work described and does not grant permission for additional or related work.A separate permit may be required for work not included in the scope of this permit.This permit will expire and become null and void in accordance with the laws and rules that apply. Building and elevator pert-nits become null and void if the work is not started within 180 days from the issue date and will expire if the work is suspended or abandoned for period of 180 days any time after the work has commenced (see Minnesota Rule 1300.0120). Electrical permits with an inspection fee of$250 or less expire and become void 12 months from the issue date(see Minnesota Rule 3801.3780). High pressure piping annual permits are valid only within the calendar year they are issued(see Minnesota Rule 5231.0040). https://secure.doli.state.mn.us/Ftrakit2/Permit MN.aspx?permitNo=ELEI')05-00811 53/2013 K 6T :9 F"! CC Sign, co cc�-o Cj) 5 t� PL45 <L: 0 3 Z 9j g. a b.; A—cc.Tice rL LU 0 I I z wu .011 1.2 t q1v 1 11 gi E ul S8 amt w � Iwo IdY 1 w 0 i .2i z A :M; I A I .............— ...........................— ........... 0 jl� UZ, < t f z z uj lo Uj z u 0 6002"Oposoo-, w z Lu ui d a -ie 3nN3AV H 4 114Vd j )Z co F,; A9 y, zpJ 5C 4�d 1-4 'elf lit! < z r U Ai gg- a 33107 Serigraphics Sign Systems, Inc. 2401 Nevada Avenue No. Golden Valley,MN 55427-3611 Ph: 763-277-7774 Fax: 763-277-7775 Email: info@serigraphicssign.com Bill To:. Soderberg Apartments Specialist Ship To: Granite Shores 6401 Camden Ave. North 633 Mainstreet Minneapolis, MN 55430 Elk River, MN 55330 Attn: Mike Tempel Attn: Mike Tempel Phone: 612-703-8874 Phone: 612-703-8874 Fax: Fax: Project; Granite Shores Monument Quote Date: 2/2212013 PO#. Sales ID: EA Ship Via: Install Est.Delivery: 10-12 Wks A FOB: Destination Terms: Item Qty Description Unit Price Ext.Price I I CS S/F Custom Monument sign with EMC to be 84"x120"- 198 in x 173 in $60,000.00 $60,000-00 x 24 in I Side(s), Sq Corners Sq Edges I Color(s), Sign Type X 2 1 Misc. Project Mangement $2,250.00 $2,250.00 3 1 Misc. Engineering of Sign-DEDUCTED DESIGN OF $1,200.00 $1,200.00 MONUMENT 4 1 INSTALL Deliver and Install Signs Visit Job Site&Survey Work $9,500.00 $9,500.00 Install All Signs 5 1 PERMITS+Filing Fees $1,000.00 $1,000.00 Subtotal: $73,950.00 6.67% Tax: $4,930.99 Quote Total: $78,880.99 Accepted By This is an offer to furnish the products above under Serigraphics standard terms and Conditions.Purchase orders or contracts resulting from this proposal must Company Date reflect acceptance of our terms.Contact Serigraphics for clarification. Note:This order may be subject to additional tax and Thank you for the opportunity to submit this proposal. shipping charges.Please supply your tax exempt certificate number. Sincerely: Eric Anderson, Quotation 33107, Page 1 of 1 fl m 4 3 f � i LU a _ °m U C O� r— V 4.O an w min t; N " N C ic: Z o - o Qj 3 # a z � o E ° ° o ( - lv-�t L -P F Q O O O O `�� '4 0 4 ,n Q .... E OO..- O O O Z� O ; i" u 4 O O �u a crop ,gg a zi g �d �C fix_ v1 F n zO K � r .., \L .:L 3 f W f - 06101 W i/ 'E� l: m Q \�a IF all J z t r i yfy ; w", N AA a<il 320,111 � � I !33 i' 1 U' W Yy sJ"f�: Mxry "•�N. .: rvr 5'�y�i{9 1 � 4 M aY. ^\LJr d: /. Jq}��\ � . C v\��>\{ � . ?��<\�\ ° \��t2: »C y � °/,\ �\�\ »?� �� �\,�+\ »iƒ>�, ���/% \\�\\\«\S��a� . � /� \\�? � . 4 f<.�d 2`\1 � .� �3:�/��ƒ � . . al«g� » � :�\��� l 1 i �. �; f �j�l'll',, � II > �. § . y§ y\y . � �ƒ ` \`:§ . . . �. 9t � �/,:% 2 :��» . � ����� /� \ � � . > �\ . \ƒ) ^ � \ \\ � , . � � � § ` � « t -�---, i-—» i f�� �k E 4 . _ '� �; �. �� �x 3 r '�� �.§ � �,_ I 1 �= x i �-' f� �� /�'; ��� y 3 Cam. $ � 3£€£ nt fit- 'a A�...� � # ��� ��r i t �s. ':+. tl 3 y ';w \� 5 �� E !��� ��i r- �------�--..., `� } a` _ __ ...�.�s-- _._.�.��..�. i r <��3 , X1,1 n # "� ..� � �.�� .w�..�..�_._.___ �,_...__�.__s._._.._.�..,_...� g7 k 1 �..�. �,.� �.. --- �; � , �f �� � ;� i ;� I 1� � 1 � �p� 1 '�°.-,a � .. 1 Definitions Sign,freestanding, means any sign not attached to a principal or accessory building. Sign, monument, means a freestanding sign supported by an internal structural framework covered by solid structural feature such that the support structure is not visible. The solid structural feature shall be at least 75 percent of the sign width. Leeseberg, Chris From: Barnhart,Jeremy Sent: Wednesday,July 03, 2013 8:12 AM To: Leeseberg,Chris Subject: FW:June Rivers Edge Minutes - Letter for Granite Shores Sign Attachments: G shores E sign 005.JPG;Attached Message Part; LCD display design 2 jpg; Attached Message Part; Narrative- support from city plans.docx;Attached Message Part; GC sign support letter.docx;Attached Message Part; GC- Appeal of Zoning decision Narrative 5-20-13.docx;Attached Message Part n7l Best regards, Jeremy Barnhart, AICP Community Operations and Development-Deputy Director 763.635.1034 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River I MN ( 55330 INATUREJ P � t' t � t1 � t l�kl jv�r From: Wilfahrt, Clay Sent: Wednesday, July 03, 2013 8:03 AM To: Barnhart, Jeremy Subject: FW: June Rivers Edge Minutes - Letter for Granite Shores Sign FYI Clay Wilfahrt 3 Assistant Director of Economic Development 763.635.1041 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway I Elk River I MN 55330 . j` Elk 'River IbMtUptl From: wendy simenson [mailto:simen003Cclumn.edu] Sent: Tuesday, July 02, 2013 10:24 PM Subject: June Rivers Edge Minutes - Letter for Granite Shores Sign -------- Original Message -------- Subject:Sign: Granite Shores vs. City of Elk River Date:Tue, 2 Jul 2013 19:03:12 -0500 From:Tim Dolan<timndecklanrrou .com> To:Wendy Simenson<simen003�a?umn.edu> i CC:annie(didecklangroup.com Wendy, Could you please forward on this email to our Rivers Edge members? I would certainly appreciate it! Thanks in advance! -Tim Dear Rivers Edge Businesses, Below are the final and most recent documents related to the Granite Shores sign per our discussion at the last Rivers Edge meeting. The narrative and support from city plans describes exactly what Granite Shores is proposing to do. We met with staff early on to gauge their input on design, etc., and attached are the resulting sketches of the proposed sign. Granite Shores wants to promote not only their available space and businesses within their building, but all community events which occur downtown(Concerts, Farmer's Market, Kidstock, ArtSoup, etc.), and our downtown as a DESTINATION for all Hwy 10 traffic. We applied for a sign permit, and it was denied based upon city staff s interpretation of the ordinance which says "monument" signs are not allowed. Our proposed sign is not a "monument" sign, rather it is a "freestanding" sign. Because freestanding signs are not addressed in the downtown portion of the zoning ordinance, we feel that our sign falls within the city's ordinance as it is written. In that spirit we are appealing their decision. To go through this process, our appeal will be heard by the Board of Adjustments on Tuesday, July 9th in the City Council Chambers. If the BOA overturns staffs decision, we will apply for a Conditional Use Permit to allow for the size of the electronic portion of the sign. If the BOA agrees with staff, and denies the sign permit, it automatically goes in front of the City Council for review on July 15th at 6:30 in in the Council Chambers. I am hoping ALL downtown businesses are in support of the sign- this sign will not only draw attention,traffic and people to the downtown, it will promote all of the events sponsored by our association, at no additional cost to us or the public (seeing as the sign will be 100%privately funded and operated). This sign is design with the same architecture and design standards as Rivers Edge Commons Park and in no way detracts from our downtown's character. Many voices heard together as one can make the difference! I do not believe we will find another business or organization willing to foot the bill for an amazing downtown sign like this anytime in the near future. 2 If you are in support, I would appreciate if you would print the attached support letter on your business letterhead and return it to me, or let me know and I will pick it up. Also, you, or any other employee is invited to attend the Board of Adjustments meeting on Tuesday. July 9th. The meeting will be at 6:30pm in the Elk River City Council Chambers. You don't have to speak in support, simply your attendance is enough. If you have any questions, I'd be more than happy to meet with you to discuss further. Thank you everyone! Respectfully, Tim Dolan Decklan Group 320-217-9025 Sent from my Whone 3 t�I Ii ELK kIVRAREA June 18, 2013 Chamber of Commerce J0L - 2 2013 City of Elk River POWERING THE NATURE OF BUSINESS 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 City Council Members: Over the past 18 months, the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce has extensively studied the current City of Elk River sign ordinance. Our concerns about the sign ordinance include the following: • Some inconsistencies due to updates over the years that may not have filtered throughout the entire ordinance making it difficult to understand and more difficult to enforce. • Numerous requests for variances and conditional use permits suggest that the sign ordinance needs modifications so that there are fewer exceptions to the rules needed to conduct business • New technologies have changed the landscape of signage and the current ordinance needs updating especially around the use of digital (changeable-copy) signs Our recommendations have been forwarded to City staff, Jeremy Barnhart and Cal Portner. It is our understanding that staff is working on its review of the City's sign ordinance this summer with help of their new intern. We are anxiously awaiting their results. Recently we have been approached to recommend support of the proposed sign request from Granite Shores. The sign that Granite Shores is requesting fits with our recommended changes to the current sign ordinance which indicates that "pylon, monument or free standing signs should be allowed in the downtown district for multi-tenant buildings". The purpose of signage is to help identify businesses for customers and vendors both current and prospective. In a multi-tenant building it is often difficult to identify which businesses are present. For this reason we believe it is in the best interest of continued economic development and general business promotion to allow signage that is easy to find and that identifies the tenants of the building to the public. We believe that the request from Granite Shores accomplishes this objective. This recommendation is supported by the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Sincerely, Ben Bauman Board Chair Cc: Annie Deckert, Decklan Group Jim Soderberg, Granite Shores Jeremy Barnhart, City of Elk River Cal Portner, City of Elk River ELK RVER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 509 HIGHWAY 10 ELK RQIVER MN 55330 WWW.ELKRIVEKCHAMBER.ORG VOICE(763)441-3110 FAX (763)441-3409 ERACC @ELKRIVERCHAMBER,ORG DECKLAN 0 0 G R 0 ij p 612-564.0795 c,4fice w-w Cle6dangroup.com ...........--....... ......... ............ ...... ...... March 20,2013 City Of Elk River A7TN:Chris Leeseberg 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River,MN 55330 RE:Granite Shores, Dear Mr. Lee-seberg, This letter seines to notify You that Decklan Group has entered into a contract with Jim Soderberg, President Of Soderberg Apartment Specialists and owner of Granite Shores,633 Main Street,Elk River, MN 55330 to work On their behalf for the f0HOWing applicetions: • Permanent Sign Application • Conditional Use Permit • Appeal Of Zoning Decision If You have any questions,please contact me at 612-564-0795,or email me at anriieC� l�L arm coin. Respecuuily, Annie B. Decked President Jim e r be rg Decklan Group s Pre dent de de e era rberg A artment Specialists .......... DECKICIAN * % * :. I. - i" Elk Request for Action R.iVer To Item Number Board of Adjustment 14.1 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Board of Adjustment August 13,2013 Chris Leeseber ,Park Planner-Planner Item Description Reviewed by Consider Appeal Request by Decklan Jere m Barnhart,Deputy Director, CODD Group/Granite Shores regarding the interpretation Reviewed by of sign regulations for free-standing sign in DD district 633 Main St), Case No. V 13-04 Action Requested Staff recommends denial of the appeal that would allow a new freestanding sign in the Downtown District (DD) based on Sections 30-872 and 30-860, for the following reasons: 1. Freestanding and monument signs are not listed as allowed signs in the Downtown District Section 30-872. 2. Section 30-872 is the more specific ordinance and,pursuant to Section 30-860(e),prevails over the general regulations in Section 30-866. 3. There are no performance standards in Section 30-872 for free-standing or monument signs. Background/Discussion Planning Commission (7-9-2013) Per the Board of Adjustments (BOA) request to clarify what the ordinance says, staff had a phone conversation with the city attorney regarding the applicant's interpretation of the ordinance. The city attorney then drafted a memo, regarding his position on the applicant's interpretation,which states that freestanding and monument signs are not allowed in the downtown district. The memo also provided a recommendation to the City Council,which is, "...if the Council believes that the proposed sign type should be allowed,the appropriate approach would be to amend Section 30-872 of the Zoning Ordinance to specifically allow free-standing and/or monument signs and to establish performance standards for such signs." Staff contacted the applicant on July 31,2013 to inform them city staff had contacted the city attorney, as desired by the BOA, and that city staff had received a memo on the attorney's position. City staff asked the applicant if they wanted to meet and provided them a copy of the memo. Their response is attached. Public Hearing There was a great deal of information and reasoning the applicant provided the BOA to support why they believe staff is in err with their determination. The following is a review of that information and reasoning. The applicant indicated that six different types of freestanding signs are identified as allowed in Sec. 30- 866 for the Downtown District (DD) and that this is an overarching set of sign ordinances that applies to P 0 • 1 A E a I T all districts, therefore, there proposed sign is permitted. Of the six signs that are listed, five are specific sign types,with two of those having time limits to be erected. None of the six just list a freestanding sign as a sign type. The city attorney does not agree, as indicated is his memo dated July 30,2013. In summary,it states Section 30-872 is the more specific ordinance and,pursuant to Section 30-860(e), prevails over the general regulations in Section 30-866 and there are no performance standards in Section 30-872 for free-standing or monument signs. The applicant raised a point to staff s second reason for denial, that there are no regulations for the size, height, and setbacks in the DD (Sec. 30-872). The applicant cited Sec. 30-867 as clearly defining the setbacks (which it does) and that the size and height would be regulated by a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) at the City Council level. The Council may only review a CUP for uses allowed as conditional uses per city ordinance. The only reason the proposed sign would be considered for a CUP is that the changeable copy exceeds 30 square feet. There are no performance standards for free-standing or monument signs in Sec. 30-872 to regulate that sign type. The applicant cited a portion of Section 30-852 (a)...to recognise the commercial communication requirements of all sectors of the business community, to encourage the innovative use of design, to promote both renovation and proper maintenance, to allow for pecial circumstances and to guarantee equal treatment under the lase...and stated city staff is accomplishing zero of those things with denial. The applicant stated the sign utilizes emerging and innovative technology. The applicant did not indicate what those technologies were,but staff guessed they were referring to the use of LED lighting that is commonplace in signs now. Regardless,that text is not to be applied that a new technology is exempt from written city code,it merely establishes the purpose of the ordinance in general terms,which the more define criteria are derived. Referencing the special circumstances, the applicant declared we can all agree that Granite Shores is a special circumstance. Staff does not agree that a mixed use building in a downtown district is a special circumstance,in fact, that it is common building type in an urban fabric. If there are special circumstances on or with any property, the variance process is intended to address those circumstances. The applicant discussed that the proposed sign is designed the same as the Rivers Edge Commons Park and related this to the guarantee equal treatment under the lase. Staff believes they were trying to compare what the city did with its kiosk in Rivers Edge Commons Park and what they are proposing for signage. The applicant maintains the park kiosk has zero effect on anyone's job and zero effect on anybody's income and the city does not have to follow the same rules as the businesses downtown,which they felt is kind of"shoddy". The park kiosk advertises civic events that bring people downtown the same as the proposed sign would advertise (10% of the time) civic events that bring people downtown. Per City Attorney Beck, the Rivers Edge Commons Park sign/kiosk is an official government sign which is exempt from this subdivision. Staff did not base its denial on Section 30-852 (a). The applicant said that there are 15 freestanding signs in downtown and the majority were up prior to the 2002 adoption of the DT ordinance. Staff only identified nine freestanding signs in the downtown district,with three of those on one property. The applicant also noted there are two "freestanding signs" at a downtown business. As a follow up to this point raised by the applicant, staff verified the type, location and approval of those two signs. As no permits were issued, these signs are thought to be portable "A-frame" signs. Although the DD zoning allows portable "A-frame" signs, these signs do not meet the ordinance requirements. They are too large and they can only have one. Staff did contact the NADepartments\Community Development\Planning\Case Files\V\V 13-04 Granite Shores\V 13-04_staff report granite shore decklan group 8-13- 13.docx business in question to let them know they need to remove one of the signs and make the other smaller. Staff did also review all of the businesses in the DD area and notified six other businesses in the district that they have sign violations based on the complaint. The applicant has stated that the sign has nearly unanimous support from the business community which it directly impacts. It appears to have great support,which is admirable,but the sign cannot advertise any off site businesses, so it is not clear how it will directly impact the downtown businesses. The applicant also states that essentially what they are looking for is a modified sign under 30-866 (9);One on premises, permanent identification sign per apartment or condominium complex. Their building permit application for the sign does not indicate this,it references both freestanding and monument. They claim the proposed sign is an allowed freestanding sign which is just going outside of the parameters of the16 square foot area and above the height of 8 foot limit. They believe what they are proposing is an allowed use,it is just bigger than what is stated,which is what triggers the CUP, so they are looking to modify that with a CUP at the Council level. Again, the only reason the proposed sign would be considered for a CUP is that the changeable copy exceeds 30 square feet. If they want to exceed performance standards, they would have to apply for a variance,not a CUP. If the sign is being proposed as a permanent identification sign per apartment or condominium complex, then it cannot advertise any of the retail/commercial businesses on site, as they are proposing. The BOA asked for clarification on flashing elements,which is prohibited by Sec. 30-872(b)(1). The applicant indicated the sign will not have flashing elements,but will have scrolling messages and it will be no different than the LED billboards you see on the highway. It is important to note that the appropriateness of this type of signage in rural highway settings is still being debated. Any type of internally lit or changeable copy signage outside the window of residential properties is expected to create adverse living conditions. Because it was asked if freestanding signs were overlooked or missed in the past, staff provided information on the history of the definitions. When the DD was created in 2003,monument, freestanding, and pylon were blanket terms at the time which covered all freestanding signs types and were used interchangeably. The applicants sign permit uses both terms to describe the project. In 2010 the city separately defined freestanding and monument signs to promote the use of monument signs by the business community. In doing so, freestanding signs were overlooked in the DD. The applicant said if the city is going to come back and say we meant to say this,we meant to say that, that leaves them (applicant) on"a little unfair ground". Staff clarified that the info was provided because there was confusion if freestanding signs were overlooked in the past. The applicant claims there are two properties where the proposed sign could be built in DD. Exhibit B shows the numerous locations that freestanding signs,if allowed, could be located in the DD. This exhibit,with the exception of one area, does not include any parking lot areas which easily could be used for freestanding signage,increasing the area freestanding signs could be located. The BOA asked staff why not pursue an ordinance amendment? Staff suggested it,but the applicant decided to go with the appeal. The applicant stated the reason they went with the route of an appeal is they felt it was not truly addressed, they felt working with staff on design cues maybe staff could amend the ordinance later on. One commissioner stated he was in favor of the sign,as it is a good idea because it promotes the businesses. Again,if the sign is to be a freestanding sign,it cannot advertise anything off premise. If the N:\Departments\Community Development\Planning\Case Files\V\V 13-04 Granite Shores\V 13-04—staff report granite shore decldan group 8-13- 13.docx sign is to be an identification sign for the apartment or condominium complex, as the applicant indicated at the meeting that is what they are asking for, then it cannot advertise anything off premise nor can it advertise any of the retail/commercial businesses on site. Further,it is not a question if a sign is a good idea, the question is did staff incorrectly apply the ordinance to a building permit application. If a sign is simply a `good idea', then the Commission should deny the appeal and recommend the Council adopt an ordinance amendment to allow signs in the downtown district,with appropriate standards and criteria. Two other people spoke in favor of the sign in downtown. There was discussion by the Commission if they should move the request on to the Council with a denial or to postpone it to receive more information. The applicant stated they would rather have it postponed a month for the BOA to make the right decision versus sending it to the city council with a denial. The BOA postponed their action until the August BOA meeting. At the time this memo and attachments was processed for the BOA, the applicant indicated there was not anything they need added to the packet for the BOA to review. Financial Impact None Attachments • City Attorney Memo dated July 30,2013 • 2013 Email from the applicant dated July 31,2013 • 2013 Email from the applicant dated August 7,2013 • Freestanding sign locations in DT exhibit • Possible freestanding sign locations in DT exhibit N:\Departments\Community Development\Planning\Case riles\V\V 13-04 Granite Shores\V 13-04—staff report granite shore decklan group 8-13- 13.docx MEMORANDUM To: Jeremy Barnhart From: Peter K. Beck Date: July 30, 2013 Re: Granite Shores Sign Appeal This Memorandum is to follow up on our recent conversations regarding the appeal filed by the owner of Granite Shores from the Planning Staff interpretation that free-standing signs are not allowed in the Downtown Development District. It is my understanding that the property owner's position is that, because free-standing signs are not expressly prohibited by Section 30-872 of the Zoning Ordinance,they are permitted by Section 30-866. I do not agree. Section 30-860(e) of the Zoning Ordinance provides, in part, that "In all applications, where a matter of interpretation arises, the more specific definition or higher standard shall prevail." Section 30-866 sets forth sign regulations applicable in all zoning districts. Section 30-872 sets forth sign regulations for the Downtown Development District. Section 30-872 is the more specific ordinance and, pursuant to Section 30-860(e), prevails over the general regulations in Section 30-866. Furthermore, Section 30-872, although it does not use the term "free-standing" sign, clearly intends to prohibit such signs. Section 30-872(b)(12) states that "monument" signs shall not be allowed. It is my understanding this language was adopted before the Zoning Ordinance included a definition of "free-standing" sign. Furthermore, Section 30-872 includes specific performance standards for all allowable signs in the Downtown Development District. There are no such standards in Section 30-872 for free-standing or monument signs. The clear intent of Section 30-872 is to prohibit what are now defined by the Zoning Ordinance as free-standing signs. This analysis is not intended to take a position one way or the other on whether the sign proposed for the Granite Shores property is appropriate. My conclusion is simply that it is not allowed under the current Zoning Ordinance. If the City Council believes the proposed sign should be allowed, the appropriate approach would be to amend Section 30-872 of the Zoning Ordinance to specifically allow free-standing and/or monument signs and to establish performance standards for such signs. Please let me know if you have any questions. cc: Chris Leeseberg 6W 17.DOCX Leeseberg, Chris From: Tim Dolan <tim @decklangroup.com> Sent: Wednesday,July 31, 2013 11:35 AM To: Leeseberg, Chris Cc: Annie Deckert; Carlton,Zachary Subject: Re:7-25-13 letter re: BOA Granite Shores sign Chris, Thank you for forwarding us the City Attorney's memo. At this time, Decklan Group and our client do not feel that there is anything to be gained by meeting, unless City Staff has decided to support this project. Please let us know if Staff has any new and supporting ideas it would like to meet about. If there are none,we look forward to addressing your attorney's memo and the continued fallibility of City Staffs interpretation and position in a public forum at the August 13th Board of Adjustments meeting. We appreciate your cooperation in providing the requested documents. Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns. Have a great day! Thn Dolan - Executive VP ww(w.decklangrogup.c¢om El ____ On Wed, Jul 31, 2013 at 11:13 AM, Leeseberg, Chris<CLeeseberg_aelkrivermn.g_ov>wrote: Your welcome. Let me know if you want to meet. Chris Leeseberg I Park Planner-Planner 763.635.1033 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway I Elk River I MN 155330 pigtail From: Annie Deckert [mai Ito:annie(&decklangroup.com] Sent: Wednesday,July 31, 2013 10:09 AM i To: Leeseberg, Chris Cc: Tim Dolan; Carlton, Zachary Subject: Re: 7-25-13 letter re: BOA Granite Shores sign Thank you On Wed, Jul 31, 2013 at 9:50 AM,Leeseberg, Chris <CLeeseberg_(a)elkrivermn.gov>wrote: Annie, Certainly, here it is. Thank you. Chris Leeseberg I Park Planner-Planner 763.635.1033 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway I Elk River I MN 155330 t. VfatI BT t\ deli; to INA From: Annie Deckert [mai Ito:annieCabdecklanyroup.com] Sent: Wednesday,July 31, 2013 9:42 AM To: Leeseberg, Chris Cc:Tim Dolan; Carlton, Zachary Subject: Re: 7-25-13 letter re: BOA Granite Shores sign Hi Chris, Please send me the draft first and I will let you know if we want to meet to discuss after we review his position. 2 Thank you On Wed, Jul 31, 2013 at 9:34 AM, Leeseberg, Chris <CLeesebergr&elkriyermn.goy>wrote: Annie, Good morning. We spoke with our attorney via phone and he has since send us a draft memo regarding his position. Would you want to meet to discuss his position? I am available both Thursday and Friday mornings this week. Please let me know if you want to meet and if either of those times works for you or other times that would. Thank You. Chris Leeseberg J Park Planner-Planner 763.635.1033 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River I MN 155330 E 1. , , NATUR �er Leeseberg, Chris From: Tim Dolan <tim @decklangroup.com> Sent: Wednesday,August 07, 2013 10:15 AU To: Leeseberg, Chris Subject: Re: Board of Adjustment Packet Chris, I don't believe there is anything we need added to the packet. Will Peter Beck be at the meeting? Respectfully, On Wed,Aug 7, 2013 at 10:06 AM, Leeseberg, Chris<CLeeseberg_&elkrivermn.gov>wrote: Annie or Tim, Do you want anything included in the packet for the Board of Adjustment to have to review prior to the meeting on August 13? If so,please provide me anything you want included by 12:00 pm tomorrow(8/8). Thank You. Chris Leeseberg I Park Planner-Planner 763.635,1033 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River( MN 55330 NATURE V ^W` W bLo r _ •Q c -,IF 7 *t hs sop' aw r � s f ✓` f 060 E � � � w F- 0 0 .5 0 4-j � - - m 0 . . Q � � ■ b6o » \ \ CL '4-A -�\- � / «} ■ . # zj . two"■ .\ \ ` \` P■ � IMP, �. - � , , • y\, - � © � ■ - Leeseberg, Chris From: Annie Deckert <annie @decklangroup.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 14, 2013 10:03 AM To: Leeseberg, Chris Cc: Tim Dolan (tim @decklangroup.com); Barnhart, Jeremy Subject: Re: Council Meeting Hi Chris, Please include all of the documents which were included in and provided to the BOA at the first meeting (letters of support, supporting information from City documents/plans, etc.). Thank you. Annie On Wed, Aug 14, 2013 at 8:24 AM, Leeseberg, Chris <CLeeseberggelkrivermn.gov>wrote: Annie, If you have any information you want the City Council to review prior to the August 191h meeting,please provide me the information to include in the Council packet by 3:00 pm today August 14`h Thank You. Chris Leeseberg I Park Planner-Planner 763.635.1033 w 1763.635.1090 f 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River MN 55330 EIL4k"'M� N River 1 Granite Shores Permanent Sign Application Background of Granite Shores On April 30, 2012,Jim Soderberg, president of Soderberg Apartment Specialists of Brooklyn Center, closed on the purchase of Granite Shores. Granite Shores is a four story mixed use building in downtown Elk River which has over 10,000 square feet of commercial space on the first floor, and 67 residential apartment units which encompass the top three fours of the building. These luxury apartments are complete with granite counters with oversized slabs, stainless steel appliances, stylish track lighting, washer and dryer in unit, heated underground parking and much more. Formally known as The Bluffs, this project went through foreclosure in 2006 and was acquired by MinnWest Bank. Only a handful of the 67 apartments units were completed, and for the most part, the building sat empty for several years until it was purchased by Soderberg Apartment Specialists. Since the purchase, all the apartment units have been completed, and Soderberg has been aggressive in his attempt to fill the commercial space. The residential portion of the building is 100% occupied. Soderberg Apartment Specialists is an active member in the Downtown River's Edge Business Association, not only supporting local businesses and community events, but worked with the Elk River Area Arts Alliance to find them a permanent home in Granite Shores. The community room in Granite Shores is often utilized (free of charge) by community organizations, included, but not limited to the Downtown River's Edge Business Association and Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce. Since their arrival in Elk River, Soderberg Apartment Specialists have quickly become active in the downtown and greater Elk River community, continuing to lend time and capital to projects which benefit downtown businesses and the community at large. Purpose of Sign Being located in close proximity and US HWY 10, Soderberg is proposing to construct an electronic message board free standing sign in downtown Elk River to not only advertise his commercial space, but to draw attention to beautiful downtown Elk River. Once constructed, Soderberg will donate up to 20% of the sign to be used to advertise downtown community events. These events include, but are not limited to: • Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, sponsored by The Bank of Elk River • All Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park) • Farmer's Market, sponsored by The Bank of Elk River • Elk River Area Arts Alliance ArtSoup event • Elk River Area Arts Alliance Annual Art Crawl • Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales • Downtown River's Edge Santa in the Park • Downtown River's Edge Trick-or-Treat in the Park • Downtown River's Edge Pumpkin Roll • McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER Because the electronic portion of the freestanding sign is larger than 30 square feet, a conditional use permit (CUP) is required by the city. We will begin this process once the appeal of zoning decision process is finished. Support for Sign Recent MNDOT studies funded by the city have shown that future transportation changes will have a major impact on the downtown, specifically, the accesses to the downtown will decrease, which makes it imperative that promotion and awareness for downtown Elk River is maximized. In fact, the Mississippi Connections Redevelopment Framework Plan states "the downtown area of Elk River is the oldest part of the city and has long been considered the heart of the city. This area, the businesses in particular, have seen shopping patterns change, impacting the successes of their businesses. Further, the downtown businesses...will be impacted by expected changes to Highway 10...unaddressed; these changes can be devastating to fragile neighborhoods and businesses that are important to the Community of Elk River". Permitting the construction of the sign will assist in promoting the future viability of the community. City Investment The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following: • numerous TIF districts • reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.) • River's Edge Commons Park • Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. In addition, permitting the sign will support endless goals and objectives outlined in multiple plans approved by the City of Elk River: Mississippi Connections Redevelopment Framework Plan This plan was finalized by staff in late 2012 to develop a plan to redefine downtown Elk River and promote future viability of the Elk River Community and intended to provide guidance to property owners, stakeholders and community leadership to position the area in such a way that strengthens the area to survive the impacts of time and change, methods to re-establish the downtown area as a destination and desirable area to do business. Additionally, the purpose of this plan was to encourage private re-investment and "enhancing opportunities for connections with the community". Permitting the proposed sign will help achieve the philosophy as outlined on the Executive Summary of the plan (pages 2-3) as outlined below. The philosophy points are listed in bold, with supporting italicized comments below each goal. 20 Year Vision- ...framework is designed by necessity to have a long term horizon for completion...however, should not serve as deterrence to starting the plan or waiting for ideal market conditions. Working hard in the first three years to establish momentum and excitement will serve to propel the vision forward with commitment and conviction. A community sign will assist in establishing momentum and excitement for the downtown and will serve to propel the vision forward with commitment and conviction. Redefine- ...the intent of the framework is to respond to time and market changes that have already occurred, and to redefine a context for present and future development/redevelopment opportunities, offering guidance and opportunity for the area to survive these changes, many of which establish a development pattern much different from what the area was formed under...redefine becomes both the vision and the intrinsic value of recognizing the need for careful and guided change. A community sign will not only respond to the changes that have already occurred(Granite Shores), but will assist the entire downtown in strengthening their survival with the future changes of US HWY 101169. As indicated in the philosophy, this will establish a development pattern much different than what the area was formed under, therefore, the proposed sign in front of a building built in 2004 is not having a negative impact on any perceived history of the downtown. The sign will assist in re-defining the greater downtown area by recognizing the need for additional business and community event and support to continue to draw people to the downtown. Core Downtown- the plan attempts to provide opportunities to draw people to the core downtown through festivals, markets, music events to promote the core as a destination, a characterization that will be more and more important as travel patterns evolve away from the direct access currently employed. A sign displaying community event information located mere feet from the intersection of US HWY 101169 and Main Street Elk River, and at the entrance of downtown Elk River, constructed of complementing building materials will welcome those when they enter not only downtown Elk River, but the city in its entirety. Additionally, the sign provides the opportunity to promote all downtown events, in turn, promoting the core as a destination, which is defined verbatim as a core philosophy of the downtown plan. Commitment to Implement- no redevelopment framework has value until commitment to implement is agreed upon Approved by the City Council and all other applicable parties in late 2012, this framework has value, and permitting the sign helps offset the total cost of public investment necessary to execute the plan and preserve and promote downtown Elk River. Additional supporting verbiage as pulled from the downtown plan: Characteristics of the Downtown • When asked; what the downtown should have but doesn't', task force members responded that the downtown should have informative signing. • When asked 'how do you know you're downtown', task force members indicated 'signage' as a response. • When asked 'what does downtown mean to you', task force members responded a 'balance of old and new' as a response. Goals of the Plan- Maximize long term public investments within the study area by encouraging significant amount of private investment in a way that benefits the community as a whole. The community sign represents significant private investment that benefits the community as a whole through the promotion of downtown, downtown businesses and community events. Elk River Vision and Goals Various staff members participated in a two-day visioning seminar in September of 2010 which resulted in setting a vision and four supporting goals for Elk River. These were approved by the City Council in October of 2010 and have subsequently been updated by staff to highlight key initiatives to be completed or reviewed. The vision and goals are utilized when constructing the budget and were utilized in the creation of the 2013 budget for Elk River. Permitting the proposed SIGN will help achieve three of the five goals as outlined below. The goal and definitions are listed in bold, with supporting italicized comments below each goal. Innovation- develop new programs and services to meet the needs of the community A community sign has been talked about over the years by staff- in fact, during a phone conversation with Mr. Barnhart and Ms. Deckert in February of 2013, Mr., Barnhart indicated the city had discussed the idea of having an electronic message board sign and would be open to the idea if someone was willing to build it for the city. This shows a need for this type of sign, permitting the sign would achieve developing a new service to meet the needs of the community. This sign would publicize and advertise all community events downtown. Community Development- enhance and expand and diversify public education and outreach A sign displaying community event information (a good portion of community events are held in downtown Elk River) will only enhance and diversify the city's current efforts to promote community events downtown Beautification- have attractive, welcoming streetscapes and city entrances and primary corridors, improve, revitalize, and invest in streetscaping along primary corridors and entrances A sign displaying community event information located mere feet from the intersection of US HWY 101169 and Main Street Elk River, and at the entrance of downtown Elk River, constructed of complementing building materials will welcome those when they enter not only downtown Elk River, but the city in its entirety. Per the MN Department of Transportation, in 2010, there were an average of 28,000 cars a day which crossed the intersection of Main Street and HWY 10, and an average of approximately 8,000 a day which crossed over Parish Avenue and Main Street in downtown Elk River. An attractive welcoming sign seen by that many people each day will bring awareness to the Elk River community, local businesses and community events, helping achieve the city's goal of investing along primary corridors and entrances to the city. Brand Implementation Plan Adopted in September of 2010, permitting the sign would assist in supporting/fulfilling the following as identified in Powered by Nature Brand Plan. Plan recommendations are bold and supporting text is italicized below. Champion Gateway Signage- during the branding process, it was observed and remarked upon that there was no sense of arrival in Elk River, and little, if any, attention to diverting traffic off the highways and into the downtown area- this is a poor economic development and marketing strategy given Elk River's opportunities and strategic location. Gateway signage creates a good first impression, signals arrival and raises curiosity among travelers; therefore it is recommended the city establish downtown arrival. The convergence of the highways at the turnoff into downtown Elk River must be optimized as a priority marketing and business opportunity. Seek collaboration to lobby for appropriate signage that helps driver's find their way into downtown Elk River. The proposed sign will clearly provide a sense of arrival into Elk River, and will divert traffic off highways into the downtown area, in addition to providing a good first impression. The proposed sign will clearly establish downtown arrival, and its proposed location is optimal, which takes advantage of this priority marketing and business opportunity and helps driver's find their way into downtown Elk River Elk River should consider a timed message during peak seasons when travelers go up north to maximize outbound marketing to non-residents A total of 20%of sign time will be devoted to messages about the Elk River Community. Downtown Elk River is the destination-focused center of community social life. While social living in Elk River is found in many places, the place where the community desires to congregate is the downtown- people speak of its role in an affectionate manner, but with mild disappointment (empty commercial space) The purchase of Granite Shores and no vacancy rate of the residential portion is helping to change this- the construction of the sign will draw light to the downtown and assist in filling the empty commercial space. Elk River's downtown serves as Elk River's sense of place and identity.This is, and should be, the center of Elk River's community voice. Proposed signage includes community brand, Powered by Nature 2013-2016 Economic Development Strategic Plan In September of 2012, the Elk River EDA authorized staff to utilize existing plan findings, recommendations and goals to create the 2013-2016 Economic Development Strategic Plan. Adopted in January 2013, permitting the SIGN would assist in supporting/fulfilling the following as identified in the Economic Development Strategic Plan. Goals/objectives are bold, with supporting italicized comments below each goal. Business Development- attract new businesses and support existing businesses to increase the city's industrial tax base, commercial base and employment base through the following strategies: • promote available sites, encourage business retention and expansion to grow existing commercial base with business recruitment and attraction techniques • diversify economic base to include a wide variety of retail and service industries, as well as fine dining opportunities The proposed sign will help promote the available commercial space in Granite shores, promote retaining and growing existing Elk River downtown businesses (commercial base) and in turn, diversify the economic base to include a wide variety of retail and service industries through the marketing of available space and community events-potential businesses will learn more about the community and the people generating activities downtown, therefore increasing the attractiveness of the available space. Community Brand- utilize community brand strategies to effect necessary changes to strengthen and enhance community image through the following strategies: • continue to implement and enhance marketing plan that reflects the Powered by Nature brand, identifies desired target market(s), and complements other local efforts to promote community internally and externally • maintain existing and build new community support for the Powered by Nature brand The proposed sign will enhance the marketing plan that reflects the Powered by Nature brand through the electronic messaging and permanent Powered by Nature verbiage on the SIGN. Additionally, the sign will help maintain existing and build new community support for the Powered by Nature brand through the brand awareness it will generate with those driving past the sign on Parrish Avenue, Main Street and US HWY 10. :318 J(,W s.0111 Ave NW ! 14;1 k River, Al \ 55P*30 7/2/2013 City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE:Proposed Sign-Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building,as well as businesses(within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr.Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20%of the time) to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons,all Elk River Parks&Recreation events(Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales,Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans(Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery,Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread,Sweet P's Candies&Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza(includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment,but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169,the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals,events,existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses,and support community events. This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, i•x Kacey Bottineau e� Add mind body one >'_; - 2. 13 City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign-Granite Shores Freestanding Sign 'To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20% of the time)to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales,Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169,the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events,existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events, in addition to promoting available vacant space downtown. This letter indicates my full support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Respectfully Represe ative Nick Zerwas, District 30A lot - lemNerWagm 612.741.1619 1 Jennifer @pikurlWc.com 708 Main St, Sufte IA I Mk River,MN 55= City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign- Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern: Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20% of the time) to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to, Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following;, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169, the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events, existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. -. G G -101 leWerftgner 612.741.1619 1 Jennifer @pikurflik.com 708 Main St.Suite IA ! Elk River,MN 55330 This letter indicates my FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, 'C_ J nnifer L Wag er Owner & President Pik ur Flik, Inc. Open Reel Media, Inc. lh www.pikurflik.com www.facebook-com/pikurflik City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign-Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg,owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20% of the time)to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery,Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169, the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events, existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign-Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20%of the time) to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales,Trick--or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies& Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169,the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events, existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, July L n 13 City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign-Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20%of the time)to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales,Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169, the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events, existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, Avalon Salon 706 Main Street NW Elk River,MN 55330 City of Elk River 763-441-4142 13065 Orono Parkway Avalonsalon.com Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign- Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20% of the time) to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to, Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169, the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events, existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 RE: Proposed Sign- Granite Shores Freestanding Sign To Whom It May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20%of the time) to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to, Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales,Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The City of Elk River has already invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which include, but are not limited to the following:, numerous TIF districts, reinvestment through Microloans (Nicole's Salon, Daddy-Os, Blue Egg Bakery, Waterfall Salon, Olde Main Eatery, Diamond City Bread, Sweet P's Candies & Ice Cream, Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, etc.), River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main Street Parking Plaza (includes acquisition/demolition of two buildings, and construction of new parking lot) . Not only has there been extensive public and private investment, but city staff, outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk River businesses have spent considerable time to ensure downtown Elk River thrives. Recent city studies have concluded that with recent and future changes to US HWY 10/169,the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals, events, existing and new businesses. -f lie proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign is going against all the time and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. It also gives the impression the City does not support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve. Thank you for your time. Sin , w al IL 14.9 ; 1�bl ELK k[VERAkEA June 18, 2013 Chamber of Commerce City of Elk River POWERING THE NATURE OF BUSINESS 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 City Council Members: Over the past 18 months, the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce has extensively studied the current City of Elk River sign ordinance. Our concerns about the sgn ordinance include the following: • Some inconsistencies due to updates over the years that may not have filtered throughout the entire ordinance making it difficult to understand and more difficult to enforce. • Numerous requests for variances and conditional use permits suggest that the sign ordinance needs modifications so that there are fewer exceptions to the rules needed to conduct business • New technologies have changed the landscape of signage and the current ordinance needs updating especially around the use of digital (changeable-copy) signs Our recommendations have been forwarded to City staff, Jeremy Barnhart and Cal Portner. It is our understanding that staff is working on its review of the City's sign ordinance this summer with help of their new intern. We are anxiously awaiting their results. Recently we have been approached to recommend support of the proposed sign request from Granite Shores. The sign that Granite Shores is requesting fits with our recommended changes to the current sign ordinance which indicates that "pylon, monument or free standing signs should be allowed in the downtown district for multi-tenant buildings". The purpose of signage is to help identify businesses for customers and vendors both current and prospective. In a multi-tenant building it is often difficult to identify which businesses are present. For this reason we believe it is in the best interest of continued economic development and general business promotion to allow signage that is easy to find and that identifies the tenants of the building to the public. We believe that the request from Granite Shores accomplishes this objective. This recommendation is supported by the Elk River Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Sincerely, Ben Bauman Board Chair Cc: Annie Deckert, Decklan Group Jim Soderberg, Granite Shores Jeremy Barnhart, City of Elk River Cal Portner, City of Elk River ELK RvER AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 509 HIGHWAY 10 ELK PAVER MN 55330 WWW,ELKRIVERCHAMBER ORG VOICE(763)441-3110 FAX (763)441-3409 ERACC(&ELKRIVERCHAMBER.ORG �� v /uvux"'`- - // / /'3 ��,y� rY / - Out '^ /' Center for Advanced Deiign 601 Main St, NW 8kRver MN 56330 C -D (612)24S-9694 9 July 2013 City'f Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River,MN 55330 RE:Proposed Skm'Granite Shores Freestanding Sign ro Whom n May Concern, Granite Shores is proposing uo construct nnelectronic message board sign|n front v|their building located-it a33 Main Street, Elk River MN, This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building,as well as businesses(within Granite Shores). In addition,Mr.Soderberg,owner of the Granite Shares property,is offering to utilize the sign(up to 20%of the time)to advertise community events downtown,including,but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons,all Elk River Parks&Recreation events(Chalk-lt-Up,Kid5tock,Movies in the Park),Farmer's Market., Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events,Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk,Sales,Trick-or-Treat and Santa In the Park and McCoys Annual St. Patrick's Day Sk for c4ER. The City of Elk River has alroady invested a considerable amount of time and money into downtown Elk River which Inclu de,but are not limited to the following:,numerous TIF districts,reinvestment through Microloans(Nicole's Solon,Daddy-Cis,Blue Egg Bakery,Waterfall Salon,0ue Main Eatery,Diamond City Dread,Sweet P's Candies m Ice Cream,Nicole's Salon Pompeii Pizzeria, atc.),River's Edge Commons Park and recently Main-Street Parking Plaza(includes acquisition/deniolition of two buildings,and construction n/new parking lot). Not only has there been extensive public and private investment,bUtCity Staff,outside consultants and businesses and downtown Elk river businesses have spent considerable firne to ensure downtown ElkRiver thrives,Recent city studies have concluded that with recentand future changes to US HWY 10/169,the downtown is in need of new ways to draw people to the core of downtown Elk River through festivals,events,existing and new businesses. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local business es,and support community ,,wny, This letter indicates my/our FULL support for this project. Denying this sign/u going against all the ti,nr and money the City has invested thus far into the downtown and various community plans throughout the years. x also gives the impression the City does riot support local business and has a negative impact on any pro-business atmosphere the City is trying to achieve, Thank you for your time, Sincerely, Marc McCauley ' < ' i i GRANITE SHORES ON THE BEAUTIFUL MISSISSIPPI i City of Elk River 13o65 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 i Elk River City Council Members: Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 2o% of the time)to advertise community events downtown, including,but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks &Recreation events(Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk Raver to patronize local businesses, and support community events. As a current resident of Granite Shores, I give my full support for the construction of this sign. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, 633 Main Street NW— Elk River, MN — 55330 — 763-441-1869 G.7RANITE SHORES ON THE BEAUTIFUL MISSISSIPPI City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 Elk River City Council Members: Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (lAithin Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 200 of the time) to advertise community events downtown, including, but not limited to,Thursday conceits in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks &Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Tricl�-or-Treat and Santa in The Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5'k for CAER. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local 0 businesses, and support community events. As a current resident of Granite Shores, I give in),full support for the construction of this sign. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, v 633 Main Street NW — Elk River, MN — 55330 — 763-441-1869 I I i GRANITE SHORES 1 ON THE BEAUTIFUL MISSISSIPPI 4 i i City of Elk River 13065 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 Elk River City Council Members: Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building,as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20% of the time)to advertise community events downtown, including,but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons,all Elk River Parks & Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. As a current resident of Granite Shores, I give my full support for the construction of this sign. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, a-W' szxo.r^iak 633 Main Street NW— Elk River, MN —55330 — 763-441-1869 GRANITE SHORES ON THE BEAUTIFUL MISSISSIPPI City of Elk River 13o65 Orono Parkway Elk River, MN 55330 Elk River City Council Members: Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building,as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 20% of the time)to advertise community events downtown,including,but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks&Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses,and support community events. As a current resident of Granite Shores, I give my full support for the construction of this sign. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, 633 Main Street NW— Elk River, MN — 55330 — 763-441-1869 i GRANITE SHORES ON THE BEAUTIFUL MISSISSIPPI City of Elk River 13o65 Orono Parkway EIk River, MN 55330 Elk River City Council Members: Granite Shores is proposing to construct an electronic message board sign in front of their building located at 633 Main Street, Elk River MN. This sign will be utilized to advertise available space in the building, as well as businesses (within Granite Shores). In addition, Mr. Soderberg, owner of the Granite Shores property, is offering to utilize the sign (up to 2o% of the time)to advertise community events downtown, including,but not limited to,Thursday concerts in River's Edge Commons, all Elk River Parks& Recreation events (Chalk-it-Up, Kidstock, Movies in the Park), Farmer's Market, Elk River Area Arts Alliance events, Reading Frenzy events, Downtown River's Edge Sidewalk Sales, Trick-or-Treat and Santa in the Park and McCoy's Annual St. Patrick's Day 5k for CAER. The proposed sign will assist in drawing people into downtown Elk River to patronize local businesses, and support community events. As a current resident of Granite Shores, I give my full support for the construction of this sign. Thank you for your time. Sincerely, 1417 - 633 Main Street NW— Elk River, MN—55330 — 763-44.1-1869