For this project, the Sign Regulations permit a 32-square-foot sign and a 168-square-foot sign is proposed. The rendering portion of the sign meets the following definition of a sign:

“Any identification, description, illustration or device, illuminated or non-illuminated, which is visible from any public place or is located on private property and exposed to the

8 public and which directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business or solicitation, including any emblem, painting, numbers exceeding twelve (12) inches in height, placard or temporary sign designed to advertise, identify or convey information, with the exception of window displays and national flags.”

Susan noted that while staff acknowledges the creative approach taken by the applicant in providing visual interest to passersby during the time of construction, staff is of the opinion that the applicant has failed to demonstrate where practical difficulties exist in the application of the Sign Regulations and that a temporary construction sign could be feasibly constructed in conformance with the Sign Regulations and therefore, recommends denial as submitted.

Mark Winings asked what would be in the window during construction if this proposal is denied.

Louis Clayton indicated that either plain white butcher paper or the City provided decorative paper is acceptable.

Mr. Daniels commented that they are looking to generate “buzz” during construction.

Jim Liberman asked when they plan to open the new restaurant.

Mr. Daniels stated that they hope to open in August.

Sally Cohn asked what would constitute 32 square feet.

Mr. Daniels indicated the panes are 30” X either 53” (side) or 78” (middle).

Chairman Lichtenfeld asked if they could use the City provided paper and 32 square feet of “signage”.

Louis Clayton replied “yes”.

Chairman Lichtenfeld asked if that’s the case, what’s wrong with this sign.

Louis Clayton stated that the City provided paper is made available to all owners.

Susan Istenes stated that the intent is to tell people what’s coming; that in January, 2014, the Board approved “special event” signage to help business owners announce special events such as grand openings, special sales, etc. She stated that this proposed signage blends an opening sign with other information.

Jim Liberman stated that he likes the rendering, but including the architect and contractor makes it huge. He suggested putting all three names on one “panel”.

Jim Liberman stated that he likes the rendering, but including the architect and contractor makes it huge. He suggested putting all three names on one “panel”.

9

Mark Winings commented that this is far in excess of what’s allowed; however, aesthetically, this is preferable over the City provided paper or plain white paper.

Mr. Daniels commented that all previous businesses failed in this location.

Louis Clayton stated that each of the side panes is 10 square feet and each middle pane is 15 square feet.

A brief discussion regarding various options took place.

Mr. Daniels informed the members that the sign has already been made.

Kevin O’Keefe asked what the Board thought of confining only the text to 32 square feet.

Chairman Lichtenfeld stated that he would be fine with that.

Susan Istenes stated that the entire thing is considered signage.

Craig Owens asked if the City’s code was amended to include the use of City provided paper along with white plain paper for vacant storefronts.

Susan Istenes replied “no”.

Craig Owens questioned if this Board couldn’t classify this as an alternative to the butcher paper.

Susan Istenes stated that she fears that if we don’t apply the regulations, the City is opening the door for all sorts of requests and graphic designs.

Kevin O’Keefe stated that this promotes a Clayton restaurant and begs the question of “is this art or is this signage”? He asked where the line is drawn.

Craig Owens stated that he really likes this sign and that if it is a true reflection of what’s to come, then he thinks it should be permitted.

Jim Liberman asked if that’s the case, what’s to say there wouldn’t be a row of different renderings along the street.

Sally Cohn noted that each would have to be approved by this Board. She added that the City could use some creativity.

Jim Liberman nominated Steve Lichtenfeld as Chairman. The nomination was seconded by Josh Corson and unanimously approved.

11 Chairman Lichtenfeld nominated Jim Liberman to serve as Vice-chairman. The nomination was seconded by Mark Winings and unanimously approved.

Susan Istenes reminded the members of their joint meeting with the Board of Aldermen on the 24th at 6:15 p.m.

Being no further business this evening, the meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.

______________________________ Recording Secretary