Now Let's Talk
About Signs
There has been so much press lately about the sign codes and business needs in the village and we think we should clarify a few things in that regard.
Our village code has always been very strict when it comes to signs and postings of all sorts in the village – not only in the commercial core but also in the residential area. Real estate signs are addressed for instance, as well as banners and signs for non-profit organizations. This careful attention to detail in our code is one of the reasons our village is considered one of the most beautiful in the country.
All signs are regulated because the residents want our village to maintain the beautiful esthetic that it has always had. In the business district for instance, if sandwich boards, neon window signs, and banners were to go unregulated, our village would soon look like Coney Island. Even the outdoor display of merchandise is regulated lest our sidewalks become impassible with racks of clothing, lawn mowers, or stacks of shoes lining the way.
When a merchant wishes to have a sign in their window or on the façade of their building they apply to our Design Review Board. That board, made up of village residents, examines the size, colors, lighting, and all other aspects of the proposal to determine if the sign meets the standards set forth. They work with the applicant to find a solution to any problems encountered.
If a merchant is not happy with the code as it applies to their circumstance, they can apply to the Zoning Board of Appeals for a variance for their particular need. Again, the Zoning Board is made up of village residents and determines whether or not a variance will be granted.
Through this process the application is viewed by many people who have an interest in how our village looks: the Code Enforcement Department, the Design Review Board, and the Zoning Board of Appeals. There is a process where someone can find relief if the code does not meet the special need they have and relief can be acquired.
We in the Elms party are far from anti-business. In fact, members of our party own both commercial property and businesses in the village. But since we also live here, we understand the important balance between commercial and residential needs and desires. Our goal is to do our best to attain that balance at all times.
Change can and does happen as needs change, and we are not opposed to making sure we move forward with the times. Our code is a living document which is often amended. It was only a few years ago we made the change to allow more potted plantings in front of our commercial properties in response to an inquiry from a property owner. But all change needs to be carefully considered and all voices need to be heard. That is always our goal. We hope all residents agree with that approach.
Jerry Larsen would like you to believe that we are not “business friendly” but that could not be farther from the truth. We work hard to solve problems that are brought to us by businesses and commercial property owners. We simply put our residents first, and we think that’s a good thing.
Please feel free to share this email with your friends and neighbors! We want all our residents to have a full understanding of the issues and vote carefully in this June’s election.
