Signs with “electronic changeable copy” must be monument signs, and only one “electronic changeable copy” sign may be placed on a particular property. These signs may only be placed on a property having at least 100’ of street frontage. The signs must be set back at least 15 feet from the public right-of-way and from any lot line. The sign must be oriented perpendicular to the nearest street. If they are located near a corner, they may be oriented diagonally to be visible from both streets. Size requirements are the same as other monument signs, but the electronic display can take up no more than 50% of the sign face. The minimum character height is 5 inches. The sign must display an entire message at one time, without scrolling or movement, and transitions between messages must be instantaneous. Each message must be displayed for at least 10 minutes before changing. Each message must be displayed with a single copy color, and the background must be non-illuminated.

The Safety Department has discretion to prohibit the use of specific colors (red, amber, or green) if the sign is located where those colors would cause confusion with a traffic signal or where it otherwise poses a risk to public safety.

Any “electronic changeable copy” sign must be turned off between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., unless a special use permit is granted to allow different hours of operation. The signs must include an automatic dimmer that detects ambient lighting levels and adjusts the display brightness accordingly. The maximum daytime brightness is 5,000 nits, and maximum nighttime brightness is 125 nits.

Mr. Jacques shared that when the Planning Commission heard the proposed changes, by a vote of 3-2, they recommended approval of the ordinance, with the condition that the following provisions of the draft were removed: Section 1201.06(C)(5), which permits electronic changeable copy to be used on certain monument signs; Section 1201.06(D), which sets forth regulations applicable to monument signs displaying electronic changeable copy; and Section 1201.06(F)(2), which requires all permanent signs to be constructed of non-combustible materials. The message from the Planning Commission was that a majority did not feel that the electronic changeable copy signs fit in Oakwood. Mr. Jacques noted that they were all in agreement with the removal of the non-combustible materials provision. City staff is in agreement with the removal of the non-combustible materials provision but not in agreement with the decision of electronic changeable copy signs. He then provided a code revision (or alternate exhibit) to City Council and members of the audience. He shared that the alternate exhibit is identical to the exhibit that was presented to the Planning Commission except for two changes: removal of the non-combustible material provision, and additional language to expand the “orientation” rules for electronic changeable copy signs. City staff is requesting approval of the draft ordinance, with the alternative exhibit.

Mayor Duncan asked City Council if they had any questions prior to opening the hearing to the public.

Mrs. Hilton asked when these changes would take effect if approved.

Mr. Jacques explained that the changes would take effect 30 days after approval, so it would be at the beginning of June. If someone has a legal sign now that would become illegal, or non-conforming, they would be able to keep the sign until it is replaced or destroyed. If it is a pole sign, it would have a ten year sunset provision.

Mr. Stephens clarified the following proposed restrictions for electronic copy signs: any sign illumination must be turned off between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.; each message must be displayed for at least ten minutes before changing; and each message must be displayed with a single copy color with the background non-illuminated.

Mr. Jacques confirmed that the restrictions were properly stated. He added signs that do not follow the outlined regulations are in violation.

Mayor Duncan clarified that political signs are allowed, as long as the sign(s) does not exceed a maximum combined area of six square feet. He then asked about time limits related to real estate signs that are considered temporary signs, especially if the home does not sell within 45 days.

Mr. Jacques agreed, and clarified that for political signs, it is an aggregate square footage area.

Mayor Duncan asked how the 45 day limit impacts home for sale signs.