Discussion and possible action on any and all matters regarding possible amendment to Chapter 152 of the City Code of the City of San Luis, Zoning Regulations, to amend §152.262 of the Sign Regulations to allow a deviation from the standards and criteria of Table No. 16 by conditional use permit with possible  action of instructions to staff for such a staff-initiated amendment to the Zoning Regulations and/or a staff-initiated conditional use permit to Denny’s to place a sign or signs in deviation from such standards.  (Jose A. Guzman, Acting Planning and Zoning Director)   

The proposed Denny’s restaurant has submitted plans for development that is seeking a building permit that would construct a sign on the front of the restaurant that would extend above the roof line.  This is in addition to a free standing monument sign that they propose to place on the property.  Such a sign above the roof line is not permitted under the standards and criteria for permanent on-site signage as established at Table No. 16 in Chapter 152 of the City Code of the City of San Luis.  Staff believes the current standards are appropriate to maintain proper esthetic standards which will enhance and preserve economic values in the City.  Yet, on a case by case basis may be too restrictive and that sometimes, like in the case of Denny’s restaurant, may impede economic development.  Using the procedure of a conditional use permit will allow the City to be certain that the specific proposed use will be appropriate for the proposed location and allow specific conditions to be placed to be certain that the use will be appropriate.  In addition, staff is seeking permission for a staff-initiated conditional use permit for the said proposed sign at Denny’s.  If Council agrees, it is the intent of staff to allow the use to go forward prior to the amendment of the zoning regulations followed by the process of the granting of a conditional use permit.  The legal process to amend the code followed by the process of issuing a conditional use permit can take up to 6 months.  There is a business looking to presently locate within the City and it is felt that if Council approves, the economic development opportunity that is presenting itself should not be lost.  Any such permission will be contingent on Council approving an amendment to the City Code and Council approving a future conditional use permit.