Staff is aware that the sign regulations for the COR area are limited in terms of both size and number of signs allowed and will be revisiting these regulations for possible amendments in the very near future.  The style and material of the proposed signage complements the architectural features of the building.  The wall signage does not seem to be out of scale with the building dimensions; however, the proposed monument sign, which utilizes the same material as the wall signage and includes Allina's logo with similar dimensions as that of the primary wall sign, is at pedestrian level.  At this low height, the scale of the proposed monument sign may be excessive for its intended purpose.  Since this sign is not up on the building, which would increase the distance from which it is viewed, it seems reasonable that the overall dimensions, especially that of the logo, could be reduced without impacting the purpose or effectiveness of the sign.

As was recently discussed with a similar request, our current preference for letter height in this area would be no more than eighteen (18) inches (through the issuance of a CUP).  Excluding the logos, all proposed lettering is less than eighteen (18) inches in height and the style of lettering and graphics is consistent with the intent of the current sign regulations for The COR area.  The property does front on both Sunwood Dr and Ramsey Blvd and therefore is eligible for up to twenty-four (24) square feet of wall signage for each frontage and a ground/monument sign for each frontage as well.  Furthermore, City Code does not specifically state that allotted signage per frontage must face each frontage individually.  Overall, Staff is supportive of this request but does believe that some consideration should be given to reducing the dimensions of the monument sign.