2009-01-13 Kailua Village Design Commission Minutes

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Applicant Presentation The applicant, Kathy Cruz, was not available. Mose Teinauri of PayDayHawaii was present and available for questions from the Commissioners. Public Testimony There was no one from the public wishing to testify on this agen Commission Discussion Commissioner Ogin inquired about the white background color of b looks much brighter than the other surrounding signs on the photo copies provided by the applicant. Mr. Teinauri confirmed that the brightness is due to a Photoshop-type computer program used to create the image photos, and then circulated another photo copy showing the existing temporary sign for color comparison. In response to Commissioner OginÓs inquiry, Mr. Teinauri stated that although he personally preferred a style similar to the surrounding signs, the business owner opted for the proposed design by reason of cost. Commissioner Ogin expressed his dissatisfaction with the marquee sign, noting that the style is quite different from the surrounding signs . Mr. Teinauri responded that maybe there is insufficient space fo Vice Chair Ross pointed out that the current design uses only 15 percent of the maximum square footage allowed by the Sign Code. Commissioner Coats con Teinauri that there is only one more store in the same corridor area, and so there seems to be a significant amount of space the applicant is not utilizing. However, Commissioner Coats also noted that since the Commission is not pleased with the design itself, having the sign made larger will not address the aesthetic aspect of their concerns. Commissioner Ogin reiterated his concern that although the landowner and/or property manager must have approved the proposed marquee sign since they signed the permit application, this might set a precedent for more inconsistent signs within the complex where the signage currently seems fairly consistent. Commissioner Harris-Glade asked whether or not Kopiko Plaza has a signage program. Ms. Newlon responded that her research found a sign variance issued in 1991 for lettering and logo height and for additional arcade signs, but no record of a signage program being in place. Commissioner Bleck said that the Commission can make suggestions to improve the marquee sign, such as adjusting the proportion of two business names to make it symmetrical and adding a wooden trim around it. Commissioner Harris-Glade said that rather than the Commission having to work with individual tenants, he would be more inclined to ask property managers to establish and manage a signage program for their own facilities since that is to their interest to have consistent signage. Commissioner Herbert opined that the marquee sign is not in compliance with the Sign Code, specifying that the sign is not consistent with the surrounding signs, it does not complement the building, and also the material has a shiny reflective surface. 2