Sign Ordinance Public Meeting
Click HERE to view the proposed ordinance
(This is a PDF file, so you need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view it.
You can get Acrobat Reader HERE)
The new proposed Sign Ordinance Public Hearing that was scheduled for March 10th, 2009 has been rescheduled to March 24th, 2009. Click the line above to view a draft copy of the ordinance.
There are significant changes to the proposed ordinance such as interior lit signage, larger dimension allowances for selected signage and the removal of banner signs as the principal means of signage for your business.
Probably the most dramatic difference between the existing ordinance and the proposed ordinance is the Sunset clause or Non-conforming use. Under the existing ordinance, any sign that did not conform to the sign code had to be taken down or replaced by the end of 2010. This was going to be a hardship for quite a few business people. The proposed sign ordinance states that if the sign was legally permitted and installed under the existing sign ordinance at the time of installation, the sign will be allowed to exist in a non-conforming use as long as the structure remains lawful and is not hazardous to public safety. Legal non-conforming signs may be repaired, altered or replaced as long as the new sign is in the same location and no greater in size or height, with no increase in illumination.
Please note that the draft copy of the proposed sign ordinance is still a work in progress. Changes or additions may still be made to this draft. The time to request changes or additions is now. We should all know by now how hard it is to change a law or ordinance once it has been enacted into law. I would like to suggest to anyone that would like to see changes made to the proposed ordinance to use the Granite Falls Chamber of Commerce website (you are here) and submit your suggestions or changes via e-mail to info@granitefallswa.com. This way we have a written record of requests that will be submitted via the Chamber's backing. Your individuality will still be recognized, but in numbers, we will be a stronger voice.
Jim Kapelke was one of the original crafters of this proposed ordinance. He is available to answer any questions you send via e-mail regarding this proposed ordinance. This document is not perfect in all ways. What the proposed ordinance does allow is a greater freedom of rights to advertise your business effectively and in a manner that will promote fair economic competition with other business entities.
Click here to view draft document.
City of Granite Falls, Chamber of Commerce