To: MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
From: GREG KAPOVICH, WATERFRONT & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
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DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE ACTION REGARDING MODIFICATIONS TO THE CITY'S ELECTRONIC SIGN REGULATIONS
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In April 2021, the King Harbor Association reached out to staff and City Council inquiring about necessary maintenance work to the existing King Harbor Freestanding Sign located at Mole D within King Harbor. The existing freestanding sign is maintained by the City and displays King Harbor Marina business names as well as information pertaining to the International Boardwalk and Pier. Proposed improvements included an overall structural analysis, upgrades to LED lighting, and new signage to reflect current tenants within King Harbor. The Association also inquired on the possibility of adding an electronic messaging component to the existing sign. On June 22, 2021, the City Council appropriated $100,000 of funding for improvements to the existing freestanding sign, including the addition of an electronic messaging board.
Current zoning limitations prohibit electronic display signs within the Waterfront. In fact, electronic signs are prohibited City-wide with the exception of properties within the public and institutional zone to accommodate schools and performance theaters. In order to proceed with the sign improvements mentioned above, the City Council directed staff to identify the necessary municipal code text changes needed to accommodate the addition of a new electronic message display. While it is clear that City Council supports the possibility of an electronic message display in the waterfront area, staff is seeking general direction regarding electronic signs citywide. Based on the feedback received, staff will return to City Council with proposed zoning code updates.
BACKGROUND
Pursuant to Section 10-2.1814 of the City municipal code, electronic message display signs are only permitted in the public and instituti...
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