Commercial signage in the Lexington community is likely to be under revised regulations in the months ahead. After an extensive process, the council’s Planning and Public Safety Committee Tuesday approved the draft of a new sign ordinance.
Council Member James Brown said direction on signage is needed. “So, I think to give folks the best opportunity to advertise their business, to advertise whatever it is. You know, I think we have to pass something and move something along and if we have to make some changes as the need arises and we hear from our constituents, I think we just need to,” said Brown.
A separate panel is examining the issue of electronic signage, which Council Member Kathy Plomin said has reviewed a number of restrictions. “Obviously we would not be going to any other new zones. We’re looking at height. We’re looking at brightness. We’re looking at the amount of times they would change. But we are in the works of putting together somewhat of a draft. Concurrently it will be going to the planning commission who also will be looking at that,” explained Plomin.
The city of Lexington first regulated signage in 1930. In the early 80’s signs were regulated by zoning categories. More recently in 2015, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that all city enforcement of signage must be content neutral.
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