Architectural Commission & Historic Preservation Commission

City of Oconomowoc ARCHITECTURAL COMMISSION MEETING Wednesday, November 3, 2021 @ 4:30 PM @ City Hall, Conference Room #3 NOTICE: If a person with a disability requires the meeting be accessible or materials at the meeting be in an accessible format, call Diane Coenen, City Clerk, at least 48 hours prior to the meeting at 262-569-2186, or TDD at 262-569-3272 to request adequate accommodations. AGENDA: 1. Roll Call and Confirmation of appropriate meeting notification. 2. Approve Minutes of October 6, 2021. 3. TownPlace Suites by Marriot – Consider/approve a Special Exception for signage at 1242 Corporate Center Drive. 4. Reports and comments from the City Planning Department. 5. Reports and comments from the Architectural Commissioners. 6. Adjourn. Members of other City governmental bodies (boards, commission, committees, council, etc.) may attend the above noticed meeting of the Architectural Commission in order to gather information. The only action to be taken at the above noticed meeting will be action by the Architectural Commission. Architectural Commissioners should notify the City Clerk's Office at 262-569-3236 if they are unable to attend.  City of Oconomowoc Architectural Commission Meeting Minutes October 6, 2021 Chairman Flint called the meeting to order at 4:30 pm. Members Present: Johnson, Flint, Krogstad, Schultz and Schrang Staff Present: Weber, Gallo and Dehnert 2. Approve the September 8, 2021 Minutes: Motion by Johnson to approve the September 8, 2021 minutes; second by Krogstad. Flint pointed out an email was sent to the members by Dehnert on 10/4/21 with updated minutes. Motion carried 5-0. 3. SteelTank Brewing Company – Consider/approve a Special Exception to update the Ground Sign and Electronic Message Center at 1225 Robruck Drive: Weber explained the applicant is requesting a special exception for a monument sign with an electronic message center (EMC). Previous owners had a ground sign on a base with an EMC which has been removed. The new owners want to keep the existing base and add a sign with an EMC. The sign and EMC are 74” tall and with the 37” tall base the overall sign height is taller (9.5’) than the maximum height (8’) allowed per code. The applicant is requesting a special exception to allow the additional 1.5’ height which they feel is warranted as it will help motorists be able to see their sign better. Weber noted the applicant already added landscaping around the base which compliments the plantings around the building, and they have 4 temporary off-premises signs at the intersection of Robruck Drive and WIS 67/Summit Avenue which should be removed. Weber recommended approval of the request for a special exception. Ramona Marenda of Signs & Lines by Stretch explained the base of the sign is sturdy and the design is simple. Members agreed with keeping the base and the request for the additional height. Gallo noted the additional height will help with the visibility of the business. Motion by Johnson to approve a special exception for the updated monument sign and electronic message center at SteelTank Brewing, 1225 Robruck Drive; second by Schrang. Motion carried 5-0. 4. Thirst Church - Consider/approve a Special Exception to update the Ground Sign and Electronic Message Center at 1260 Brown Street: Weber explained the applicant is requesting a special exception for a monument sign with an electronic message center (EMC). They received approval of their master sign plan at last month’s Architectural Commission meeting but action on the monument sign was postponed because they were not ready with the sign design. They now have updated plans for the monument sign which includes keeping the same base (98” wide) and adding a 31” tall color EMC which is larger due to the size of the base. The overall height of the sign is taller (10.4’) than the maximum height (8’) allowed per code requirements. The applicant is requesting a special exception to allow the additional 2.4’ height to help motorists be able to see their sign from a distance. Weber said the sign design has been simplified and follows the master sign plan. Weber did a site visit and noted the sign will be located directly beneath a sizable tree. There was discussion on the tree, and instead of moving the monument sign the applicant indicated their preference to remove the tree. Weber explained it has been City policy to refrain from taking down healthy trees but if the applicant insists on removal of the tree, City code requires that in its place they are to plant (4) 3” caliper trees. Weber recommended approval of the request for a special exception with consideration to keep the tree or replace it with (4) 3” caliper trees. Brad Hubbard of Innovative Signs Inc. provided details on the EMC and its abilities. He thought if the tree had its lower 3 branches cut that would help the visibility of the sign and believes the tenant will be willing to trim the tree instead of cutting it down. Members suggested a good arborist could make suggestions on how to properly trim the tree; suggested moving the address numbers up above the brick; and consider adding landscaping around the base. Motion by Krogstad to approve a special exception for the updated ground sign and electronic message center; second by Johnson. Motion amended by Krogstad for staff to work with the applicant on the tree situation whether to keep or remove it and replace with (4) 3” caliper trees; second by Johnson. Motion carried 5-0. S:Clerk\Committees-Commissions\Architectural\2021\ACMin 10-6-21 5. Historic Preservation Ordinance - Review/recommendation to create Chapter 29 in the City Municipal Code: Gallo thanked the members for postponing action on this item at last month’s meeting as he found several items in another community’s historic preservation ordinance that should also be included in the City’s. Gallo explained the changes which included: a new section on certificate of appropriateness; added historic landmarks to the items that could be preserved; removed references that requests also had to go to Plan Commission; added more detail on what is expected with an application; and a new section on demolition of buildings. Members comments included: Council should be involved in designating historic structures; ordinance doesn’t have teeth or address the issue of protecting historic buildings in the City; thinks the ordinance should change the requirement from 100% of home owners that must approve the creation of a historic district which would really help; questioned what was the intent of the Wisconsin statute which required the creation of a historic preservation ordinance; think Council should re-evaluate this ordinance and their intent – if it is to save buildings, this ordinance doesn’t do it; if a historic property is sold, does the designation go with the property and what if the new owner doesn’t want it; is a historic preservation designation more challenging for property owners when they want to sell the property; and not ready to vote for approval of the proposed ordinance tonight. Gallo explained a previous draft of this ordinance included the historic preservation commission to be able to request a historic district for a group of homes but the COTW took the commission out and made it that only Council or the property owners can request to be part of a historic district; not sure if a historic building designation can be removed from a property once granted; would like to move this ordinance on to COTW or Council; and will talk to the Interim City Administrator for further direction. Motion by Flint based on the discussion this evening that the Historic Preservation Ordinance is to go back for further review by the Committee-of-the-Whole or Common Council; second by Johnson. Motion carried 5-0. 6. Reports and comments from the City Planner: None. 7. Reports and comments from the Architectural Commissioners: It was pointed out that temporary signage around the City seems to be out of control and suggested that at some point, once businesses are back to normal, staff will have to address it. Gallo and Weber agreed. 8. Adjourn: Motion by Schrang to adjourn at 5:52 pm; second by Johnson. Motion carried 5-0. Chris Dehnert, Deputy City Clerk S:Clerk\Committees-Commissions\Architectural\2021\ACMin 10-6-21  Department of City Planning Kristi Weber | 262.569.2173 oconomowoc-wi.gov/planning Architectural Commission Background November 3rd 2021 : 4:30 pm at City Hall in Conference Room #3 Item #3 – TownePlace Suites by Marriott; Special Exception for Signage The Applicant is requesting approval (2) two special exceptions for signage for the TownePlace Suites by Marriott hotel located at 1242 Corporate Center Drive. Building plans for the hotel were previously reviewed and approved at the February 3rd 2021 Architectural Commission. Signage was shown in the application, but no specifics or rationales were noted; thus, no action was taken. Wall Signs – Special Exception The application shows (2) two identical channel letter wall signs on the south and east elevation. Each sign is 82.82 SF. Per Code, the max square footage per sign is 50 SF. The Applicant has provided rationale for the special exception request based on height and legibility of their brand. Planning Staff supports, the sign design, size, and special exception as it complements the architecture of the building. Ground Sign – Special Exception In the early stages of developing this property, it initially was one (1) large property with (2) individual proposals (the hotel and restaurant). The property was master planned for building location, parking, ingress / egress, and signage. The ground sign is located at the intersection of Oconomowoc Drive and Corporate Center Drive offering high visibility for both properties. The ground sign has both the hotel and restaurant sign on the single monument base. Technically the ground sign is located on the TownePlace Suites property, making the restaurant sign off-premise; that is why they are requesting the special exception. The Applicant has provided rationale for the request. The ground sign is within City Code for size and design. It incorporates the stone building material of the TownePlace Suites, has opaque backgrounds, and address numbers. Planning Staff supports the sign design and the special exception. Landscaping Per code, ground signs have to have landscaping around the entire base of the sign. The application shows some landscaping at the base of the sign, but the plants are not identified and no site plan was included. The Applicant to provide additional information about the sign’s landscaping. Corporate Center Park The application has been reviewed and approved by the Corporate Center Park Board. Recommendation: Approve the Special Exception for signage for TownePlace Suites by Marriott, located at 1242 Corporate Center Drive with the following considerations: • Landscaping – Applicant to provide additional information.  Department of City Planning 174 E. Wisconsin Avenue Oconomowoc, WI Sign Application www.oconomowoc-wi.gov | 262.569.2166 The following information is required to be included and explained in your submittal. The submittal shall be 12 copies (no larger than 11”x17”) and collated: This Application and $75 Application Fee Color renderings of proposed signs and signage on building A letter/email of approval signed by the property owner Sign landscaping plan and plant list Sign site plan showing setbacks from property line To scale, drawing of sign(s) with area calculations and dimensions [Free-standing signs only] Sign plan showing height above grade [For building signs only] Rendition of building showing sign placement on the building Signs not conforming to the Sign Ordinance requirements such as size, number, location or other regulations listed in Subchapter 17-6, may apply for a special exception per § 17.602(5). Applicant shall provide written justification for why a special exception is needed. [Email] All of the above in .pdf format (under 5MB) to Planning Staff o Jason Gallo, City Planner: JGallo@oconomowoc-wi.gov | phone: 262-569-2166 o Kristi Weber, Planner: KWeber@oconomowoc-wi.gov | phone: 262-569-2173 Name of Applicant requesting the sign: Eric Rohs - Sign Effectz, Inc. Applicant’s Address (include city, state and zip code): 1827 W Glendale Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53209 Applicant’s telephone number: 262-220-9220 Applicant’s email address: ericr@signeffectz.com Name of Establishment requesting the sign: TownePlace by Marriott Address of Establishment (include city, state and zip code): 1242 Corporate Center Dr., Oconomowoc, WI 53066 Name of Establishment’s primary contact: Primary contact’s telephone number: Primary contact’s email address: Property Owner of establishment requesting the sign: Kinseth Hospitality Company Inc,. - Les Kinseth Property Owner’s Address (include city, state and zip code): 2023 7th Ave., Clear Lake, IA 50428 Property Owner’s telephone number: 641-357-4550 Property Owner’s email address: Lkinseth@kinseth.com Zoning of Property: GC In the Downtown District? (yes/no) No -OR- on the Isthmus? (yes/no) No Are you creating / amending a Master Sign Plan? (yes/no) ***** Administrative filing fees are due at the time an application is filed with the City Clerk’s Office and are not refundable. In addition to the Administrative fees, City Planning Staff time will be charged back to the applicant. The Applicant will receive monthly invoices of payments due. As Applicant/Agent/Property Owner, I agree to pay all chargebacks and to conform to the approval given by the City Planning Department / Architectural Commission. Eric Rohs Eric Rohs - Sign Effectz, Inc. October 11th, 2021 Signature Date T:\Forms\Sign_Application_2020.docx June 2020 Ashley Roberts Expediter Persona Signs 700 21st Street SW Watertown, SD 57201 12 October 2021 Kristi Weber, CNUa Planner / Community Development Specialist Oconomowoc City Hall 174 E. Wisconsin Avenue Oconomowoc, WI 53066 Dear Kristi and members of the Architectural Commission I am writing to you in regarding the signage proposed for the TownePlace Suites in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, which includes two channel letter sets and a shared monument. The shared monument sign located between the T intersection between the entrances for the TownePlace Suites and Dairy Queen displays signage for both brands. The area was originally one site, as reflected previously in the proposed drawings. This premise was subsequently split into two, which made the Dairy Queen sign then considered off premises. While off premise signage is not typically permitted, the shared monument would allow for one ground sign and allow the continued partnership of these brands. In addition, the TownePlace suites signs exceed the typical fifty square foot limit for signs of their design at their height; however, the signs, as proposed, make the brand copy legible to visitors and compliment the overall design of the building. Please consider these important factors in your evaluation of the proposed signs. Thank you, Tá{Äxç eÉuxÜàá Ashley Roberts Expediter Persona Signs  TOWNEPLACE SUITES OCONOMOWOC, WI 53066 N NEW CONSTRUCTION / NO EXISTING SIGNS 1 PROPOSED SIGNS: 2 1 24” CHANNEL LETTER SET 2 24” CHANNEL LETTER SET 3 2’-11 1/2” X 4’-6” SHARED MONUMENT AT 5’-0” OAH 3 APPROVAL BOX - PLEASE INITIAL CUSTOMER APPROVAL Date NOTE: Elevation drawings are for customer approval only, drawings are not to be used as any installation guide, all dimensions must be verified before installation. Customer: Date: Prepared By: Note: Color output may not be exact when viewing or printing this drawing. All colors used are PMS or the closest CMYK DISTRIBUTED BY SIGN UP COMPANY TOWNEPLACE SUITES 08/23/21 TJ/KH equivalent. If these colors are incorrect, please provide the correct PMS match and a revision to this drawing will be made. 700 21st Street Southwest PO Box 210 Location: File Name: Eng: Watertown, SD 57201-0210 OCONOMOWOC, WI 270748 - R8 - OCONOMOWOC, WI – 1 .800.843.9888 • www.personasigns.com 1 CHANNEL LETTERS SHOWN ON EXISTING WALL COLOR OR AS NOTED ON ELEVATIONS. CUSTOMER TO VERIFY WALL COLOR PRIOR TO PRODUCTION EAST ELEVATION SCALE: 1/16” = 1’-0” 31'-9 5/8" 24" 15" 15'-4 1/2" CHANNEL LETTER DETAIL SCALE: 1/4” = 1’-0” APPROVAL BOX - PLEASE INITIAL CUSTOMER APPROVAL Date NOTE: Elevation drawings are for customer approval only, drawings are not to be used as any installation guide, all dimensions must be verified before installation. Customer: Date: Prepared By: Note: Color output may not be exact when viewing or printing this drawing. All colors used are PMS or the closest CMYK DISTRIBUTED BY SIGN UP COMPANY TOWNEPLACE SUITES 06/14/21 JS/CM/CD equivalent. If these colors are incorrect, please provide the correct PMS match and a revision to this drawing will be made. 700 21st Street Southwest PO Box 210 Location: File Name: Eng: Watertown, SD 57201-0210 OCONOMOWOC, WI 270748 - R8 - OCONOMOWOC, WI – 1 .800.843.9888 • www.personasigns.com 2 CHANNEL LETTERS SHOWN ON EXISTING WALL COLOR OR AS NOTED ON ELEVATIONS. CUSTOMER TO VERIFY WALL COLOR PRIOR TO PRODUCTION SOUTH ELEVATION SCALE: 1/32” = 1’-0” 31'-9 5/8" 24" 15" 15'-4 1/2" CHANNEL LETTER DETAIL SCALE: 1/4” = 1’-0” APPROVAL BOX - PLEASE INITIAL CUSTOMER APPROVAL Date NOTE: Elevation drawings are for customer approval only, drawings are not to be used as any installation guide, all dimensions must be verified before installation. Customer: Date: Prepared By: Note: Color output may not be exact when viewing or printing this drawing. All colors used are PMS or the closest CMYK DISTRIBUTED BY SIGN UP COMPANY TOWNEPLACE SUITES 06/14/21 JS/CM/CD equivalent. If these colors are incorrect, please provide the correct PMS match and a revision to this drawing will be made. 700 21st Street Southwest PO Box 210 Location: File Name: Eng: Watertown, SD 57201-0210 OCONOMOWOC, WI 270748 - R8 - OCONOMOWOC, WI – 1 .800.843.9888 • www.personasigns.com 3 9’-10” 10" BOXED SQ FT: 49.17 4’-8” 4’-8” 4’-6” 6" 4’-6” 2 1/2" 2’-9 3/16” 2 1/2" 2’-11 1/2” 1’-10 3/8” 5’-0” 5” 3'-7 1/4" 2 1/2" 1232 1242 1’-4” 9’-6” MONUMENT CABINET / POLE COVER PAINTED TO MATCH MONUMENT SIGN BUILDING EXTERIOR EX-4 BOULDER CREEK WEATHERED EDGE SCALE: 1/2” = 1’-0” FON-CU-LAC W/ DELOREAN GRAY MOTOR APPROVAL BOX - PLEASE INITIAL CUSTOMER APPROVAL Date NOTE: Elevation drawings are for customer approval only, drawings are not to be used as any installation guide, all dimensions must be verified before installation. Customer: Date: Prepared By: Note: Color output may not be exact when viewing or printing this drawing. All colors used are PMS or the closest CMYK DISTRIBUTED BY SIGN UP COMPANY TOWNEPLACE SUITES 8/31/21 JS/CM/SC/KH/JS/KH/TJ equivalent. If these colors are incorrect, please provide the correct PMS match and a revision to this drawing will be made. 700 21st Street Southwest PO Box 210 Location: File Name: Eng: Watertown, SD 57201-0210 OCONOMOWOC, WI 270748 - R8 - OCONOMOWOC, WI – 1 .800.843.9888 • www.personasigns.com