Whitefish Council considers sign variance

The Whitefish City Council takes a look at sign-law changes during two separate public hearings tonight.

One of the hearings deals with a sign variance request from the owners of Casey’s Bar, who want to re-install the historic neon sign on the new Casey’s Bar now under construction.

The city recently amended its sign regulations to grant exceptions for nonconforming signs that are considered historic or community icons.

Casey’s also has asked for a variance to install a total of four signs, three of which comply with the sign laws. The additional sign would be an under-awning sign on the north facade.

The city planning staff has recommended approval of the variances.

A second sign-related hearing will consider amendments to the sign code, creating special sign standards specific to performing art centers and schools to allow event promotions. The Planning Board and planning staff have recommended approval of the proposed ordinance.

A third hearing involves a conditional-use permit request from Koel and Lazette Abell to build an accessory apartment above a new garage at 355 Lost Coon Trail.

Brett and Brenda Miller have applied for a two-lot preliminary plat subdivision at 651/655 Armory Road; a public hearing will be held.

The council will consider authorizing Public Works Director John Wilson to solicit a request for proposals from engineering firms for the design of the Skye Park pedestrian bridge. A council member will be appointed to participate in the selection process.

There will be further discussion about a feasibility evaluation for a parking deck and parking structures. Mayor John Muhlfeld requested a list of pros and cons for soliciting right away for a request for qualifications to do a feasibility study.

The council will interview applicants for the Park Board and Police Commission from 5 to 6 p.m.

From 6 to 7 p.m. the discussion turns to a review of the recent septic leachate study on Whitefish Lake. The regular meeting begins at 7:10 p.m.; all meetings are at Whitefish City Hall.