Demorest City Council unanimously voted Tuesday to table approval of its amended sign ordinance. The decision comes after much deliberation, public input and closely working with local businesses.
Mayor Rick Austin says, “Tabling should not be construed as a bad thing, it should be construed as a good thing”.
The amended ordinance includes: sign height limitations, illumination limits, qualifications for what is and is not animation, regulations for different corridors within the city and corresponding definitions.
The council also spoke about considerations for variance procedures that will allow for owners to repeal any citations or removals of their business’ respective sign(s). “I’m less comfortable having an ordinance in place where someone can’t address grievances with an elected body instead of a municipal court,” says Austin.
In closing statements about the amendments, Austin commented positively about the changes and states he “felt good with the adjustments we’ve made”.
The council stated the September work session will be used as a voting meeting for the amended sign ordinance.
Columbus Day now a city holiday
The Council also voted this week to add Columbus Day as a city observed holiday.
The addition comes after discussion between the council on the pros and cons of operating during the state and federal holiday.
Austin reiterated the fact that no deposits can be made on the date due to its banking holiday status, which is a primary function of the city’s daily operations. City Manager Kristi Shead also added that the city had “dropped the floating birthday” paid day off for personnel in 2014 in which Columbus Day would take place of.
Columbus Day was first recognized in the United States in 1905, and has since been observed on the second Monday in October.
This year the holiday will be observed on Monday, October 9.
