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CITY OF MUSKEGON
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
DATE OF MEETING: Wednesday, January 10, 2018
TIME OF MEETING: 4:00 p.m.
PLACE OF MEETING: City Commission Chambers, City Hall
AGENDA
I. Call to Order
II. Approval of Minutes of the regular meeting of November 7, 2017
III. New Business
Case 2018-01 – 1669 Peck – Stairs
Case 2018-02 – 1641 Jefferson – Railing
Case 2018-03 – 1163 4th – Windows and Garage Door
Case 2018-04 – 280 W. Muskegon – Signage
IV. Old Business
V. Other Business
February Standards Review Workshop
VI. Adjourn
“We admire that which is old not because it is old, but because it is beautiful.” Winston Churchill
AMERICAN DISABILITY ACT POLICY FOR ACCESS TO OPEN MEETING OF THE
CITY COMMISSION AND ANY OF ITS COMMITTEES OR SUBCOMMITTEES
The City of Muskegon will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services, such as signers for the hearing im-
paired and audio tapes of printed materials being considered at the meeting, to individuals with disabilities who want to at-
tend the meeting, upon twenty-four hour notice to the City of Muskegon. Individuals with disabilities requiring auxiliary
aids or services should contact the City of Muskegon by writing or calling the following: Ann Marie Cummings, City Clerk
at 933 Terrace Street, Muskegon, MI 49440 or by calling (231) 724-6705 or TTY/TDD: Dial 7-1-1 and request that repre-
sentative dial 231-724-6705
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II. MINUTES
CITY OF MUSKEGON
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
MINUTES
November 7, 2017
Chairperson J. Hilt called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m. and roll was taken.
MEMBERS PRESENT: J. Hilt, S. Kroes, L. Wood, D. Warren, A. Riegler, S. Radtke, K.
Panozzo
MEMBERS ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: J. Pesch, D. Renkenberger
OTHERS PRESENT: P. Sheldon, Amazon Apts; T. Hemmes, 112 Iona Ave.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A motion to approve the regular meeting minutes of October 3, 2017 was made by J. Hilt sup-
ported by S. Radtke and unanimously approved.
NEW BUSINESS
Case 2017-19 – 550 W. Western Avenue (Fence). Applicant: Trillium Amazon. District: Clay-
Western. Current Function: Residential. The applicant is seeking approval to install a 4-foot tall
black aluminum fence to enclose a portion of the building’s courtyard for use as a dog park. Pho-
tos of the fence style and and a site plan were provided.
J. Hilt asked what size dogs would be allowed, since the fence would be only 4 feet tall. P. stat-
ed that the maximum dog size would be 65 pounds; they had other dog parks with 4-foot fences
and had not experienced any problems.
A motion that the HDC approve the request to install a black metal picket-style fence as pro-
posed, as long as it meets all zoning requirements and the necessary permits are obtained, was
made by K. Panozzo, supported by S. Kroes and unanimously approved, with J. Hilt, S. Kroes,
L. Wood, A. Riegler, S. Radtke, and K. Panozzo voting aye.
D. Warren arrived at 4:07 p.m.
Case 2017-20 – 112 Iona Avenue (Door). Applicant: Terry Hemmes. District: McLaughlin.
Current Function: Residential. The applicant is seeking approval to replace two doors on the
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front and side of the house, including the door jambs. The current steel doors are not original to
the house and are rotting.
T. Hemmes provided pictures of different door options. A. Riegler stated that the 6-panel door
fit better with a historic home. T. Hemmes stated that he would use that style then, rather than
the diamond glass insert. He also stated that SafeBuilt had mistakenly issued permits for some
previous work without requiring HDC approval, and he updated board members on the work that
had been done. He stated that they intended to return the property to a single family home.
A motion that the HDC approve the request to replace the existing doors with new 6-panel doors
as proposed as long as the work meets all zoning requirements and the necessary permits are ob-
tained, was made by A. Riegler, supported by K. Panozzo and unanimously approved, with J.
Hilt, S. Kroes, L. Wood, D. Warren, A. Riegler, S. Radtke, and K. Panozzo voting aye.
OLD BUSINESS
None
OTHER BUSINESS
Staff and board members discussed the possible reintroduction of the State’s historic tax credit.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 4:25 PM.
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III. NEW BUSINESS
Case 2018-01 – 1669 Peck – Stairs
Applicant: Steven Radtke
District: Clinton-Peck
Current Function: Residential
Discussion
The applicant is seeking approval to cover over deteriorating cement steps with wood. The wood
steps are a temporary fix until full restoration of the cement steps can be undertaken.
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Standards
CITY OF MUSKEGON
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
PORCH AND DECK STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
(Adopted December 6, 1994 - Effective January 1, 1995)
Covered Porches
Existing screen or open porches shall not be enclosed with framing or windows without approval
by the Commission. Generally, when an open or screened porch is enclosed, the enclosure mate-
rials or windows should preserve the appearance of a porch in order to maintain the original de-
sign and to avoid the visual effect of a boxed-in appendage. This can often be accomplished
with full length windows and exterior screens which would extend from within a few inches off
the floor or base of the existing porch opening thus maintaining the effect of a screened in porch
or solarium. On most full length porches, building up a half-wall at the base and enclosing it
with short windows would not be in keeping with the original design of the house and would de-
tract from the overall appearance. Each request for a porch enclosure will be carefully analyzed
by the Commission, taking into consideration the practical and intended usage of the area and the
overall visual effect upon the house.
Newly constructed covered porches shall be decked with tongue and groove decking and painted
to complement or contrast the house (unless the construction involves the rebuilding of a missing
original porch where documentable evidence shows a different method of decking). Ventilation
under the porch deck is necessary to prevent excessive moisture from causing deterioration to the
porch members. Therefore, the porch skirt shall be detailed in a similar manner to that shown
on the attached decking detail illustration.
Freestanding or Attached Decks (Uncovered Porches)
Placement and design of all decks shall be approved by the Commission. Decks should be locat-
ed in unobtrusive locations and shall feature one of the edge details featured on the attached
decking detail illustration. Decking boards shall consist of 5/4" thick pressure treated decking or
square-edged fir decking and appropriately finished.
Handrails and Guardrails
Existing original handrails and guardrails shall not be removed without the approval of the
Commission. Deteriorated rails shall be repaired as a first course of action. When replacement
is necessary, the original details shall be replicated. In cases where height or spacing is required
to be modified to meet code requirements, the Commission will carefully review the options to
determine the most appropriate method to accomplish this requirement. In cases where handrails
or guardrails are new (including those for new decks), the design shall generally conform to the
railing and balustrade detail illustrated on the attached sketches.
In general, in order to meet building code requirements, the minimum guardrail height in the
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historic districts shall conform to the following standards:
PORCH OR DECK FLOOR HEIGHT
FROM FINISHED GROUND GRADE MINIMUM GUARDRAIL HEIGHT
0" - 30" 0"
30" - 60" 24"
60" and higher 30"
In all cases, if an original guardrail was higher than the minimum height as listed above, then the
original height applies.
Paint
All exposed deck or porch wood shall be painted to complement or contrast the existing structure.
Pressure treated wood shall be painted no later than one year after installation.
Deliberation
I move that the HDC (approve/deny) the request to cover over deteriorating cement steps with
wood until full restoration of the cement steps can be undertaken as proposed as long as it meets all
zoning requirements and the necessary permits are obtained.
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Case 2018-02 – 1641 Jefferson – Railing
Applicant: Ray Panozzo
District: Jefferson
Current Function: Residential
Discussion
The applicant is seeking approval to install a railing around the second-story porch on the back
of the house. The railing will replicate what was once in place on the porch.
Photo showing old railing
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Current photo
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Standards
CITY OF MUSKEGON
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
PORCH AND DECK STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
(Adopted December 6, 1994 - Effective January 1, 1995)
Covered Porches
Existing screen or open porches shall not be enclosed with framing or windows without approval
by the Commission. Generally, when an open or screened porch is enclosed, the enclosure mate-
rials or windows should preserve the appearance of a porch in order to maintain the original de-
sign and to avoid the visual effect of a boxed-in appendage. This can often be accomplished
with full length windows and exterior screens which would extend from within a few inches off
the floor or base of the existing porch opening thus maintaining the effect of a screened in porch
or solarium. On most full length porches, building up a half-wall at the base and enclosing it
with short windows would not be in keeping with the original design of the house and would de-
tract from the overall appearance. Each request for a porch enclosure will be carefully analyzed
by the Commission, taking into consideration the practical and intended usage of the area and the
overall visual effect upon the house.
Newly constructed covered porches shall be decked with tongue and groove decking and painted
to complement or contrast the house (unless the construction involves the rebuilding of a missing
original porch where documentable evidence shows a different method of decking). Ventilation
under the porch deck is necessary to prevent excessive moisture from causing deterioration to the
porch members. Therefore, the porch skirt shall be detailed in a similar manner to that shown on
the attached decking detail illustration.
Freestanding or Attached Decks (Uncovered Porches)
Placement and design of all decks shall be approved by the Commission. Decks should be locat-
ed in unobtrusive locations and shall feature one of the edge details featured on the attached
decking detail illustration. Decking boards shall consist of 5/4" thick pressure treated decking or
square-edged fir decking and appropriately finished.
Handrails and Guardrails
Existing original handrails and guardrails shall not be removed without the approval of the
Commission. Deteriorated rails shall be repaired as a first course of action. When replacement
is necessary, the original details shall be replicated. In cases where height or spacing is required
to be modified to meet code requirements, the Commission will carefully review the options to
determine the most appropriate method to accomplish this requirement. In cases where handrails
or guardrails are new (including those for new decks), the design shall generally conform to the
railing and balustrade detail illustrated on the attached sketches.
In general, in order to meet building code requirements, the minimum guardrail height in the
historic districts shall conform to the following standards:
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PORCH OR DECK FLOOR HEIGHT
FROM FINISHED GROUND GRADE MINIMUM GUARDRAIL HEIGHT
0" - 30" 0"
30" - 60" 24"
60" and higher 30"
In all cases, if an original guardrail was higher than the minimum height as listed above, then the
original height applies.
Paint
All exposed deck or porch wood shall be painted to complement or contrast the existing structure.
Pressure treated wood shall be painted no later than one year after installation.
Deliberation
I move that the HDC (approve/deny) the request to install the railing as proposed as long as the
work meets all zoning requirements and the necessary permits are obtained.
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Case 2018-03 – 1163 4th – Windows and Garage Door
Applicant: Greg Wilkinson/D. Wilkinson Insurance Agency, Inc.
District: Houston
Current Function: Residential
Discussion
The applicant is seeking approval to replace all windows in the house as well as install a new garage door.
The house was damaged in a fire; staff has approved repairs to damaged siding.
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Back of house
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Proposed garage door style
Proposed window style
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Standards
WINDOW, DOOR, AND EXTERIOR WOODWORK
STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES
(Adopted December 6, 1994 - Effective January 1, 1995)
General
These guidelines pertain only to proposed changes to the structure and do not affect existing construction.
These guidelines are primarily directed toward the front and side elevations of the structure. Greater vari-
ances and more leniency may be extended toward proposed changes to the rear elevation of the building
in Class A districts by the Commission. All desired or proposed changes should be referred to the Histor-
ic District Commission for consideration. Extenuating circumstances, the effect upon the architecture of
the particular structure together with the general effect upon the surrounding structures, variables in archi-
tectural design, or the effect upon usage and viability of the structure could dictate a variance from these
guidelines.
No exterior doors, windows, or exterior woodwork shall be altered, removed, relocated, or added without
Historic District Commission approval.
Existing exterior window or door casings, sills, and caps shall not be altered from the original design or
appearance. Damaged or deteriorated wood shall be repaired as a first course of action. When repair is
not possible, elements shall be replaced with matching wood members. In Class A districts, damaged or
deteriorated wood elements may be replaced or covered with formed aluminum or vinyl, subject to Com-
mission approval and provided that the original profile of the woodwork is not altered or changed.
Primary Windows
Existing damaged or deteriorating window frames and sash shall be repaired as a first course of action.
When repair is not possible, elements shall be replaced with matching wood members. In Class A dis-
tricts, metal or vinyl replacement windows may be acceptable provided they match the original windows
in design and type and that they consist of or are painted an appropriate color. Bare metal finishes gener-
ally will not be acceptable.
The size of glass lites and muntin arrangements shall not be altered without Commission approval. Spe-
cial glazing, such as stained or leaded art glass, shall not be removed without Commission approval. Un-
usual decorative windows such as Palladian windows, oriels, bays, Gothic arch or segment tops, etc. shall
not be removed or altered.
Storm Windows
Wood storm and screen windows are the most appropriate for use in the historic district. Other types of
storm, screen, or combination windows will be approved provided that the new storm window mullions
align with the mullions of the primary windows. Blind stop storm and screen windows (where such win-
dows are placed inside the existing window frames rather than affixed to the exterior of the frames) are
preferable and may be required in some instances. Bare metal storm and screen windows must be painted
to match or complement the trim. Interior storm windows may be acceptable as long as they do not de-
tract from the appearance of the primary windows. Care should be taken, however, when using interior
storm windows because condensation tends to form on the inside surface of the primary window and
could cause damage to the wood and paint if not properly ventilated.
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Greater scrutiny will be applied by the commission in reviewing storm and screen windows in Class AA
districts in order to determine the most appropriate option.
Primary Doors
Every effort should be made to preserve or repair the original doors where damage has occurred. When
repair is not possible, the first choice shall be a similar salvaged door from a structure of the approximate
age and style. A new wood door may be used when a salvaged door is not available. Such new door shall
match the original in detail and finish.
In Class A districts the Commission may approve new wood doors that may slightly differ from the origi-
nal in cases where replicating the original may not be feasible, as long as such doors generally conform to
the ones illustrated on the attached sheet. Under certain circumstances in Class A districts, the Commis-
sion may approve doors made of material other than wood provided they conform to the same design re-
quirements.
Storm Doors
Wooden storm and screen doors are preferred and will generally be the required option in Class AA dis-
tricts, especially on the front of the structure. Aluminum or metal storm and screen doors may be used so
long as they are not mill finished or anodized aluminum. Baked enamel or other applicable paints or fin-
ishes will be acceptable. In general, storm and screen doors shall conform to those illustrated on an at-
tached sheet. The door stiles and rails should be a minimum of 4" wide and one lite doors, where practi-
cal, are preferred in order not to detract from the existing primary door. Jalousie doors are not accepta-
ble for use as storm doors in the historic districts. Ornamental iron work safety doors are also generally
inappropriate in the historic districts.
Exterior Woodwork
Existing decorative woodwork such as railings, moldings, eave, and gable cornice trim, tracery, columns,
observatories, scrolls, bargeboards, lattice, and other carved or sawn wood ornament shall not be removed
or altered without Commission approval. Existing deteriorated ornamental woodwork shall not be re-
moved but shall be repaired or replaced with matching materials where possible.
Deliberation
I move that the HDC (approve/deny) the request to replace all existing windows and install a new garage
door as proposed as long as the work meets all zoning requirements and the necessary permits are ob-
tained.
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Case 2018-04 – 280 W. Muskegon – Signage
Applicant: Rev. Mark Miller – The Corner/Central United Methodist
District: National Register
Current Function: Institutional
Discussion
The applicant is seeking approval to install 5’ tall by 15’ wide internally-lit wall signs on the north and
south faces of the building (see attached photos). The applicant is also seeking approval for plaster filling
and smoothing of the current engraved sign over the W. Muskegon Avenue entrance. In 2010, installation
of a 30’ flexible aluminum sign was approved to cover the engraved sign, but was not installed.
W. Muskegon Ave. entrance (south)
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Rear of building (north), facing alley
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Standards
CITY OF MUSKEGON
HISTORIC DISTRICT COMMISSION
SIGNAGE POLICY
Adopted October 2, 1986 with revisions
SECTION I. PURPOSE & INTENT
A. It is recognized by the Historic District Commission that signs in general perform certain func-
tions in the community which are essential for the public safety and general welfare, such as
communicating messages, providing information about the availability of goods and services, and
providing orientation. It is further recognized by the Historic District Commission that because of
their potential detrimental impact on the historic and architectural character of the structures and
surroundings within the City's designated historic districts, exterior signs must be regulated in or-
der to:
1. Prevent conditions which have a blighting influence and contribute to the loss of character
and declining property values within the historic districts.
2. Safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving and protecting historic district environ-
ments which include elements reflective of its cultural, social, economic, political, and ar-
chitectural history.
3. Preserve the historic quality and architectural content of the historic districts by curbing
deterioration and otherwise unsuitable additions, removals, or alterations to the properties
within them.
4. Permit compatible signs for use within historic districts which would provide for easy
recognition, legibility, and comply with other acceptable conditions.
It is the intent of this policy by the Historic District Commission to protect property values, preserve and
enhance the architectural features of the City's historic structures, promote a more enjoyable and visually
pleasing historic environment and encourage the most appropriate use and type of exterior signs for loca-
tion within the historic districts.
The establishment of the sign standards, design criteria and other regulations and requirements of this pol-
icy as the basis for acceptance or denial of a sign by the Historic District Commission ensures that all
signs will be reviewed in an objective manner, thereby protecting the right of property owners from any
potentially arbitrary or capricious decisions of the Commission.
SECTION II. DEFINITIONS
A. Sign: The use of any letters, numerals, pictorial representations, devices, designs or trademarks
which constitute a name, identification, description, display, or illustration which is affixed or ap-
plied to or represented directly or indirectly upon a building structure or historic district property
which attention to an object, product, activity, person, institution, organization, or business.
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B. Sign Types: The Historic District Commission shall review for approval the installation or al-
ternation of any sign type as indicated below:
1. Flat wall signs. Any sign that is painted directly on a building surface or painted on a sep-
arate background material and applied to the facade as a unit.
2. Dimensional surface signs. Any sign that consists in whole or in part, of three-dimensional
letter forms applied directly to the building surface or applied to a separate flat background
which is attached parallel to the building surface.
3. Free-standing signs. Signs supported by upright braces, frames, poles, or other similar
structures, independent of any building.
4. Ground signs. Any free standing sign located on or close to the ground, the top of which
does not extend more than four feet above the ground.
5. Projecting or pole signs. Any sign that has a face that is other than parallel to the exterior
facade of the building. A sign which is attached to a pole or other structure and extends
above or projects out there from.
6. Window signs. Any sign that is applied directly to the inside or outside surface of a win-
dow glass or exists as opaque, translucent or transparent panels which are suspended or
supported by other means inside the window and parallel to its surface, which are intended
to be seen from the exterior.
7. Awning & canopy signs. Any symbol or message which is attached to or is an integral
part of any awning (fixed or retractable) or canopy is considered a sign.
8. Banners. Any banner hung either with or without frames that contains a message, symbol,
or which is simply a decorative addition is considered a sign.
9. Directional signs. A sign directing and guiding vehicular or pedestrian traffic or parking
but bearing no advertising matter.
C. Sign Area: The area within the smallest circle or rectangle that encloses the extreme limits of
the advertising message, including any frame, background, or trim. Two faces which are back- to-
back are counted only once.
D. Signage Wall Area: The area of a wall that is a continuous portion of a building unbroken by
columns, ridges, doors, or windows. It is calculated by selecting a continuous facade, then draw-
ing an imaginary rectangle within specified height limitations and computing the square-foot area
of this rectangle.
E. Sign Face: The surface of a sign board or background area on which a message is displayed.
SECTION III. REVIEW REQUIREMENTS
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A. Policy Statement
As established by Chapter II of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Muskegon, the Historic Dis-
trict Commission is empowered with the authority to review and approve plans for Building Per-
mit applications for exterior work to construct, alter, repair, move or demolish any structure in a
historic district. As described by City Building Code, a sign is a structure and, therefore, installa-
tion of such structure requires the filing of a Building Permit which must be subjected to Historic
District Commission approval. Pursuant to Chapter 25, Section 126 of the City's Code of Zoning
Ordinances, the use of exterior signs within the "H" Heritage zoned district shall also be subject to
Historic District Commission approval.
B. Historic District Commission (HDC)
The Historic District Commission will hold meetings on the first Tuesday of every month (unless
otherwise publicly notified) for review of Building Permits, including any sign applications. If
approved, a "Certificate of Approval" will be issued by the Commission for all appropriate signs.
C. Review Requirements
To effectively determine the appropriateness of any sign for use within the City's historic districts,
the Historic District Commission shall require that the following permits, plans, drawings and/or
other details be provided, prior to the fabrication and installation of such sign, and prior to the
Commission's meeting for approval.
1. Building Permit: A Building Permit Application must be filed for installation of all new
exterior signs and alteration of any existing signs.
2. Site Plan: drawn to scale with measurements indicating proposed location and position of
the sign in relation to building(s) on site, lot lines, sidewalks, drives, streets, and any other
proposed or permanently existing structures or objects.
3. Elevation drawing(s): drawn to scale with measurements depicting complete sign dimen-
sions, including minimum and maximum heights, distances from other structures (if ap-
propriate), method of installation, supporting members, and any other features which might
be visible.
4. Wall signs: For signs attached to a building wall, drawings shall indicate wall surface di-
mensions and any outstanding building lines or architectural details which may exist, in-
cluding complete sign dimensions, method of attachment and size of protrusion.
5. ALL PLANS/DRAWINGS: shall indicate types of installation materials to be used, colors
of sign display and other components, letter styles and sizes, method of installation (an-
choring) and any other elements which may effect the sign's exterior appearance.
6. Material samples: provide material samples and/or other catalog information when possi-
ble.
7. Photographs: provide current photos of the proposed site and/or building surface where
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the sign(s) will be installed.
8. Examples and HDC assistance: Samples of acceptable drawings are included hereafter.
The HDC will provide additional information upon request.
SECTION IV. STANDARDS & DESIGN CRITERIA
A. General Conditions
1. Only on-premise business identification signs are permitted for use within a historic dis-
trict.
2. All signs shall comply with the regulations for erection and construction of structures as
contained within the City's Building Code of Ordinances and shall comply with existing
zoning requirements as established within the City's Code of Zoning Ordinances.
The following Standards and Design Criteria shall be used in whole or part by the Historic District Com-
mission in its determination of appropriateness of a particular type of sign for a specific property, includ-
ing size, design features, fabrication and methods, intended positioning and on-site location, the historic
district in which it will be located, and all other elements affecting a sign's physical appearance:
A. Letters
1. Style. Uniform lettering style shall be used throughout the sign to avoid incoherence and
otherwise incompatible letter form combinations which may be determined as inappropri-
ate by the Historic District Commission. The use of serifed (footed) letter styles is pre-
ferred for certain historical buildings; however, Gothic letter forms (those without serifs)
and script letter forms may be acceptable to the Historic District Commission dependent
upon the style and period of architecture represented by the building involved.
2. Size. "Letters should be subordinate to the background area". The maximum allowable
height of capital letter forms shall not exceed two-thirds the height of the background area
on which it appears (the background area is, in turn governed by the sign size and location
restrictions which follow) or shall be reduced to the size declared appropriate by the His-
toric District Commission, dependent upon the actual signable wall area or sign size, loca-
tion and viewing distance.
B. Fabrication Materials
The following materials, when properly used to compliment the architectural features and charac-
ter of a historic building, are considered compatible for use in whole or part within the historic dis-
tricts, provided the conditions as described are adhered to:
1. Wood - Any wood utilized shall be painted, stained, varnished or lacquered, carved or
routed, or be negative cutout (letter forms described by voids in continuous background) or
positive cutouts (individual dimensional letters).
2. Metal - Any metal shall be painted or varnished engraved mechanically or chemically
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etched. Bright chromium effect is not acceptable. Individually cast or cutout letters ap-
plied to building surface or separate background of wood would be acceptable.
3. Glass - Glass may be stained, leaded, painted, silk screen printed, etched, gold leafed, or
any combination of the foregoing. Neon signs are not appropriate for use on historic build-
ings and, therefore, are considered unacceptable by the Historic District Commission.
4. Masonry - Masonry shall be carved stone or brick, molded concrete or terra cotta, provided
such material would appear to be an authentic architectural addition to the facade of the
building, as determined by the Historic District Commission.
5. Plastic or Fiberglass - The use of custom thin-gauge, die-cut vinyl letters which give the
effect of a painted or silk screen imprinted letter is permitted. Any other use of plastic or
fiberglass or the use of molded surface plastics or corrugated fiberglass sheeting is prohib-
ited except in those cases where the surface finish closely duplicates the effect of a painted
surface, as determined by the Historic District Commission.
6. Fabric - The use of bright, glossy, or leatherette finished vinyls is prohibited. All banner
fabric must be durable and designed for outdoor use and maintained to prevent fraying,
disintegration, and other unsightly appearances. Paper signs for window displays are pro-
hibited for permanent use.
C. Color: Sign colors selected shall be earth tones and/or others that are present on the building fa-
cade or in the surrounding historic district properties. The number of colors per sign shall be lim-
ited to three (3), plus black, white, or accent guilding. At times, the Historic District Commission
may make variations to the above and require that a certain number of colors or color arrange-
ments be used which shall be more appropriate to the period of the building and other surround-
ings. Fluorescent colors are prohibited.
D. Texture: The texture of a sign must be compatible with the texture of the facade of the building to
which it is meant for, as determined by the Historic District Commission.
E. Illumination: Certain lighted signs are permitted for use with the historic districts, provided that
they shall be illuminated by a reflected light from an exterior source which may be incandescent or
fluorescent and that the light source is non-exposed and shielded from view.
1. Intensity of light. All lighting devices shall employ lights of constant intensity. No sign
shall be illuminated by flashing, intermittent, rotating or moving lights or lights creating
the illusion of movement or in such a manner as to affect adversely the use and enjoyment
of the neighboring historic district properties - as determined by the Historic District
Commission.
F. Sign Message - Content: All signs shall display only the formal name of the business or operation
conducted on the premises. A brief secondary identification describing the nature of the busi-
ness/operation and street numbers is also permitted. Where buildings are occupied by professional
offices, the listing of occupants is permitted, provided the sign complies with all provisions estab-
lished within this policy.
There shall be no labeling, graphics or commercial advertising on any part of any sign that the
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Historic District Commission determines to be inappropriate, whereas it will adversely affect the
use and enjoyment of neighboring historic district properties.
G. Number of Signs: The maximum allowable number of business identification signs per street
frontage per establishment shall be limited to one (1). Whereas additional directory or directional
signs which point out parking lots and other specific services are requested, the Historic District
Commission shall determine the appropriateness and building/site compatibility of such excep-
tions.
H. Shape and Form: The physical form of a sign shall be proportioned in massiveness and scale to
the building for which it is meant. All shapes shall be simple (square, rectangle . . .) and relate di-
rectly to the architectural features of the immediate and surrounding historic structures.
I. Location and Size: Sign use, sign type and location may be dictated by established district zoning
ordinances. Whether those ordinance requirements are established or nonexistent, the following
standards shall apply and prevail for all signs used within the City's designated historic districts.
1. General:
a. No sign may be erected upon or within any dedicated public easement or right-of-
way without the expressed permission of the Muskegon City Commission.
b. No sign shall be placed so as to conceal, disfigure, or otherwise violate any archi-
tectural features of a building.
c. Sign size shall be visually compatible with the scale of the building for which it is
meant. No sign shall be located in such a manner or position as to affect adversely
the use and enjoyment of neighboring historic district properties.
2. Flat wall signs. No flat wall sign shall exceed twenty (20) percent of the signable wall area
to which it will be attached, and shall not exceed twenty four (24) square feet in sign face
area. No flat wall sign shall exist above a point fifteen (15) feet from the sidewalk level or
one (1) inch below the second story window sill, whichever is lower.
3. Dimensional surface signs. No such sign shall exceed the above limits of a flat wall sign
or extend above the building roof line, and shall not protrude from the primary building fa-
cade surface more than eight (8) inches.
4. Free standing signs. When used as business identification, these shall not exceed twenty
(20) square feet per sign face. Such signs shall not exceed fifteen (15) feet in height from
ground level or exist above the roof line of the building for which it is meant. The Historic
District Commission may require a size and height less than these limits, including a spe-
cific location, in order to ensure consistency with the objectives and standards as estab-
lished within this policy.
Directional signs, when permitted by the Historic District Commission, shall not exceed
four (4) square feet in sign face area and shall not be higher than four (4) feet from ground
level.
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5. Ground signs. These shall not exceed twenty (20) square feet per sign face. No such sign
shall exceed four (4) feet in height from ground level. To maintain consistency with the
objectives and standards of this Policy, the Historic District Commission may require a
smaller sign face and specific location.
For directional sign size and height limitations, use the same as above under No. 4.
6. Projecting or pole signs. These shall not exceed nine (9) square feet in area per sign face
nor shall they extend below a point eight (8) feet from the sidewalk surface or out from the
building facade surface more than four (4) feet. The top edge of such sign may not exist
higher than a point fifteen (15) feet above the sidewalk surface or one (1) inch below the
second-story window sill, whichever is lower.
7. Window signs. These may be applied directly to the glass and shall exist as message let-
tering only. Such a window sign message may not obscure more than twenty (20) percent
of the area of the window surface to which it is applied.
8. Awning & canopy signs. These must comply with all provisions established within this
Policy. The size, location, and height of awning and canopy structures are predetermined
by existing City Ordinance.
9. Banners shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in area or extend below a point eight
(8) feet from the sidewalk surface or out from the facade surface more than four (4) feet.
The top edge of such banner may not exist higher than a point fifteen (15) feet above the
sidewalk surface or one (1) inch below the second-story window sill, whichever is lower.
Banners, when permitted, are on an interim basis only and shall be annually review by the
Historic District Commission to ensure their sightly appearance.
SECTION V. SPECIAL PROVISIONS
A. Signs exempted from Historic District Commission Review
1. Signs required by Federal, State, or other local ordinance for purposes of traffic, public
safety, and other directional assistance.
2. Special event signs: which will exist for a single period of not more than seven (7) days in
any quarter calendar year and are not prohibited under any provision of this policy.
3. Signs not visible off the lot upon which they are situated.
4. Commemorative plaques not exceeding one (1) square foot in area.
5. Address signs: indicating street address and not exceeding one (1) square foot in area.
6. Temporary signs: any sign relating to construction, real estate, political elections which
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are not in violation of any provision of this policy.
7. Flags: National, State, or municipal flags with messages or symbols representing institu-
tions or businesses.
B. Prohibited signs. It shall be unlawful to erect, install, place, or maintain any of the following:
1. Portable signs: Any sign that is readily moveable from one location to another and is not
permanently affixed to a building or on the ground.
2. Roof signs: Any sign which projects above or beyond the roof or parapet.
3. Signs which move or create the illusion of movement. Signs which flash or make noise.
4. Signs attached to any natural growth (i.e. trees or other natural foliage).
5. Signs which are obsolete, that do not relate to existing business.
6. Signs which are not expressly permitted by this policy or which violate any provision
thereof.
C. Alteration to Existing Signs. Any sign that exists on the effective date of this policy or amend-
ment thereof, which is nonconforming and does not at that time comply with all of the provisions
hereof, including any amendment, shall not be changed, altered, or rebuilt in any manner described
as follows, without prior review and written approval of the Historic District Commission. These
signs shall not:
1. Be changed to another type of sign which is not in compliance with the policy; or
2. Have any changes made in the words or symbols used or message displayed on the sign
(unless the sign is designed for periodic change of message); or
3. Be structurally altered so as to prolong the life of the sign or so to change the shape, size,
type or design of the sign.
SECTION VI. MAINTENANCE & ENFORCEMENT
A. Maintenance: All signs approved for installation by the Historic District Commission shall be
maintained in a safe, presentable manner and shall remain in good structural and/or material con-
dition at all times, including the replacement of defective or damaged parts, painting, repainting,
cleaning, and other acts necessary for maintenance of such signs.
B. Inspection/Removal: The Building Safety Services Director or his authorized representative shall
inspect and have the authority to order painting, repairs, or removal of any sign installed upon or
after the adoption date of this policy, if it fails to comply with the conditions established under this
policy.
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C. Penalties: Violation of any provision of this policy in any particular or the failure to comply with
any of the regulatory measures or conditions adopted by the Historic District Commission pursuant to its
approval of a specific Building Permit and/or plans can result in a maximum fine of ($100) or lead to im-
prisonment for a maximum period of up to ninety (90) days; or both. Each day such violation continues
shall be deemed a separate offense.
Deliberation
I move that the HDC (approve/deny) the request to install two wall signs and complete plaster filling and
smoothing of the current engraved sign as proposed as long as the work meets all zoning requirements
and the necessary permits are obtained.
IV. OLD BUSINESS
None
V. OTHER BUSINESS
February Standards Review Workshop – Staff has reached out Amanda Reintjes from the Michi-
gan Historic Preservation Network to invite her to the workshop scheduled for our February 6th
meeting. Unfortunately, Ms. Reintjes has a prior engagement that day and cannot attend. She is
interested in attending any additional workshops that may fall on another date and mentioned a
possible West Michigan regional HDC training opportunity in the near future.
VI. ADJOURN
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