City will create auto dealer overlay district
Compromise reached on electronic sign height
By Darleen Principe darleen@theacorn.com

The Simi Valley City Council unanimously approved an ordinance Monday night developing a New Vehicle Dealer (NVD) Overlay District that allows the city's auto dealerships to have their own set of architectural and promotional guidelines.

The zoning district- which incorporates new auto, recreational vehicle and motorcycle dealerships along First Street and Los Angeles Avenue- sets standards for corporate architecture, permanent and temporary signage, electronic message boards and promotional activities that differ from what other city ordinances allow.

"I think we've come to a pretty decent compromise here," said Mayor Paul Miller. "Looking at what's going on currently in the economy, we need to make it easier for our businesses to thrive."

Last week, the City Council delayed the decision to approve the ordinance after some auto dealers expressed concern about the proposed height limitations for electronic message board signs- originally set at 8 feet.

This week, the two sides came to a compromise by doubling the height standard to 16 feet. The area of the signs will be limited to 40 square feet.

Under the ordinance, each vehicle dealer will be allowed one electronic sign. Those signs facing First Street may have continuous motion graphics, but those facing Los Angeles Avenue or other streets may use text-only type.

The NVD Overlay District also gives the dealerships permission to use freestanding temporary signs without having to get sign permits or be hampered by quantity restrictions.

The City Council will review the progress of the district in one year in order to evaluate any possible negative impacts on the community.

"I'm willing to allow the one year time frame to see how this all works," said Councilmember Glen Becerra. "If it doesn't work in that year, I'll be happy to step up, front and center, and say we have to restrict the sign usage. We want this to be reflective of the community we spent a lot of time trying to build."