No Cheers for Applause "Blade" Sign

Above, the signs as proposed by "Applause" in this computer rendering. The small "blade" sign protruding from the building was turned down by Design Review.

The Design Review Commission met Monday night at 7 pm via zoom. The only hearing held was for external signage for Applause Gelato & Unique Finds, opening early in April at 34 Main Street.

The Design Review Commission had no difficulty approving the long sign that runs flush against the building, above the display windows, which replaces an earlier sign. But the so-called blade sign project at right angles from the building and intended to be visible especially to pedestrians, was turned down, despite the proximity of other similar signs. 

Why?  Such signs have been forbidden by the town's bylaw for many years but existing signs have been allowed to stay and even been updated from time to time. 34 Main Street had no such preexisting sign, so none can be added now.

The board also pushed pack on the sign vendor regarding the size of signage proposed for the door but ultimately agreed to approve the "package" but omitting the blade sign and reducing the area of the door sign.

Most of the rest of the meeting continued a discussion about potential refinements to the sign bylaw.  Town Planning Director Bryan Taberner and Building Inspector Lloyd "Gus" Brown joined the discussion and offered their history on the subjects.