Spa owner calls out city on signage

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March 13, 2013

Spa owner calls out city on signage

Latasha Everson CNHI The Tifton Gazette Wed Mar 13, 2013, 08:49 PM EDT

TIFTON — The City Council heard from local man Hal Baxley, owner of Endless Summer Day Spa located on North Tift Avenue in Tifton’s Historic District, at a recent city meeting. Baxley, who owns the business along with his wife, Thea, addressed the Tifton Historic Preservation Commission’s denial of his application for the installation of a 42x16 inch scrolling LED sign to be placed on the top of the business’ existing sign. Baxley and his wife are appealing this denial.

According to a letter (sent to Baxley February 6) from Bert Crowe, director of the environmental management department, the denial was given on a four-to-two vote on the grounds that the request did not meet the HPC guidelines relating to lighted signage. It was noted in the letter that any decisions made by the HPC may be appealed to the City Council.

Crowe also stated in a letter to council members that it was determined that although the request presented in the application was outside of the general guidelines on the HPC (no directly light signage), there have been several requests that have been granted in the immediate area of Baxley’s address. It was also determined that the size and location of the requested signage was within the guidelines. It was noted that Baxley agreed to only use the additional signage during business hours (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

Baxley’s appeal to the city council states that on Feb. 5, he and Thea appeared before the HPC for a hearing on their application for the LED sign. They explained that the sign was needed to advertise the Bare Minerals cosmetics that they sell and to let the public know what services they offer and their weekly specials in an effort to increase their business.

Baxley says that during the hearing, he explained that the sign would look more professional than hanging banners and would be more in line with maintaining eye appeal and historical aesthetics. He also mentioned other businesses, including many that are located in the historic district, that display much larger signs than his business.

The appeal states, “It was explained to us that it had ‘typically’ been regarded as residential on our particular corner. I explained that to allow some businesses to have a sign and others not is unfair and arbitrary. In addition, when you allow one to vacate the intent of the rule or law, it then has set a precedence, which sets new terms and criteria.”

He noted, “We now have four full-time employees and are looking to employ another within a month or two. This sign is desperately needed to bring the new and existing services to our prospective customers’ attention. We are not asking for anything special or any special treatment. We are asking for the same privilege afforded other businesses.”

Baxley asked for the council’s support on his and Thea’s behalf in obtaining a permit for the purposed signage.

The HPC serves as a local government agency with the goal of promoting and protecting the historic and architectural heritage of the city. The board endeavors to preserve landmarks of historical significance through restoration, preservation, rehabilitation and conservation.

According to the Historic District Manual on signage, “only indirect lighting is appropriate for illuminating signage. Back-lit or internally-lit signs are not appropriate. Neon signs may be approved for early- to mid-20th century commercial buildings and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.”

It explains that “signage plays a key role in providing an attractive and pleasant community. Signage should enhance and complement the historic district, not dominate it. Signs have historically conveyed information and provided advertisement. A variety in the design of signage is encouraged, however, signage should not be constructed in any way that would be detrimental to public and private investment nor injurious to public health, safety and general welfare.”

“We have done a lot of work to keep the historical look of the spa,” Baxley told the council members during the meeting. “We have spent a lot of money, effort and time. A sign doesn’t take away from the historical significance.”

He said there are many other restrictions that need to be addressed. Councilwoman Julie Smith commented that residents living in the historic district do want the ordinances in place. She said there are several things that the HPC looks at on a case-by-case basis.

Baxley said the area where his business is located is more conducive to commercial than residential. He said, “There are other guidelines being done arbitrarily. You have to be fair and equal. You can’t do for one and not for the other.”

Mayor Jamie Cater said he personally didn’t see anything wrong with the LED sign. Vice Mayor Johnny Terrell suggested that they discuss the issue more in an upcoming workshop.

“Signage has not been consistent. I feel your pain,” Councilman Chris Parrott told Baxley. “I think we can get all of this worked out.”

“We want to be a good business in the city,” Baxley said.

Also, local citizen Emmett Kater spoke during citizen input. He said he was concerned about the salaries of city employees.

“Department people need more money,” he said.

He told the council, “I’ve never seen a city work the way you work. You need to find a way to get more money for the policemen, firemen and general employees. This can’t get ignored. Sylvester pays more money than Tifton, but they don’t do half the job.”

“I don’t think the city should be paying for cable or Internet,” he said, making some suggestions to help in this matter.

Cater said when he became mayor in 2008, he didn’t inherit “something” good.

“We want to do for our employees. We love our employees. Thank you for your statement,” Cater said.

To contact reporter Latasha Everson, call 382-4321.

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