2606 WETMORE AVE 2016-01-01 MF Import

property general rights enjoyed by other hroperties in the same area and zone as the subject propeRy. (exhibif 1, staff report; testimony of Mr. Ingalsbe) 15. The Everett General Comprehensive Plan designates the subject property as 3.1, Central Business District. The Comprehensive Plan is silent on freestanding signs in this area. Notwithstanding the silence, the use of the subject property for bank purposes is consistent with lhe Comprehensive Plan. (exhibif 1, staf! report; testimony of Mr. Ingalsbe) 16. According to the City, the need for the requested variance was created when the new owners of the bank determined that the drive-thru bank building on-site needed wall signs. (testimony of Mr. Inyalsbe) 17. The City determined th��t if the variance is not granted, the Applicant would be required to remove the existing freestanding sign when the proposed new wall signs are installed. (exhibit 1, stalf raport; testimony of Mr. Ingalsbe) The Applicant indicated that the long-term use of the structure and the property for bank purposes and the change of ownership are sufficient to warrant the requested variance. (testimony of Mr. Forte) 18. The Applicant indicated that all construction of the wall signs would comply with U.L. standards and the latest edition of the National Electric Code. Other standards for the development of the wall signs are set forth in exhibit 6, page 6 of 7. (exhibit 6, sign packet) 19. The Applicant submitted photographic evidence of vegetation along both 26th Street and Wetmore Avenue. The submitted photographs depict mature vegetation, including trpes that partially obscure the existing freestanding sign. Because the freestanding sign is close to the street, it provides some direction to the site immediately off the street. However, because of the vegetation, the wall signs are necessary for the identification of the building which is uniquely setback from the two streets. (exhibit 2, photos; testimony of Mr. Forte) 20. The Applicant submitted that the trees on the west property line have aesthetic values but are detrimental for clear identification of the use of the subject property. According to the Applicant, the existing freestanding sign is needed along with the proposed new wall signs. (testimony of Mr. Forte) 21. The Applicant submitted that although the subject property is located at the corner of Wetmore Avenue and 26th Street and has ingress/egress onto each roadway, it is developed with a rather uncommon configuration for a business corner. It was submitted that the subject property is unique because more than 90 percent of the property is occupied by the buildiny itseff and paved parking and thus there are limitations as to where signs can be placed. The Applicant submitted "motorists that are lost or confused will lead to improve traffic maneuvers, either on-site or on the publically traveled roadways, and that will 5