Board of Commissioners & Sign Ordinance Subcommittee Joint Meeting 5/1/26

Montreat Board of Commissioners & Sign Ordinance Subcommittee Joint Meeting Recap – May 1, 2026

On May 1, 2026, the Board of Commissioners and the Sign Ordinance Subcommittee convened in a joint workshop-style meeting to review and discuss potential revisions to Montreat's existing sign ordinance. This session, focused on ensuring legal compliance and reflecting current community needs, did not involve formal votes but resulted in significant progress identifying areas for potential change. The meeting was attended by Board Commissioners, members of the Sign Ordinance Subcommittee, and consultant Mason, who is assisting with the review.

A primary focus of the discussion was ensuring the ordinance aligns with recent Supreme Court rulings regarding content-based regulations. A key point of contention revolved around the current definition of "honorarium signs" (plaques or small donor recognition signs). Consultant Mason strongly advised removing this definition entirely, arguing that defining them as "signs" could potentially violate legal precedents. The group also examined regulations concerning ground-mounted signs, temporary and portable signage (like sandwich boards), multi-tenant signs, wayfinding signs for public safety, and existing rules regarding grandfathered "non-conforming" signs. Concerns were raised about the current size limitations for multi-tenant signs, with suggestions to increase the allowable size or offer more flexibility depending on specific circumstances. Discussions also touched upon banners displayed on utility poles, particularly within the town center overlay district.

While no formal votes were taken during this workshop, several important decisions were made regarding the review process. The meeting agenda was adopted without objection, and the Board agreed to a phased approach, reviewing the ordinance in smaller, more manageable sections rather than attempting a complete overhaul. The group acknowledged the importance of balancing signage regulations with Montreat's unique aesthetic character, a sentiment echoed by several Board members.

The meeting included no public comments or community input from residents. However, several action items were identified to advance the ordinance review process. Mason will provide revised language addressing the removal of "honorarium signs" and alternative wording for signage on utility poles. Town staff, including Shelly and Mason, will collaborate to clarify discrepancies in regulations pertaining to signage within the Institutional Residential Zone, particularly concerning double-fronted lots and multi-tenant signs. The committee will also seek input from the Planning & Zoning Board regarding the town center overlay district and potentially revisit discussions about signage on utility poles.

Looking ahead, a follow-up meeting is scheduled for June to continue the review process. This ongoing effort aims to modernize Montreat's sign ordinance, ensuring it is legally sound and effectively serves the community’s needs. Residents can expect further updates as this process progresses, ultimately contributing to a clearer and more equitable regulatory framework for signage within Montreat.