Politics & Government

City Staff Recommend Approval of I-680 LED Billboard Conversion

City Council staff have given their recommendation to adopt a resolution upholding Planning Commission action approving a request by CBS Outdoor to modify an existing billboard sign at 4850 Park Road.

The plan to adopt a resolution upholding the approval to convert two Benicia billboards to LED signs is receiving an approval recommendation from City Council staff.

Despite vocal opposition to the project from locals, Council staff expressed "the proposed billboard modification has no potential for adverse environmental effects because it is conditioned to comply with all State and federal regulations for illumination and display," according to a city staff report.

Further, staff explained the height and location of the sign adjacent to the freeway "preclude its general visibility from any prominent Benicia locations [with the exception of I-680] or residential areas, so it is therefore consistent with the Municipal Code, General Plan, or other policy documents."

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Back in December 2012, Benicia resident Ed Ruszel and Danville resident Craig Andres each filed separate appeals, saying the decision conflicts with Benicia's general plan and signage laws.

The matter was heard again at the Jan. 15 City Council meeting; however, due to the lateness of the hour, appellant rebuttal was inadvertently omitted from the proceedings, requiring the matter be readdressed.

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The sign may be altered pursuant to the sign ordinances, which may include complete replacement at the discretion of the City Council, according to the staff report.

City Council would have to approve a lease agreement with CBS Outdoor before this permit is considered as valid.

The modified sign would have roughly the same overall sign area and the same height as the existing sign. The electronic reader board would be upgraded to digital LED technology.

The Benicia City Council will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 2, where an official recommendation is expected to be given.


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