During a recent government meeting, a request for a 6 by 8 off-site advertising sign was presented, represented by Tim Smith on behalf of property owner Jimmy Campbell. The proposed sign is intended for a location currently zoned as heavy commercial in Abilene, Texas. However, the city's Land Development Code prohibits off-site advertising along Butternut Street, despite allowing signage within heavy commercial and other commercial zoning districts.

The meeting included a review of a concept plan for the LED sign, which is similar to a variance request made for a different location a few months prior. Visual aids, including a location map and zoning map, were provided to illustrate the area and existing signage. Notably, there is another off-site advertising sign nearby that does not require a variance due to its distance from the proposed site.

Two responses in favor of the request were received, but staff noted that the Land Development Code lacks specific standards for off-site signage in commercial areas, particularly for smaller LED signs. While the staff found no apparent hardships that would necessitate a variance, they acknowledged that the regulations primarily address larger billboard types.

The discussion also touched on a potential change in zoning from heavy commercial to general commercial for the property in question, raising questions about the implications for the sign request. The meeting concluded with an invitation for further questions regarding the proposal.