To: Aaron Rector, City Manager
From: Alexis Zimmerman, Planner II
Subject:
Title
Consider a resolution approving a variance to the City of Keller Unified Development Code, Article 8, Zoning Districts, Section 8.19 - Old Town Keller (OTK), one monument sign for an existing 1,260 square-foot medical office on 0.17 acres located on the south side of Taylor Street, approximately 85 feet southeast from the Taylor Street and South Main Street intersection, legally described as Lot 2A, Block 11 of Keller, City Addition, zoned Old Town Keller (OTK) and addressed 110 E. Taylor Street. Cary Stillwell, Applicant. JS20 Investments LLC., Owner. (UDC-2507-0010)
Background:
The subject property is located within the Neighborhood Subdistrict of Old Town Keller (OTK). The sign was originally constructed without an approved permit.
The Design Standards for the OTK Neighborhood Subdistrict states that only one detached sign shall be allowed per business per public street frontage, and that detached signage for single-tenant buildings shall not exceed 15 square-feet in total surface area or 6 feet in height (Unified Development Code (UDC) Section 8.19(7)(c)).
The Applicant is requesting a variance to allow one monument sign that exceeds the UDC guidelines for maximum height and size.
The Applicant originally applied for these variances in July 2025. However, the originally constructed sign was located within the street right-of-way of Taylor Street, which is not a variance that can be requested. The Applicant has since redesigned their plan to relocate the sign within the boundaries of the lot.
Sign Size and Material:
UDC Section 8.19 (7)(c) states that signs must reflect the character of Old Town and may include post and bracket or double-pylon signs using wooden posts or painted metal poles, or monument style signs shall be allowed.
The Applicant proposes a monument sign with a concrete and stone masonry base with wood beams that will match the architectural features of the main building facade.
UDC Section 8.19 (7)(c)(2) lists the following criteria for detached signs in the Neighborhood Subdistrict of the OTK zoning district for single-tenant buildings:
Max. Sign Size: 15 square-feet
Max. Sign Height: 6 feet
Total detached signs allowed: 1
The Applicant proposes one sign that is 9 feet in height and approximately 56.25 square-feet in size.
Summary:
Section 9.05(B)(4) of the UDC lists criteria for approval of a sign special exception, the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council shall consider the following factors:
1. Whether the requested exception will not adversely affect public safety,
2. Whether the requested exception will not adversely affect surrounding properties,
3. Whether the requested exception will be in harmony with the spirit and purpose of this sign code,
4. Whether special conditions exist which are unique to the applicant or property,
5. Whether the requested exception demonstrates increased quality and standards, and
6. Whether the requested exception will be aesthetically appropriate in the area.
Citizen Input:
A UDC variance does not require a public hearing. The public will have an opportunity to speak on this agenda item at the “Persons to Be Heard.”
Planning and Zoning Commission Recommendation:
At the January 27, 2026, Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, Commissioners unanimously recommended denial of the UDC special exception request as presented.
Alternatives:
The City Council has the following options when considering a UDC special exception request:
• Approve as submitted (with requested special exception).
• Approve with modified or additional condition(s).
• Table the agenda item to a specific date with clarification of intent and purpose.
• Deny.