The Storm Lake City Council is moving closer to updating its sign ordinance, following months of input from a Downtown Ad Hoc Signage Committee. The proposed changes aim to address modern signage types while preserving safety and the visual character of the business district.
City of Storm Lake Development Services Specialist Lee Dutfield emphasized last Monday during a worksession at the bimonthly city council meeting that the ordinance is not about regulating design or message, but rather ensuring signs are safe, well-maintained, and appropriate for their location.
Among the new considerations are projecting image signs, which cast visuals onto buildings or sidewalks. Council members expressed interest but flagged concerns about brightness, timing, and placement, which Dutfield agreed with.
Sidewalk graphics were debated, with some council members, including Maggie Martinez, opposing their use on public property due to residue and snow removal issues.
The council also reviewed updates to temporary sign definitions, proposing a 30-day limit with possible extensions. Damaged signs would need to be repaired or removed within 60 days—sooner if unsafe, says council member Meg McKeon.
Memorial signs, previously prohibited, may now be allowed in certain areas—though benches were favored over rocks or trees in business districts, which Dutfield agreed with.
And for abandoned signs, the council agreed they must be removed within 60 days, with leftover mounts and supports maintained to avoid blight.
More discussion and public input are expected before the ordinance is finalized.
