TO: Planning Commission
THRU: Jennifer C. Baptiste, Planning & Zoning Manager
Scott Walters, Senior Planner
FROM: Joseph Senn, Zoning Administrator
DATE: July 21, 2026
RE:Title
ALT26-01: Alternative sign plan to increase the number of building mounted signs allowed under Section 30-5.L.8 Permanent Signs, for Walmart located at 7701 S. Raeford Road, REID #: 9486349062000.
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COUNCIL DISTRICT(S):
Council District(s)
7 - Brenda McNair
b
Relationship To Strategic Plan:
Goal II: Responsive City Government supporting a diverse and viable economy by sustaining a favorable development climate to encourage business growth.
This goal recognizes that a predictable, efficient, and responsive regulatory environment is essential to attract and retain investment, supporting business growth, and expanding employment opportunities. By encouraging reinvestment, modernizing infrastructure, and leveraging public-private partnerships, the city seeks to sustain a favorable development climate that supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic stability. Actions taken under this goal are intended to balance economic competitiveness with community values, ensuring that growth benefits residents, neighborhoods, and the broader regional economy.
Executive Summary:
Walmart Real Business Trust, the applicant, has submitted an application for an alternative sign plan to increase the number of building mounted signage allotted under 30-5.L.8 The section allows five (5) building mounted signs. The applicant is requesting fifteen (15) signs overall.
Background:
Walmart Real Business Trust, Store #3595 has requested an Alternative Sign Plan to address its specific signage needs.
Under the current development standards, Building Mounted Signage (wall signs) are limited to five (5) signs per building facade. This standard is applied equally regardless of the size or location of the building. Thus, buildings that are larger façade are limited in advertising potential due to the total number of signage set by the Unified Development Ordinance.
Issues/Analysis:
Section 30-5.L.9 - Alternative Signage Plan
The Planning Commission may, at its discretion, approve an alternative signage plan for development located within the City Limits. The approved signage plan may allow signs of different sizes and types as well as the locations, placement and height of signs.
The purpose of the optional provisions for an Alternative Signage Plan are:
1. To permit creativity in sign design and placement to address site issues and constraints associated with topography, pedestrian-orientation, wayfinding and other conditions unique to the subject Development.
2. To encourage the Development of comprehensive signage plans for large Developments that promote an integrated approach to sign design and placement that is both attractive and informative.
Section 30-5.L.10.g provides for five standards to be considered. Each standard is listed below along with the applicant’s response and staff analysis.
1. The extent to which the proposed signage plan deviates from the sign allowances otherwise applicable in this Article:
Sign Ordinance limits wall signs to a maximum of five (5). The proposed remodel sign plan includes fifteen (15) signs in total.
2. The rationale provided by the applicant for the deviations.
A retail store of this size has several departments that require patron direction/identification.
3. The extent to which the signage plan promotes city goals for way-finding, pedestrian orientation, and business identification.
Additional signage clarifies to customers each department located in the store.
4. The degree to which the signage plan creatively and effectively addresses the issues and constraints unique to the site with regard to signage.
This is a 205,622 SQFT store that requires way-finders as shoppers enter the property before parking.
5. The degree to which the signage plan creates a unified approach to Development signage that is attractive and effective in communication.
This is a 205,622 SQFT store that requires way-finders as shoppers enter the property before parking.
Budget Impact:
None
Options:
The Planning Commission may approve, approve with conditions, or deny the proposed signage plan.
Possible Motions:
1. Approval of the proposed alternative sign plan (recommended).
2. Approval of the proposed alternative sign plan with conditions or changes.
3. Denial of the proposed alternative sign plan. Appeals are heard before City Council.
Recommended Action::Recommended Action
The Professional Zoning Staff recommends that the Planning Commission move for Option (1).
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Attachments:
1. Application with findings.
2. Site Plan with signage renderings.