Focus Area: Economy, Community Development
Staff Contact: Jessica Schuller, Senior Planner
Subject: Report on amending Unified Development Ordinance Section 18.50.190 pertaining to signs and Olathe Municipal Code 12.10.050 pertaining to signs in the public right-of-way.
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Report on amending Unified Development Ordinance Section 18.50.190 pertaining to signs and Olathe Municipal Code 12.10.050 pertaining to signs in the public right-of-way.
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Summary:
The Olathe 2040: Future Ready Strategic Plan prioritizes increasing unique experiences and places in Olathe, and establishing the City as the premier business, retail and entertainment draw in the region. As part of the annual update program, staff recommends changes to Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) 18.50.190 pertaining to rooftop signs, wall signs, projecting signs, and canopy signs in the Downtown zoning district. The proposed amendments necessitate general sign code updates, including sign definitions, and the process for approving exceptions to sign code requirements. Olathe Municipal Code 12.10.050 pertaining to signs in the public right-of-way will be amended for consistency with these updates.
On June 3, 2025, a discussion was held with the City Council and based on feedback, updates were prepared which accomplish the following objectives:
o Provides flexibility and creative opportunities for business owners,
o Builds upon the unique identity of Downtown,
o Streamlines the process for exceptions to sign standards Citywide,
o Maintains high quality visual standards, and
o Responds to emerging technologies.
The proposed amendments were discussed at the July 28, 2025 Planning Commission Workshop, and a public hearing was held before the Planning Commission on August 25, 2025. No members of the public spoke at the public hearing, and after discussion, the Planning Commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of UDO25-0001.
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Financial Impact:
None.
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Action Needed:
Accept the report. Unless directed otherwise, staff will prepare the ordinance for formal consideration on October 21, 2025.
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Attachment(s):
A. Planning Commission Packet
B. UDO 25-0001 Presentation
C. Ordinance No. 25-XX (UDO Redline Amendments)
D. Ordinance No. 25-XX (Municipal Code Redline Amendments)