To the Editor:

Our hackles are raised, as your Jan. 16, 2020 article, “WellNow raises hackles with proposal for sign variance,” so accurately supports.

Your readers were well informed with the useful information provided in this article regarding the application submitted to the Town of Guilderland Zoning Board of Appeals for a major variance to the existing town code for the newly constructed WellNow facility at the corner of Western Avenue and McKown Road at 1438 Western Avenue.

For those not familiar with the case, the town code permits a maximum of 50 square feet of signage on properties located in Local Business areas such as this. WellNow’s representative, AJ Signs, is seeking permission for a total of 308 square feet of signage on each of the four sides of the building.

The request was presented at the Jan. 15 meeting of the zoning board. Twenty-six neighbors turned out for the meeting, and 18 letters of opposition were submitted to the zoning board. No decision was made that evening.

AJ Signs was asked to submit a revised plan, and the case will be continued at the meeting scheduled for Feb. 5.

The board members of the McKownville Improvement Association strongly and unanimously oppose this request. The builders of the medical office knew the zoning regulation when they decided to locate here; they should be required to follow the law.

If allowed, this enormous amount of signage will damage the predominantly residential character of our historic neighborhood and set an unacceptable precedent for current and future establishments along Western Avenue, our “Main Street.”

The WellNow building is prominently sited on its corner lot. A 48-square-foot freestanding sign, along with WellNow’s distinctive red awnings, will more than adequately allow clients to find the urgent-care facility.

A street number placed on the Western Avenue side would provide further identification. Should anyone need further guidance in finding the business, GPS navigation systems are widely available.

Our hackles are up. We have worked for decades to protect our community and keep it a pleasant mixture of homes and businesses that contribute to a mixed community that so many want to enjoy.

Ellen Manning

President

McKownville

Improvement Association