Billboards Rejected on Highway 59 Project

The Grove Planning & Zoning Board turned down a request from Magic Media, Inc., owner of 12 billboard structures along Highway 59 to Sailboat Bridge, to put back four structures containing 16 billboards once the widening project is completed.
Once the billboards come down as part of the widening project, they cannot be put back up, according to city regulations passed some time ago.
Charles Marino, President and General Manager of Magic Media, Baxter Springs, KS, told the board that ODOT's payment for the billboards was "insufficient."
"The state will pay you to move them outside the city limits, where they can be better seen by people before they arrive in Grove," Bob Brogden responded, "and I think this is the best solution for both you and the city."
"We can't change the rules but we can tell you No," he added.
The motion to reject the request was turned down 4-0 with Judith Read voting to abstain.
A request by City Manager Bill Galletly to modify off street parking requirements was also turned down by the board, who voted to table the issue and move it to the weekly workshops in session for the next two months. City staff explained that "what is driving this train is that businesses along Highway 59 that are having to relocate are finding parking regulations a problem.
In other action the board approved a lot split plat for lot 3 of Rolling Oaks Subdivision, made by J.D. WilHolt; and tabled a request by Clint Briggs for a building and site plan for a tract of land behind Twister Mart at the corner of Hwy 59 and 36th street.
Briggs wants to build an Office/Warehouse concept building at this location. The item was tabled to allow time for preparation for the Convenants and final building exterior materials selection.