(A) The purpose of this chapter is to provide uniform sign standards that perform the following:
(1) Promote a positive image of the city;
(2) Protect an important aspect of the economic base;
(3) Reduce the confusion and hazards that result from excessive and prolific use of sign displays;
(4) Ensure that no hazard is created due to collapse, wind, fire, collision, decay or abandonment; that no obstruction is created to fire fighting and police surveillance; and no traffic hazard is created by confusing or distracting motorists, or by impairing the driver's ability to see pedestrians, obstacles, or other vehicles, or to read traffic signs;
(5) Promote efficient transfer of information in sign message by providing that businesses and services may identify themselves; customers and other persons may locate a business or service; and persons exposed to signs are not overwhelmed by the number of messages presented, and are able to exercise freedom of choice to observe or ignore said messages, according to the observer's purpose; and
(6) Protect the public welfare and enhance the appearance an economic value of the landscape by providing signs that do not interfere with scenic views; do not create a nuisance to persons using the public right-of-ways; do not constitute a nuisance to occupancy of adjacent and contiguous property by their brightness, size, height, or movement; are not detrimental to land or property value; and, contribute to the special character of particular areas or districts within the city, helping the observer to understand the city and orient oneself within it.
(B) By recognizing this purpose, this chapter shall serve to strengthen the economic stability of business, cultural, and residential areas in the city; recognizing that visual clutter leads to decline in the community's appearance, in property values, and in the effectiveness of the signs.
(C) The goals of this chapter are to preserve the integrity of our community, promote pride in our
neighborhoods, promote safe egress/ingress on public roadways, and encourage the effectiveness of signs.
(D) In the event of conflicts, actual or perceived, in the terms or requirements of this chapter, the most restrictive interpretation shall apply.