Why Kailua Village has special sign rules

Kailua Village is recognized as a special design district of the County. Unless otherwise provided for in this article, all sections of article 1 apply to the Kailua Village design district. However, certain other aspects of signage are applied specifically to this district in addition to those in article 1. Unquestionably, signs have a legitimate place in Kailua Village if they are thoughtfully designed and appropriate to their surroundings. Many elements of good sign design adapt well to the theme which is the unique, unhurried atmosphere and the foundation of Kailua's charm. The primary purpose of a sign is to promote an identity, goods and services, or activities through visual communication. While laws can regulate the size, placement, number, design, and aesthetics of signs, it is recognized that reasonable minds may differ as to how sign control can best be accomplished. The Kailua Village design commission, through the County planning department, has a shared responsibility for sign review within the Kailua Village special design district, as set forth in the County planning department’s Master Plan for Kailua-Kona. The provisions of this article shall be utilized by the design commission and cooperating agencies in evaluating all sign permit requests within the Kailua Village special design district. (2005, ord 05-62, sec 3.)3-49