The village board has discussed the problems with signs at meetings on Feb. 3 and March 3, noting that the village is very limited in its ability to display signs. According to Mayor Colleen Meeder, the regulations set forth by New York state limit the use of signs and, therefore, the ability of the village to advertise local attractions and to support the economic development of the area.

Meeder noted at a previous meeting that the state objects to signs because they distracts drivers. She said the village wants to promote the trail head, the Yorker Museum and local attractions, but right now it is not be possible.

The permits granted by the zoning board are for signs on private property and are compliant with regulations.

One special use permits approved by the zoning board is for North Shore Refinishing on the corner of West Main and Franklin streets. This advertises a business that specializes in refinishing tubs, tile and countertops, Meeder said.

North Shore Specialties in Sherman is pictured.

The other special use permit is for a new sign for the Chautauqua County Rails to Trails to be posted on Park Street where the trail comes out, Meeder said.

In other business, the board approved a special use permit for a pre-built shed to be installed at 151 Kipp St. The shed will be 100 feet back from the road, Meeder said. She also noted that a special use permit was required because of the size of the shed.

The board also approved a dumpster permit for 148 to 158 W. Main St. Meeder said the dumpster is for commercial use.

In another matter, Meeder told the board that the Cooler Cafe at 114 W. Main St. is currently being sub-let and is in the process of being sold. It is going to be the Cooler Bar & Grill, she said, and no hearing is needed to approve their permit.

The board subsequently approved the special use permit for the Cooler Bar & Grill, which is in Commercial District 1. The permit is worded so it can be revoked should any problems arise, Meeder said.

“The liquor license is being transferred from the Cooler Cafe to the Cooler Bar & Grill, which is in the process of applying for its own license,” she added.