In a recent meeting held on August 6, 2025, the Argyle Planning and Zoning Commission discussed a request for two monument signs at the Shops at Gateway, a retail and restaurant development located at 8131 Gateway Drive. The property, situated within the town's extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ) near FM 407 and Gateway Boulevard, is currently home to a 17,191 square foot multi-tenant building that opened in 2024.

The applicant is seeking a variance to install two monument signs, which deviates from the town's sign regulations established in 2023. According to these regulations, a multi-tenant monument sign is defined as a sign that stands independently on the ground and can include three or more tenants. Typically, developments are allowed one multi-tenant monument sign per street frontage. The proposed signs include a 12-foot tall sign with ten panels and a shorter 10-foot sign with two panels.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the necessity of two signs given that the building houses nine suites. The discussion highlighted that the larger sign could accommodate all tenants, leading to questions about the rationale for an additional sign. The commission noted that off-premise signs, which advertise businesses not located on the same property, are not permitted, raising further questions about the intent behind the second sign.

The commission's analysis indicated that the proposed signs do not align with the town's standards, particularly regarding their placement. The primary entrance to the Shops at Gateway is off Gateway Drive, while one of the proposed signs is positioned at a secondary entrance. This discrepancy led to a recommendation for denial of the variance request, as the existing regulations aim to prevent excessive signage that could clutter the area.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges of balancing business visibility with community standards in Argyle. As the town continues to grow, the implications of such decisions will be crucial in shaping the commercial landscape and maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the area. The commission's decision will be pivotal in determining how signage regulations adapt to the needs of local businesses while preserving the character of Argyle.