The Historic Conservation Commission spoke with two Southside applicants Nov. 16, and later discussed how to address lackluster application preparedness and completion.

First up was Eric Collado of Beyond Juice, which is at 308 E. Third Street (formerly the home of the Bethlehem Press). Collado brought images of signage he’d like to use on his storefront, including a hanging shingle and a large, colorful drawing of fresh fruit for the central window.

Commission member and architect Christine Ussler said she felt the proposal was entirely historically appropriate but suggested a few minor alterations, such as reducing the size of the central window sign.

Collado agreed, but stressed the importance of signs visible from up and down the street. “Some of the feedback we’re getting since we’ve been open is they don’t see us.”

Phil Roeder proposed to accept the application with expected changes to letting and 20 percent reduction to the central sign, which he said would be less distracting and allow passersby to actually see inside the business.

Seth Cornish asked how such a sign reduction would be possible, but was assured by Collado he would have his designer work off existing measurement compared with the draft.

Having accepted Collado’s application, members next spoke with Anthony Spagnola of Sotto Santi. He proposed remaking the 10 W. Fourth St.’s front to mirror that of the Saxby’s coffee store at the rear end of the building.

Members quickly accepted the addition of a blade sign, glass door and wall, vestibule sign, repainting and new lighting.

Members said they are worried about incomplete applications, as they often must ask a battery of questions or ask applicants to return after tabling a item with too many unanswered questions. Suggestions generally featured including an exemplary example of an application and listing exactly what is expected or needed in the process on the city website.

Members said they would need to take the suggestion to the zoning office for discussion.