Allison Bester

The Commission conducted a special land use and site plan review for a vehicle sales operation at 3010 Shaffer Ave SE, granting conditional approval. Additionally, the Commission recommended to the City Commission the approval of a major site plan amendment for the Garden Park Estates development and the Structures and Improvement Plan for 2026-2032. Proposed zoning ordinance amendments were discussed, covering non-conforming uses in the Form Based Code, fence height regulations, PUD plan expiration procedures, definitions and requirements for motor freight terminals, and new standards for self-storage facilities. A public hearing date was set for two upcoming development projects, and commissioners discussed various local concerns including sidewalk inspections, intersection visibility, and home-based business regulations.

The authority discussed a proposed policy regarding housing Tax Increment Financing (TIF) for two specific projects. The discussion covered infrastructure investment requirements and eligible activities for non-income qualified properties, such as demolition and abatement. For income-qualified projects, potential policy expansions were reviewed, including household relocation costs, rehabilitation of rental units, and bridging financing gaps. The members also debated the use of deed restrictions to enforce affordability and the implications of potential foreclosures on those restrictions, with plans to involve developer feedback before further review.

This document outlines the City of Kentwood's proposed Schedule of Capital Improvements for 2026-2032. It serves as a capital planning roadmap, encompassing two main components: the Structures and Improvements Plan for roads, public buildings, parks, and infrastructure, and the Capital Expenditures Plan for vehicles, technology, and operational equipment. The plan aims to guide annual capital budgeting, ensuring projects are financially sustainable and meet community needs.

The City of Kentwood's Brownfield TIF Policy aims to provide financial support for eligible development and redevelopment projects under Public Act 381, with the objective of increasing affordable housing and housing choice within the community. The policy outlines eligible housing development activities for both income-qualified and non-income-qualified projects, general eligibility criteria, and terms of reimbursement, including administrative fees and project abandonment conditions. It prioritizes rehabilitation over demolition for existing properties and affordable home ownership for new developments, ensuring consistency with the city's Master Plan/Housing Plan.

The commission reviewed a special land use and site plan for a vehicle sales facility at 3010 Shaffer Avenue. They also discussed a major change to an approved site plan for the Garden Park Estates development, which involves increasing the lot count from 11 to 13 and modifying road improvements to public standards. Additionally, the commission reviewed the 2026-2032 Structures and Improvements Plan, focusing on facility updates, infrastructure, and budgeting. A public hearing was scheduled for upcoming zoning ordinance text amendments.