Alonzo Palmer

The board addressed four zoning variance requests. They approved a side yard setback variance for a garage attachment at 324 North Lakeshore Drive, a front yard setback variance for a deck at 1939 Lake Street, and modified conditions for a side yard setback variance at 3567 North Lakeshore Drive to allow for a restroom while prohibiting residential use and kitchen facilities. A request regarding Interlake Walk was tabled pending court action. Additionally, the board initiated a review of their bylaws.

The board discussed public comments regarding short-term rental regulations and township values. They reviewed department reports and debated the implementation of a new special event policy designed to manage event impacts, such as parking issues, on township-owned properties. The proposed policy includes an application fee and requires event organizers to cover costs for necessary staff or equipment, with the goal of minimizing the financial burden on taxpayers. Coordination with the fair board regarding event scheduling and event management were also addressed.

The Planning Commission discussed several items including the introduction of the new Township Manager, site plan reviews for properties on South Shore Drive, a discussion on a potential joint meeting with the Board of Trustees, and reports from staff and various township committees. Key topics included residential development standards, parking ordinance requirements, tree preservation, and proposed changes to the Land Division Act. The Commission also reviewed specific site plan applications, granting approval for one project contingent upon additional requirements and tabling another pending further revisions.

The Planning Commission discussed several items, including a site plan review for a property at 1504 South Shore Drive, which was tabled pending a complete and accurate submission. The commission also reviewed a draft Tree Preservation Ordinance, focusing on canopy cover calculations, preservation area requirements, and the potential creation of a tree subcommittee. Additionally, the commission discussed potential updates to the C-2 zoning district and parking requirements, specifically addressing short-term rentals and kitchen facilities in small hotel units. Updates were provided regarding recent Zoning Board of Appeals actions and Board of Trustees activities, including public safety millage and park usage analysis.

The board approved the Public Safety Millage ballot language for the August 2026 election, which aims to provide funding for emergency services and public safety operations. Additionally, the board discussed and initiated the creation of ballot language for a proposed increase in the Parks and Recreation millage to be placed on the November 2026 ballot. An update was also provided regarding the Township of Excellence award application. Board comments included announcements regarding a Fire Station Open House and updates to future meeting schedules, including the cancellation of a upcoming work session.