Beth L. Patterson

The board conducted an election for officials, re-electing the chair, vice-chair, and secretary. The primary agenda item was a variance request for property at 301 Wildwood Drive to allow for an accessory structure exceeding the standard square footage allowance. Discussions centered on the property setbacks, the classification of riverfront as a front yard, potential future usage and enclosure of the structure, and the justification for the hardship based on storage needs for recreational vehicles and equipment. The applicant discussed maintaining natural tree coverage and drainage plans.

The meeting included a public input segment regarding township operations and personnel matters. The board approved an agreement with the Bay County Road Commission and discussed the payment of bills. Key new business items included the creation of special assessment districts for storm water detention and street lighting for the Mill Pond Meadows condominium. Additionally, the board held a first reading for an ordinance concerning the adaptive reuse of structures that have lost non-conformance status and debated the implementation and fee structure for mandatory residential roof permits, ultimately proposing a flat inspection fee.

The Planning Commission discussed and approved special use permits for home-based salon businesses, emphasizing conditions regarding compliance with state building codes and the requirement that the proposed bathroom facilities be for personal use only and not for customer use. The Commission addressed concerns about the definition of personal use and ADA compliance, ultimately confirming the approvals based on the understanding that the facilities are strictly residential. Additionally, the commission reviewed a request for a yoga studio property, discussing fire code issues and the resolution of previous building code concerns associated with the property.

The meeting included public input regarding technology regulations. Key actions included approving the hiring of a new building official, discussing the consideration of a landlocked parcel and its associated requirements, signing a letter for reimbursement related to a state senate election, accepting a resignation, and granting a leave of absence request. The board also reviewed and discussed a new pay scale schedule for various township roles.

The Planning Commission discussed sewer and water capacity for future development in the township, noting that existing water systems are strong while sewer coverage in the northwest quadrant is limited. Guests from the Bay County Department of Water and Sewer provided insights into treatment plant capacities and the process for infrastructure expansion. Additionally, the commission considered and approved a special use home occupation permit for a property on Midland Road, subject to addressing driveway access issues.