Dean O'Donnell

The joint work session focused on planning and development matters for the City of Detroit. Key discussion points included Accessory Structures (Storage Sheds) without a Primary Structure, where the expiration of Ordinance 266 necessitated review of design standards, materials, size limitations, and enforcement mechanisms, with a request for staff to suggest 'Beautification' standards. Another topic addressed was the presence of Recreational Vehicles (RVs) on 'Commercial' Zoned Property, contrasting current code limitations with existing situations, and exploring rezoning or case-by-case review as potential solutions. Staff introductions were also made, noting a new Land Use Planner who will assist with Detroit area planning and development codes.

The meeting included discussions on the preliminary park plan, which covered topics such as a splash pad, pavilion, shade trees, removal of blacktop, playground placement, parking, and utilizing grass instead of woodchips. There was also a discussion regarding a grant application. Declarations of conflict of interest and ex-parte contact were addressed at the beginning of the session.

The meeting commenced with the Chairman calling the meeting to order. A key agenda item was a Public Hearing regarding VAR 2025-01, a variance request to reduce the side yard setback from five feet to approximately 3 feet to allow for the construction of an accessory structure in the rear yard setback. Concerns were raised regarding setting a precedent for future variance requests. The commission ultimately approved the variance with specific conditions, including reversing the slope of the roof from North to South to South to North sloping away from the property and incorporating a 1-hour fire wall on the South property line.

The key discussion item addressed Ordinance 213 regarding the use of porta potties within the City of Detroit. The commission debated the current ordinance's status for both commercial and residential properties, noting that porta potties were largely unused unless associated with an event, and reviewed available grants for residential properties. Ultimately, the Planning Commission recommended keeping the current Ordinance 213 as is and utilizing code enforcement to ensure compliance with the existing ordinance.

This document outlines the City of Detroit's TMDL Implementation Plan, addressing Total Maximum Daily Loads for water bodies in the Willamette Basin, specifically targeting Bacteria, Temperature, and Mercury. The plan details five key components: background, review and approval processes, specific parameters with management strategies, land use compliance, and additional requirements. Its core strategy involves a Best Management Practice (BMP) Tracking Matrix, aiming to protect and improve water quality and stormwater management through actions such as drinking water protection, stormwater control, septic system education, public involvement, and riparian vegetation preservation.