Matthew Leach

The Board discussed a variance request for a 1,500 square foot accessory building at 4801 W. Willow Highway, ultimately approving the request after deliberation on lot size and equipment storage needs. Additionally, the Board continued discussions regarding Case No. V-19-7-13, a variance request for an addition at 234 Richard Avenue, which was tabled for further consultation with the Township Attorney regarding ADA and fair housing considerations. The Board also received updates from staff on various ongoing development projects within the Township.

The board meeting focused on several key items, including the approval of an industrial facilities exemption certificate for Midwest Press and Automation LLC, which includes a tax abatement to support business expansion and job creation. Two noise waiver requests were also approved for neighborhood events, one for a backyard concert and another for a block party. Additionally, the board heard public comments regarding the opposition to a proposed property rezoning from residential agricultural to residential commercial due to concerns about infrastructure, drainage, flooding risks, and increased traffic, as well as advocacy regarding a resolution on state legislation related to voting rights.

The board discussed three primary cases. Case one involved a variance request to build an accessory boat house within a floodplain and with reduced setbacks, which was approved. Case two involved variance requests for rear yard setbacks and parking lot encroachment for a commercial property redevelopment, which was also approved. Case three, regarding greenbelt plantings and internal sidewalk requirements for a campus expansion project, was tabled pending a legal opinion from the township attorney. Additionally, the board held its annual elections for chairperson and vice-chairperson.

The meeting was called to order but no business was conducted due to a lack of a quorum. Agenda items included several setback variance requests for parking lots and building additions at a place of worship, as well as multiple requests regarding accessory building dimensions and lot coverage ratios in the RC district.

The Board approved a variance request for a parcel located at 7908 E. Saginaw Highway to restore it to its original configuration, bringing the parcel closer to compliance with the township's minimum lot size requirements. The board decided to postpone the election of officers until a full body of members is present. Staff provided information regarding future variance requests for the Auto-Owners south campus development and a proposed senior-oriented health center development.