Planning Commission Board Minutes
Planning Commission Board Minutes
Crockery Township Regular Planning Commission Meeting July 20, 2010 (Preliminary) Chairman Bill Sanders called the July 20, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:30 P.M. Roll-call was taken with Bill Sanders, Jon Overway, Greg Retzlaff, Dewie Jordan, Rich Suchecki, Robb Constantine and Dave Meekhof present. Z/A Robert Toland and Attorney Scott Sewick were also present for this session. Agenda Item 2. Approval of the Agenda Approved as stands. Agenda Item 3. Approval of Minutes The Commission reviewed the minutes from the June 15, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Greg Retzlaff made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dewie Jordan. The motion was unanimously approved. The Commission reviewed the minutes from the June 29, 2010 Special Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Rich Suchecki made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dewie Jordan. The motion was unanimously approved. Agenda Item 4. Announcements None. Agenda Item 5. Communications None. Agenda Item 6. Public Comment None offered. Agenda Item 7. Action Items Special Land Use – Bleich Pond. Greg and Rose Bleich were present for this hearing and represented themselves in this Special Land Use request for a pond on their property, Parcel # 70-04-30-300-017, located at 15490 144th Avenue. Documents provided to the Commission for review in this matter include; (1) a memo from Z/A Toland to the Commission, dated July 20, 2010, containing comments relative to this request, (2) a memo from Kevin S. Kieft, P.E., of Prein & Newhof, to Z/A Toland, dated July 1, 2010, containing comments relative to this request, (3) a Crockery Township Zoning Application for Special Land Use, construction of a pond, signed by Greg Bleich and dated May 26, 2010, (4) a hand drawn site plan by Mr. Bleich showing the proposed pond and set-backs on parcel #70-04-30-300-017, (4) a Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control permit issued May 24, 2010, by Mike Munch of the Ottawa County Drain Commissioner’s Office, (5) a hand drawn schematic of the proposed pond showing the elevations and slope gradient, (6) a hand drawn sketch of the Bleich property showing the pond envelope and fill area around the home, as well as the drain field location, (7) an ariel view of the property via Ottawa County GIS, and (8) an approving note from neighbor J. H. Ott. Mr. & Mrs. Bleich advised all the material (soil) removed to construct the pond will remain on site and will be primarily used to backfill around their home. All set-backs are met based on the site plan description. In order to satisfy Article 19.14 (27) (F) (vi) of the Township Ordinance the Bleichs propose to post their property with no trespassing signs. There was no public comment offered, however, a document was provided to the Commission (listed above) containing a hand written, signed note from Mr. J. H. Ott, 15465 144th Avenue, dated July 8, 2010, indicating he had no objection to the Bleichs constructing a pond. After all discussion was complete a resolution was offered by Commissioner Robb Constantine to approve the Special Land Use request, allowing construction of a pond on parcel # 70-04-30-300-017, located at 15490 144th Avenue, as proposed in the site plan and elevation sketch, including the requirement that this property will be adequately posted “No Trespassing” by the applicant Mr. Bleich. A second was offered by Commissioner Rich Suchecki. The resolution was unanimously approved by the Commission. Item 8. Presentations. None. Agenda Item 9. Discussion Items Master Plan. The Commission, along with Mr. Toland and Mr. Sewick, discussed the presentation information provided by Mr. Dennis Kent and Ms. Vicky Weerstra (MDOT) on May 25, 2010. The information primarily discussed in the presentation centered around the construction of the M-231 bypass and 112th Avenue overpass improvements. Useful Master Plan policy statements may include investigating appropriate land uses in the vicinity of the M-231 & M-104 and 112th Avenue & I-96 interchanges and along M-104. Further to support the MDOT and Ottawa County Road Commission in developing transportation options, to include non-motorized pathways, and encourage development of (off highway) traffic circulation by businesses within the M-104 Overlay District. Agenda Item 10. Adjournment A motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Rich Suchecki at 9:12 P.M. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Jon Overway. Motion unanimously approved. Respectfully Submitted, Jon C. Overway, Secretary Crockery Township Planning Commission Next Meetings: Regular Session – August 17, 2010 Work Session - _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Crockery Township
Regular Planning Commission Meeting
June 15, 2010
(Approved)
Chairman Bill Sanders called the June 15, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:33 P.M. Roll-call was taken with Bill Sanders, Jon Overway, Greg Retzlaff, Dewie Jordan, Rich Suchecki, Robb Constantine and Dave Meekhof present. Z/A Robert Toland was also present for this meeting. Attorney Scott Sewick was excused due to the nature of the meeting.
Agenda Item 2. Approval of the Agenda
Approved as stands.
Agenda Item 3. Approval of Minutes
The Commission reviewed the minutes from the May 25, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Dewie Jordan made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Rich Suchecki. The motion was unanimously approved.
Agenda Item 4. Announcements
Commissioner Suchecki indicated the Board has approved a new junkyard ordinance and will hold public hearings on a Corridor Improvement Authority and policy regarding industrial tax abatements.
Agenda Item 5. Communications
None.
Agenda Item 6. Public Comment
No public comment was offered. None present.
Agenda Item 7. Action Items
A resolution was offered by Commissioner Greg Retzlaff to hold a public hearing regarding a special land use, the construction of a pond, by Greg Bleich on parcel #70-04-30-300-017,located at 15490 144th Avenue, on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at 7:30 P.M., at the Township Hall. A second was offered by Commissioner Robb Constantine. The motion was unanimously approved.
Agenda Item 8. Presentations.
There were two presentations delivered during this regular session to assist Commissioners in the re-development of the Township Master Plan.
Presentation #1. Bob Sorenson, Eastbrook Development, Grand Rapids, Mi.
Mr. Sorenson provided the Commission with an overview of development from a private developer’s point of view. Mr. Sorenson believes the market is now shifting from first time buyers, who have been motivated by government subsidies and low prices, to home sales involving second (or more) time buyers, who are now marketing their existing homes. This may mean the glut of foreclosures are finally dwindling. Home prices are still down, however, and this may be the case for some time to come.
Value engineering and reduction of lot prices is keeping developers in business. The home buyer is now demanding more for their money and asking for concessions to make homes affordable.
Eastbrook has also tempered the existing Michigan economy by participating in development in the State of Alabama, taking advantage of the auto industry that has relocated there, as well as large, existing military bases, which utilize off base housing.
Mr. Sorenson advised developers are serious about reducing hard surface areas, particularly by reducing the width of roadways, which does allow for higher site density (7,000 – 12,000 sq. ft. lots), as well as reducing storm water run-off. Narrower roadways also produce a calming effect on traffic flow, according to Mr. Sorensen. Other considerations in planning a development include providing common areas for recreation, including clubhouses for hosting events, ponds, that can also provide fill if need be, and a pleasant, appealing entry to the site. Eastbrook has engaged in mixed commercial/residential style development, indicating the commercial entities involved are purely market driven. Usually, locating a development occurs within 7-10 miles of business centers that provide daily community needs. Access to good transportation routes, however, can extend travel distance for employment purposes to approximately 30 miles and still be considered convenient.
From Mr. Sorenson’s perspective, the “green” issues affecting builders still need to become more affordable to be popular. Access to “green” energy, however, seems to be a popular concept.
Lot sizes for homes utilizing well water and septic systems depends on the soil. Mr. Sorenson believes 15,000 is probably minimum size, given good drainage, and can be extended to an acre or more if heavy soil types are present and septic systems have to be built up to accommodate adequate drainage.
As an aside, Eastbrook does support the North-bank Trail running through their M-104 development, however, they would oppose its use by any type of motorized vehicles.
Mr. Sorenson was very informative and candid in answering the Commission’s questions.
Presentation #2. Pat Staskiewicz, Ottawa Co. Road Commission, (Water/Sewer).
Mr. Staskiewicz provided detailed information concerning the water and sewer systems serving Crockery Township. Several maps were provided to Commissioners to show existing water and sewer lines as well as suggested improvements.
The water system in Crockery Township was originally designed to serve the immediate Nunica area due to contamination of water wells. This was a very basic system with a singular intent. The water system has been expanded to serve other Township residents and developments, but lacks the necessary looping to provide stability of service in case of a main break. A break east of the water tower for example would deprive residents of water service until the damage could be repaired.
The current system can generally provide water at the rate of 1500 gallons per minute, but can be boosted to 2000 gallons per minute if need be. This rate is considered to be the low end when considering fire service. Water systems delivering 2500 to 3500 gallons per minute are considered more appropriate for fire service needs.
Increasing water flow could be accomplished in several ways, including new loops and metering stations, or installing a new and larger water tower, or a combination these approaches.
The sewer system was installed in 2005 – 2006 to serve the Hathaway Lakes development. The plant has the ability to process 75,000 gallons a day and can be further developed to process 150,000 gallons per day. Additionally, the plant site has the land to build a 300,000 gallons per day facility. The sewer system is presently under utilized does need additional customers to pay for its operation.
It is interesting to note that the natural flow of drains and creeks systems, used to drain purified effluence from the sewer plant, run southward toward the Grand River, contrary to the present (east – west) extension of sewer lines in general. That is why certain future sewer system features show as they do on the mapping provided by Mr. Staskiewicz.
Mr. Staskiewicz and the Commission also discussed the impact of the M-231 bypass. In the near future it would be advisable for the Township, the MDOT and the Ottawa County Road Commission (water and sewer service) to discuss how existing water and sewer lines will be affected by this project and what needs to be done to insure appropriate actions are taken to continue effective water and sewer operations as this new road system is being developed.
Mr. Staskiewicz provided a clear description of the existing water and sewer systems in the Township, as well as answering questions regarding future needs.
Agenda Item 9. Discussion Items
None.
Agenda Item 10. Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Rich Suchecki at 10:14 P.M. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Greg Retzlaff. Motion unanimously approved.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jon C. Overway, Secretary
Crockery Township Planning Commission
Next Meetings: Regular Session – July 20, 2010
Work Session - June 29, 2010
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Crockery Township
Regular Planning Commission Meeting
May 25, 2010
(Approved)
Chairman Bill Sanders called the May 25, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:42 P.M. Roll-call was taken with Bill Sanders, Jon Overway, Rich Suchecki, Robb Constantine and Dave Meekhof present. Commissioners Dewie Jordan and Greg Retzlaff were absent. Z/A Robert Toland was also present for this meeting. Attorney Scott Sewick was excused due to the nature of the meeting.
Agenda Item 2. Approval of the Agenda
Approved as stands.
Agenda Item 3. Approval of Minutes
The Commission reviewed the minutes from the April 20, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Robb Constantine made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dave Meekhof. The motion was unanimously approved.
The Commission reviewed the minutes from the April 27, 2010 Special Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Rich Suchecki made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Robb Constantine. The motion was unanimously approved.
Agenda Item 4. Announcements
None.
Agenda Item 5. Communications
None.
Agenda Item 6. Public Comment
No public comment was offered. None present.
Agenda Item 7. Action Items
None.
Agenda Item 8. Presentations.
There were two presentations delivered during this regular session to assist Commissioners in the re-development of the Township Master Plan.
Presentation #1. Paul Geerlings, Drain Commissioner for Ottawa County.
Mr. Geerlings started his presentation with a brief history of drains, which were likely implemented in the 1830’s in our vicinity, for the purpose of establishing tillable agricultural lands. These drains were maintained and expanded upon to the present day, now including drainage for developments other than for farming purposes.
Mr. Geerlings provided and overview of his Department’s responsibilities under Public Act #40, which include review of all developments (residential, commercial, and industrial) for proper drainage and/or control of run-off (detention-retention). Mr. Geerlings also indicated his office also review single site developments, particularly when referred from local governmental units.
The Drain Commission is also responsible for the maintenance and improvement of drain systems. The cost of which can be borne by the Road Commission, the County, the local government (health benefit), or via a (drain) district assessment. Mr. Geerlings stated often times it is a combination of payers that gets the job done.
The Drain Commission also issues soil erosion permits for any building project in proximity to a body of water or watercourse.
Mr. Geerlings advised there were two important drain considerations the local governments should be aware of;
1. Referring all new plans for development to the Drain Commissioner’s Office for review, and
2. Consider a maintenance agreement between the local government and a single development owner for ongoing care of drainage requirements at their specific site.
Mr. Geerlings also provided mapping of the drains within Crockery Township and offered his office’s assistance to the Township as needed.
Presentation #2. Dennis Kent – Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).
Mr. Dennis Kent and Ms. Vicky Weerstra provided an overview of the M-231 (bypass) project and its current standing. Mapping was provided showing the planned route of the bypass as it leaves I-96 and proceeds south to M-45. The bridge over the Grand River was pointed out as a significant portion of this project and will span nearly a mile in distance from start to finish, bridging not only the river, but the adjacent low lying areas as well.
Mapping of the newly designed 112th Avenue overpass, including new entrance and exit lanes were also discussed. The existing exit and entrance ramps to I-96 west of 112th Avenue will be abandoned.
Non-motorized pathways were also discussed. Vicky pointed out a potential crossing route for the proposed North Bank Trail as well as discussing the requirements for an attached pathway to the (M-231) Grand River Bridge. Other concerns such as boring placements for utilities were also discussed.
There was some discussion of a round-about design for 112th Avenue and Cleveland Street, however, the Planning Commission was unsure if promoting that issue was within their purview.
The Commission spent considerable time reviewing this project and asking questions of the presenters as this project will certainly impact land use in the vicinity of the new bypass.
Mr. Kent and Ms. Weerstra stated this is one of the few projects in the State that is scheduled to proceed. Preliminary preparation of the bridge site may begin as early as the end of this year (2010).
Mr. Kent and Ms. Weerstra will continue to make themselves available to The Commission as needed regarding the M-231 project.
Agenda Item 9. Discussion Items
None.
Agenda Item 10. Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Robb Constantine at 10:24 P.M. A 2nd was offered by Dave Meekhof. Motion unanimously approved.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jon C. Overway, Secretary, Crockery Township Planning Commission
Next Meetings: Regular Session – June 15, 2010
Work Session - June 29, 2010
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Crockery Township
Regular Planning Commission Meeting
April 20, 2010
(Approved)
Chairman Bill Sanders called the April 20, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:34 P.M. Roll-call was taken with Bill Sanders, Jon Overway, Dewie Jordan, Rich Suchecki, Robb Constantine and Dave Meekhof present. Commissioner Greg Retzlaff was absent. Z/A Robert Toland and Attorney Scott Sewick were also present for this meeting.
Agenda Item 2. Approval of the Agenda
Switch order of Action Items. A. to B., B. to A.
Agenda Item 3. Approval of Minutes
The Commission reviewed the minutes from the March 16, 2010 Regular Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Robb Constantine made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Rich Suchecki. The motion was unanimously approved.
The Commission reviewed the minutes from the March 16, 2010 Special Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Dewie Jordan made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dave Meekhof. The motion was unanimously approved.
The Commission reviewed the minutes from the March 30, 2010 Special Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Rich Suchecki made a motion to accept the minutes as written. A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dewie Jordan. The motion was unanimously approved.
Agenda Item 4. Announcements
Commissioner Suchecki reminded the Commission that May 15, 2010 will be Township clean-up day. Residents may use the dumpsters, located at the Fire Station, for a nominal fee.
Additionally, Commissioner Suchecki advised the Township Board was still interested in working with the County to provide broad band coverage within the Township.
Agenda Item 5. Communications
The May Regular Planning Commission Meeting will be held on May 25, 2010.
Agenda Item 6. Public Comment
No public comment was offered at this time.
Agenda Item 7. Action Items
A. Mike Murphy Car Lot – Site Plan Review. Documents provided to Commissioners for this hearing include (1) a memo to the Planning Commission from Z/A Toland, dated April 20, 2010, outlining the project description and identified issues (parcel # 70-04-21-200-004), (2) a letter to Z/A Robert Toland dated, April 12, 2010, from Kevin S. Kieft of Prein & Newhof commenting on the site plan for this project, (3) a summary document offered by Brock Hesselsweet, Architect, dated March, 2010, (4) a site plan for this project by Brock Hesselsweet, A.I.A., dated March 31, 2010, Project # 120808, and (5) an addendum by Brock Hesselsweet, dated March 31, 2010, showing specific detail of the parking lot, retention basin, proposed drive and lighting location, attached to an Amendment to Declaration of Easement (submitted to the County on April 15, 2010) and an example of the lighting fixture to be used.
Mr. Brock Hesselsweet, architect for this project, was present and represented Mr. Murphy’s interest in this matter. Mr. Hesselsweet provided and overview of this project and engaged the Commission, Mr. Toland and Mr. Sewick in a discussion of the project details as shown by the site plan (project #120808, dated March 31, 2010) and addendum (also dated March 31, 2010) and the guidance offered in the afore mentioned documents listed above.
This proposed project is within the M-104 Corridor Overlay District and subject to those regulations as well as the underlying Township Ordinance. The Commission felt the site plan did satisfactorily meet the Township Ordinance, including those regulations found in the Overlay District.
Public comment was asked for at 8:03 P.M. concerning the proposed project. None was offered.
After all discussion was heard, Commissioner Rich Suchecki made a motion to approve the site plan offered by Brock Hesselsweet, A.I.A., 14250 Cricklewood Drive, Grand Haven, Michigan, 49417, project #120808, dated March 31, 2010, and accompanying addendum, dated March 31, 2010, with the following conditions;
(1) A copy of the recorded easement be provided to the Township as it becomes available.
(2) Restore all areas disturbed by excavation/construction to a vegetative state.
(3) Remove original access drive over ditch area and restore an even grade to the ditch.
A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dewie Jordan. The motion was unanimously approved by the Commission.
B. Magnum Coffee Expansion – Site Plan Review. Documents provided to the Commission for this hearting include (1) a memo from Z/A Toland to the Commission, dated April 20, 2010, outlining the project description and identified issues (parcel # 70-04-16-300-022), (2) a letter to Z/A Robert Toland dated, April 12, 2010, from Kevin S. Kieft of Prein & Newhof commenting on the site plan for this project, (3) a list of requirements drafted by Chief Gary M. Dreyer, dated April 12, 2010, (4) a memo from Paul Geerlings, Ottawa County Drain Commissioner to Magnum Coffee Roastery, Mr. Nick Andres, discussing drainage and easement issues, including a conceptual approval, (5) a memo from Arne Larsen of Driesenga & Associates, Inc., to Gail Botbyl of the Ottawa County Drain Commissioner’s Office, offering a review of drainage issues and easement recommendations for the Magnum Coffee expansion project, (6) a project narrative by exxel engineering, inc., (7) a site plan by exxel engineering, inc., project #101143E, dated March 29, 2010, and (8) a utility plan by exxel engineering, inc., project #101143E, dated March 31, 2010.
Person present and speaking for Magnum Coffee Roastery were Mr. Nick Andres, General Manager for Magnum Coffee, Mr. Douglas M. Ritz, V.P. of Construction, A.J. Veneklasen Inc.,
and Mr. Douglas J. Stalsonburg, P.E. for exxel engineering, inc.
Mr. Stalsonburg provided an overview of the proposal, which included a site plan and a utility plan showing the details of the proposed project. Questions were also fielded by Mr. Ritz and Mr. Andres throughout the discussion.
Specific attention was given to the requirements listed by Chief Dreyer. A Fire Department representative was present to explain the requirements and answer questions. The Chief’s remarks included providing an (1) exterior gas shutoff, as well as relocating the gas meter to the exterior of the building, (2) providing a Knox Box, (3) locating the dumpsters no less than 15 feet from the structure of the building, and (4) finally, (with emphasis) fire protection in compliance with NFPA 13 with a standpipe protection system in compliance with NFPA 13 7-4.1.6. Magnum Coffee representatives were agreeable to these requirements.
The private street, Java Boulevard, particularly the cul-de-sac located at the north end of the easement was discussed at some length. The present cul-de-sac does not meet the dimensional requirements for Township Standards, as it exists, and appears to extend past the easement boundary on to the adjacent parcel (not owned by Magnum Coffee). After discussion it was decided that Magnum Coffee would extend the easement for Java Boulevard and include that space necessary to accommodate an approved turn around or cul-de-sac. In addition, a private street maintenance agreement is recommended for Java Boulevard.
Further, the drainage plan requires use of a pond, which discharges to an authorized drain that is located largely on a neighboring property (not owned by Magnum Coffee). An easement agreement is needed to execute the drainage plan, which is supported/documented by the Ottawa County Drain Commissioner and Driesenga & Associates, Inc.
The Environmental Health Department has no new requirements given the nature of the proposed expansion.
New exterior lighting consists of downcast wall pack lighting, as shown on the utility plan.
This proposed project is within the M-104 Corridor Overlay District and subject to those regulations as well as the underlying Township Ordinance. The Commission felt the site plan did satisfactorily meet the Township Ordinance, including those regulations found in the Overlay District.
Public comment was asked for at 9:14 P.M. None was offered.
After considerable discussion, Commissioner Robb Constantine offered a motion to approve the site plan and utility plan provided by exxel engineering, inc., project #101143E, and dated March 31, 2010, with the following conditions;
(1) A private street maintenance agreement shall be provided for Java Blvd.
(2) An easement agreement be provided for pond access (supporting drainage plan).
(3) Magnum Coffee Roastery will extend the easement for Java Boulevard and include that space necessary to accommodate an approved turn around or cul-de-sac.
(4) The building process shall include those (4) requirements as described by Chief Dreyer in his April 12, 2010 memo.
A 2nd was offered by Commissioner Dewie Jordan. The motion was unanimously approved by the Commission.
Item 8. Presentations.
None.
Agenda Item 9. Discussion Items
None.
Agenda Item 10. Adjournment
A motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Robb Constantine at 9:33 P.M. A 2nd was offered by Rich Suchecki. Motion unanimously approved.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jon C. Overway, Secretary, Crockery Township Planning Commission
Next Meetings: Regular Session - May 25, 2010
Work Session - April 27, 2010
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Crockery TownshipSpecial Planning Commission Meeting
March 30, 2010
(Approved)
A work session of the Crockery Township Planning Commission began at 7:30 P.M. Present were Bill Sanders, Greg Retzlaff, Jon Overway, Dewie Jordan, Rich Suchecki and Dave Meekhof. Commissioner Robb Constantine was absent. Z/A Robert Toland was also present for this meeting.
Agenda Item 2. Approval of the Agenda
No change.
Agenda Item 3. Approval of Minutes
No review.
Agenda Item 4. Announcements
None.
Agenda Item 5. Communications
None.
Agenda Item 6. Public Comment
No members of the public were present for this meeting.
Agenda Item 7. Action Items
None.
Item 8. Presentations.
There were two presentations scheduled for this work session to assist Commissioners in the re-development of the Township Master Plan.
Presentation #1. John Scholtz, Director of the Ottawa County Parks and Recreation office.
Mr. John Scholtz provided Commissioners with a County map and the Spring, 2010, issue of a quarterly publication entitled “Outdoors Ottawa County”, which is essentially a newsletter updating events and activities associated with the County Parks systems.
Mr. Scholtz provided commissioners with an overview of the County Parks, and in particular the “Greenway” corridor acquisitions to date. Mr. Scholtz also addressed County properties within Crockery Township, which include the Crockery Creek Natural Site, a 334 acre “parkland”, and the 97 acre Jubb Bayou property, considered an “open space”. Mr. Scholtz advised “parklands” generally have more rules and restrictions placed on them regarding public use, as opposed to
“open spaces”, which have relatively limited restrictions for public use. According to Mr. Scholtz, the Crockery Creek Natural Site may eventually be considered for modest development of trail systems and access to Crockery Creek, that may include kayak and canoe launch sites. The Jubb Bayou property will likely remain an “open space” for some time into the future and be allowed to exist in its natural state.
Mr. Scholtz provided excellent insight regarding the current standing of the County Parks system, including those properties within Crockery Township. Mr. Scholtz also engaged in limited discussions regarding the future vision for the County Parks, that being the acquisition of useful properties along the lakeshore (Lake Michigan) and expansion of the “Greenway” corridor properties, that would best serve the public interest.
Presentation #2. Derek Haroldson, Environmental Quality Analyst, Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment (M-DNRE).
Mr. Haroldson opened his discussion with an overview of Public Act 303, the “wetlands” protection act, discussing the types of wetlands found in Michigan and working within the Act guidelines regarding development in and around wetland features. Mr. Haroldson also discussed Public Act 301, which is the Inland Lakes and Streams Protection Act, including Part 31, which affects floodplains. Mr. Haroldson provided a great deal of insight regarding the DNRE’s higherarchy of thought regarding protection of wetlands, lakes, and streams, that being
(1) avoidance of such sensitive areas, (2) minimizing the impact of development on such sensitive areas, and lastly (3) mitigate when the first two options cannot be applied. This order of consideration was an eye opener to the Commission, particularly finding mitigation as essentially the last option when dealing with wetlands, lakes, streams and floodplains. Mr. Haroldson answered many questions concerning definitions and permitting associated with his responsibilities.
Both presenters provided follow-up contact information as well as web site references for further information.
Agenda Item 9. Discussion Items
Master Plan. After the presentations, described above, were completed, Mr. Toland encouraged the Commission to begin to think in terms of goals and policy statements regarding the information learned in these sessions. Further discussions will take place at the next regular meeting of the Planning Commission.
Mr. Toland also provided the Commission with a tentative schedule of speakers that may be helpful in re-developing the Township’s Master Plan.
Agenda Item 10. Adjournment
This Special Planning Commission Meeting came to a close at 10:20 P.M.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jon C. Overway, Secretary, Crockery Township Planning Commission
Next Meetings: Regular Session – April 20, 2010 Work Session - April 27, 2010
