Planning Commission: Planning Commission Thursday, May 23rd 2024 @ 7:00 pm (Zoning Report on Farmstay text amendment)

Executive Summary:

I. Request
The document discusses a request from Philip Hallstedt for a Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment to the Leelanau Township Zoning Ordinance to provide for Farmstays in the Agricultural Zoning District. The Planning Commission is reviewing the request and will make a recommendation to the Township Board.

II. Review Process
The Planning Commission reviews the request, conducts a Public Hearing, and makes a recommendation to the Township Board. The County Planning Commission also reviews the recommendation before it goes to the Township Board.

III. Planning Commission Review
The Planning Commission needs to determine if Farmstay Lodging is an acceptable use in the township, particularly in the Agricultural Zoning District. If so, the Commission needs to review the proposed language to ensure it is clear, concise, and addresses potential impacts of the use.

IV. Staff Review
The staff provides an in-depth analysis of whether Farmstay Lodging is an acceptable use, including where it is currently allowed, how it aligns with the Master Plan, potential impacts, and general acceptability of Agritourism uses. The staff also provides observations and recommendations on the proposed language.

The staff recommends the Planning Commission direct the Zoning Administrator to work with a Professional Planner to reconcile the proposed text amendment with the zoning ordinance and present a revised document for further discussion.

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