Planning Commission: Planning Commission, Thursday, February 25, 2025 (Decision Worksheet)

The Leelanau Township Planning Commission reviewed a Special Land Use Permit Application for a proposed 200’-3” communications tower at 11015 N. Kitchen Rd. The application was evaluated against six Special Land Use Standards. For Standard #1, concerning the preservation of the district’s essential character, the commission found that the proposed tower would change the character of the Agricultural Zoning District. Despite a previous approval of a similar tower in 2011 and a township resolution supporting a tower, the majority of the commission voted that the application did not meet this standard, citing the tower’s location on a ridge and its impact on the scenic views and agricultural land.

For Standard #2, regarding adequate public facilities and services, the application was unanimously approved as meeting the standard. However, Standards #3, #4, #5, and #6 were not met according to the commission’s votes. Standard #3’s specifics were not detailed in the document, but Standards #4 and #5 were rejected due to potential adverse effects on wetlands and farmland, respectively. The proposed driveway would impact wetlands and remove cherry trees, affecting agricultural use. Standard #6 was not met due to concerns over stormwater runoff management, with recommendations for a detention pond and stabilization measures not being adequately addressed in the application.

Ultimately, the Planning Commission voted 4-2 to deny the Special Land Use Permit Application. The decision was influenced by the tower’s potential to alter the district’s character, its impact on natural and agricultural resources, and inadequate stormwater management plans. The commission’s thorough review and public input played significant roles in the decision-making process, reflecting the community’s concerns about preserving the township’s rural and scenic qualities.