Summary
The Glen Arbor Township Planning Commission met June 5, 2025, with Chairman Lance Roman presiding. The Commission approved the May minutes (motion by Ihme, supported by Berlacher), reviewed Master Plan Chapters 3 & 4 with only minor changes, and discussed proposed Zoning Ordinance updates regarding accessory buildings and shipping container use. No formal votes were taken on the ordinance items; they remain in draft/review stage.
Public Comments
No comments were offered at the first public comment period. During the second public comment period, unnamed residents raised two concerns: that density is a growing issue and that sewers could help control it, and that waste containers visible from the road are a problem, specifically citing "The Mill's" container as very visible. Zoning Administrator Tim Cypher said he would investigate the waste container issue. No board decision was made on either matter at this meeting.
Infrastructure Projects
Hawley reported the Township received a $19,000 check from a cell tower lease. Commissioner Dotterweich questioned a hole dug by DTE on M22 across from the Sportsman's Shop; Cypher agreed to investigate. A resident's comment suggested sewers could help control density, but no action or project was initiated on this topic.
Other Business
- The Township will take over 4th of July Parade responsibilities after the Police Department declined to participate; the Chamber of Commerce would like to assume this role in future years but cannot this year, though some Chamber members are volunteering for crowd control.
- The Township Office roof has been repaired, with insurance covering all but a $2,500 deductible.
- Cypher reported April zoning activity: $640 in fees, 34 phone calls, 19 responses, and 6 land use permits issued. The May report was not yet complete.
- The Commission discussed Master Plan Chapters 3 & 4 with no major changes; Chapters 5 & 6 will be reviewed at the August meeting.
- Roman presented proposed ordinance language for Accessory Buildings (Item 4) and Shipping Container use (Item 5, Land Uses Permitted). The Commission discussed both; Roman will finalize corrections to the shipping container language and circulate it to members via email.
- The Zoning Board of Appeals had nothing to report.
- There is no Planning Commission meeting scheduled for July.
Financial Summary
- Township received a $19,000 check from a cell tower lease.
- Roof repair costs were fully covered by insurance except for a $2,500 deductible.
- April zoning fees totaled $640.
Action Items
- Cypher to investigate the DTE hole dug on M22 across from the Sportsman's Shop.
- Cypher to investigate the visible waste container issue at "The Mill's."
- Roman to finalize corrections to the Shipping Container ordinance language and email it to Commission members for review.
- Commission to discuss Master Plan Chapters 5 & 6 at the August meeting.
- No Planning Commission meeting will be held in July.