9/11/2025 - Leelanau Planning Commission | Master Plan Working Copy Review

Summary

The Leelanau Township Planning Commission initiated the update of the Master Plan in 2022 in response to a five-year review. Over 400 community surveys and a public information session at the township hall were conducted to gather input. The primary mission is to preserve the township's rural character while accommodating economic growth and diverse housing options. The planning efforts emphasize sustainable land use, environmental protection, and the preservation of natural resources, with further public informational sessions planned for continued community engagement.

Public Comments

While specific public comments and speaker names were not detailed in the document, over 400 surveys were received from residents and stakeholders, indicating a strong community involvement in the Master Plan update process. The feedback highlighted priorities related to housing, natural resource preservation, and economic development.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

The Master Plan underscores the necessity for expanding housing opportunities to combat shortages, particularly for seasonal and workforce housing. Proposed strategies include: - The introduction of "Missing Middle" housing types such as duplexes and townhomes. - Consideration of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to increase housing stock. - Conducting studies to evaluate housing densities and lot sizes conducive to affordable housing development. - Collaborating with the Village of Northport on joint housing initiatives.

Parks and Recreation Matters

Leelanau Township maintains six parks, as outlined in the Parks and Recreation Master Plan adopted in 2022. The township owns 285 acres dedicated to recreational use. Key points include: - Ongoing efforts to enhance public parks and recreational facilities. - Collaboration with the Leelanau Conservancy to protect natural spaces. - The implementation of community feedback to improve recreational access and facilities.

Infrastructure Projects

Infrastructure considerations include: - Collaboration with the Village of Northport for a joint wastewater system. - Monitoring and maintaining the township's road infrastructure with the Leelanau County Road Commission. - Proposals for expanding electric vehicle infrastructure with strategic locations for charging stations. - Recommendations for regulating zoning in coastal and sensitive areas to ensure environmental protection alongside development.

Other Business

The meeting noted the importance of monitoring short-term rental impacts on housing availability and encouraged ongoing community engagement through surveys and open houses.

Financial Summary (if applicable)

No specific financial information was provided in the document regarding budgets or expenditures related to the Master Plan update.

Action Items

Key action items identified included: - Hosting additional public informational sessions for broader community engagement. - Researching and implementing strategies for affordable housing, including ADUs and workforce housing. - Monitoring the impacts of short-term rentals on housing availability and making necessary adjustments to regulations. - Collaborating with the Village of Northport on housing and wastewater initiatives to maximize resource efficiency.