Summary
The Suttons Bay Village Planning Commission met October 15, 2025, with Chairperson Hetler presiding. The commission approved the agenda and the September 17, 2025 minutes (Ayes: 5, No: 0 on each). Discussion focused on storm water management planning, draft electric vehicle charging station standards, and a request from the Suttons Bay Congregational Church to amend ADU language for two-family long-term housing. No zoning amendments were finalized; further research and council input were requested on several items.
Public Comments
Jack Duff spoke on behalf of the Suttons Bay Congregational Church, requesting that ADU language be amended to allow two-family long-term housing, later clarifying that the proposed church residence would serve as affordable housing. Steve Hassevoort commented that if the commission allows two-family dwellings, form-based standards should be drafted, and suggested a special land use process to help ensure existing dwelling forms are preserved.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
The commission discussed the Congregational Church's request to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for non-profits to provide long-term housing. Zoning Administrator Patmore noted two-family dwellings are currently allowed in the Hillside Residential District and the Newer Family Residential District. Commissioner D. Smith recalled significant resident pushback at the Council level against ADUs not used as an owner's primary residence. Commissioners agreed they may want to seek input from the Village Council before proceeding further.
Infrastructure Projects
Steve Feringa presented storm water plans from various site plans, including constructed wetlands with drainage flowing through properties and retention ponds/plunge pools designed for slow release using indigenous plants at varying depths. Feringa will compile a list of indigenous plants for the area. The commission also discussed strengthening the Village's storm water control language relative to the County's ordinance; Sara will research language options and bring them back for further discussion.
Other Business
The commission reviewed draft electric vehicle charging station standards for Article 10, deciding to support but not require EV charging, retaining only Section E (Design and Location) and requesting a definition be added in Article 20. Sara reported she and staff are drafting zoning amendments to bring to the commission within the next month. Reports were given on Zoning Administration (as presented), the Village Council (meeting the following week), and the Zoning Board of Appeals (an application was filed for interpretation and a possible variance). Sara noted the 2026 meeting schedule will be adopted soon, referencing prior cancellations due to lack of quorum; members submitted their winter availability to the Clerk. The next regular meeting is set for November 19, 2025, with Budget as an agenda item.
Action Items
Steve Feringa to provide a list of indigenous plants for storm water retention designs. Sara to research language to strengthen the Village's storm water control ordinance relative to County standards. Sara and staff to bring drafted zoning ordinance amendments to the commission within the next month. Commission to consider seeking Village Council input on the Congregational Church's ADU/two-family housing request, given prior resident opposition at the Council level. 2026 meeting schedule to be adopted, with quorum concerns to be considered.