Summary
The Glen Arbor Township Planning Commission met on August 6, 2026, with Chairman Lance Roman presiding. The Commission approved June 2026 minutes, discussed noise concerns near the River Club, reviewed Master Plan progress, took a straw poll on a potential property purchase, and passed a motion directing the Township Board to address the ongoing absence of the Zoning Administrator.
Public Comments
Paul Sutherland, a neighbor of the River Club, suggested that a noise ordinance or regulations be implemented. Roman responded that a Police ordinance from the Township Board would be needed rather than a Zoning Ordinance change, since current noise activity would be grandfathered and only future activity could be regulated. Brett Campbell, also a River Club neighbor, said music from the club resonates far down the river. Roman noted that sound ordinances are difficult to enforce, that police do not enforce Township ordinances, and suggested the issue be taken to the Township Board. Ali Fitzgibbon added that beavers and blue herons are no longer seen on the river, possibly due to noise in the Business District.
Separately, it was noted that the Zoning Administrator has not been available to the Commission or residents. Don Lewis suggested the Commission make a motion to the Township Board to address and correct this absence.
Parks and Recreation Matters
A straw poll was taken on whether the Township should purchase the John Martin property next to the Township Hall. After discussion, the result was 3 No, 1 Yes, and 1 Maybe. No formal action was taken.
Other Business
- Master Plan: The current copy has been sent to the Zoning Administrator. Dotterweich noted Ordinance Chapter 6 still needs to be addressed.
- Review of Bob Hawley's miscellaneous list: The Commission questioned whether chickens need to be addressed and agreed to table the issue.
- Township Board Report: Hawley was absent; no report given.
- Zoning Administrator's Report: Not given, as the ZA was not in attendance.
- Zoning Board of Appeals Report: Dotterweich reported nothing on the docket.
Action Items
- Motion by Dotterweich, supported by Ihme, for the Township Board to address the issue of the absent Zoning Administrator; motion carried.
- Ordinance Chapter 6 of the Master Plan still needs to be addressed.
- The chicken-related item from Bob Hawley's list was tabled for future consideration.
- Noise concerns raised by River Club neighbors (Paul Sutherland and Brett Campbell) were referred to the Township Board rather than acted on by the Commission.