Summary
The Village of Suttons Bay Planning Commission met on July 16, 2025, where various matters were discussed regarding zoning ordinances, waterfront views, environmental standards, and accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Public comments were presented, highlighting community initiatives like Inland Seas. The Commission members reviewed their assigned areas related to the Master Plan, with the goal of enhancing zoning regulations.Public comments
Fred Sitkins addressed the Commission regarding the initiative by Inland Seas to transform a blighted building into a new educational facility, incorporating features for learning, solar power, vessel maintenance, and wetlands preservation. Larry Mawby commented on the recent acquisition of 9.5 acres from the school, expressing support for planned developments.Affordable housing initiatives
D. Smith discussed the potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to serve as long-term and seasonal workforce rentals. She suggested incentivizing ADUs and targeting specific districts for workforce housing to address local housing needs.Infrastructure projects
No specific infrastructure projects such as marina, cell towers, or water/sewer were discussed during this meeting.Other Business
The Commission reviewed areas of the zoning ordinance related to the Master Plan, focusing on waterfront views, environmental standards, noise buffering provisions, and ADUs. Each member was assigned specific tasks to report back on at the next meeting.Financial Summary (if applicable)
No financial data was presented in the meeting minutes.Action Items
- Chair Hetler will review the zoning ordinances concerning waterfront views and look into signage definitions. - Feringa will research environmental standards and stormwater management, aiming to adopt low-impact design language. - F. Smith will review noise buffering regulations and assess their effectiveness. - D. Smith will explore incentivizing ADUs for workforce housing. - R. Hylwa will check the Gateway District for references to natural resources and address discrepancies with the zoning map.Next meeting is scheduled for August 20, 2025, where progress on the PUD language will be discussed.