11/19/2025 - Suttons Bay Village | Packet for Planning Commission Meeting

Summary

The Village of Suttons Bay Planning Commission met on November 19, 2025, to discuss various agenda items including new business initiatives, public comments, and budget proposals for 2026. Key decisions included the introduction of amendments related to electric vehicle charging stations and the Inland Seas Campus expansion project.

Public Comments

During the public comment section, Jack Duff represented the Suttons Bay Congregational Church, advocating for amendments to the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) language to facilitate the development of long-term housing options. The Commission acknowledged the ongoing discussions about ADUs and the need for further input from the Village Council.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

The Planning Commission revisited the ADU discussion prompted by the Congregational Church's request. It was noted that two-family dwellings are currently permissible in certain zoning districts. Concerns about community pushback regarding neighborhood character were highlighted, and it was agreed that more council input would be obtained.

Parks and Recreation Matters

(No specific discussions related to parks and recreation were recorded in the minutes. Thus, this section is omitted.)

Infrastructure Projects

The Commission reviewed the Inland Seas Campus Expansion project, which involves substantial renovations to the existing property and construction of a new building. The project is aligned with the Village's goals of enhancing educational services and improving stormwater management. Feedback from planning members was sought, focusing on building requirements and site impacts.

Other Business

The Commission discussed the proposed 2026 budget, which includes allocations for administrative wages, stormwater management, and planning services. A draft language amendment for the electric vehicle charging stations was also presented, emphasizing their role as accessory uses that do not require permits for residential installations.

Financial Summary

The proposed budget for the Planning and Zoning Department in 2026 includes the following key figures: - Total Administrative Wages: $12,950 - Contractual Services for professional planning: $10,000 - Total Proposed Budget: $57,192 - Notable increases in professional planning services and training were discussed, particularly emphasizing support for zoning ordinance reviews.

Action Items

1. Sara Kopriva to provide a revised draft of the electric vehicle charging station standards for further review at the next meeting. 2. Commission members to follow up on the meeting with the Village Council regarding ADU considerations. 3. Continued monitoring of the Inland Seas expansion project for compliance with zoning regulations and community standards as details develop.