Summary
The Suttons Bay Village Planning Commission's most recent detailed minutes (October 15, 2025) cover storm water ordinance review, an Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVSE) ordinance amendment, and a request from the Suttons Bay Congregational Church to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) for affordable housing. The agenda for the November 19, 2025 meeting adds introduction of the Inland Seas Education Association campus expansion project, the EVSE language, the 2026 budget, and the 2026 meeting schedule. All motions at the October meeting passed 5-0, with Feringa, F. Smith, Hetler, D. Smith, and Pontius present; Hylwa and Campbell absent.
Public Comments
Jack Duff spoke on behalf of the Suttons Bay Congregational Church, requesting an amendment to ADU language to allow two-family long-term housing, later clarifying the church residence would serve as affordable housing. Steve Hassevoort commented that if two-family dwellings are allowed, form-based standards should be drafted, and suggested a special land use process to preserve the character of existing dwellings.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
The Commission discussed the Congregational Church's request to permit non-profits to operate ADUs for long-term housing. Staff member Patmore noted two-family dwellings are already allowed in the Hillside Residential and Newer Family Residential Districts. Commissioner D. Smith recalled that when ADUs were previously discussed at the Village Council level, there was significant resident pushback against ADUs not used as an owner's primary residence. Commissioners agreed they may want input from Council before proceeding. No vote was taken; the matter remains open.
Infrastructure Projects
Steve Feringa presented storm water plans from various sites, including constructed wetlands and retention ponds/plunge pools with indigenous plantings for filtration; he agreed to provide a list of locally indigenous plants. The Commission discussed strengthening the Village's storm water language relative to the County's ordinance; Sara Kopriva will research language and report back.
The planner presented draft EVSE (electric vehicle charging station) standards for Article 10. Commissioners directed that the language support, but not require, EVSE installation, that most of the draft be omitted except Section E (Design and Location), and that a definition be added to Article 20. A revised draft ordinance was prepared for the November meeting.
The Inland Seas Education Association submitted a site plan review application for a campus expansion at 100 and 101 E. Dame Street, including a new accessory building, renovation of the Millside building, parking changes, and relocation of a Village storm sewer easement at ISEA's expense. Issues under review include window transparency, whether Dame Street constitutes a front/right-of-way for setback purposes, and emergency access. No motion was required; the Commission will provide introductory feedback in November, with final review after a ZBA decision.
Other Business
Sara Kopriva reported ongoing zoning ordinance amendment work to be brought to the Commission "in the next month or so." The Zoning Board of Appeals has an application under review for an interpretation and possible variance. The Commission also reviewed winter meeting availability for adopting a 2026 schedule, noting prior quorum difficulties.
Financial Summary
The 2026 Proposed Planning & Zoning budget totals $57,192, compared to $69,669 (2025 Adopted) and $48,669 (2025 Amended). Notable line items include Professional Planning Services ($4,000 proposed) and Zoning Ordinance Review/Reformat ($10,000 proposed, moved to 2026).
Action Items
- Sara Kopriva to research language to strengthen the storm water ordinance.
- Steve Feringa to provide a list of indigenous plants for storm water plantings.
- Staff to bring zoning ordinance amendments to the Commission within the next month.
- Commission to consider seeking Village Council input on the Congregational Church's ADU/affordable housing request before further action.
- Inland Seas Education Association site plan to return for final Commission review following a ZBA decision.
- Commission members to finalize their winter availability for adoption of the 2026 meeting schedule.