Introduction
The document presents a review by Zoning Administrator Steve Patmore regarding the application for a special land use permit for a communications tower on Kitchen Road in Leelanau Township. This review follows discussions held by the Leelanau Township Planning Commission in November 2024 and refers to a preliminary zoning review conducted in September 2024.
Application Review and Compliance Issues
The preliminary review evaluated the new application against the Leelanau Township Zoning Ordinance, specifically Articles 18 and Section 12.4 concerning communication towers. Key issues highlighted include an incomplete map of existing communication towers, the inappropriate depiction of barbed wire fencing, and challenges with the clarity of propagation maps included in the application. Notably, the application erroneously indicates that there are only two towers in the township and contains conflicting information about fencing regulations.
Additional Considerations
Further areas of concern include the appearance of the proposed tower, particularly regarding its finish, which appears to conflict with zoning standards. The access to the proposed tower via Kitchen Road raises questions about the maintenance of this seasonal road, which may need to be plowed for service access. Finally, ongoing evaluations are required regarding compliance with wetland and stormwater management requirements as outlined by the zoning ordinance.