Comstock Charter Township - October 10, 2024 Planning Commission

Updated about 8 hours ago

The Comstock Township Planning Commission convened on October 10, 2024, to address key rezoning applications. The meeting focused on a rezoning request to convert a nine-acre parcel to a light manufacturing district, aligning with adjacent properties. The commission also evaluated a proposal to rezone land for cluster housing to address affordable housing needs. Public commentary highlighted concerns about traffic, environmental impact, and community character. While the commission expressed intent to gather more information, they acknowledge the developer’s rights to build under current zoning. The meeting underscored the tension between development needs and community preservation.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:39)
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM by the chair of the planning commission for Comstock Township, Michigan.

The chair of the planning commission called the meeting to order, marking the official start of the session at 7:00 PM. This is a standard procedure to formally begin the meeting and acknowledge the presence of the commission members and attendees.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:49)
The agenda for the meeting was approved without any changes after a motion was made and supported.

The chair asked if there were any changes to the proposed agenda. With no changes suggested, a motion to approve the agenda as submitted was made and supported by the board members. The motion carried unanimously with all members in favor. This ensured the meeting would proceed according to the planned agenda.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:21)
Corrections were made to the previous meeting's minutes and then approved by the commission.

The commission reviewed the minutes from the previous meeting. Two corrections were noted: a typographical error where 'relived' should have been 'relieved', and the secretary's name was corrected. A motion was made to approve the minutes with these changes, and the motion carried with all members in favor.
New Business: Rezoning Application (00:02:17)
A rezoning application for a property from commercial to light manufacturing district was discussed.

The commission received a rezoning application to change the zoning of a property from a commercial district to an LM (light manufacturing) district. The subject site is approximately 9 acres in size. The staff report indicated that the rezoning request was not consistent with the master plan, which designates the area as town center. The applicant was present to discuss their plans for the property, which included consolidating it with adjacent parcels for a dumpster rental business.
Public Hearing on Rezoning Application (00:08:31)
A public hearing was held to gather input on the rezoning application for the property.

The public hearing opened for the rezoning application, giving community members an opportunity to express their opinions. One resident, Ralph Wine Jr., raised concerns about potential runoff issues if the land was paved. After hearing from the public, the commission closed the public hearing and discussed the merits of the rezoning application among themselves.
Discussion and Motion on Rezoning Application (00:10:09)
The commission discussed the rezoning application and voted to recommend it to the Township board.

After the public hearing, the commission discussed the rezoning application. They noted that the rezoning would allow the applicant to consolidate the property with adjacent parcels. A motion was made to waive the bylaws to proceed with a recommendation to the Township board without delay. The motion to recommend the rezoning to the Township board was carried with all members in favor.
New Business: Lee Avenue Parcel Rezoning Request (00:14:36)
A new rezoning request for a parcel on Lee Avenue from R1A to R1C cluster housing was introduced.

The commission received a new rezoning request from Watts Construction to change a parcel on Lee Avenue from R1A (single family) to R1C (cluster housing). The staff report indicated that this request was consistent with the township's master plan, which supports increased housing density in the area. The applicant, Mr. Watts, explained that the rezoning would allow for the development of affordable single-family and two-unit homes.
Public Hearing on Lee Avenue Rezoning (00:24:26)
A public hearing was held to gather input on the Lee Avenue rezoning request.

Community members were invited to share their thoughts on the proposed rezoning. Concerns were raised about potential impacts on the neighborhood, including increased traffic and the loss of natural areas. Several residents opposed the development, citing the value of the existing natural space. The public hearing was closed after all comments were heard.
Discussion and Motion on Lee Avenue Rezoning (00:32:03)
The commission discussed the Lee Avenue rezoning and voted to recommend it to the Township board.

Following the public hearing, the commission discussed the rezoning application for Lee Avenue. They considered the community's concerns but noted that the rezoning was consistent with the township's master plan and addressed the need for more affordable housing. A motion was made to recommend the rezoning to the Township board, and the motion was carried with all members in favor.
Public Hearing on Rezoning Request (00:48:02)
Citizens expressed concerns regarding crime, traffic, and impact on property values.

The public hearing focused on a rezoning request for a proposed housing development. Many residents voiced concerns about the potential increase in crime, the impact on traffic, and the possible negative effects on property values. Some residents were worried about the environmental impact and the loss of natural areas.
Discussion on Rezoning Request (00:54:00)
The commission discussed the rezoning request, considering public concerns.

The commission members discussed the rezoning request after the public hearing. They considered the concerns raised by the residents, including crime, potential future connections to water and sewer, and traffic issues. The commission acknowledged that the landowner has the right to develop the property under existing zoning but debated the implications of the proposed rezoning.
Old Business: Update on Housing Study (01:00:48)
Discussion on the housing study questionnaire and feedback from members.

The agenda moved to old business with a focus on the ongoing housing study. Members discussed the questionnaire distributed to gather feedback on housing needs and preferences. The study aims to identify current housing gaps and future needs within the community.
Tabled Items and Meeting Adjournment (01:02:00)
The rezoning discussion was tabled for the next meeting, and the meeting was adjourned.

The commission decided to table the decision on the rezoning request until the next meeting to allow for further consideration and discussion. They acknowledged the need for more information and input on the proposal. The meeting was adjourned after concluding the discussion on old business and other agenda items.
Call to Order (01:04:58)
The meeting was called to order, initiating the proceedings and setting the agenda.

The chairperson called the meeting to order, ensuring all members were present and ready to begin the agenda.
Old Business Discussion (01:06:00)
Discussion on the master plan and housing studies, including feedback on previous meeting packets.

The committee discussed feedback on the master plan and the role of housing studies in supporting township development. Members were encouraged to provide additional comments via email or other means.
Ordinances Update (01:09:45)
Update on the approval of new zoning and battery energy storage ordinances.

The board approved new zoning and battery energy storage ordinances, which will become effective after publication. The updates aim to integrate these ordinances into the township's planning framework.
Public Comments (01:15:00)
Public comments were invited, addressing issues like road commissions and community planning.

Brian, a member of the public, raised concerns about road safety, community planning, and the role of the road commission. He suggested improvements in infrastructure and community cooperation.
Reports from Other Boards (01:17:00)
Reports from other boards and commissions, including election updates and legal outcomes.

Commissioner Sherwood reported on various topics, including a Metro bus presentation, election updates, and the outcome of lawsuits involving the township.
Adjournment (01:22:14)
The meeting was officially adjourned, concluding the session.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made and seconded, bringing the session to a close. Members were thanked for their participation.