Oshtemo Township Planning Commission - May 22, 2025 Oshtemo Township Planning Commission

Updated about 3 hours ago

The commission reviews a special exception use permit request from Bill and Jamie Nelson. The Nelsons seek approval to operate a golf and softball instruction business as a home occupation within two accessory buildings on their property. The proposal generates significant public comment, with neighbors expressing concerns about traffic, trespassing, and compatibility with the rural residential character of the area. The commission deliberates on the issue and decides to table the decision to gather more information, referencing a past similar case for guidance. Additionally, the commission discusses amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding accessory dwelling units, parking regulations, and transportation and mobility standards.

Chapters

Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:17)
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance led by a member.

Attendees were invited to join in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America. The recitation underscored unity and justice for all.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:41)
The agenda was approved without any changes or additions.

The meeting agenda was presented and approved as there were no changes or additions proposed by the attendees.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:00:55)
A resident expressed concern over property tax assessment procedures.

A resident, selected for a tax assessment, questioned the fairness and necessity of the process, highlighting concerns about township officials entering private property.
Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes (00:01:18)
Minutes of the previous meeting were approved after a motion and second.

The minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed. A motion was made and seconded to approve them without any corrections or additions, and the motion carried.
Special Exception Use Request: Nelson Home Occupation (00:02:46)
Discussion on a request to operate a golf and softball business as a home occupation.

Leanna Harris presented the Nelsons' request for a special use permit to run a golf and softball operation from accessory buildings on their property. The operation's compatibility with zoning laws and neighborhood impact were discussed, with considerations for traffic, noise, and environmental effects.
Applicant Presentation: Nelson Home Occupation (00:16:03)
The Nelsons explained their intentions and addressed concerns about their business operations.

The Nelsons provided background on their motivations for starting the home-based business, emphasizing community and educational benefits. They acknowledged procedural oversights and detailed plans to mitigate neighborhood impact, including traffic management and operational adjustments.
Public Comments on Nelson Home Occupation (00:25:00)
Neighbors expressed concerns about the impact of the Nelsons' business on their properties.

Several neighbors spoke against the Nelsons' business operations, citing issues like increased traffic, noise, and non-compliance with zoning laws. They requested the denial of the special exception use, emphasizing the negative effects on their quality of life and property values.
Public Comments on Nelson Property (00:33:50)
Residents discuss the impact of the Nelson property, focusing on traffic, trespassing, and commercial activities.

Several residents express concerns over the unpermitted road created by the Nelsons, which has led to increased traffic and trespassing on neighboring properties. Issues regarding the commercial use of barns on the property are also highlighted, with accusations of improper zoning for commercial activities.
Support for Nelson Property Activities (00:37:48)
Neighbors support the Nelsons, claiming their activities are minor and beneficial to the community.

Various community members, including Robert Voss and Marie Fox, speak in favor of the Nelsons, emphasizing that their activities are not overly commercial and praising them for their contributions to the community and property improvements.
Planning Commission Discussion (00:48:53)
The commission deliberates on the special exemption request, comparing it to past cases and discussing zoning and building permit issues.

The Planning Commission discusses whether to grant a special exemption for the Nelsons' property, considering the impact on neighbors and the inconsistency with zoning regulations. They compare it to a previous case involving a home business and consider conditions to mitigate impacts if the exemption is granted.
Discussion on Home Occupied Business Impact (01:04:20)
Discussion focused on the impact of home occupied businesses in detached buildings and the need to review past cases for consistency.

The board discussed the impact of home occupied businesses operating in detached buildings, particularly focusing on the implications for neighbors and the community. There was a debate about whether to allow such businesses as a special use, considering factors like traffic and employee presence. The board decided to table the discussion to gather more information on past cases to ensure consistency in their decisions.
Ordinance Text Amendments Discussion (01:17:59)
The board reviewed and discussed proposed text amendments to zoning ordinances, including accessory dwelling units and parking regulations.

The discussion included proposed text amendments to zoning ordinances. Changes included modifications to accessory dwelling unit regulations, such as removing certain architectural compatibility requirements, and updates to parking regulations to prevent improper parking in front yards. The board aimed to make ordinances easier to follow and apply.
Public Comment Session (01:27:01)
Public comments were heard regarding accessory dwelling units and their regulations, particularly about square footage limitations.

During the public comment session, a resident expressed concerns about the square footage limitations for accessory dwelling units, particularly regarding housing for elderly family members. The resident asked whether the minimum and maximum square footage requirements were final or could be adjusted.
Public Hearing on Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments (01:32:05)
A public hearing was conducted regarding proposed zoning ordinance text amendments, with no objections from the public.

A public hearing was opened to discuss the proposed text amendments to the zoning ordinances. There were no objections or comments from the public during the hearing. The board then moved to close the hearing and proceed to the board discussion and motion phase.
Approval of Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments (01:33:17)
The board moved to recommend approval of the zoning ordinance text amendments to the Township Board for further consideration.

Following the public hearing, the board discussed and then moved to recommend approval of the zoning ordinance text amendments to the Township Board. This included changes to the accessory dwelling unit regulations and parking regulations. The motion was supported and carried unanimously.