Highlights of February 19 Planning Commission Meeting

The Planning Commission is working on an update of the Casco Township Master Plan

At the February 19 Planning Commission meeting, Missy Fojtik of Daydreamer Domes was present, along with attorney Michael Brown, who specializes in liquor licenses in Michigan.

The Planning Commission discussed Fojtik's request for a Class C Liquor License. A bar/restaurant had been mentioned in the initial Daydreamer Domes application, narrative, and in the minutes related to the Special Use Permit. It was determined the license request fits within approved uses.

Attorney Brown briefly described the next steps requested of the Township, which will include a resolution by the Board of Trustees at their March meeting.

Commission Member Kelly Hecker is working on revisions to the draft master plan prepared by Consulting Firm McKenna.

The focus of the March meeting will be the Future Land Use map and land uses (residential, commercial, and industrial), to be informed by survey results. A workshop was scheduled for March 26.

A question was raised if a water/sewer map exists for areas served in Casco Township. Basically the water sewer district is west of Blue Star Highway and south of 107th, excluding parts of Miami Park and Al Pertelle Beach. All of Sunset Shore, Boardwalk, and Mt Pleasant are served. Service on the east side of Blue Star Highway is limited.

Discussion turned to road frontage and lot size in Ag. Trustee Dan Fleming spoke to his particular situation and a desire to subdivide his parcel in a manner that does not fit current zoning. While requesting a variance from the ZBA is an option available to him, he does not see the logic of the numbers in the zoning ordinance, and believes the Township should cover the cost of him potentially receiving any variance because getting a variance "does a favor for the township."

He further stated that planners are limited by the constitution, and historical context should be kept in mind. Fleming favors development rights over zoning restrictions.

Accessory Dwelling Unit and Minimum Lot Size: Chairman Andy Litts reported that the Saugatuck Township Ordinance has helpful information regarding ADU's and residential building requirements, and urged the planning commission members to review it.