Let’s get to it!

Welcome to 2025, Harbor Springs! This year we get to reconsider our zoning code. For those who worked so hard on the last version, this is a bittersweet opportunity. Their work last year helped to set the stage for this year’s thoughtful discussions. I know it is a bit Pollyannaish, but there aren't two sides to this conversation. There many different voices trying to find the best way forward.

Sounds simple. And it honestly can be...if everyone is willing to give a little and be honest with one another.

From what I have heard, we don’t have much of a disagreement about the major goals. Everybody wants what is going to be beneficial for Harbor Springs. I know that Planning Commission members did not set out to spur reckless development, make our town just like every other town, make our town too crowded, or turn the town over to developers. The primary disagreements are about the effects of some relatively modest zoning rule changes. That is not meant to minimize concerns, but rather give some hope that we can find common ground.

I think most agree that the format changes that made the zoning code easier to use and understand are worth keeping. If we start with that framework and work through the sticking points, I bet we can make a lot of progress. We can modify any of the specific provisions, but there is no excuse for unclear and difficult to use government regulations. That's just bad public policy.

The Planning Commission has four brand new members (out of nine) for 2025. Some fresh eyes and ears are going to be helpful in coming to a good compromise.

The Planning Commission members I’ve spoken with say they are looking forward to revisiting concepts in the repealed Ordinance 439 that caused concern. They have already identified quite a number of questions to address including:

• How many zoning districts should we have and where should those lines be drawn?
• How tall should we allow homes and buildings to be built?
• Can we allow for mixed use zoning where residences and business can coexist?
• What is the minimum lot size and minimum lot width?
• Are there any alternative lot configurations that make sense?
• How big can the largest homes be? How small can the smallest ones be?
• How large should setbacks be around our homes?
• How can we preserve our city's character while working to welcome more full-time residents?

I know the new Planning Commission will work hard to come up with a strong communications plan that will loop in as many residents as care to be involved in the process this time. The more voices the better! Just remember (and I must remind myself of this too), being listened to is not the same as getting everything we want. Everyone is going to have to bend a bit. If we can, then together I think we will find a practical and commonsense path forward.

Okay, here is where you come in. What do you think? Are there things you think the Planning Commission should discuss that are not listed above? If you have thoughts, put them in the comments below direct message me and I will forward them along. Be sure to hit that "share" button-it definitely helps.

And on that note…I hope you enjoy the weekend! Let’s get ready to do some revising!