The Modest Three: #3

Today we conclude our three-part series highlighting changes in the new zoning code. These three relatively small changes were so concerning an entire cottage industry of grievance sprung up in our little town to combat them.

If you ask us, they make sense and really aren’t that big of a deal. Some of our most dedicated friends and neighbors volunteered to study the zoning code and recommend changes. The last major update was 1976. Michigan’s own Gerald Ford was president and Rocky was tops at the box office.

This last change has been the subject of mailers and misinformation. So, here is Modest Change #3 for your consideration:

The Planning Commission sought to help provide housing opportunity to the broad spectrum of persons seeking housing in the city by:

• Allowing a narrower minimum width for newly created lots to give property owners more options.

• Changing “guest quarters” to Accessory Dwelling Units and allow long-term rental of ADUs to potentially increase the availability of rental property options for the community

• Allowing duplexes in both new residential zoning districts and triplexes by special land use (though not on the waterfront district) to address multi-generational housing needs and provide options for property owners. New duplexes have to meet all the size and set back requirements of a single family home.

There you have it! The Modest Three changes that seek to better align the zoning code with the city’s Master Plan. You can learn more about what is and is not changing with the new code at www.votenoharborsprings.org Thanks again for reading. Please share with your friends and neighbors. Take care!