Category: Planning Commission Quarterly Meetings & Public Hearings

Arvon Township Planning Commission Quarterly Meeting Minutes

Thursday, July 10, 2025 at 6 PM

Call to Order:

Roll Call:       All present

Nancy Strohschein (Chair)

Joe Bollech

Bob Janda (Township Board Rep)

Jay Loman (Zoning Board of Appeals Chair)

Donna Preston

John Salisbury

Recognition of visitors:  Jay Fish, Kathy Salisbury, Whitey Soli

Pledge of Allegiance: Done

Comments on agenda: None

Approval of agenda: Motion:  Bob, Second:  Jay.  Agenda approved.

Approval of minutes from Special meeting on May 8, 2025:  Motion: Bob, Second: Jay.  Minutes approved.

Public comments:  Whitey Soli expressed his concern that our Zoning Ordinance has many unnecessary things in it that are not related to health, welfare and safety. 

Chairman Comments:

1. Nancy reviewed the notes from the Monday 7/7 Board Meeting.
2. PC Member terms:
   1. Joe Bollech – 1 Year, expires June 2025.  Willing to serve another year but prefers a replacement.  Joe will get with Lisa Marinch, Township Clerk, to renew his term.
   1. Bob Janda – per term on township board
   1. Jay Loman – 10/2024, 3 years, expires 10/2027
   1. Donna Preston – 10/03/2022, 3 years, expires /10/03/2025.  Donna is willing to serve an additional term.
   1. John Salsbury – October 2024, 3 years, expires October 2027
   1. Nancy Strohschein – August 2024, 3 years, expires August 2027

Old Business:

1. Planning commission comments/concerns:  None stated.
2. Bob Janda:  Report from Township Board Rep:  Nothing to report.
3. Jay Loman:  Report from Zoning Board of Appeals – Jay reported that Lee Probst modified his build plans after the ZBA upheld the denied zoning application. 
4. Buddy Sweeney:  Report from Zoning Administrator.  A report of recent applications was presented via email.  They are listed on page 3 of this document.  Suggested changes to our Ordinance will be discussed in New Business.
5. Review of accomplishments with 2025 Quarterly Meetings:
   1. Review Master Plan – April 2025.  No changes are significant to need an update to the plan.
   1. Review Recreation Plan – July 2025.  We should update the plan with accomplishments in 2024 and 2025.  This information needs to come from the Recreation Committee.
6. Tracking Zoning Ordinance APPROVED Changes (PC has discussed and agrees)
   1. Change 1:  Use of campers on property for occasional use
   1. Change 2:  Minimum acreage for Forest Resource.  Should be 10, not 40

New Business:

1. Review possible ZO changes.  See information attached to this document.
   1. Add “from high water mark” in section 404?  YES, this should be changed in the ZO as Change 3.  We need a definition of “high water mark”. It was suggested to use “ordinary high water mark” for clarification.  This needs more study at the October meeting.
   1. Consider changing water setbacks – Move to October agenda
   1. Page 38 “Section 602” typo – Approved to fix this typo.  Make Change 4.
   1. Page 85/86.  Should we have height min and max for residential? – Revisit this at the October meeting.  More discussion is needed.
2. Review process for Special Meeting and approval of Liimatainen Rd dome resort.  Nancy reviewed the process we used to complete this request.  We agreed that it went smoothly, everyone who wished to speak was heard, and the outcome was fair.  We did follow the correct process as far as notification, documentation and communication.  Nancy discussed the option to set a performance bond for the applicant, as this was suggested by our Township attorney.
3. Review of Recreation Plan for updates.   The plan is very good as it is and no major changes are needed.
   1. Change 1:  Donna suggested that we remove the proposed plan for a kayak launch at the property on Witz Rd since it is a non-viable project.  Everyone agreed.
   1. Change 2:  The Recreation Committee needs to write up what was done in 2024 and 2025 so it can be included in the plan.  Jay Fish is going to talk with Scott Lloyd about this and will get back to us.
4. Plan PC education for October meeting.  It was decided that each member will read Part 7 of the green book in preparation for the October meeting.  This includes pages 201 through 249.

Topics for Next Meeting:

1. PC Education discussion on Part 7
2. Review Zoning Ordinance
3. Set 2026 meeting dates

Upcoming meetings:

• October 9, 2025

Adjourn:    7:15 PM

Information from Zoning Administrator July 7, 2025:

Zoning Report

A25-001  Lee Luft   Off St.Cyr rd.      22X30 cabin

A25-002  Mark Buzenski   Lakewood Dr.    32 X84 Home

A25-003  Sue Hoban Pt. Abbaye Rd.   16 X 14 cabin

A25-004  Ted Bocek   Liimatainen Rd.  20 X 20 cabin

A25-005  Lee Prost   Witz rd.  34X 49 garage   ( ZBA Ruling)

A25-006  Dave Goodreau   Bayview Dr.   16 X24  Sauna/ storage

A25-007  Brian Rule   Pine Beach Dr.     14 X50 cabin  ( EGLE Flood Plain ruling) 

Water Setbacks

Portage Twp:

Chassell Twp:

Eagle Harbor Township:

Powell Township:

Roll Call: All members present
Nancy Strohschein (Chair)
Joe Bollech
Bob Janda (Township Board Rep)

Jay Loman (Zoning Board of Appeals Chair)
Donna Preston
John Salisbury

This is a Special Meeting of the Arvon Township Planning Commission, which includes a Public Hearing, organized to consider the application for a special use permit for Four Winds Property and Rodrigo and Beth Oyarzun to erect geodesic domes on their properties on Point Abbaye to be used as short-term rentals.
Recognition of visitors: 21 community members signed in on the attendance log. Of these, 2 indicated they wanted to address the Commission and/or Applicant.
Pledge of Allegiance: Done
Comments on agenda: Nancy Strohschein described the activities for each item on the agenda. No comments were made on agenda business.
Approval of agenda: Motion: Bob Janda, Second: John Salisbury. All approved. Agenda approved.
Approval of minutes from April 10, 2025 Planning Commission Quarterly meeting: Motion: Bob Janda,
Second: John Salisbury. All approved. Minutes approved.
Public comments: None at this time.

1. Purpose of special meeting and public hearing
   Nancy Strohschein reviewed the purpose of the meeting and public hearing. The Planning Commission (PC) is considering an application for a special use on two lots on Liimatainen Road, which are owned by Rodrigo and Beth Oyarzun or Four Winds Properties, LLC. Because there are 2 separate lots with different owners, and the status of some of the documentation differs between the lots, each lot will be considered separately
   for purposes of this hearing.

• Lot 11R is noted as Unit 1 by the owners. This lot will be tracked as application 2025-01.
• Lot 10R is noted as Unit 2 by the owners. This lot will be tracked as application 2025-02.
  Action on the applications is not guaranteed at this meeting. The PC may approve one or both applications as presented, may reject one or both applications as presented, may ask for further information and delay a decision tonight, or may approve one or both applications with conditions. Any decision made will be made based on Arvon Township’s Zoning Ordinance, which was adopted in December, 2024. Of note in this ordinance for decision making are these specific articles:
• Article 2 Definitions.
  o Short Term Rental
  o Geodesic Dome
  o RR District
  o Resort
• Article 5 Recreational Residential (RR) District

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• Article 10 Schedule of Regulations
• Article 11 Uses Subject to Special Considerations
  o 1102 Basis of Determinations

The Chairperson stated that the application is for building a geodesic dome on each of 2 lots, each to be used as a short-term rental (STR). The decision will be made on criteria for the dome and STR. Any future plans the owners may have are not part of this application and determination.

2. Review of application by property owners Rodrigo Oyarzun was present with copies of his applications, survey, geodesic dome specifics and correspondence with the Western UP Health Department (WUPHD) from 2022. This information was received by the PC Chairperson on May 7, 2025 at 10:36 PM and send to the PC members on May 8, the
   day of this hearing, at noon. Rodrigo was advised that the PC did not have enough time to thoroughly review the new applications prior to the meeting. The PC used applications submitted on April 21 to prepare for the hearing. Rodrigo reviewed the changes in the application since the meeting he attended on April 10, 2025 for his first presentation. The main changes are:

• Both lots will now be set up with a septic field instead of a vaulted privy. Permission for this on lot 10R was granted by WUPHD in 2022 and needs to be updated this year before construction. Lot 11R has not been evaluated by WUPHD and this will need to be done.
• Rodrigo has decided to go with a different manufacturer for the geodesic domes. The new company is Pacific Domes from Ashland, Oregon.
• Rodrigo read his written comments on the Basis of Determinations, General Standards, in section 1102 of the Zoning Ordinance, which was included in the updated application.

2. Questions on applications and plans from members of the public
   The Public Hearing portion of the meeting was opened at 6:25 PM. Pat Janik and Nancy Kurkowski signed in indicating they would like to address the PC and applicant. Other community members also asked questions and made comments. The Public Hearing portion of the meeting was concluded at 7:10 PM. Pat Janik, Resident of Vicks Rd:
3. Why does the marketing done on the website and Facebook not match the current request?
   RO: He worked with a marketing/website developer and it just went a little bigger than he planned. This was not his intent.
4. Residents of Vicks Rd do not want to connect to Liimatainen Rd.
   RO: Agrees. He does not want traffic on his road either.
5. Will there be ATV trails?
   RO: No plans for ATV trails so the parcels are kept peaceful and quiet.
6. Are there limits on the number of people allowed in each rental?
   RO: Yes, per number of beds.
7. Will there be curfews for quiet times?
   RO: No. He does not plan to enforce curfews but expects noise from fireworks and music to be to a minimum.
8. Are there any restrictions on the deed and land contract for the property purchased from Faulks as to clear cutting, campgrounds and cabin rentals?
   RO: Not aware of any restrictions but he does not plan to clearcut. Other community members present state there are no restrictions on other parcels sold by Faulks.

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7. Are there currently investor partners?
   RO: Not at this time but it is possible in the future.
8. The marketing asks for membership fees and deposits. How are these being used? Will they be refunded if the reservations cannot be kept due to delays in building?
   RO: Yes, there will be full refunds for reservations if reservations cannot be met. The membership fees were part of the marketing to see if there would be interest. The “pre-sale” membership fees help finance the work and were used to gauge interest in the idea.
9. Will there be a host on site 24/7 when there are guests?
   RO: Yes
10. Concerns about insurance and fire/rescue services
    RO: Acknowledged
11. Concerns about success of a floating dock
    RO: Acknowledged
12. Concerns about helipad.
    RO: There will be no helipad
    Nancy Kurkowski, Resident of Vicks Rd:
13. Nancy has a copy of the land contract and asked to clarify who is on it. Stated it’s jointly owned with wife Beth.
    RO: LLC formed in 2022 with himself and wife
14. Has Rod done a business like this before?
    RO: No experience with STR, hospitality or land development of this kind. Has been a business owner for many years.
15. If the project is unsuccessful, will you stay here in the area?
    RO: Yes
    Other community members present asked questions and made statements.
16. Looking for honestly in this process.
    RO: Absolutely yes.
17. Concerns about emergency access via the private road
18. Will this start small and controlled then grow into condos like Mount Bohemia?
    RO: No plans to add condos
19. Cautions about starting with grand ideas then stopping without completion.
20. Is Rod living on the property now?
    RO: No
21. When will you break even on investment?
    RO: 1 year
22. Are there wells installed yet?
    RO: No
23. There are about 15 property owners between Point Abbaye Rd and Rod’s property. Does Rod have easements to improve the road?
    RO: No
24. What company are you using for the domes?
    RO: Pacific Domes
25. Will pets be permitted?
    RO: Not sure. Working individually with visitors on this.

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4. Questions on application and plans from Planning Commission members
   Donna Preston: Be aware of winter load restrictions and access for EMS. Guests may need to have a waiver for some items due to the remote location. Rod stated he has Starlink. Will domes need to have snow removed in the winter? If so, how will this be done. Rod stated he does not yet have a plan for this.
   Bob Janda: Asked Zoning Administrator, Buddy Sweeney, if he was OK with this proposal. Buddy said yes, he is.
   Jay Loman: Be sure the observation tower is under the tree line. Rod stated he does not have firm plans for this yet.
   Joe Bollech: Suggest Rod see about having one septic mound system for both lots. This will be up to WUPHD.
   John Salisbury: Confirmed that Rod will be living at the property 24/7 when there are guests. Suggested having one shared well instead of 2.
   Nancy Strohschein:

• How will laundry be done? RO: In town at the laundry mat.
• Do you have a project manager to organize all the moving parts? RO: No
• The lots are being purchased on land contract. Are you up to date on your property taxes?
  RO: No. He is behind on taxes and land contract payments.
• Do you have a contractor for land clearing and building the decks needed for the domes?
  RO: No. He will be using Debbie Haataja for excavation and septic field and Emblad for
  wood material. He does not have a contractor for the decks.
• Reminder that there are guidelines for signs in the Zoning Ordinance

4. Planning Commission discussion
   Nancy led the discussion of the Planning Commission to summarize what was learned and make sure all questions were answered.
   Nancy stated that per a conversation with the township attorney, and based on our Zoning
   Ordinance, we can ask for a performance guarantee bond from the applicant. This would provide money for the township to recover damages or clean up the site if the owner does not appropriately complete the project. Nancy suggested that an appropriate amount for each site would be $30,000 to $40,000.
   The conditions for such bond would be:

• Project completion within 12 months of application approval. Project competition determined by final Certificate of Occupancy.
• Proper construction of septic fields and placements of wells per WUPHD permits. Conforming to all heath department requirements.
• Property taxes are paid in full, including for the year of completion.
• Geodesic dome manufacturer warrants that the structures have snow load and wind ratings appropriate for the area.
• Properties conform to all relevant requirements for Short Term Rentals in Arvon Township,
  which are detailed in the Ordinance.
  There were no further questions.

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6. Action item: Planning Commission to determine next steps, which could be approval,
   denial or postpone decision. The options for action are:
   a. Approve the application as presented with no conditions. The motion must state why it is
   being approved, referencing any pertinent items in the ZO.
   b. Deny the application as presented. Appeal from property owners would be to the Zoning
   Board of Appeals (ZBA).
   c. Approve one application, for one lot only, but not the other. Motion and vote needed.
   d. Approve one or both applications with conditions. Motion and vote needed.
   e. Postpone the decision to gather more info. No motion is needed since no action is being
   taken. Ask property owners for specific info to provide. Must be very specific with what is
   being asked. This option can/should be combined with the performance guarantee option.
   f. Require a performance guarantee per ZO Article 11. See below – No motion is needed. The list of items to be included in the guarantee must be specific. The amount of bond will be stated at this meeting. This option can/should be combined with the postpone option.
   Motion: Approve both applications with condition of full compliance with Health Department requirements. Motion made: Jay Loman Motion seconded: Nancy Strohschein
   Discussion: Nancy suggested we add the performance guarantee bond per the above requirements. The motion was not amended and stands for vote as made.
   Voice Vote:

• Joe Bollech: Yes
• Bob Janda: Yes
• Jay Loman: Yes
• Donna Preston: Yes
• John Salisburuy: Yes
• Nancy Strohschein: No
  Motion approved

6. Next steps
   This matter is resolved and the applicant may begin his project.
7. Adjourn
   Meeting adjourned at 7:30 PM

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Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 6 PM

Call to Order:
Roll Call:
✓ Nancy Strohschein (Chair)
✓ Joe Bollech
✓ Bob Janda (Township Board Rep)
✓ John Salisbury
o Jay Loman (Zoning Board of Appeals Chair) – Absent with notice
o Donna Preston – Absent with notice
Recognition of visitors: 30 individuals signed in for the meeting. Buddy Sweeney, Zoning Administrator was present.
Pledge of Allegiance: Recited
Comments on agenda: None
Approval of agenda: Motion: Bob Janda, Second: Joe Bollech. Approved
Approval of minutes from January 9, 2025 quarterly meeting: Motion: Bob Janda, Second: John Salisbury. Approved
Public comments: Chairman Nancy Strohschein explained that this is the regular quarterly meeting of the Arvon Township Planning Commission (PC) and regular business would be performed. Rodrigo and Beth Oyarzun are present to provide information to the Planning Commission and the public on their plans for developing a resort on Point Abbaye. At this meeting, there will be questions asked by the PC but not from the public. A future public hearing will be scheduled to allow the public to ask questions. No public comments at this time.
Presentation:
Rodrigo and Beth Oyarzun from Four Winds Lodge presented their proposed plans for a resort on Pointe Abbaye. The PC members received printed materials

1. Introductory letter with information on the Phase 1 (Immediate Plan) and Phase 2 (Long-Term Plan)
2. Certificate of Survey of the property from 2000
3. A site plan listing 6 lots and proposed placement of geodesic dome, well, privy, sauna and hot tub
4. Schematics from FDOMES for a proposed 22+ ft dome with square footage of 397.5. This document included cross-sections showing a bathroom and kitchen in the dome, multiple elevations and deck structural design.
5. Satellite images of the properties with adjacent property owner names included
6. Seven pages of correspondence and site evaluations from Western UP Health Department from 2022.
7. A soil map image from USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service from 2022.
   Rodrigo showed images of the lots currently and a video if how it could look in the future. He fielded several questions on the current state of the project, the marketing website currently in use, the public interest in this type of resort and his dedication to conservation.
   After the presentation, Rodrigo and Beth took time outside the Fire Hall location to talk with the public and answer further questions.

2

Chairman Comments:

1. Notes from Monday 4/7 Board Meeting – Nancy reviewed the information from the 4/7/2025 Township Board Meeting that is relevant to the PC.
2. PC Member terms
   a. Joe Bollech – 1 Year, expires June 2025
   b. Bob Janda – per term on township board
   c. Jay Loman – 10/2024, 3 years, expires 10/2027
   d. Donna Preston – 10/03/2022, 3 years, expires /10/03/2025
   e. John Salsbury – October 2024, 3 years, expires October 2027
   f. Nancy Strohschein – August, 2024, 3 years, expires August 2027

Old Business:

1. Planning commission comments/concerns – None
2. Bob Janda: Report from Township Board Rep – None
3. Jay Loman: Report from Zoning Board of Appeals – Jay was not present to give an update
4. Buddy Sweeney: Report from Zoning Administrator – Buddy stated there are a couple issues in the township that may need Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) involvement. We have non-confirming lots and a request to put up buildings without the required lot line setbacks. Buddy is working with the property owners on a resolution within the Zoning Ordinance. The ZBA will need to consider the issue of accessory structures too close to the lake shore on Skanee Rd. Nancy will contact Jay Loman and inform him that he needs to convene a meeting of the ZBA on this matter.
5. Plans for 2025 Quarterly Meetings:
   o Review Master Plan – April 2025
   o Review Recreation Plan – July 2025
   o Track any changes needed
6. Tracking Zoning Ordinance Changes – We have only one change to the ZO needed at this time. We will wait to see if other changes need to be made before making any updates.
   o Change 1: Use of campers on property for occasional use.

New Business:

1. Proposal from Four Winds Property LLC for resort on Pointe Abbaye – The PC set a date for the Public Hearing on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at 6 PM at the Fire Hall.
2. Minimum acreage for Forest Resource in Ordinance – Members reviewed the information
   provided on a possible discrepancy in the ZO regarding Forest Resource minimum acreage. The PC discussed this and looked back at the old ZO for background. This may become a second change to the ZO to track. Nancy will ask Jay Loman if he recalls why this change was made. See the attached document with fact finding on this matter.
3. Review of Master Plan for updates. Sections specifically reviewed for updates. – All sections of the Master Plan were reviewed by the PC. We find no need to make changes at this time. For the section on goals, we acknowledged that they are very lofty and we may want to make them more “down to earth” with the next revision. Some of the items in the goals have been accomplished or determined. For example, Goal 2 talks about dust control. The Township Board has determined that the Township will not manage or facilitate dust control procedures. In Section 5.5, the update should state that Beesley Rd is no longer partially paved as the asphalt was ground up last year to improve the surface.

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a. 1.0 Introduction
b. 2.0 Social Characteristics
c. 3.0 Economic Characteristics
i. 3.4 Economic Development Strategies
ii. 3.5 Future Development Considerations
d. 4.0 Natural Resources
e. 5.0 Existing Land Use
i. 5.1 Introduction
ii. 5.5 Transportation & Roads

1. Beesley is no longer partially paved
   f. 6.0 Community Services Recreation & Culture
   g. 7.0 Public Participation
   h. 8.0 Goals & Objectives – Make the G&O less lofty
   i. Goal 1: Natural Resources and Character
   ii. Goal 2: Transportation – Clarify Dust Control
   iii. Goal 3: Recreation
   iv. Goal 4: Housing
   v. Goal 5: Public Service, Government and Infrastructure
   vi. Goal 6: Environment
   i. 9.0 Future Land Use & Zoning Plan
   j. 10.0 Plan Implementation & Adoption
2. Handling of Emblad non-conformance/setback – Nancy and Buddy updated the PC on the
   current situation with the accessory structure being too close to the shoreline. Nancy will inform Jay Loman to review the necessary process and schedule a ZBA meeting to move the issue forward.
   Topics for Next Meeting:
3. PC Education – Understand the ZBA process
4. Review Recreation Plan
   Upcoming meetings:

• July 10, 2025
  Adjourn: – The meeting was adjourned at 7:35 PM

Arvon Township Planning Commission Quarterly Meeting Minutes

Thursday, January 9, 2025 at 6 PM

Call to Order:

Roll Call:

Present: Nancy Strohschein (Chair), Joe Bollech, Bob Janda (Township Board Rep), Jay Loman (Zoning Board of Appeals Chair), John Salsbury Absent with Notice: Donna Preston, Buddy Sweeney (Zoning Administrator)

Recognition of visitors:  None present

Pledge of Allegiance:  Done

Comments on agenda:  None

Approval of agenda:  Motion by Bob Janda, Second by John Salsbury.  Approved.

Approval of minutes from October 10, 2024 quarterly meeting:  Motion by Joe Bollech, Second by Jay Loman.  Approved.

Public comments:  None

Chairman Comments:

1. Robert Lindert is not going to serve another term.  Will need someone to serve as secretary.  No one volunteered to fill this role.  Nancy Strohschein will continue as Chair and Secretary for now.
2. Notes from Monday 1/6 Board Meeting – Nancy reviewed highlights of the monthly board meeting.
3. Annual report to board – Nancy provided a copy of the report given to the board and reviewed it with the PC.
4. How to get John Salsbury up to speed.  John prefers to learn by experience rather than taking classes.  Nancy needs to retrieve Robert Lindert’s MTA book for John.
5. An article in the January 2025 Township Focus publication from MTA was reviewed.  “Planning Your Planning Commission” discussed the type of skills and aptitudes that are helpful in PC members.
6. PC Member terms:
   1. Joe Bollech – 1 Year, expires June 2025
   1. Bob Janda – per term on township board
   1. Robert Lindert – 01/03/2022, 3 years, expires 01/03/2025
   1. Jay Loman – 10/2024, 3 years, expires 10/2027
   1. Donna Preston – 10/03/2022, 3 years, expires /10/03/2025
   1. John Salsbury – October 2024, 3 years, expires October 2027
   1. Nancy Strohschein – August, 2024, 3 years, expires August 2027

Old Business:

1. Planning commission comments/concerns – None other than what is on the agenda
2. Buddy Sweeney:  Report from Zoning Administrator.  Buddy was not present at the meeting.  He plans to update the PC monthly on the following items.
   1. Number of zoning approvals in progress
   1. Number of building permits in progress
   1. Recent possible zoning problems

• Concern with ZO regarding use of campers on properties.  See below in New Business.
• Bob Janda:  Report from Township Board Rep.  Nothing to report.
• Jay Loman:  Report from Zoning Board of Appeals – The issue of the Emblad sauna building too close to the shore is still unsettled.  Jay and Buddy need to complete the process via email and/or written document.  Per Jay, Jason and Jay Emblad do not wish to file an official ZBA request.  Next step is for Jay to send documentation to Buddy.

New Business:

1. Plans for 2025 Quarterly Meetings:
   1. Review Master Plan: Target to review at the April 2025 meeting.
   1. Review Recreation Plan:  Target to review at the July 2025 meeting.
   1. Track any changes needed in Zoning Ordinance:  Ongoing.  See page 3 of these minutes on the issue of campers for occasional use.  This change will be made in the next update of the ZO.
2. PC Education from the MTA Planning and Zoning Guide.  Buddy to present Part 6:  In Buddy’s absence, Nancy did her best to review Part 6 and led a discussion with the PC.

Topics for Next Meeting:

1. PC Education – TBD.  Not sure if we will continue reviewing the MTA green book or not. 

Upcoming meetings:

• April 10, 2025

Adjourn:  7:25 PM

Email about changing wording for campers: 

From Buddy 1/10/2025

That should work.

On Fri, Jan 10, 2025, 1:14 PM <wnstrohschein@comcast.net> wrote:

Buddy,

Regarding the campers item.  We discussed this at the meeting last night.  We believe we need to make a change in the section on temporary uses.  Page 98 of the new ZO.  We believe the definition of Recreational Vehicle is appropriate and applies to campers. 

On page 98, see the image below, we think we should remove the yellow highlighted text and replace it with “..provided the unit is not a permanent residence.  The unit should be located within the buildable area of the lot and respect setback standards for the area.”

We do not plan to make this change now.  We will track and compile needed changes and determine when to make the changes in the future.

Please let me know if this change will clarify the intent and make the it enforceable. 

Thanks!

Nancy and the PC

Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 6:00 PM
Call to Order
Roll Call – Present Nancy Strohschein (Chair), Joe Bollech, Bob Janda (Township Board Rep)
Robert Lindert (Vice Chair & Secretary), Jay Loman (Zoning Board of Appeals Chair)
Donna Preston, John Salsbury- Absent with Notice, Buddy Sweeney (Zoning Administrator)
Pledge of Allegiance: Recited
Introductions/Guests:
Approval of Agenda: Bob motioned, Donna seconded
Approval of minutes of July 11, 2024 Quarterly Meeting: Jay motioned, Bob seconded.
Chairman Comments:

1. Welcome John Salsbury as newest PC member.
2. Notes from Monday 10/7 Board Meeting
   a. Nancy gave an in-depth update from the meeting. Board meeting minutes are
   available on website or in office.
3. PC Member terms:
   a. Joe Bollech – 1 Year, expires June 2025
   b. Bob Jana – per term on township board
   c. Robert Lindert – 01/03/2022, 3 years, expires 01/03/2025
   d. Jay Loman – Through August 2027
   e. Donna Preston – 10/03/2022, 3 years, expires 10/03/2025
   f. Nancy Strohschein – August 2024, 3 years, expires August 2027
   g. John Salsbury – October 2024, 3 years, expires October 2027
   Old Business:
4. Planning Commission comments/concerns
   a. Donna wasn’t present at most of our meetings. She would like to be on record
   saying we did a great job.
5. Bob Janda: Report from Township Board
   a. Reviewed meeting where Zoning Ordinance was adopted.
   b. Made clarifications on blight – we do NOT have a blight ordinance.
6. Buddy Zoning Update – None
   2
7. Jay Loman: Report from Zoning Board of Appeals
   a. Jay summarized Elmblad dispute. Nothing we can do because setbacks are
   through EGLE regarding Lake Superior.
8. Recreation
   a. Lisa has not uploaded the recreation plan to the website yet. Needs more
   information from us.
9. Updated ZO:
   a. Approve minutes from August 22 2024 public hearing
   i. Jay motioned, Bob seconded.
   New Business:
10. Posting PC Minutes on website and placing in office files
    a. Robert to print out all minutes he has and leave in Fire Hall for Lisa.
    b. Nancy to fill in with her minutes when Robert was out.
11. PC Education from the MTA Planning and Zoning Guide
    a. Buddy to present, but he is absent. Pushed to next quarterly meeting.
12. Set 2025 Quarterly Meeting dates
    a. 2
    nd Thursday in January, April, July, and October.
    Topics for Next Meeting:
13. PC Education – Part 6 by Buddy
    Upcoming Meetings:

• Quarterly Meeting January 9
  th 2025 @ 6:00pm
  Adjourn: Robert motioned, Donna seconded. 6:48pm

Call to Order: 6:00 PM
Pledge of Allegiance: Done
Roll Call
Nancy Strohschein (Chair) – Absent with notice, Joe Bollech – Present
Bob Janda (Board Rep) – Present, Robert Lindert (Vice Chair & Secretary) – Absent with notice, Jay Loman (Board of Appeals Chair) – Present, Acting Chair
Donna Preston – Present, Acting Secretary
Introductions:

• Jason McCarthy, Consultant, Northwoods Planning and Zoning
• Buddy Sweeney, Zoning Administrator
  Arvon Residents Present:
• Sue Bollech
• Jason Emblad
• Jay Emblad
• Angie Emblad
• John Salsbury
• Kathy Salsbury
  Approval of Agenda: Motion by Donna, Second by Bob. Approved
  Agenda:
  I. Public Comment on Agenda Items – Public comments will be taken after the
  presentation by Jason McCarthy
  II. Chairman Comments – Acting Chair Jay Loman had no comments
  III. Presentation of revised Zoning Ordinance by Jason McCarthy, Northwoods Planning &
  Zoning
  A. Jason stated the tasks for the Zoning Ordinance update were to update the
  zoning, preserve rural character, address new housing alternatives such as tiny homes,
  geodesic domes and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
  B. There were no changes to maps, except for district names. Live hyperlinks were
  added to provide additional information on line. Language was modernized.
  C. Changes made to each article were discussed by Jason. The most important
  changes were read to the public.
  2
• Article 2: Definitions for ADU, blight, dark sky lighting, duplex, EMC, fence,
  geodesic dome, greenbelt, High Risk Erosion Areas (HREA), mining, mineral
  extraction, nuisance, recreational structure, Recreational Vehicle (RV),
  shipping containers, Short Term Rental (STR), signs, tiny home, utility building
• Article 3: Changed to 6 districts. Added STR and tiny homes to be allowed.
  Included 40-foot setback for non-inhabitable structures such as sheds and
  saunas.
• Articles 4 through 9: No significant changes
• Article 10: Jason presented changes to Tables 1 & 2
• Article 12: Added fire safety zone of 10 feet. Defined parking spaces for
  ADU, fence location on property line, outdoor lighting, noise. A new section
  for signs was added. HREA updated to reflect the law. Temporary uses
  better defined. Section 1217 addressed ADUs, cargo containers and shortterm rentals. The changes made to STRs were done to ensure safety to
  everyone who lives or stays in the Township.
• Article 13: No changes made
• Article 15: Clerical changes from Board of Appeals to Zoning Board of
  Appeals (ZBA)
• Articles 15 through 18: No substantial changes. Updated language and
  terminology. Added hyperlinks.
  IV. Public Comment:
  A. John and Kathy Salsbury expressed concern about blight on their street. Jason
  acknowledged their concern and stated that control of blight is not done in the Zoning
  Ordinance, but must be enacted by the Township Board.
  B. Jason Emblad stated the website needs to be clarified about setback
  requirements for utility buildings. The setback from water’s edge is not clear in the
  current Zoning Ordinance. His comments were acknowledged. The updated ZO is
  clearer in this area, since the setback info has been included in the articles instead of
  only in the definition.
  C. Jason Emblad appreciated the section on signs.
  D. Jason Emblad asked about the county road easement which states that no
  building may be done within the 33-foot easement from the center of the road plus 30
  feet from the property line, which means no building can be done within 63 feet of the
  road center line. He asked how long this has been in place. Jay and Buddy answered
  that this has been in place “for a while” and is not new with this Ordinance change or
  the one adopted in 2022.
  E. Jason Emblad asked if STRs are allowed near the fire hall. Jay stated that there
  are STRs on the lake front, but not in the Business District.
  F. Jason Emblad asked how the process for a variance is done. Jason covered the
  steps that involve calling a meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA).
  G. The public hearing portion of the meeting concluded at 7:10 PM
  3
  V. Planning Commission discussion
  Motion to proceed to adopt the revised Zoning Ordinance as presented, with minor
  typographical error corrections made by Jay, second by Bob. Roll call vote:
• Jay Loman: yes
• Donna Preston: yes
• Bob Janda: Yes
• Joe Bollech: Yes
  VI. Define Next Steps:
  A. Inform board that the updated Zoning Ordinance will be presented for their
  adoption at the October, 2024 meeting. The board needs to place a notice in the
  paper to advertise that the revised ZO will be discussed and potentially adopted
  at the October meeting.
  B. Jason will submit to Western Upper Peninsula Planning & Development Region
  office (WUPPDR) for review and comment. They have 30 days to comment.
  C. Jason will complete the document, including table of content and appendices
  and send to Nancy Strohschein for placement on the Arvon Township website.
  D. No other Planning Commission meetings are necessary at this time.
  VII. Adjourn: Motion to adjourn made by Jay, seconded by Donna. Motion approved.
  VIII. Adjourned at 7:15 PM

Thursday, July 11, 2024 at 6 PM
Call to Order: 6:00 PM
Roll Call:
Present: Nancy Strohschein (Chair), Joe Bollech, Bob Janda (Township Board Rep)
Jay Loman (Zoning Board of Appeals Chair), Donna Preston-Absent with Notice:
Robert Lindert (Vice Chair & Secretary), Buddy Sweeney (Zoning Administrator)
Recognition of visitors: Kathy Salisbury – Bayview Drive
Approval of agenda: Motion by Jay Loman, Second by Bob Janda. Approved.
Approval of minutes from April 10, 2024 quarterly meeting: Motion by Bob, Second by Joe.
Approved.
Public comments:
Kathy Salsbury stated her concern about property on Bayview Drive that is abandoned,
overrun and should be considered blight. She has researched the state law regarding blighted property.
Chairman Comments:

1. Fire Hall is again available for meetings.
2. PC Member terms:
   a. Joe Bollech – 06/04/2016, 4 years, expires 06/04/24. Joe does not wish to renew his
   term.
   b. Robert Lindert – 01/03/2022, 3 years, expires 01/03/2025
   c. Jay Loman – ?
   d. Donna Preston – 10/03/2022, 3 years, expires /10/03/2025
   e. Nancy Strohschein – 07/15/2021, 3 years, expires 07/15/2024
   Old Business:
3. Planning commission comments/concerns: None
4. Buddy Sweeney: Report from Zoning Administrator: Buddy not present
5. Bob Janda: Report from Township Board Rep: Nothing to report
6. Jay Loman: Report from Zoning Board of Appeals: No appeals
7. Recreation Plan:
   o Nancy asked Lisa to make sure the Rec Plan gets uploaded to the State DNR site.
   o Jay Loman continues to look for an update from Scott Lloyd
   o Possible money for Covid funds for sidewalk, shed, benches and defibrillator at the park
   and Town Hall
   2
   New Business:
8. PC Education from the MTA Planning and Zoning Guide.
   a. Jay: Part 5, pages 145 – 176: Complete
9. Zoning Ord:
   a. Receive final draft from Jason: Nancy will send Jason our notes from the last review
   b. Confirm maps
   c. Post of website
   d. Publish in newspaper
   e. Public hearing
   f. Presentation to board
   g. Board adoption
   Topics for Next Meeting:
10. PC Education – Part 6 by Buddy
    Quarterly Meetings in 2024 are published in the Sentinel

• Thursday, October 10
  Upcoming meetings:
• Wednesday, July 17: Planning Commission ZO Work Session
• Monday, August 5: Township Board Meeting
  Adjourn: Adjourned at 7:05 PM

Wednesday, April 10th, 2024 at 6:00 PM
Call to Order
Roll Call
Nancy Strohschein (Chair), Joe Bollech (Board of Review), Bob Janda (Board Rep)
Robert Lindert (Vice Chair & Secretary), Jay Loman (Board of Review Chair)
Donna Preston – Absent with notice, Buddy Sweeney (Zoning Administrator)
Pledge of Allegiance: Recited
Introductions/Guests: Betty, Whitey
Approval of Agenda: Rob motioned, Joe seconded
Approval of minutes of January 10, 2024 Quarterly Meeting: Jay motioned, Nancy seconded.
Chairman Comments:

1. Fire Hall meetings move to Town Hall due to light replacement in Fire Hall.
2. PC Member terms:
   a. Joe Bollech – 06/04/2019, 4 years, expires 06/04/2024
   b. Robert Lindert – 01/03/2022, 3 years, expires 01/03/2025
   c. Jay Loman – ???
   d. Donna Preston – 10/03/2022, 3 years, expires 10/03/2025
   e. Nancy Strohschein – 07/15/2021, 3 years, expires 07/15/2024
   Old Business:
3. Planning Commission comments/concerns – None
4. Bob Janda: Report from Township Board – None
5. Buddy Zoning Update: Lot of phone calls & questions.
   a. Complaints on Mouth of the Huron trailer property:
   i. Trailer has to be 75ft from centerline of road. Can’t do much more.
   Northing in ordinance to back Buddy up.
   ii. Pursuing EGLE about the property.
6. Jay Loman: Report from Zoning Board of Appeals – All good. Website to be updated.
7. Recreation
   a. Informal committee is having conversations with Jay Fish.
   b. Comments from Prills re: private cemetery on Sicotte Rd. Will be on the May
   2024 board agenda. Does anyone have contact info?
   c. Info from Nancy Soli on parcel by Witz. Document packet on parcel. Hand off to
   Township Board.
   2
   New Business:
8. PC Education from the MTA Planning and Zoning Guide
   a. Robert: Part 4, Pages 95-144
9. Zoning Ord: Plan to complete
   a. Review info from Jason
   b. High level review of entire ZO
   c. Map – Can we denote KLT and NC land?
   i. PC agreed no, we don’t want to include this as it changes too often, not
   zoning related.
   d. Buddy comments: Article 13 Letter F – Recommended removing this line
   entirely.
   Topics for Next Meeting:
10. PC Education – Part 5 by Jay Loman
    Quarterly Meetings in 2024 are published in the Sentinel

• Thursday, July 11th
• Thursday, October 10th
  Upcoming Meetings:
• April 17th Planning Commission Zoning Ordinance Work Sessions
• Monday, May 6: Township Board Meeting
  Adjourn: Bob motioned, Robert seconded. 7:15pm

Call to Order
Roll Call
Nancy Strohschein (Chair), Joe Bollech (Board of Review), Bob Janda (Board Rep), Robert Lindert (Vice Chair & Secretary), Jay Loman (Board of Review Chair),
Donna Preston – Absent with notice
Pledge of Allegiance: Recited
Introductions/Guests: 18 in attendance outside of the PC
Approval of Agenda: Bob motioned, Jay seconded
Agenda:
I. Purpose of the meeting
A. Jay discussed this at length with the group.
II. Review of the Recreation Plan
A. Why we have one – Nancy discussed
B. How it was prepared – Nancy discussed
C. What are the proposed projects – Nancy discussed
III. Duties of the Recreation Committee
A. By-Laws – Nancy discussed
B. Meetings – Nancy discussed
C. Public input and direction to Township Board – Nancy discussed
IV. Recreation Committee members
A. Interested persons

• Scott Lloyd
• John DeLine
  B. Process for approval
  C. Officers
  V. Upcoming meetings
  A. Planning Commission work sessions
• January 31st immediately following the Recreation Committee Open House
• Next meeting TBD
  B. Next Township Board Meeting
• February 5th at 6pm in the Fire Hall
  C. Planning Commission 2024 Quarterly Meetings at 6pm
• Wednesday, April 10
• Thursday, July 11
• Thursday, October 10
  Adjourn: 7:00pm

Call to Order
Roll Call
Nancy Strohschein (Chair), Joe Bollech (Board of Review), Bob Janda (Board Rep), Robert Lindert (Vice Chair & Secretary), Jay Loman (Board of Review Chair), Donna Preston – Absent with notice
Pledge of Allegiance: Recited
Introductions/Guests: N/A
Approval of Agenda: Bob motioned, Robert seconded
Approval of minutes of October 11, 2023 Quarterly Meeting: Jay motioned, Bob seconded.
Old Business:

1. Planning Commission comments/concerns – None
2. Bob Janda: Report from Township Board – None
3. Jay Loman: Report from Zoning Board of Appeals – None
4. Recreation Plan: Final document has been received from Jason. Posted on website. Sent
   to Homestead Graphics for one printed color copy.
   New Business:
5. PC Education from the MTA Planning and Zoning Guide
   a. Nancy: Part 3 – Reviewed and went through
   b. Robert: Parts 4 – Tabled until next quarterly meeting
6. Recreation Committee: Open House and Bylaws
   a. Bylaws – No objections, board expected to approve
   b. Print recreation plan copies
   c. Cookies from Ivy for the open house meeting – Committee approved
   d. Agends
   e. Specific people to invite
   f. Newspaper
   g. Arvon Website
   h. Robert to post on Facebook page
   i. Posters – Joe to put up at the Trading Post and The Finns.
   2024 Budget for Rec Plan Programs (projects, meetings, materials, training) – Decided on
   requesting $10k, this gives us up to $30k we can get in State funds for out $10k input.
   FEMA, Flood Maps, Insurance Program: Booklet received from FEMA to township. We are all
   done with our tasks. Nothing left for the Planning Commission to do.
   Adjourn: Nancy Adjourned 7:20pm