December 15, 2009

Susan Ensign-Chairperson, Sheila Mesler-Vice Chairperson

Reid Duford - Secretary

Members: Larry Surma, Denise Schneider

The meeting of the Lincoln Township Planning Commission was called to order by Chairperson Susan Ensign at 6:30 pm.

Roll call was taken:  Susan Ensign, Sheila Mesler, Reid Duford, Larry Surma, and Denise Schneider were all present.

A motion was made by Larry Surma to approve the agenda as presented and was supported by Sheila Mesler.  Motion approved 5-0.

Motion by Reid Duford and supported by Larry Surma to approve the minutes of the November 3, 2009 meeting.  Motion approved 5-0.

A public hearing was held upon a request from Hidden Trails Campground LLC for a Special Use permit to allow a campground to be operated on vacant property that is currently zoned Residential. Petitioner Jamie Kaufman spoke in support of the request in preparations of a future development of this 80 acre parcel on Stark Rd (Tax # 56-110-023-100-010-00). His plans are to develop the easterly 600 feet along Stark Rd as residential homes. He is proposing a multiple site campgrounds in the center of the subject parcel with no more than 100 sites. The proposed sites will be 3,600 to 3,800 square feet in size. (Typical camp sites are only 1,200 sq. ft.) The area on the west end of the parcel is to be used for recreation and a pond. A septic tank system and drain field will be used for camping only. This system is not designed for cold weather use and must be shut down for winter. The camp ground is proposed to be open from April to October.

Public Comments - 18 citizens were in attendances for the public hearing (including petitioner):

• Bob Sheets of 3077 N Stark Rd stated that a Special Use permit is a way around rezoning and not a good idea for this application. He is also concerned with illegal cutting of trees and trespassing. Mr. Sheets also has concerns about access of fire equipment and fire safety. He opposes the request.

• Bob Marks, Lincoln Township Fire Chief asked questions about water service, fire hydrants and the depth of the proposed swimming pond. The petitioner responded that the main hydrants will stay active all the time and the camping services will have separate shut-offs for the winter. The pond will be at least twelve feet deep to avoid becoming stagnant.

• Diana Richardson lives near the subject property and is concerned about noise and trespassing. She also wanted to know what would stop them from becoming a year-round campground. The petition responded that he would accept conditions to limit the months the campground could be used. Ms. Richardson opposes the request.

• Gerald Nightlinger of 1177 E Beamish Rd said that the zoning ordinance was adopted to protect property owner rights and over the years it has been amended for necessary changes. He is concerned with the potential for problems from alcohol, parties, and trespassing. Mr. Nightlinger opposes the request.

• Tim Chisholm of 3191 N Start Rd is concerned about the effects this campground would have on the wildlife and the hunters in the area due to additional noise. Mr. Chisholm opposes the request.

• Hugh Nightlinger of 1285 E Beamish Rd asked if the property would be gated or will have a guard on duty. The petition responded that there would be someone on site to take care of problems that arise. Hugh says the campground does not belong there and opposes the request.

• Kathleen Kemp of 1800 N Stark Rd is concerned that if the campground is controlled by the State of Michigan, will the Township have the authority to control noise and other problems. Kathleen opposes the request.

• Larry Hunt of 1119 E Beamish Rd asked to explain Special Use. Sue Ensign responded; the request is for the right to use the property for some other use than what it is zoned for and if the campground would fail the property would revert back to its original use. Mr. Hunt says the campground does not fit, it will increase traffic and he opposes the request.

• Ron Thompson of 1310 E Beamish Rd said he enjoys the quiet rural setting and wildlife in the area. The proposed campground would create noise and additional traffic and disrupt the natural setting. Such a use is not consistent with the Master Plan and it is a poor fit for the area. Ron strongly opposes the request.

Petitioner response: Mr. Kaufman said that he understands the concerns of the neighboring property owners. He says that the rules are more stringent in a private campground and guests that violate the rules will be asked to leave promptly.

Commission Comments: The commission said they did not believe this is the right use for the area. It is not consistent with the zoning ordinance or current use of surrounding properties, nor is it consistent with the Master Plan and future land use maps.

A motion to accept petitioner�s request for a Special Use Permit, as stated on the application filed by Hidden Trails Campground LLC, was made by Vice Chairperson, Sheila Mesler and supported by Member, Denise Schneider. Motion Denied 5-0.

Old Business: Reviewed and discussed correcting typographical errors and other types of mistakes or omissions within the current Lincoln Township Zoning Ordinance.

New Business: None.

Meeting was adjourned at 7:40 pm.

Reid Duford, Secretary

Lincoln Township Planning Commission

Midland County