AuSable Township Seeks Resident Input on Future Plans, Addresses Short-Term Rentals and Zoning
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AuSable Township is actively engaging its residents in shaping the community’s future. Township officials are seeking input from residents regarding future plans, utilizing a $50,000 grant from the Michigan State Housing Growth Authority (MSHDA) to develop a new Master Plan. This plan will prioritize the township’s goals for the next five years. The deadline to complete the survey is March 31, and the details gathered will be crucial in shaping the Master Plan.
The township is collaborating with Denise Cline from the Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG) on the Master Plan. The initiative aims to create a complete roadmap for AuSable Township’s development and address key issues facing the community.
Master Plan Survey and Resident Participation
AuSable Township Superintendent Eric Strayer reported that the township has received only 33 completed surveys so far.To encourage greater participation, paper copies of the survey are available at the township hall, and an electronic version can be accessed through a link on the township’s website. Staff and planning commission (PC) members have been actively distributing the surveys to residents and business owners.
Strayer noted the importance of resident feedback, stating that he believes approximately 100 surveys were completed during the last Master Plan development. The current effort seeks to surpass that number to ensure a representative and comprehensive plan.
Short-Term rental Ordinance Update
In addition to the Master Plan,the Planning Commission is also focused on regulating short-term rentals (STRs) within the township. Strayer provided PC members with an updated version of Ordinance number 143, the short-term rental (STR) ordinance, along with guidelines and the STR request. The deadline for submitting an STR submission for 2025 is May 1, with an annual fee of $400.
Mary Jo Samotis is coming out of retirement to serve as the STR administrator, bringing her experiance to oversee the implementation and enforcement of the ordinance.
A point of clarification arose regarding the Huron Sands Condo Association. After consulting with the attorney and Denise Cline from NEMCOG, it was resolute that the STR ordinance does not apply to the condos as the owners have their own homeowners association that manages the rentals. Rentals are limited to 10 percent of the units or eight units.
PC members raised questions about some of the changes made to the STR ordinance,notably concerning the “extenuating circumstances” clause.
“it’s going to be a learning process,”
Eric Strayer,AuSable Township Superintendent
Strayer commented,acknowledging the ongoing adjustments and refinements to the STR regulations.He also expressed surprise at the limited number of inquiries received since information about the STRs was published in the newspaper.
Zoning Permit Request and Firearm Manufacturing
The Planning Commission also addressed a request from Steven Gibson to modify his special use permit.Gibson seeks to include a Class 7 Manufacturing License with his existing class 1 License, allowing him to assemble firearm parts and perform custom engraving and etching on firearms.
Gibson clarified that he will not have customers visiting his home and will not use any heavy equipment. The PC had previously approved Gibson’s Zoning Permit Application-Home occupation Certificate of Zoning Compliance at its Jan. 16 meeting after holding a public hearing. At that meeting,Gibson stated that his business would be entirely online and that he only needed a physical address to obtain a Federal Firearms License.
Member Diana London inquired about potential inventory at Gibson’s residence, while PC chair Jeff Lamrock expressed concerns about a potential stockpile. Member Deirdre Honner,while appreciating Gibson’s thoughtful approach,wanted to know the extent of his planned inventory. She suggested tabling the decision until Gibson could attend a meeting to address these concerns.
honner asked Strayer if he had any further conversation with Gibson. Strayer said he was under the impression that Gibson would be working on parts.Honner pointed out that Gibson asks for permission to assemble guns, wich is a change from the original approval.
Strayer agreed to invite Gibson to speak to the PC. A motion was made by London to table a decision until Gibson can attend in person. The motion was supported by Honner and passed unanimously.
Marijuana Special Land Use Permit Renewal
The PC also approved the renewal of the Medical & Recreational Marihuana special Land Use Permit application from KK&S Ventures LLC for the Puff location.Strayer confirmed that there were no changes and that it was a simple renewal. He also stated that he had not received any infractions or complaints from the police or residents regarding the business.
“Thay seem to be pretty good neighbors,”
Eric Strayer, AuSable Township Superintendent
Strayer commented, acknowledging the positive relationship between the business and the community.
The PC discussed the extensive paperwork required for the business to present to the state, noting that it exceeds the requirements for a childcare facility. The motion by London to approve the renewal was supported by Greg Romero and passed unanimously.
KK&S requested a simplified permit form for simple renewals, as they are currently required to submit a 100-page packet annually. Honner suggested that Strayer work on streamlining the process, which he agreed to do.
Other Business
Honner celebrated her one-year anniversary serving on the PC. Strayer mentioned that both London and Romero were up for renewal in 2025.
Strayer said he needs to work with Cline on solar and battery storage.
“That’s hazardous, isn’t it?”
Diana London, Planning Commission Member
London asked, highlighting potential safety concerns.
Lamrock inquired about guidance from the Oscoda Township Fire Department regarding battery storage.
The regular meeting of the township’s PC was held on Thursday, Feb. 20.
Conclusion
AuSable Township is actively working to shape its future through resident input,updated regulations,and careful consideration of zoning requests. The Master Plan survey, short-term rental ordinance, and zoning permit discussions reflect the township’s commitment to addressing the needs and concerns of its residents and businesses. The collaborative approach involving residents, officials, and experts ensures a balanced and well-informed decision-making process.
AuSable Township’s Future: Master Planning, Short-Term Rentals, and Zoning in Rural Communities
Is the meticulous planning process undertaken by AuSable Township a model for other rural communities grappling with similar challenges of growth and development?
Dr. emily Carter,expert in rural planning and development: Absolutely. AuSable Township’s approach highlights the crucial intersection of resident engagement, proactive regulatory adaptation, and strategic land-use planning. Many rural areas face the same pressures: managing tourism’s impact through short-term rentals, balancing economic development with preserving community character, and addressing the complexities of zoning in diverse landscapes. Their multi-pronged strategy—combining a Master Plan update with targeted ordinances—offers valuable lessons.
The article mentions a low survey return rate for the Master Plan. How can small towns boost resident participation in such crucial planning processes?
Dr. Carter: low participation is a common hurdle in community planning. AuSable Township is taking positive steps with both online and paper surveys, but they could further enhance engagement using several methods. These include:
Targeted outreach: Collaborating with local organizations, churches, businesses, and community leaders to distribute the survey and promote participation.
Incentivized participation: offering small incentives,such as gift cards or entries into a raffle,can increase participation,though this must be carefully considered to avoid undermining the process’ integrity.
Multi-lingual materials: Ensure materials are available in all languages prevalent in the community for inclusivity.
Interactive workshops and forums: Rather then solely relying on surveys, conduct workshops and public meetings to make the planning process more collaborative and engaging. These open formats allow for richer,less filtered feedback.
Simplified, user-kind surveys: Ensure that the questions are clear, concise, and easy to understand, avoiding jargon.
The short-term rental (STR) ordinance is a critically important focus. What are some best practices for small towns to regulate STRs while balancing tourism and resident concerns?
Dr. Carter: STR regulations require a delicate balance. AuSable’s approach of establishing a permit system with an annual fee is a common and effective strategy. Here are some best practices:
Clearly defined regulations: The ordinance should clearly define what constitutes an STR, including occupancy limits, parking requirements, and noise restrictions. Ambiguity can lead to disputes and inconsistent enforcement. The article highlights the need for clarity, particularly around “extenuating circumstances.” A transparent definition of these circumstances is paramount.
Effective enforcement: A designated administrator, as AuSable has done, is crucial for monitoring compliance and addressing complaints. this provides accountability and consistent application of the rules. Without such oversight, the ordinance risks becoming ineffectual.
Resident input: Involving residents in the development of the ordinance fosters buy-in and minimizes conflict. This contributes to social acceptance and ensures the rules fairly balance the needs of tourists and residents.
Community impact analysis: Before implementing or revising STR regulations, consider the potential impact on local housing supply, infrastructure, and community character. Thorough analysis enables more informed and enduring decisions.
The discussion about firearm manufacturing raises zoning complexities. What are some general guidelines for communities regarding home-based businesses with unique safety and regulatory considerations?
Dr. Carter: Zoning for home-based businesses, particularly those with special considerations like firearm manufacturing, requires careful attention to safety, compatibility with the surrounding area, and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Crucial aspects include:
Thorough risk assessment: A thorough assessment is essential, factoring in potential hazards, environmental impacts, and community safety. This should inform permitting decisions. The Planning Commission’s concerns regarding inventory and potential stockpiling illustrate the importance of this.
Transparency and public participation: Engaging the community in the decision-making process through public hearings and clear communication is vital for fostering trust and addressing community concerns.
Clear operational guidelines: Establishing explicit operational guidelines for the business—including regulations on equipment usage, storage procedures, and safety protocols—reduces potential risks and ensures compliance. AuSable’s decision to table the discussion until the applicant can address the concerns directly demonstrates a commitment to procedural fairness.
Compliance with all applicable regulations: It’s vital to confirm compliance with all relevant state and federal laws—this aspect is especially crucial with businesses involving firearms. Any deviation could have legal implications.
What are the key takeaways from AuSable Township’s experience for other small towns facing similar issues?
Dr. Carter: AuSable Township’s journey emphasizes the importance of:
Proactive community planning: Developing and regularly updating a comprehensive Master Plan that outlines long-term goals.
Data-driven decision-making: Using data and community input to inform decisions related to zoning and land-use regulations.
transparent and collaborative governance: Working with residents, businesses, and experts to address shared challenges and ensure that policies effectively serve the community’s needs.
* Adaptability and continuous improvement: As circumstances evolve and new questions arise,regulations and community planning processes must remain flexible.
Let’s continue this discussion! Share your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments below. How can we help small towns build thriving, vibrant communities while preserving their unique character? Let’s spark a dialog!