a g e n d a - marquette county, michigan · letter of consistency request, mcswma . b. republic...

A G E N D A

MARQUETTE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Wednesday, September 7, 2016 Room 231, Henry A. Skewis Annex – 7:00 p.m. 1) Call to Order 2) Roll Call 3) Approval of Minutes: July 6, 2016 4) Public Comment 5) Approval of Agenda 6) Public Hearings 7) Communications a-1. MCSWMA 7.20.16 a-2. MCSWMA 8.17.16 b-1. U.S. 41 Corridor Minutes 6.14.16 b-2. U.S. 41 Corridor Minutes 7.12.16 8) Monthly Reports a. June b. July 9) Old Business a. Letter of Consistency Request, MCSWMA b. Republic Township Text Amendment c. Forsyth Township Map Amendment d. Humboldt Township Map Amendment 10) New Business a. City of Negaunee Master Plan b. Wells Township Master Plan c. Marquette Township Text Amendment d. Sands Township Map Amendment e. UPAWS A-95 11) Announcements 12) Public Comment 13) Adjournment

MARQUETTE COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES July 6, 2016

1. Call to Order: The regular meeting of the Marquette County Planning Commission was called to order by Commissioner Kaiser at 7:00 p.m.

2. Roll Call: Commissioners present were Mike Touchinski, Ken Kaiser, Karen Alholm, Benjamin Banfield, Michael LaPointe, Charles Bergdahl and Bob Struck. Staff present: Lauren Luce, Thyra Karlstrom and Jen Sides. There was no public present.

3. Approval of the Minutes: A motion was made by Commissioner Touchinski, seconded by Commissioner LaPointe to approve the June 1, 2016 meeting minutes. The motion carried unanimously.

4. Public Comment: None.

5. Approval of Agenda: A motion was made by Commissioner Struck, seconded by Commissioner Banfield, to approve the agenda. The motion carried unanimously.

6. Public Hearing: Commissioner Kaiser read the County procedure for public hearings and at 7:10 opened the public hearing

regarding the Local Zoning Analysis chapter update of the Marquette County Comprehensive Plan. Ms. Luce reported that the Local Zoning Analysis chapter was brought to the Planning Commission on April 6, 2016 for their review, then was brought before the County Board of Commissioners on April 25, 2016, for their review and approval for distribution, public comment, and review of the draft update in accordance with P.A. 33 of 2008. After procedural notifications, public comments were received from Humboldt Township. Commissioner Kaiser read these comments. It is staff recommendation that the Planning Commission adopt the draft update to this chapter.

Commissioner Kaiser closed the public hearing at 7:20. A motion was made by Commissioner Bergdahl, seconded by Commissioner Alholm to adopt the draft update, approve Chairman Kaiser as the signatory of the resolution, and recommend the Marquette County Board approve the Local Zoning Analysis chapter of the Marquette County Comprehensive Plan. The motion carried unanimously.

7. Communications: A motion was made by Commissioner Alholm, seconded by Commissioner Struck to accept and file the communications. The motion carried unanimously.

8. Monthly Reports: It was the consensus of the Commissioners to accept and file the monthly reports for June, 2016.

9. Old Business: None.

10. New Business:

a. Letter of Consistency request, MCSWMA: The Marquette County Solid Waste Management Authority submitted a request

on June 17, 2016 for a determination of consistency with the Marquette County Solid Waste Plan. The Authority plans to return five landfill cells, cells 5-9, that were previously removed (2004-2009) from the Marquette County Landfill construction permit. This proposal will increase the total area permitted from 36 to 62 acres. A modification to a DEQ-issued construction permit requires a determination of consistency with the County Solid Waste Plan. A motion was made by Commissioner Banfield, seconded by Commissioner Touchinski to approve a letter of consistency to be drafted by Ms. Karlstrom and authorized that it be signed by Commission Chairman Kaiser. The motion carried unanimously.

b. Master Plan Development Discussion: A discussion ensued regarding ideas and potential options available to guide the development of the Marquette County Master Plan. Commissioner Kaiser suggested the assemblance of a Master Plan Ad Hoc Committee tasked to assist the planners in the design and preparation of the Marquette County Master Plan. Commissioner Kaiser appointed himself, Commissioner Banfield and Commissioner LaPointe to comprise the Master Plan Ad Hoc Committee. No motion was needed.

c. Republic Township Text Amendment: The proposed text amendment request is to add a section to the zoning ordinance

regulating ‘Mobile Vendors’. The proposed amendment does not pose a conflict with adjacent municipalities or with the

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County’s Comprehensive Plan. Commissioner Struck motioned, seconded by Commissioner Touchinski to support the proposed amendment and forward staff and any commission comments to the Republic Township Board and Planning Commission. The motion passed unanimously.

d. Forsyth Township Map Amendment: The proposed map amendment request is to rezone three adjacent parcels from

Commercial 2 (C-2) to Multiple Family Residential (R-3). The applicant intends to demolish multiple blighted structures currently located on the parcel and build two duplex style multi-family housing units. Commissioner Touchinski motioned, seconded by Commissioner Alholm to support the proposed rezoning and forward staff comments and any Commission comments to the Forsyth Township Board. The motion passed unanimously.

e. Humboldt Township Map Amendment: The proposed map amendment request is to rezone a large area from Timber Production (TP-40) to Resource Production (RP-20). The proposed rezoning does not appear to be consistent with the Humboldt Township Master Plan. Commissioner LaPointe motioned, seconded by Commissioner Touchinski to not support the proposed rezoning and to forward staff comments and any Commission comments to the Humboldt Township Board. The motion passed unanimously. 11. Announcements:

a. Forestry Commission Announcement: Garbage dumping on County forest land has been an ongoing concern and agenda item discussion topic at the Forestry Commission meetings. Commissioner Touchinski informed the Planning Commission of the Forestry Commissions intent to have Ms. Karlstrom draft a letter to Forsyth Township requesting clarification of their garbage policy. The letter is also to request a collaborative effort and support from Forsyth Township in the attempt to try to clean up and mitigate further garbage disposal in the County forest.

b. Solid Waste Planning: Commissioner Kaiser spoke about the status of the Solid Waste Planning Committee. 12. Public Comment: None.

13. Adjournment: Commissioner Bergdahl motioned, seconded by Commissioner LaPointe to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner Kaiser adjourned the meeting at 7:48 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Jen Sides R/M/D Support Staff

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US-41 Corridor Advisory Group 100 South Westwood Drive, Ishpeming, MI 49849

Phone (906) 485-4270 Fax (906) 485-4878

Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) • Michigan State Police • Marquette County Road Commission • Marquette County Planning Commission • Ely Township • Ishpeming Township • City of Ishpeming • City of

Negaunee • Negaunee Township • Marquette Township • City of Marquette • Chocolay Township • Lake Superior Community Partnership • Central Upper Peninsula Planning and Development (CUPPAD)

Meeting Minutes June 14, 2016

Attendance: Jason McCarthy – Marquette Township, Randy Girard, Marquette Township, Thyra Karlstrom – Marquette County Planning, Chad Larsen – Michigan State Police, Joel Kauppila- MDOT, Betsy Neznanski – MDOT, Steve Lawry – Chocolay Township, Doug Szczepanski – MSP, Nick Leach – Negaunee Township, Andrew Rigling – MSP, John Kivela – State Representative, Greg Zyburt – Chocolay Township Police.

1. Review Minutes from May Meeting2. Agency Update

a. Michigan State Policei. Seat Belt enforcements will be underway over the July 4th holiday.

ii. Drive to Zero Overtime (truck drivers) enforcement underway, will be focusingon the corridor.

iii. MSP Motor Carrier would be interested in sitting down with MDOT to discussgetting wireless weigh in motion stations in Marquette and Baraga Counties.Locations for the stations need to be level, straight, electricity near buy andvehicles need to go over the sensors at highway speeds (no intersections or stopactions). Action Item: Joel to follow up with Chad to set up a meeting todiscuss the weigh in motion stations.

b. Chocolay Townshipi. The township is interested in pursuing “No Passing on Shoulder” signs for EB

M-28 traffic. They are seeing an increase in incidents of passing and accidentsthat have occurred as a result of a passing situation.

ii. Chocolay Township police asked for information on the rules for postingpolitical signs along the highway. Action Item: Betsy will send out the politicalsign guidelines out to the corridor group.

c. Negaunee Cityi. The City is working on design for a watermain from Maas Street to Iroquois to

be done in conjunction with the 2017 MDOT paving project. The City would liketo see if safety money would be available to remove the rock cut above grade andthe City would pay for the below grade work.

d. Negaunee Townshipi. Mag Supply Storage units working on second building, foundation is being

poured.ii. The township is looking at doing a road survey.

iii. Great American Disposal will be constructing an addition to their existingbuilding.

iv. Nick asked for some information on the Adopt a Highway pick up dates that hecould put on the Township website. Action Item: Betsy will email Nickinformation on the Adopt a Highway program.

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Phone (906) 485-4270 Fax (906) 485-4878



e. Marquette County

i. The County is amending the solid waste plan for the county and is looking for t more members to sit on the committee. If you are interested in participating please let Thyra know.

f. Marquette Township i. The township is on year two of their three year roads project.

ii. Parsons Briknerhoff is working on the 2019 project to coordinate lighting of the corridor with the MDOT projects.

iii. The Township has been getting a lot of complaints from Culvers regarding storm water runoff from Michigan Sales into their lot. Action Item: Joel will follow up with Rob Tervo at the TSC to see what can be done to correct the problem.

iv. KBIC has applied for trust status for the Marquette Township convenience store. If granted they would be able to reduce the price of gasoline at that location similar to the Pines convenience store in Baraga.

v. The township is still working on getting approval for an underpass for US-41. vi. Site plan for the Meijer’s store is available for review today.

g. Representative Kivela

i. KBIC requested a letter of support from Representative Kivela for the trust status. At this time the request has not been approved.

ii. Two business owners affected by the Ishpeming Roundabout project reached out to Representative Kivela about the negative impacts to their businesses as a result of the construction activity. Ralph’s Deli also asked for assistance from Representative Kivela to get their parking lot paved by MDOT in conjunction with the Roundabout project.

3. MDOT Construction

a. Ishpeming Roundabout project is going well. The contractor will be paving the north side of the roundabout this week. Traffic will be shifted over to the new pavement at the end of the week.

b. Road Safety Audit will be conducted on June 15 & 16 this week at the Ishpeming TSC for the Marquette Township US-41 corridor.

c. Grove Street & McClellan Avenue intersection will get signalized in 2018. Currently there is no plan to have a left turn phase on the signal but that may be reevaluated at a later date after the hospital is completed.

4. Site Plan – Meijer’s Store- Marquette Township Review comments are:

1. Gas station exit onto US-41 has left turn movements. This entrance should be right in, right out. Left turns should use the Brickyard Road signal.

2. Meijer’s will need to submit an MDOT change of use permit for the gas station site. 3. The main entrance to Meijer’s is the GFS/Lowes road. It would seem that most vehicles

would also use this as the main exit back onto the highway. Would MDOT consider


Phone (906) 485-4270 Fax (906) 485-4878



placing a temporary signal at this location until the boulevard is constructed? Action Item: Joel will review the distance permitted between signalized intersections to see if this area would meet spacing requirements.

4. Correct grade at Brickyard Road intersection to provide better visibility to the east. 5. Revisit the placement of “NO left Turn” signs at GFS to encourage the use of the

Brickyard road signal.

Next Meeting – Tuesday, July 12th - 9:00 am – MDOT Ishpeming TSC

Submitted by, Betsy Neznanski MDOT- Ishpeming TSC


Phone (906) 485-4270 Fax (906) 485-4878



Meeting Minutes July 12, 2016

Attendance: Thyra Karlstrom – Marquette County Planning, Joel Kauppila- MDOT, Betsy Neznanski – MDOT, Steve Lawry – Chocolay Township, Doug Szczepanski – MSP, Jon Kangas – City of Ishpemng, Jeff LaChapelle – MDOT, Mike Laurila – City of Marquette Police, Daryn Carter – MDOT, Derek Carter – MDOT, Mark Slown – City of Ishpeming.

1. Review Minutes from June Meeting a. Action Item Updates:

i. Weigh in motion stations- MDOT doesn’t have a program for establishing the weigh stations as a stand-alone project. It may be possible in the future to incorporate a weigh station into a larger project.

ii. Political Sign placement information was emailed out to the corridor group. iii. Culvers/Michigan Sales water issues. Rob Tervo (MDOT) investigated the

erosion issues and reported that the Marquette Road commission had cleaned out a culvert that created more water flowing in the area.

iv. M-28 “No Passing on Right” –MDOT will not usually place a sign for this outside a passing lane. Action Item: Joel will see if it is possible to place a message on the board at the intersection of M-28/US-41 to create more driver awareness.

v. Meijer’s Signal spacing – Joel addressed this concern with Marquette Township. The current plan is to make the GFS driveway entrance only and force the exit onto the highway to the Brickyard Road intersection.

2. Agency Update a. City of Marquette

i. Quiet and uneventful July 4th. ii. McClellan/Baraga Avenue intersection is closed for left turns as part of the

construction for the new hospital. Mike commented that the number of cars making left turns was low and by restricting this movement it provides construction trucks entering Baraga Avenue more room to make turns and provides a safer access. Traffic is directed to Grove Street for access or can turn right onto McClellan and use the Washington Street signal for left turns.

b. Chocolay Township i. Steve has noticed a lot of passing on the right on M-28. Is it possible to work on

getting an informational campaign going for this?

c. Marquette County i. Thyra questioned the outcome of the Safety Audit?

1. Joel reported they don’t’ have the final report yet, but none of the findings were too surprising. The RSA recommended striping the Walmart and Target intersection on all legs to create more consistency. Improve the lighting on the corridor and construct the median.

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Phone (906) 485-4270 Fax (906) 485-4878



2. Action Item: Joel will work on sending letters to businesses requesting they incorporate pavement markings into their maintenance plans for driveways.

3. Action Item: Joel will follow up with the Marquette County Road Commission for re-striping of CR HQ by Target.

d. City of Ishpeming

i. The traffic clearing from the fireworks was the best ever with the half roundabout open.

ii. Paving next week at the roundabout, will open the outside lane of the roundabout and will continue working on the inside of the roundabout.

iii. There have been some delays during peak time at the roundabout with the eastbound traffic, but nothing too bad.

iv. The City of Ishpeming will be closing Walnut Street. The planning commission has approved the closure and are now in the 30 day waiting period.

e. Permits i. Kevin Koepp – Shiras Hills Development

UP Engineers submitted a preliminary plan for two driveways to access the property for development into four single family homes and is seeking preliminary approval from MDOT for the driveway placement. The site should have a fairly low volume of cars accessing the site. The group agreed to give tentative approval of the drive placement but will still need an official site plan to review and an MDOT right of way permit still needs to be submitted.

3. MDOT Construction

a. Ishpeming Roundabout project is going well. The contractor will be paving the south side of the roundabout the week of July 18th. After paving is complete traffic will be opened on the outside lane of the roundabout while work continues on the inside of the roundabout.

b. There will be a resurfacing project on US-41 in Skandia Township from CR 456to M-94 East. The project will be constructed this summer.

Next Meeting – Tuesday, August 9th - 9:00 am – MDOT Ishpeming TSC

Submitted by, Betsy Neznanski MDOT- Ishpeming TSC

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Marquette County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

July 7, 2016 Mr. Bradley Austin 600 County Road NP Marquette, MI 49855 In Re: Letter of Consistency Dear Mr. Austin:

Marquette County has received the Marquette County Solid Waste Management Authority’s request for a Letter of Consistency for the return of five cells to the Marquette County Landfill’s construction permit. The Authority proposes to increase the total area permitted from 32 to 62 acres. A modification to a DEQ-issued construction permit requires a determination of consistency with the County Solid Waste Plan. The Marquette County Planning Commission (the designated Planning Agency) reviewed the proposal on July 6, 2016. Materials provided and discussion with staff were sufficient to meet the requirements as specified in the siting review procedures section of the Marquette County Solid Waste Plan. The basic tenet of the Solid Waste Plan revolves around the disposal of all Type II and Type III waste generated in the County at the County Landfill (with the exception of ash produced in generation of electricity). It is our finding that the return of the five cells and the increase in total acres permitted is consistent with the County Solid Waste Plan. In accordance with the selected system in the Marquette County Solid Waste Plan, the Marquette County Landfill’s total area of facility property is 210 acres, total area sited for use is 62 acres, and total area permitted is 62 acres (page III-5). The current proposal to return the five cells is therefore consistent. Based on materials provided and this review, the Designated Planning Agency voted to issue this letter indicating consistency with the Marquette County Solid Waste Plan. Sincerely,

Kenneth Kaiser Chairperson Marquette County Planning Commission

Cc: Carolyn St. Cyr, DEQ District Office

Phone 906.225.8198 Fax 906.225.8203

www.co.marquette.mi.us

County of Marquette RESOURCE MANAGEMENT/DEVELOPMENT DEPT.

PLANNING DIVISION

234 W BARAGA AVENUE MARQUETTE, MI 49855

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July 7, 2016

Ms. Marilyn Brancheau, Clerk

Republic Township

279 Kloman Ave, PO Box 338

Republic, MI 49879

Dear Ms. Brancheau and the Republic Township Board:

Pursuant to Section 125.3307 of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, the Republic Township Planning

Commission forwarded a zoning text amendment to the Marquette County Planning Commission for review

and comment. The following amendment was reviewed during our regular July 6th meeting.

AMENDMENT/ BACKGROUND

The proposed text amendment is to add a section (Section 423) to the Republic Township Zoning

Ordinance regulating ‘Mobile Vendors’. The intent of the amendment is “In the interest of encouraging a

diversified business base and providing for recreation based services, while providing a framework under

which such businesses operate, this article is established.”

COMMISSION COMMENTS

The proposed amendment does not pose a conflict with adjacent municipalities or with the County’s

Comprehensive Plan. The ordinance amendment appears to be well prepared and comparable to other

similar ordinances in the County.

COMMISSION ACTION

The Marquette County Planning Commission voted unanimously to support the amendment. Thank you for

the opportunity to review this proposed zoning text amendment.

Sincerely,

Chuck Bergdahl, Secretary

Marquette County Planning Commission CC: Dan Mitchell & Republic Township Planning Commission

Phone 906.225-8198 Fax 906.225-8203



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July 7, 2016

Ms. Jane Nordeen, Clerk

Forsyth Township

186 W. Flint St

Gwinn, MI 49841

Dear Ms. Nordeen and the Forsyth Township Board:

Pursuant to Section 125.3307 of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, the Forsyth Township Planning

Commission forwarded a zoning map amendment to the Marquette County Planning Commission for

review and comment. The following amendment was reviewed during our regular July 6th meeting.


The proposed map amendment request is to rezone

three adjacent parcels from Commercial 2 (C-2) to

Multiple Family Residential (R-3). Requested area is

located within Section 22 of T45N-R25W.

COMMISSION COMMENTS

The Commission believes this use is consistent with the

Future Land Use as identified in the Forsyth Township

Master Plan. This use fits the goals generally associated

with an urban mixed use area. It appears there are

similar residential structures located in close proximity

and also residential structures located adjacent to the

proposed rezoned area. Staff does not feel this request

would pose a zoning incompatibility.

The Commission commends the Forsyth Township

Planning Commission and Staff for reviewing

informational documents from the Michigan Association

of Planning when considering this rezoning.

COMMISSION ACTION

The Marquette County Planning Commission voted unanimously to support the amendment. Thank you

for the opportunity to review this proposed zoning map amendment.

Sincerely,


Marquette County Planning Commission CC: Rod Shaw & Forsyth Township Planning Commission

Phone 906.225-8198 Fax 906.225-8203



PLANNING DIVISION


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July 7, 2016

Ms. Jill Rankinen, Clerk

Humboldt Township

244 County Rd FAF, PO Box 10

Champion, MI 49814

Dear Ms. Rankinen and the Humboldt Township Board:

Pursuant to Section 125.3307 of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, the Humboldt Township Planning

Commission forwarded a zoning map amendment to the Marquette County Planning Commission for review

and comment. The following amendment was

reviewed during our regular July 6th meeting.


The proposed map amendment request is to

rezone Section 25 except for the SE ½ of the SE ¼

& Section 36 except for the N ½ of the NE ¼ from

Timber Production (TP-40) to Resource

Production (RP-20) Requested area is located

within Sections 25 & 36 of T46N-R29W.

COMMISSION COMMENTS

If rezoned, four parcels that are currently non-

conforming due to parcel size would become

conforming. This proposed request, however,

allows for smaller parcels in a rural area, which the

Commission does not generally recommend. The

proposed district also would allow for single family

residences as a conditional use. The Commission

does not generally recommend development on

seasonal roads due to possible access constraints

for emergency vehicles. The area proposed for

rezoning is only accessible via seasonal and unpaved

non-county roads.

The proposed rezoning also does not appear to be

consistent with the Humboldt Township Master

Plan. The future land use identifies the area as

Forest Production, which as noted in the Master Plan corresponds with the Timber Production district. The

future land use districts in the Humboldt Township Master Plan are not explained and do not include the

intent of the future district. The Commission would recommend that Humboldt Township consider adding

these descriptions in their Master Plan. It should also be noted that the zoning districts in adjacent

municipalities, Sagola Township (Dickinson County) and Ely Township, are resource production and timber

Phone 906.225-8198 Fax 906.225-8203



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production respectively. These zoning classifications appear to align more closely with the current timber

production district in Humboldt Township.

COMMISSION ACTION

The Marquette County Planning Commission voted unanimously not to support the amendment. Thank you

for the opportunity to review this proposed zoning map amendment.

Sincerely,


Marquette County Planning Commission CC: Howard Robare & Humboldt Township Planning Commission


TO: Marquette County Planning Commission

FROM: Planning Staff

RE: City of Negaunee Master Plan Review

DATE: July 25, 2016

AUTHORITY

Pursuant to Section 125.3841 Public Act 33 of 2008 (the Michigan Planning Enabling Act), the City of

Negaunee Planning Commission has forwarded a draft master plan to the Marquette County Planning

Commission for review and comment.

PROPOSAL

The City of Negaunee Planning Commission and has forwarded a draft Master Plan titled City of Negaunee

2016 Community Master Plan. The Master Plan is available online at the link below:

negauneemasterplan.org

CONSISTENCY WITH CONTIGUOUS TOWNSHIPS

Contiguous units of government in Marquette County include the City of Ishpeming, Negaunee Township,

Richmond Township, Tilden Township, and Ishpeming Township. The draft master plan appears to be

generally consistent with the master plans of those units of government. It should be noted, however, that

both the current and future land use along County Road 492 adjacent to Negaunee Township are not

compatible with the zoning in that unit. The area is zoned ‘Industrial’ within the City of Negaunee and is

adjacent to the ‘Wellhead Protection Zone’ and ‘Lake/River/Rural Residential’ within Negaunee Township.

CONSISTENCY WITH THE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

The majority of the proposed City of Negaunee Master Plan is consistent with the Marquette County

Comprehensive Plan.

Land Use – This topic predominantly falls under the chapter titled Land Use & Environmental Issues.

The chapter begins with a historic land use patterns discussion about mining and its effect on the City.

Other land use discussions include factors affecting land use, current land cover inventory, land use

trends, and issues and opportunities. Public meeting input put emphasis on revitalizing downtown and

also on the redevelopment of commercial and vacant/underutilized properties. Future land use is

discussed the in the final chapter of the draft plan. This chapter recommends reducing zoning districts

from ten to seven.

Transportation –The draft plan details the types and availability of transportation in the City of

Negaunee. It is recognized in the plan that road improvements are needed throughout the City and

greater funding in also needed. The plan references the US-41/M-28 Corridor & Access Management

Plan.

Phone 906.225-8198 Fax 906.225-8203



PLANNING DIVISION


http://www.chocolay.org/masterplan/masterplan.php


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Community Facilities & Services – Community facilities and services detailed in this chapter are water

system, wastewater treatment, solid waste disposal/recycling, electric service, cable television, internet,

law enforcement, fire protection, emergency medical services, recreation, and transportation. Buildings

include city hall, the library, public works, the senior center, the cemetery, and the former waterworks

building. Educational facilities, health care, telephone service, and natural gas are also addressed. The

issues section of the chapter puts emphasis on the age and condition of a majority of these services and

buildings. Significant repairs and improvements are needed on many.

Housing –The housing chapter provides many Census and ACS statistics on household characteristics,

household size, and household income. The plan notes the City’s aging housing stock and also indicates

that residents would like to see more apartments and attached townhouses or condos within the City.

Recreation – Recreation is covered at length in the draft plan. This topic talks about Teal Lake and four

season recreation in the City of Negaunee. The section details the administrative structure of the Parks

and Recreation Department, funding, and the role of volunteers, schools, and local groups. A

recreation inventory of 30 recreational facilities within the City of Negaunee is included, along with an

accessibility rating for each of the facilities. Facilities are also assessed by the National Parks and

Recreation Association Standards. The assessment shows that most facilities meet the standards. The

recreation development plan schedules maintenance, improvements, and construction on a short, mid

and long term scale along with estimated costs.

Economic Development – The economy section of the draft plan provides data on the labor force,

unemployment, employment by sector, compensation, major employers, and poverty levels among

other statistics. The issue and opportunities section of the economy chapter documents the expected

closure of the Empire mine and states further diversification of the economy is needed along with re-

training employees to enter new fields.

STAFF COMMENTS

The draft City of Negaunee Master Plan was prepared with the assistance of CUPPAD. Overall, the

content of the plan is informative and thorough. Planning staff has spoken with CUPPAD regarding

spelling and grammatical related errors in the plan. The development of the Negaunee Master Plan

website makes the document easily accessible and also houses links to other City plans. The future land

use section of the draft plan recommends condensing zoning districts from ten to seven. Although staff

agrees with simplifying the zoning districts, staff believes the Teal Lake Overlay should remain on its own

as uses suitable in other districts may not be for Teal Lake.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION

Staff recommends the Marquette County Planning Commission support the City of Negaunee 2016

Community Master Plan and forward their comments to the City.




RE: Wells Township Master Plan Review

DATE: July 25, 2016

AUTHORITY

Pursuant to Section 125.3841 Public Act 33 of 2008 (the Michigan Planning Enabling Act), the Wells

Township Planning Commission has forwarded a draft master plan to the Marquette County Planning

Commission for review and comment.

PROPOSAL

The Wells Township Planning Commission and has forwarded a draft Master Plan titled Wells Township

Master Plan 2016. The Master Plan is available online at the link below:

http://www.cuppad.org/current-projects/

CONSISTENCY WITH CONTIGUOUS TOWNSHIPS

Contiguous units of government in Marquette County include Forsyth Township and Ewing Township.

Contiguous counties include Menominee, Delta, and Dickinson. The draft master plan seems to be

generally consistent with the master plans of those units of government.

CONSISTENCY WITH THE COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

The proposed Wells Township Master Plan appears largely consistent with the Marquette County

Comprehensive Plan.

Land Use – This topic predominantly falls under the chapters 5 & 6, the current land use and future land

use chapters. The current land use chapter discusses and provides data on SEV, land cover, and

generalized land use. Future land use and the zoning plan suggests reducing zoning districts from 11

current districts to 5 future districts. It also provides zoning recommendations and a recommended

dimensional standards chart for each of the future districts.

Transportation –The draft plan discusses MDOT’s Annual Average Daily Traffic and the PASER road

rating system. The plan further identifies that, through surveys and public input sessions, Wells

Township residents commented most on poor road conditions. Resident input also suggested Wells

Township is underserved by MarqTran. An objective identified in the goals chapter of the draft plan is

to work with the Marquette County Road Commission to find solutions to improve the quality of the

local road system.

Community Facilities & Services – The Township’s services and infrastructure are addressed in the

Community Description chapter of the draft plan. These include utilities, water, solid waste, schools,

libraries, medical facilities, law enforcement, emergency response, and township facilities. The goal

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http://www.cuppad.org/current-projects/

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associated with community facilities and services as noted in the draft plan is “Provide, maintain, and

improve the quality and efficiency of community facilities and services in a cost-effective manner.”

Housing – The housing chapter provides Census data on number of housing units and value of owner

occupied housing units.

Recreation – Non-motorized and motorized trails are discussed in this section of the draft plan.

Resident provided mixed responses regarding development of both trail types. A park and community

pool are located at the Township complex adjoining the Wells Township School. It is also noted there

is a large amount of state land located within the Township. Preserving and protecting the Escanaba and

Ford River corridors is identified as an objective plan as well as collaboration with the State for trail

development on State owned lands.

Sustainability and the Environment – Sites of environmental contamination and clean and affordable

energy are discussed in the Community Description chapter of the draft plan. Three sites with

underground storage tanks are identified in the plan. The plan addressed energy issues in the Upper

Peninsula and recommends that the Township be open to allowing various form of small-scale energy

options and generation.

STAFF COMMENTS

The draft Wells Township Master Plan was prepared with the assistance of CUPPAD. The Plan is well

put together and condensed which enhances readability. It is notable that the plan addresses energy

issues and also that the plan recommends simplifying and reducing zoning districts. However, planning

staff highly recommends that the dimensional standards chart relating to the future land use districts be

revised to include lots requiring a larger minimum than 5 acres. Planning staff does not recommend

parcelization of large tracts of land in rural areas. Across the County, forestry and agriculture districts

generally require 20-40 acre lot minimum. If necessary, planning staff would recommend expanding to a

6th district requiring larger minimum sizes.


Staff recommends the Marquette County Planning Commission support the Wells Township Master Plan

2016 and forward their comments to CUPPAD and the Township.


To: Marquette County Planning Commission

From: Marquette County Resource Management and Development Staff

Date: August 26, 2016

Re: Marquette Township Text Amendment

AUTHORITY

Pursuant to Section 125.3307 of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, Marquette Township has submitted

proposed amendments to the Marquette County Planning Commission for review and comment.

PROCEDURE

The Marquette Township Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 10th, 2016. The public

hearing notification procedures complied with the Act.

AMENDMENT

There are two text amendments being proposed. The first text amendment would provide for ingress

and egress to local businesses from local residential roads by way of Special Use Permit so that each is

reviewed on a case by case basis. The amendment would only permit passenger vehicle access, not

commercial or heavy truck traffic.

The second proposed text amendment includes two parts. The first establishes commercial design

standards for the Development and General Business Districts. The standards address permitted

construction materials and exterior building design for aesthetics. The second part of the amendment

proposes that each development shall provide pedestrian walkways from building entrance points to the

parking area, and may include a paved surface (which may include among other options and by way of

example, a paved parking area, sidewalk, paver path, nature path) for pedestrians and vehicles to

adjoining or disconnected buildings, if they exist within the site. Pedestrian connections with adjoining

commercial properties shall also be established, provided no practical difficulty (which may include

among other considerations and only by way of example, severe grade changes, extreme distance,

natural barriers, easement requirements) is demonstrated by the developer. The development shall also

provide a separated pedestrian connection to adjacent public walkways.

STAFF COMMENTS

The first proposed amendment regarding ingress and egress aligns with the principles of access

management. The amendment would reduce conflict between through traffic and local traffic and

improve traffic safety. Planning staff believes incorporating commercial design standards improves the

quality of development within the Township while also helping to retain value and provide an

aesthetically pleasing setting.

Additional language regarding non-motorized pathway construction adjacent to ROWs and/or private

driveways as a requirement to new businesses and developments was discussed at the public hearing.

The proposed language would require ADA compliancy and principals of universal design unless practical

difficulties exist. The Township, through previous and current planning initiatives, and as defined in their

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http://www.co.marquette.mi.us/

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master plan, has a strong focus on improving walkability and mobility. Using regulations as a mechanism

to achieve goals set forth in a master plan is a primary function of a zoning ordinance.


Staff recommends that the Marquette County Planning Commission support the proposed amendment

and forward staff and any commission comments to the Marquette Township Board and Planning

Commission.

To: Marquette County Planning Commission

From: Marquette County Resource Management and Development Staff

Date: August 24, 2016

Re: Sands Township Map Amendment

AUTHORITY

Pursuant to Section 125.3307 of the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, the Sands Township Planning Commission has

forwarded a zoning map amendment to the Marquette County Planning Commission for review and comment.

PROCEDURE

The Sands Township Planning Commission held a public hearing on July 19, 2016. The public hearing notification

procedures complied with the Act.

ZONING MAP AMENDMENT

The proposed map amendment request is to rezone a large area (approximately 330 acres) in Sections 10 and 11

from Forestry and Agriculture (FA) to Open Space (OS) Requested area is located within Sections 10 & 11 of

T47N-R25W. See Figure 1.

ASSOCIATED ZONING DISTRICTS

FORESTRY AND AGRICULTURE (Current) INTENT

This district is intended to provide for forestry

and agricultural uses on lands which are suitable

for such uses. The district promotes the

maintenance of wooded and rural areas of the

Township, in a manner which retains the basic

attractiveness of natural resources and provides

for enjoyment for visitors and Township

residents.

PERMITTED USES

1. Agricultural Operations

2. Agricultural Roadside Stands

3. Forestry Operations

4. Keeping of Livestock( Parcels 10 acres of

larger; 2.5 pasture acres required for each

animal)

USES PERMITTED BY SPECIAL APPROVAL

1. Camp or Hunting Camp

2. Cemeteries

3. Day Care (Private Home)

4. Dwelling, Seasonal

5. Dwelling, Single-family

6. External Wood burning Boilers/Units

7. Keep of Livestock (Parcels less than 10 acres)

8. Home Occupations

9. Motel, Hotels, Cabins, and Resorts

10. Trail, Vehicular

11. Water Wells, Large Capacity

USES PERMITTED BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT

1. Adult Foster Care Family Homes

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Figure 1: Zoning

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2

2. Amusement Parks, Fairgrounds, and Miniature Golf

Courses

3. Bed and Breakfast Establishments

4. Campgrounds and RV Parks

5. Commercial Towers

6. Community Residential Care Facilities

7. Confined Animal Feeding Operation (Factory Farm)

8. Golf Courses

9. Greenhouse or Nursery

10. Kennels

11. Mineral Extraction

12. Parks and Recreational Facilities

13. Utility substations

14. Wood Products Industries

15. Woodyards

OPEN SPACE (Proposed) INTENT

To establish and maintain for low intensity uses those areas which, because of their location, accessibility (County or

Township approved private road), and natural characteristics are suitable for a wide range of agricultural, forestry, and

recreational uses.

PERMITTED USES 1. Agricultural Operations

2. Agriculture Roadside Stands

3. Camp or Hunting Camp

4. Forestry Operations

5. Keeping of Livestock

6. Trail, Vehicular

USES PERMITTED BY SPECIAL APPROVAL 1. Day Care (Private Home)

2. Dwellings, Seasonal

3. Dwellings, Single-family

4. External Wood Burning Boilers/Units

5. Home Occupations

6. Water Wells, Large Capacity

USES PERMITTED BY SPECIAL USE PERMIT

1. Amusement Parks, Fairgrounds, and Miniature Golf

Courses

2. Bed & Breakfast Establishments

3. Campgrounds and RV Parks

4. Commercial Towers

5. Golf Courses

6. Greenhouse or Nursery

7. Kennels

8. Mineral Extraction

9. Parks and Recreational Facilities

10. Racetracks

11. Utility Substations

12. Woodyards

FUTURE LAND USE

The Sands Township Master Plan (2011), designates this area as Forest and Agriculture.

STAFF COMMENTS

The proposed rezoning request would rezone approximately 330 acres from Forestry and Agriculture to

Open Space. Currently, there are plans for Silver Creek Road to be extended through to M- 553 which

increases the potential for development. As such, Sands Township has proposed to rezone areas directly

adjacent to the road to Open Space which requires a 20 acre minimum parcel. Land uses in Open Space are

very similar to those allowed in Forestry and Agriculture. Planning staff supports a larger minimum parcel size

in this area, as large portions are currently managed forest lands.


Staff recommends that the Marquette County Planning Commission support the proposed rezoning and

forward staff comments and any Commission comments to the Sands Township Board.




RE: A-95 Review for Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter- New Shelter Project

DATE: August 3, 2016

This review procedure gives local units of government an opportunity to comment on proposed projects and

programs for which state and federal funds are sought. It is intended to facilitate coordination of project

implementation, prevent unnecessary duplication, and assure consistency with state and local plans. Five options exist:

1. Support (no further action is required, support is assumed if the comment deadline passes without

response).

2. Support with conditions.

3. Do not support (reasons must be stated).

4. Request full copy of the application for review.

5. Request conference with the applicant to discuss problems or concerns.

PROJECT NAME: Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter- New Shelter Project

PROJECT LOCATION: Marquette County

APPLICANT: Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter

GRANT SOURCES: USDA Rural Development

PROJECT COST: Federal - $750,000; Other - $2,900,000; Total -$3,526,830-3,700,000

ZONING: Open Space

PROJECT DESCRIPTION OR SUMMARY:

The Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter has applied for funding for the construction of a new animal

shelter from USDA Rural Development.

COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSIDERATIONS:

A sub-goal for Community Facilities and Services in the Marquette County Comprehensive Plan is ‘access to

coordinated educational and educational-training facilities designed to meet the needs of the community.’ A

policy within the recreation section in the ‘encourage the use of federal and state assistance programs to

acquire and develop recreational facilities’.

STAFF COMMENT:

The Upper Peninsula Animal Welfare Shelter’s current shelter is vastly undersized and outdated based on

the current needs of the organization. The new shelter will be approximately triple the size of the current

facility and located on 20 acres. This space will be home to region’s only fenced-in community dog park and

also large barn facilities so that the organization can assist with large animals. The new facility will include a

health clinic and training room/community resource center where classes and trainings will be held. The site

for the proposed facility is zoned Open Space, this zone permits kennels as a special use.

RECOMMENDATION:

Staff believes this project is consistent with the Marquette County Comprehensive Plan and recommends

that the Marquette County Planning Commission support the funding for this project.

Phone 906.225-8198 Fax 906.225-8203



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