IOSCO COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION

MEETING MINUTES: July 8, 2010

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 P.M. by Chairman Taber

Present: Casey, Houthoofd, Sarki, Matthews, Taber.

No members of the public in attendance

Approval of Agenda: Motion by Matthews supported by Sarki to approve the Agenda. Ayes Unanimous. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes: Motion by Sarki supported by Houthoofd to Approve the minutes of the April , 2010 meeting. Ayes unanimous. Motion carried.

Correspondence:

Received from State of Michigan, Department of Agriculture, approvals for application of Farmland and Open Space Preservation applications

New Business:

Members inquired as to frequency of County Master Plan review. The plan must be reviewed or updated every 5 years as required by State Law.

Casey, provided review of AuSable Master Plan. Commented on population shifts to “baby boomers”. Also noted per “The Citizen Planner” that so called mixed use (Commercial/residential) zoning was undesireable and exists within the Township.

Casey also reviewed Reno Township. It was noted the plan had conducted a “needs analysis” but failed to differentiate needs versus wants. A Twp survey was also conducted and expressed a desire to preserve a farming base, but noted that less than 3% of the Twp was devoted to farming.

The members discussed advantages of a Charter Township. Possibility of greater funding?

Report of County Commissioner Representative

Mr. Matthews discussed ongoing problems encountered in various locations over the use of golf carts on the public roadways. The sheriff’s department had received numerous complaints of unsafe usages and was addressing the issue.

The County has received a grant for an update of the boat used by the Marine Patrol. Possibly purchasing a jet-boat for use in shallow waters. Also had discussion on the MDNRE rules proposals for antlerless deer. The County Commission was on record as opposing the new rule.

Report on Parks and Recreation

Mr. Casey updated progress on the County Recreation Master Plan. Currently referred to sub-committee for review and update. M-65 bridge/snowmobile trail still ongoing, with numerous Government and business parties involved. The mission statement of the County Parks Board is to promote recreation in the County, public as well as privately owned. Mr. Matthews noted that the “Hale Trail” extension was under way. Needed acceptance letters from property owners along the way. Mr. Houthoofd noted that Plainfield Twp. Wished to establish a trail head in the County Fairground property.

Old Business:

Comments from Planning Commission Members:

Mr. Sarki inquired why “blight” was mentioned in the Twp Master Plans. Mr. Casey noted that this was necessary as part of the Townships general plan so that grants could be obbtained as well as for passing local ordinances.

Mr. Sarki noted that local zoning should be returned to the County level as the present system lacks continuity.

Motion by Sarki, supported by Houthoofd, to approve Per Diems and Mileage for those in attendance. Roll call vote was unanimous, motion carried.

Motion by Casey, supported by Sarki, to adjourn the meeting at 7:30 P.M. Ayes unanimous. Motion carried.

Respectfully Submitted,

Andrew Taber

Chairman/Secretary