June 14 Important News from Sharon Township and Lansing
The news items below have two things in common:
- Each one illustrates the conflict between the interests of aggregate mining operators and the interests of Michigan residents; and
- In each one, citizens’ voices are influencing the outcome.
The PC recommends denying a Special Land Use (SLU) permit for the 400-acre mine on Pleasant Lake Rd
After months of review and more than three public meetings dedicated to deliberation, the Planning Commission (PC) voted unanimously on a recommendation to deny Stoneco a permit for its proposed mine on Pleasant Lake Rd. If a permit is approved, the zoning for that parcel would change to allow the extraction operation. PC members unanimously found:
“A consideration of the cumulative impact from the proposed mining operation leads to the clear conclusion and recommendation to the township board that the applicant has not satisfied the burden of proof to show that no very serious consequences will result from the proposed operation.”
Next step: The recommendation will be sent to the Board of Trustees who will make the final decision regarding the SLU at a special meeting on July 17. See the process HERE.
Key take-aways:
- PC members adhered to Michigan law and the township’s ordinances to guide the process. The findings are well-documented and based in fact.
- The PC’s deliberation and work reflect the township’s goals, character and the health, safety and welfare of its residents.
- We commend the PCs members – the Chair and all Commissioners – for the many, many focused hours of work on this important issue. Their attention and dedication are a great example of local governance working for citizens.
- IMPORTANT: This kind of local control over the township’s zoning will be eliminated if the aggregate lobby is allowed to pass the bills currently in the House. (see more below!)
HB 4526-4528 are on pause
Yesterday, the House Committee on Regulatory Reform decided to delay its vote on HB 4526-4528. Committee members had intended to vote on the bills but decided during the hearing that the bills needed more work. This is almost certainly due to the statewide outpouring of opposition sent by citizens to committee members and House members in general.
These controversial bills would eliminate local control over zoning for aggregate mining – without providing proper environmental protections. They are written by the Michigan Aggregate Association lobby. Proponents of these bills argue that the state needs more gravel to fix its roads. This is unproven. AND, MAA continues to push false and misleading information.
Key take-aways:
- Township governments would lose the ability to control this critical aspect of local zoning. See information above about Sharon Township.
- Citizen voices MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Do not doubt this. Please read and respond to future requests.