(New Buffalo, MI) - The process of updating the City of New Buffalo's zoning ordinance is well underway.

 

The first public meeting to review the proposed new ordinance was held Monday before the New Buffalo City Council and New Buffalo Planning Commission at City Hall.

 

Mayor John Humphrey said rezoning is supposed to happen every ten years, but the last official update to the zoning ordinance in the city was in 2001. Humphrey said one of the objectives is to eliminate the many inconsistencies in the current zoning ordinance.

 

"We need an updated, concise and streamlined plan with a vision that meets the expectations of the growth and future use of the city," Humphrey explained.

Ruben Shell from the Chicago-based urban planning and design firm Houseal Lavigne Associates presented a draft of the revised zoning ordinance based mainly on input from the community and a diagnosis of the existing zoning that began in April.

 

In some zoning districts, few changes were made to existing boundaries.

 

Shell said one of the goals where changes are more noticeable is to promote more seasonal housing north of U.S 12 and more year-round housing south of U.S. 12. Other desires reflected in the proposed adjustments to the zoning map include improved parking, walkability, and aesthetics in areas like U.S. 12 and Whittaker St.

 

Some concern was expressed about the impact on property owners whose structures are on the land where changes in zoning are proposed. However, officials said there would be no changes in existing use unless the building is torn down.

 

Councilman Mark Robertson emphasized there are two more meetings for members of the public to ask questions and voice any opposition to the proposed revised zoning ordinance. He said changes in the proposal could be made in response to concerns before the city council votes on the final draft and reassured those in attendance that "nothing is set in stone."

 

Planning Commission Chairman Paul Billingsley said the draft is a working document open for adjustments during the approvals process.

 

“You can’t do this and not offend somebody. You just have to deal with it as it comes up,” Billingsley said.

The updated zoning also contains proposed changes to promote the creation of businesses and professional office space serving citizens and members of the vacationing public. Other matters like standards for storefronts and setback requirements are also contained in the draft.