SAUGATUCK, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – Ahead of a scheduled business meeting set for next Monday (Apr. 12, 2021), the Saugatuck City Council on Thursday (Apr. 8, 2021) will go over a topic that has generated some public discussion in that Lakeshore community.
The issue is floating homes, and the panel will review a proposed ordinance to better regulate “floating homes.” “There have been numerous concerns presented to City Council and staff related to new floating homes in the city of Saugatuck,” City Manager Ryan Heise said in his notes ahead of a council work-study session. “(These) concerns are wide ranging, everything from health-safety and welfare to view-scape concerns.”
The proposed ordinance, drafted on February 25th, opposes long-term off-shore residences for various reasons, but would establish parameters for “floating homes,” with licensing for short-term stays of no longer than 30 days, among other restrictions and guidelines.
Heise added that the proposed ordinance “is recommended to have both zoning and regulatory authority,” with those floating homes and house boats already existing in Saugatuck exempt from the new ordinance, and that those vessels “may be acceptable in their proper location – specifically full-service marinas.”
The subject is expected to be a part of next Monday’s business meeting agenda. Details on public observation and participation in the 4 PM Thursday council work-study session is here.
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