ZEELAND, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Dec. 4, 2023) – “Granny Flats” may become a reality in Zeeland by next week.
That is if the Zeeland City Council on Monday evening approves on a procedural second reading an ordinance amendment that would allow accessory dwelling units within the city limits. Such smaller structures detached from a stand-alone, single-family residences could be converted portions or additions to the existing home, or a newly-built structure.
The following regulations would be among those put into place seven days after the amendment is published: Only one accessory dwelling unit per property, occupied by the owner of the property, with limits of one bedroom and 850 square feet; short-term rental use would be prohibited; and the city’s Planning Commission must approve the unit application through the normal special land use procedure, including public hearings on the matter.
In submitting the ordinance amendment before Council, Zeeland Community Development Director Tim Maday said, “Staff feels that when properly regulated, accessory dwelling units can provide a viable additional housing option in the City for people seeking homes for: family members, people seeking an intermediate step before purchasing a home, or those who are downsizing and seeking to stay in their current location. Staff feels comfortable that the proposed ordinance would allow accessory dwelling units while including provisions to mitigate potential negative impacts.”
Also on the agenda before Zeeland’s governing panel are establishing commercial rehabilitation districts for the renovation of the former Zeeland Record building on Elm Street into the new office for Midwest Construction, and for city land off of East Main near State into a three-story, mixed-use development structure. Council members will also consider a one-dollar easement by JCJ Holdings to allow the city to build a gateway sign into the downtown district at the site off of East Main Street.
Council holds a 6 PM study session before the 7 PM business meeting in Chambers at Zeeland City Hall (21 S. Elm St.). An online link to the agenda and supporting documents is here.
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