News Summary
Superior Township, MI, has enacted a new ordinance restricting the expansion of its water and sewer services to manage growth and development effectively. With a 5-1 vote during their April 21 meeting, township officials aim to slow the rapid pace of development by establishing stricter guidelines. The ordinance allows limited exceptions but emphasizes a cautious approach to resource management amidst community concerns about unchecked growth. Residents suggest exploring alternative solutions to meet the needs of the township while preserving essential services.
Superior Township Enacts New Ordinance to Limit Water and Sewer Services
In a notable move to manage growth and development, Superior Township, MI, has officially passed an ordinance aimed at restricting the expansion of its water and sewer service area. The township board took this significant step during their meeting on April 21, with a vote tally of 5-1 in favor of the new regulations. Only Trustee Dana Greene cast a dissenting vote, signaling some division among township leaders.
The Reason Behind the Ordinance
The primary aim of this new ordinance is to slow the rapid pace of development within the township. For years, developers have enjoyed relatively easy access to municipal water and sewer services, making it simpler for them to build new properties. However, that all changes with the implementation of this ordinance, which tightens the conditions required for properties to receive such essential services.
Under the current rules, developers can request access to these services, but the township officials have decided that enough is enough. The Urban Service District boundary, which sets the area where these services are available, starts at Geddes Road and extends south to the township’s border. Officials are keenly aware that the township has a “finite capacity” for these services, which are supplied through the Ypsilanti Community Utilities Authority (YCUA).
What’s New in the Ordinance?
The new ordinance establishes stricter guidelines for granting access to water and sewer services for new developments. There are some limited exceptions allowed, including situations where existing homes lack water access due to well contamination or other serious circumstances. However, one vital note is that new large developments will *not* qualify for any exceptions under this ordinance. This is a clear sign that the township is determined to manage its resources wisely.
Community Response to Development
Growth Statistics
Since 2007, Superior Township has seen an average of 50 new housing units constructed each year, primarily consisting of single-family homes. This kind of growth has brought forward the need for a more carefully considered approach to development, especially in light of recent community feedback. However, not everyone agrees with the new boundaries. Some board members are concerned that limiting development could hinder opportunities for essential businesses like grocery stores and banks within the township, particularly affecting lower-income populations. Currently, many residents find themselves traveling outside the township for basic necessities.
Looking Ahead
Despite the ordinance, township attorney Fred Lucas pointed out that this move may actually encourage more developers to consider building within the township rather than moving to the outskirts. Supervisor Emily Dabish-Yahkind echoed this sentiment, believing that the ordinance will not dissuade developers from establishing projects south of Geddes Road. Trustee Ken Schwartz added that the potential success of a large grocery store within the township depends on various factors, including profitability linked to local demographics.
In conclusion, the recent ordinance aims to strike a balance between development and the preservation of community needs. While its long-term effects remain to be seen, Superior Township is indeed stepping forward into a new phase of growth and planning.
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Additional Resources
- MLive: Township Looks to Slow Development
- Second Wave Media: Fall Colors
- WLIX: Best Areas to See Fall Colors in Michigan
- Detroit News: Michigan State Parks for Fall Foliage
- Duluth News Tribune: Superior Hiking Trail
- Wikipedia: Urbanization
- Google Search: Township Development
- Google Scholar: Urban Development Policies
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Planning
- Google News: Water Sewer Service Limitations
