Livonia Council approves carnival hosted by Livonia AM Rotary Club at former Sears site

The Livonia Planning Commission convened on April 8, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including zoning approvals and community events. The meeting began with a discussion regarding the conditions for special trade contractors wishing to lease space for outdoor storage on a designated property. The commission emphasized that any such businesses must first obtain approval from the planning commission before securing a zoning compliance permit and a certificate of occupancy from the city’s inspection department and fire marshal.

Specific conditions were outlined, including prohibitions on outdoor storage of disabled vehicles, scrap metal, and hazardous materials. Additionally, minor repairs on vehicles were not permitted on-site. A requirement was established for the petitioner to submit a signed letter of understanding indicating that the waiver use would be abandoned if the petitioner vacated the premises. The approval granted was valid for one year, contingent upon obtaining a building permit within that timeframe.

Following this, the commission moved to a petition submitted by Wade Shows Inc., requesting a waiver to conduct a carnival in the parking lot of the former Sears location. The event, sponsored by the Livonia AM Rotary Club, is scheduled to run from May 19 to June 8, 2025. The site is located at the intersection of 7 Mile Road and Middlebelt Road, within a commercial zoning area. The commission reviewed the surrounding zoning classifications, confirming compatibility with the proposed carnival activities.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve both agenda items, which passed unanimously. The commission expressed gratitude to attendees and noted that the recommendations would be forwarded to the city council for final approval.