In a recent meeting of the Zoning Board of Appeals in Big Rapids, significant progress was reported on the ongoing rewrite of the city’s zoning ordinance. The city has engaged Williams and Works, the firm responsible for the master plan, to assist in this crucial update. The discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive audit of the existing ordinance, which revealed several outdated references to state laws that have since been revised or eliminated.

The initial audit, conducted by Williams and Works, identified key issues that require attention, including the need for clearer definitions and a more user-friendly layout of the ordinance. The board emphasized the importance of making the document easier to navigate, which will facilitate future amendments and improve accessibility for residents and stakeholders.

During the meeting, members discussed the layout of the ordinance, proposing a new structure that organizes definitions more logically. Instead of assigning section numbers that complicate future additions, the new format will categorize definitions under broader headings, enhancing clarity and usability.

The board also addressed the creation of a land use table, which will outline various zoning districts and their respective regulations. While specific land use discussions are forthcoming, the focus has been on establishing a clear framework for how these elements will be presented in the updated ordinance.

Another critical point raised was the need to align the zoning ordinance with the city’s master plan. Currently, there is a disconnect, as the ordinance lacks references to the master plan, which guides the city’s development goals. The board has requested that language be added to bridge this gap, ensuring that zoning decisions reflect the community's long-term vision.

Looking ahead, the board plans to hold public open houses to engage the community in the zoning update process. These sessions aim to gather input from residents, although the board acknowledged that zoning discussions tend to be more technical and detailed compared to broader master planning efforts.

As the city moves forward with these revisions, the Zoning Board of Appeals is committed to ensuring that the updated ordinance not only meets current needs but also anticipates future growth and development in Big Rapids. The next steps will involve deeper discussions on specific zoning changes and continued community engagement to refine the ordinance further.