The Gratiot County Planning Commission convened on October 1, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, with a primary focus on a proposed zoning change for a property owned by Christopher Kress.

The meeting began with a presentation regarding Kress's property, located off Womerjack Road. The property is currently designated as a rural preservation area, a classification established in 2001 based on specific geographical and environmental considerations, including soil type and flood risk. This designation aims to protect certain lands from development pressures.

Kress is seeking to rezone the property to industrial use to facilitate his millwork operations. He has a potential buyer interested in utilizing the site primarily for storage and office space. However, Kress emphasized that he cannot proceed with the sale unless the zoning is changed, as the current rural preservation status does not permit the intended use.

The zoning administrator provided a report detailing the land's dimensions and its distance from the Pine River, noting that the location does not require soil erosion considerations due to this distance.

The commission's discussions highlighted the importance of balancing development needs with environmental protections, as they consider Kress's request. The meeting concluded with plans for further review of the zoning application, ensuring that all factors are thoroughly evaluated before a decision is made.

Overall, the Planning Commission's deliberations reflect ongoing efforts to manage land use effectively while accommodating local business interests. Further updates on this zoning request are expected in future meetings.