The Pontiac Planning Commission voted Oct. 1 to approve a special-exception permit that will allow New Birth International Church to operate a temporary warming shelter at 124 West Columbia during inclement cold-weather periods.

The permit authorizes a community-service facility accessory to the church, limited to the gymnasium and the side entry hall, and requires an annual temporary-use permit and nine conditions including an approved security plan, fire-department occupancy limits and queuing on the west side of the building.

Paul Harang, a city planner who presented the application, said the proposal calls for the warming center to operate only during cold months — roughly December through mid-April — and only when the city declares an emergency. Harang told commissioners the use is an accessory to the church’s primary use and “must comply with the separation requirements of the zoning ordinance.” The staff report recommended approval with nine conditions, including a required fire-department review and an annual temporary-use permit.

An on-site representative for Bishop Theresa Lee, who could not attend, described how the shelter began. Ms. Jones said the church “opened our doors and we just did it” after a resident froze and volunteers responded. Kyle Hines, housing trust fund manager for Oakland County, said the county will provide operational support and that “we are applying ARPA funding to help operate this facility.” The church has proposed on-site security during operating hours and daily county caseworker visits.

During public comment, residents expressed mixed views. Chuck Johnson of 21 North Paddock supported the shelter: “I hope you approve it.” Other speakers voiced concerns about loitering and neighborhood impacts; the applicant and county representatives said the shelter will provide bus fare for guests and coordinate with daytime shelters and county services to reduce daytime loitering. Commissioner McGinnis said the permit is not a permanent solution but an emergency “overflow” option when temperatures are life-threatening.

Commissioner McGinnis moved to approve PSEP25-013; Commissioner Duval seconded. The roll call vote was unanimous in favor (Shepherd: yes; McGinnis: yes; Duval: yes; Vice Chair Jackson: yes; Chair Sinclair: yes). The motion passed with the recorded condition package.

The permit requires annual renewal via a temporary-use permit and a fire-department review each season; staff told the commission the city will monitor operations and the permit can be revisited at future hearings if community issues arise.