Commission sets hearing to consider increasing Zoning Board of Appeals to seven members

Canton Township planning staff proposed a zoning ordinance amendment to increase the number of regular members on the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) from five to seven while retaining two alternate members, and the Planning Commission set a public hearing on the amendment for a future meeting.

Staff explained that the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act requires at least five members and allows up to two alternates, but the township may specify a larger membership in its ordinance. Patrick (staff member) said the township recently advertised for ZBA applicants, received many qualified applicants, and that some municipalities of similar size use seven regular members.

Staff recommended setting a public hearing for the proposed amendment to Section 28.04(b) of the zoning ordinance, with the public hearing to be scheduled at the November meeting per the record. Commission members voted to set the hearing; the transcript shows unanimous support for scheduling the public hearing. Staff noted timing considerations for appointments: interviews have already been conducted and appointments that are made would take effect at the beginning of the year, potentially coinciding with the ordinance amendment’s effective date if adopted in time.

The commission’s action on the record sets a public hearing only; any amendment to the township zoning ordinance would require the public hearing, subsequent recommendation and final action by the township board as documented in the planning process.