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Commission backs special land‑use for serpentarium at Newberg plaza
Summary
The commission unanimously recommended approval of case 2055B, a special land‑use request to operate a serpentarium (reptile exhibition) in a vacant ~1,000 sq. ft. space at 958 North Newberg plaza, after staff said departments had no objections.
The Westland Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a special land‑use permit for a serpentarium proposed at 958 North Newberg (case 2055B). The petitioner, Michael Wilson, seeks to operate a reptile exhibition use in an approximately 1,000 square‑foot vacant space within an existing retail plaza.
Administration briefed the commission that the subject site is zoned CB3 general commercial business and that “amusement” uses in that district are treated as special land uses. Staff said it had consulted fire, police and the city attorney and found no objections after reviewing applicable rules and regulations; staff also said research with other cities and federal agencies including the USDA showed no additional municipal requirements. “We are recommending approval of this petition,” administration told commissioners.
Petitioner Michael Wilson told the commission the business would primarily house snakes, monitors and lizards and that enclosures would be lockable and labeled; he said enclosures would be secured and monitored with video cameras. Commissioners and staff asked about animal care, food sourcing and security. Wilson said the facility would order frozen feed (rats, guinea pigs) monthly and store it in a freezer; he said staff have a network for rehoming larger animals when required.
Several commissioners and staff framed the proposed use as educational and a potential community resource; Commissioner Hopkins and others asked whether the petitioner would provide school outreach or discounted admission for local students and offered support for partnerships. Commissioner Ruby Richards and others said the location and educational focus were appropriate for the plaza. Commissioner Daryl Rounds moved to close the public hearing, waive normal rules, and forward case 2055B to city council with a recommendation for approval contingent on departmental requirements and recommendations; Richards seconded. The roll call vote was unanimous in favor. The city will forward the matter to council and administration said it will assist the petitioner with next steps and any departmental follow‑up.
