Planning commission recommends rezoning of two Beechwood lots for seven townhouses

The Westland Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of case 1683A on March 4, 2025, a petition to rezone two adjoining parcels on Beechwood north of Ford from R5 single‑family residential to THR townhouse. The motion to close the public hearing and forward the petition to city council passed on a roll call vote.

Administration staff told the commission the two parcels total about 18,000 square feet and currently include one single‑family dwelling and one buildable vacant lot. “The petitioner tonight is requesting to rezone these 2 parcels and will later combine them,” the administration said. The 2018 future land use designation for the parcels is single‑family residential, staff noted, but recommended approval to allow a townhouse development that would total approximately seven units as currently proposed.

Architectural designer and project manager Ahmed Derbas appeared for the petitioner and did not add substantive details beyond the administration presentation. The initial site plan submitted showed a single rectangular building with eight units; staff had asked the petitioner to break that into two buildings to better match neighborhood character. The petitioner revised the plan and now proposes seven units, using brick and siding on the façade.

During the public hearing, Commissioner Deanna Stachow said she looked forward to additional housing and called the townhouse design “a really complimentary addition.” Commissioner David Swokas asked whether the units would be rental or for purchase; the petitioner said the units “will be rent individually.” No members of the public offered opposition.

David Swokas moved to close the public hearing, waive normal rules, and forward case 1683A to city council subject to departmental requirements and recommendations; Commissioner Hopkins seconded. The roll call vote recorded all commissioners present voting yes; the chair announced the motion approved. The administration instructed the petitioner to contact staff about next steps before appearance at city council.

The commission’s recommendation is only advisory; final approval resides with the Westland City Council. The administration packet that accompanied the case included the 2018 future land use designation and the revised site plan for seven townhouse units.