Trustees reject revised clear‑vision triangle zoning text; send language back to planning commission

Grosse Ile Township trustees voted against adopting a proposed zoning text amendment to Chapter 285‑17.4(d), the township’s clear‑vision triangle rule, and directed the planning commission to revisit the language.

The proposed amendment, drafted with advice from the township attorney, would have clarified that “any temporary or permanent improvement” that obstructs waterfront views within clear‑vision triangles is prohibited. Supporters said the wording would align the ordinance text with the township’s historical enforcement practice. Opponents on the board argued the planning commission’s version presented at its public hearing had specifically listed items such as trampolines and playground equipment and that removing explicit examples could create interpretive uncertainty in court.

Trustees debated whether specificity or broad phrasing is preferable. Trustee Bill (last name not specified) and other trustees said a specific list of problematic items helps judges apply the ordinance consistently, citing a prior court dispute over a trampoline. The township attorney had recommended broader language to match the township’s enforcement approach and to avoid a long enumerated list that might be read narrowly by a judge.

After discussion, the board held a roll‑call vote and voted down the amendment; the board instructed staff to return the ordinance to the planning commission with a recommendation to restore language referencing playground equipment and similar items.

The planning commission had held a public hearing on the change at its Sept. 29 meeting and recommended the version it forwarded to the board. Trustees said returning the draft to the planning commission would permit additional public input and allow the attorney to weigh in on the revised, more explicit text before the board considers it again.