Montcalm commissioners grant construction variance for Crystal Lake accessory dwelling, require permits

The Montcalm County Board of Commissioners on March 24 granted a construction-ordinance variance for a Crystal Lake property owner seeking to use space above a new garage as temporary living quarters, but conditioned the approval on the owner obtaining the required building permits.

The action matters because the discussion raised questions about whether the structure was built according to the plans on file and whether the county is routinely being asked to approve accessory dwelling units after construction. Commissioners debated the propriety of approving a variance after the work was underway and whether local townships should set rules for such dwellings.

Daniel Kenyon, who identified himself as owner of the property at 2167 Straight Toll Boulevard, told the board he had built the structure primarily for family storage…