Commission approves special land use and site plan for 917 N. Main bar/lounge

The Royal Oak Planning Commission approved a special land use permit and site plan for a proposed bar/lounge at 917 N. Main, allowing demolition of a rear dwelling unit and a one‑story 30'x20' addition intended to serve a potential lounge tenant.

Stuckey Vitelli Architects represented the petitioner and said the proposed addition is smaller than the existing rear structure. Staff reported the site will require 24 parking spaces under the ordinance and the plan provides 31 spaces off‑site and on the adjacent surface lot, meeting the parking requirement. Staff also identified three decision points for the commission: whether to require a 30‑inch masonry wall or greenbelt screening between the parking and North Main, whether to retain or replace two taller cobra‑head lights in the lot to meet the 15‑foot maximum, and whether rooftop mechanical units require screening.

During public comment neighbors who live directly behind the property asked about capacity, outdoor café possibilities and measures to mitigate light glare and pest control tied to dumpster areas. The petitioner said any outdoor café or liquor‑license specifics would require subsequent approvals (a separate special land use for outdoor dining and a liquor‑license plan of operation before the City Commission) and pledged to provide shielded, downward‑facing lighting and to screen mechanical equipment if it remains.

The commission voted by voice to approve the special land use; a subsequent motion to approve the site plan passed with the staff‑listed contingencies addressing screening, lighting and HVAC screening as appropriate. Commissioners noted that if the petitioner later proposes outdoor dining or other changes, those uses will require separate review under city ordinances.