Commission approves gravel‑parking variances for two industrial lots after tenant access concerns

The Sturgis Planning Commission approved two variances Tuesday to allow gravel surfacing for parking at 3625 Hanson Avenue and at 1151 Industry Road.

For 3625 Hanson Avenue, staff said Surgis Economic Development applied for a variance to Title 18‑05‑13, which requires vehicle parking areas and driveways to be constructed of concrete or asphalt. Amanda Anglin, identified in the record as SCDC executive director, told the commission she has heard from tenants and prospective tenants that parking is an issue and described a plan for roughly a 100‑by‑100 gravel lot accessed from an adjacent asphalt area so vehicles would not track gravel onto the street. Staff said similar approvals have been granted in the past in that zone; commissioners and staff discussed how much area would be graveled and how access would work.

At 1151 Industry Road, staff reported they discovered work on the lot on July 9 and that C4 Fabrication’s manager, Caleb Rupp, told staff he had leveled dirt and added gravel without securing advance approval. Rupp said the gravel is intended primarily for occasional parking — campers and recreational vehicles — and would be accessed from the existing paved parking area. Commissioners advised Rupp to verify approach/road access requirements with the county for Bennett Road, which staff indicated is a county road in places and may involve private access considerations.

In both cases the commission approved the variances by voice vote. Staff referenced Title 18‑05‑13 while explaining how off‑street parking and hard‑surfacing are regulated and discussed enforcement options when unpermitted work or nonconforming uses occur.

Both approvals were routine and included the expectation that applicants follow applicable building, fire (sprinkler) and access requirements where triggered by future construction or increased use.