Planning commission sets public hearing for wireless‑communications zoning amendments

The Canton Township Planning Commission voted to set a public hearing on proposed zoning ordinance amendments that would update how wireless communications facilities are regulated in township zoning.

Staff summary: Planning staff told commissioners the current draft removes small‑cell provisions for separate consideration and adds three notable changes: allowing wireless communications equipment as a permitted use immediately adjacent to high‑voltage transmission towers owned by a public utility (subject to site‑plan approval); adding a demonstration‑of‑need requirement that an applicant must show existing facilities are insufficient for colocation before pursuing a new tower; and otherwise moving small‑cell rules to a later, separate process. Staff recommended setting a public hearing — the commission recorded availability for a hearing at the March 2 planning commission meeting.

Recusal and motion: Commissioner Weber, who has served as a wireless/broadband consultant for the township, announced he would recuse himself from voting on the ordinance to avoid any appearance of conflict. Commissioner Watkins moved and Commissioner Singh supported a motion to set the public hearing for the listed zoning‑ordinance articles and sections; the motion carried by roll call.

Next steps: The commission set a public hearing to gather public input on the proposed ordinance text amendments; staff will post hearing details and distribute materials in advance of the hearing.