Township board votes to introduce zoning amendment to allow temporary moratoria on emerging land uses
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Summary
The board voted to introduce an amendment to the township zoning ordinance that would codify the board’s ability to impose temporary moratoria on new or emerging land uses — such as data centers — to allow time to draft regulations; adoption will return to the board at a later date.
Cascade Charter Township’s board voted to introduce a proposed amendment to the township zoning ordinance to allow the board, by ordinance, to impose short‑term moratoria on existing, new or emerging land uses.
Township attorney Homier said the amendment codifies authority already exercised under general police power and provides a clearer, prescribed procedure under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act to pause specified land‑use activity while the township drafts regulatory language. Homier said the provision is not limited to data centers; past issues raised include renewable energy, short‑term rentals, extractive uses and housing‑related provisions.
The item was introduced for later adoption; Homier said section numbers will be inserted after petition verification and that the ordinance is not scheduled for adoption until April 22. Treasurer Corson moved to introduce the ordinance; Trustee Shipley supported the motion and roll call showed the motion carried.
The board’s action formally begins the ordinance process and buys the township time to develop zoning language. No regulatory moratorium is yet in effect; adoption — and any specific geographic or use limitations — will require a subsequent board vote.
