Ypsilanti council advances zoning changes, certifies ballot petitions and rules on FOIA appeals

YPSILANTI, Mich. — The Ypsilanti City Council on March 17 moved multiple items forward after a meeting that combined ceremonial proclamations, a lengthy public‑comment period and substantive land‑use, records‑access and budget‑process decisions.

Councilors approved first readings of two zoning text amendments aimed at making space for small arts activities and permitting electronic message boards for nonresidential uses under new operational limits. Planning staff said the arts-and-crafts amendment (ordinance 1458) will allow performing and visual arts studios as a special‑land‑use in the CN‑Mid district to ensure compatibility with nearby homes; the measure advances to a second reading. The council also approved first reading of an electronic message‑board amendment (ordinance 1459) that would permit monochrome EMBs for nonresidential uses in more zoning districts but restrict illumination (not lit between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.; measured limits at lot lines) and require anti‑glare measures.

"We wanted to be able to account for any types of arts and crafts," planning staff Joshua ("Josh") said in presenting the arts amendment, describing a planning commission approach that allows flexibility while using a special‑use review to protect neighbors. Questions from nonprofit and maker‑space speakers focused on permit costs; one community member noted that a $750 special‑use permit could be a barrier for very small nonprofits.

The council also adopted an amended…