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Harrison Township opposes package of Michigan House bills that would limit local zoning authority
Summary
The Board unanimously adopted a resolution opposing House Bills 5529–5532 and 5581–5585, arguing the bills would preempt municipal zoning control over lot sizes, dwelling sizes, parking requirements and placement of mobile homes and duplexes.
On March 23 the Harrison Township Board adopted a resolution opposing a package of Michigan House bills (numbered in the minutes as 5529–5532 and 5581–5585) that the Board said would curtail municipal zoning authority.
Supervisor Kenneth Verkest summarized the township’s position: the bills would limit local discretion on minimum lot sizes and dwelling sizes, restrict locally determined spacing between homes, allow duplexes in parcels currently zoned for single-family residences, and make mobile homes permissible in all zoning districts. The resolution argues such changes would impose state-level mandates that disrupt decades of local planning and could strain infrastructure such as water and sewer.
Clerk Adam Wit moved adoption; Trustee David Bratto seconded and the Board voted unanimously to adopt the resolution opposing the bills and to distribute copies to state legislators who represent Harrison Township.
The resolution frames the township’s opposition as a defense of locally determined planning and infrastructure oversight; it does not itself block the state bills but records the township’s official stance and requests that local legislators oppose the measures.
Next steps: Clerk to distribute copies of the resolution to state legislators representing Harrison Township.
