Volleyball court approved on Hanks Lake with shoreline/permitting conditions; board declines blanket 'no lights' restriction

The Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit on April 16 to allow construction of a 42×72 sand volleyball court at a Hanks Lake property owned by Joshua and Susan Hegel, subject to shoreline alteration permitting, erosion and stormwater management, and limits on total dirt moving. Township recommended approval but asked the court be unlit; commissioners discussed enforceability of a lighting prohibition on residential property and instead adopted the staff’s four standard conditions (shoreline alteration permit, erosion and sediment control plan, stormwater management plan and implementation) and a requirement that the court remain pervious.

Staff clarified that the total dirt moving associated with the project as framed in conditions is 370 cubic yards (the packet showed alternate figures), and explained that a shoreline alteration permit will also be required prior to construction. Applicants and township representatives discussed concerns about lighting and late‑night use; the board declined a blanket unlit restriction (several commissioners said residential lighting is not regulated in county ordinance) but suggested practical compromises such as time limitations or expectations of respectful use. The CUP was approved with the four staff conditions and the pervious‑surface clarification.

The applicants must obtain a shoreline alteration permit and submit a stormwater and erosion control plan. Any changes to the approved use would require return to the commission.