Planning commission sets June hearing after introduction to Gaslight Investors Phase 1

The East Grand Rapids Planning Commission on May 20 heard an introductory presentation on Phase 1 of the Gaslight Investors planned unit development at 515 Lakeside Drive SE and voted to set a public hearing for June 9, 2026.

City Attorney John Huff opened the session with a legal note on pending litigation, saying, "The filing of a lawsuit does not automatically stay, or suspend matters in dispute under some circumstances," and that no retaining order has been entered to block consideration. Zoning Administrator Jay Gianniotti summarized staff findings that Phase 1—a residential phase made up of buildings F, G and H totaling 40 residential units (one fewer than in the concept plan)—generally meets site‑plan standards but will require refinements before final approval, particularly on stormwater connections, pedestrian links and some building design details.

Developer Scott Weirda and architect Mike Corby walked commissioners through architecture and site layout. Corby said Building H will contain nine townhomes, Building G seven townhomes with tuck‑under parking, and Building F a stacked building with 24 units and podium parking; the scheme provides a combination of covered and unassigned spaces. Transportation consultant Chris Zull (Progressive Companies) and traffic consultant Julie Kroll told the commission the Phase 1 traffic analysis showed "little to no impact" from the proposed units and that the study was set up to expand as later phases are analyzed.

Commissioners pressed staff and the team on stormwater, easements, who would pay for sidewalks and parkway trees, and whether mitigation for traffic or utilities could be deferred to later phases. Staff said Nadervelt prepared the on‑site stormwater design and Halverson Engineering's independent review recommended routing overflow to existing city outfalls and daylighting into Reeds Lake via Collins Park to reduce on‑site ponding. On easements, staff noted potential changes with neighboring properties and said the PUD agreement can require negotiated easements or conditions to protect long‑term maintenance and access.

During public comment, residents raised concerns about process and scale. Judith Baxter said residents feel unheard and that "the city staff is very pro developer." David Decker highlighted a November meeting transcript and a protest petition record, urging the commission to seek consensus. Several commenters urged the commission to see the full multi‑phase buildout before approving later stages.

After public comment and further discussion about notice and the scope of review during litigation, Commissioner (speaker 18) moved—and Commissioner (speaker 15) seconded—to set a public hearing on the Phase 1 final plan for the Planning Commission's regular meeting on June 9, 2026. The motion passed by voice vote.

Next steps: staff said the developer will refine plans and return with responses to stormwater, mechanical screening and detailed parking/assignment proposals; the public will receive mailed notice in a 1,000‑foot radius plus digital outreach ahead of the June 9 hearing.