Commission approves Little Learners daycare at Cooley Lake Rd despite master-plan inconsistency

The Waterford Township Planning Commission approved a Special Approval request Tuesday allowing Little Learners Childcare Center to operate at 5758 Cooley Lake Rd.

Director Jeffrey Polkowski introduced the case and noted the site was most recently used as an office; the childcare use requires Special Approval in the O-1 Local Office zoning district. Applicant representatives Sandy Marshall and Jacelyn Boss said the operator runs two centers in Lapeer and one in Macomb County and that they plan to open the Waterford location at 6 a.m.

Commissioners raised concerns about traffic flow at the site’s two entrances and suggested the applicant consider designating one entrance for entry and the other for exit. Commissioner Scott Sintkowski asked about the outdoor playground; Marshall said the playground area is enclosed. Chair Matt Ray and staff discussed community childcare shortages despite a documented declining population.

On a motion moved by Commissioner Dave Kramer and supported by Commissioner Gary Wall, the commission approved the special approval with conditions. The findings of fact recorded in the minutes note the proposed use "is not in accordance with the objectives of the Master Plan" but concluded the use would be compatible with adjacent uses and would not unduly burden public services; conditions require addressing staff comments prior to final approval and reserve the commission’s right to modify or revoke approval for code violations or safety concerns.

The approved conditional status allows the childcare operator to proceed to final permitting steps, subject to staff review and any required plan modifications.