Neighbors and commissioners flag grading, erosion-control questions at Harbor Springs site

Commissioners raised concerns about recent activity at a locally known site in Harbor Springs, asking whether the work involved permitted grading and what erosion controls were in place.

During member comments and a detailed exchange with staff, Jeff said he had visited the site after activity was reported, contacted the property owner and learned the owner had cleared topsoil and removed debris. "My understanding from speaking with the owner is that they've cleared the top soil. They're removing some of that debris. They will then be putting the top soil back in place, not proposing to change grades at this time," Jeff said. He added that if the owner submits a development plan that alters grades, staff would require grading and drainage plans and the appropriate reviews.

Commissioners described heavy equipment working on the site for more than two weeks and noted contractors were bringing in dirt. One commissioner said no silt fence was visible on site during inspection. Members suggested staff check county records for soil erosion control permits and indicated that if grades are changed without approval, the commission would have grounds for enforcement.

Staff also said some of the work may be tied to contamination cleanup or invasive-species removal through county extension programs, though the staff member was not certain which program. Commissioners and staff agreed the timing of work may reflect contractor availability during winter months rather than imminent development.

The exchange left open whether the owner will submit a formal application; staff said the timeline depends on what the owner proposes. Commissioners asked staff to monitor the site, verify any county erosion-control permits, and require plan submissions if the scope of work triggers review under city code.