Cedar Springs planning commission recommends allowing medical, dental, optical and veterinary clinics in the industrial (I1) zone

The Cedar Springs Planning Commission voted Jan. 6 to recommend that the City Council amend section 32-442 of the city zoning ordinance to allow medical, optical, dental and veterinary offices and clinics as permitted (by-right) uses in the I1 industrial district.

City planner Andy Moore and city manager Miss Darla explained the proposal, saying the amendment treats medical and clinic uses as relatively low-intensity compared with other industrial uses and therefore appropriate for I1. The item moved through a public hearing and recommendation process: the commission opened the hearing, accepted public comment and then discussed whether these uses should be allowed by-right or require a special land-use permit.

Mike Dao, owner of North Arrow ABA, said he supports the change and described demand for autism treatment services across the state and in the Grand Rapids/Cedar Springs area. "We're hopeful to help to serve the community," Dao said when invited to comment.

Commissioners discussed compatibility and concluded that clinics are lower-intensity land uses than many industrial activities. After discussion the commission made a motion to recommend the amendment to the City Council. The recommendation passed by voice vote and will move to the council for two readings and final approval.

Next steps: city staff will forward the recommended amendment to the City Council; if council approves it in two meetings the change will become part of the Cedar Springs zoning ordinance.