1 of 83 MECOSTA COUNTY BOARD OF … · W. Routley moved to approve a request to purchase a Ricoh...

MECOSTA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

AFTERNOON SESSION – 3:00 P.M.

July 21, 2016

AGENDA

1. CALL TO ORDER & QUORUM:

Eric O’Neil _____ District 6

Marilynn Vargo _____ District 1

Jerrilynn Strong _____ District 2

Linda Howard _____ District 3

Ray Steinke _____ District 4

Tom O’Neil _____ District 5

William Routley _____ District 7

2. REVIEW & APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDITIONS

3. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Board Minutes – July 7, 2016

2. Closed Session Minutes – July 7, 2016

4. PUBLIC MATTERS & COMMENTS: (5 MINUTES PER PERSON LIMIT)

5. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

6. NEW BUSINESS: 1. Mecosta County Resolution #2016-12 2. Zoning Amendment Recommendations – Proposed Ordinance 16-003 a. Ordinance 16-003 3. Zoning Amendment Recommendation – Proposed Ordinance 16-004 a. Ordinance 16-004 4. Farmland Applications #301 - #303 a. PA 116 – Application #301 b. PA 116 – Application #302 c. PA 116 – Application #303 5. Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan Amendments FY16

7. FINANCIAL MATTERS: Pre-approved Bills: $657,227.24 Non-approved Bills: $57,886.05

8. COMMITTEE REPORTS:

9. ADMINISTRATORS REPORT:

10. PUBLIC MATTERS & COMMENTS: (5 MINUTES PER PERSON LIMIT)

11. COMMUNICATIONS:

12. MINUTES & REPORTS: 1. Building & Grounds/MSU – July 5, 2016 2. Sheriff & Jail – July 6, 2016 3. Mecosta County Parks Commission – March 15, 2016 4. Mecosta County Parks Commission – April 19, 2016 5. Mecosta County Parks Commission – May 17, 2016 6. Personnel Committee – July 11, 2016 7. Planning Commission – July 7, 2016 #. Finance

13. RESOLUTIONS:

14. MISCELLANEOUS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

15. ADJOURNMENT:

SCHEDULED APPEARANCE 3:15 pm – Road Commission 2015 Audit

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MECOSTA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

JULY 7, 2016

Chair Eric O’Neil called the morning session of the Mecosta County Board of Commissioners to order at 10:00 A.M. in Commission Room 102 of the County Courthouse. All those present stood and recited the pledge of allegiance to the United States Flag. Commissioners present on roll call: Eric O’Neil, Marilynn Vargo, Jerrilynn Strong, Linda Howard, Ray Steinke, Tom O’Neil and William Routley. Others present: Paul Bullock, County Administrator and Marcee Purcell, Mecosta County Clerk. REVIEW & APPROVAL OF AGENDA – ADDITIONS:

R. Steinke moved to approve the Agenda as presented. J. Strong seconded; motion carried. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

M. Vargo moved to approve the June 16, 2016 Board Minutes as presented. W. Routley seconded; motion carried. R. Steinke moved to approve the June 29, 2016 Committee of the Whole Minutes as presented. L. Howard seconded; motion carried. PUBLIC MATTERS & COMMENTS:

Alexis, Big Rapids Township resident and employee of Lerner, Csernai, Fath Financial, appeared before the Board and introduced herself, offering assistance in health benefits for employees.

SCHEDULED APPEARANCE:

None UNFINISHED BUSINESS:

None

NEW BUSINESS:

6.1 CMET GRANT FY 16/17

R. Steinke moved approve the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant Application FY 16/17 and authorized the Chair to sign. T. O’Neil seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried.

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Text Box

CP 3-1

Page 2

6.2 AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF WESTERN MICHIGAN

MULTI-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN (MYP) FY 17-19

W. Routley moved to provide written approval to the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan in regard to their proposed Multi-Year Implementation Plan (MYP) for fiscal years 2017-2019. J. Strong seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried.

6.3 CHILD CARE FUND BUDGET AMENDMENT

Julie Wallace – Juvenile Court Administrator – appeared before the Board and explained the reasoning behind the amendment to the Child Care Fund Budget. W. Routley moved to approve the amendment to the Child Care Fund Budget. M. Vargo seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried. FINANCIAL MATTERS:

2017 Non-Union Wages and Salaries – Administrator

M. Vargo moved to approve a 2% increase to the non-union and casual part-time pay scales for 2017 and that a resolution be brought before the Board to increase the 2017/2018 commissioner salaries 2% while increasing the chairperson’s salary differential from $1,000/year to $2,600/year. R. Steinke seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried. Environmental Assessment/Hardy Trail – Administrator

M. Vargo moved to approve a proposal from Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc. to provide an environmental assessment for the Hardy Dam Pond Trail with a maximum cost of $15,000 from the funds dedicated to the trail project, and Paul Bullock authorized to sign. W. Routley seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried.

Other Business:

None

Listed Vouchers:

M. Vargo moved to pay the pre-approved vouchers in the amount of $915,203.92 and approve and pay non-approved vouchers in the amount of $98,043.47. W. Routley seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

L. Howard reported attending Wheatland Township Meeting, Senior Center Enrichment Day, MERS Committee of the Whole, Community Mental Health/DHS Meeting, Building & Grounds Committee and today’s Commission Meeting. Building & Grounds:

L. Howard moved to approve the purchase of 22 – 72” Lorell flip-top nesting tables from Great Lakes Office Products at a total cost of $5,830.00 for the new conference room. J. Strong seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried.

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L. Howard moved to approve the purchase of 50 Hon 4075NT chairs from Office World at a total cost of $6,003.05 for the new conference room. M. Vargo seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried. Linda reported that the School Section Lake project is coming to fruition. To date, the committee has raised over $74,000 with a golf outing scheduled they should exceed the $75,000 goal. A steel roof is scheduled to go on around Labor Day. R. Steinke reported attending Region 8 Meeting, 2 - District 10 Health Meetings, MERS Committee of Whole, Millbrook Township Meeting, Finance Committee and today’s Commission Meeting. T. O’Neil reported attending District 10 Health Meeting, MERS Committee of the Whole, Big Rapids Township Meeting, Sheriff & Jail Committee and today’s Commission Meeting. M. Vargo reported attending MERS Meeting w/Paul, Finance Committee, Sheriff & Jail Committee, 3 - Parks Meetings, 2 - Human Trafficking Meetings and today’s Commission Meeting. W. Routley reported attending MERS Meeting w/Paul, 2-day Area Agency on Aging/Proposal Review Committee, Security Meeting, Area Agency on Aging/Board, City Commission Meeting, Sheriff & Jail Committee and today’s Commission Meeting. Sheriff & Jail:

W. Routley moved to approve a request from the Undersheriff for the K-9 Team to attend the annual drug dog recertification in Sevierville, TN at a cost of $250 registration plus lodging at $75/night for 5 nights. M. Vargo seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried. W. Routley moved to approve a request to purchase a Ricoh MP401SPF from Applied Imaging at a cost of $1,300 with a 5-year maintenance agreement @ .01/copy for all supplies and maintenance from Fund 264. J. Strong seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried. W. Routley moved to approve and authorized the Chair to sign the 2016 Marine Patrol Grant. M. Vargo seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried. J. Strong reported attending District 10 Health, MERS Committee of the Whole, Road Commission Meeting, Mid-Michigan Community Action Meeting, Chippewa Lake Parade, Jehnsen Lake Annual Meeting, Supervisors’ Meeting, Chippewa Township Meeting, Building & Grounds Committee and today’s Commission Meeting. E. O’Neil reported attending Parks Meeting, MERS Committee of the Whole, Finance Committee, 2 - EMS Meetings w/Paul Bullock and Tim Ladd and today’s Commission Meeting.

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ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT:

Paul Bullock reported on the following:

• Drain Commissioner is requesting to fill a part-time vacancy. R. Steinke so moved. T. O’Neil seconded; motion carried.

• Requesting permission to attend the MMRMA Conference 8/17 – 8/19. R. Steinke so moved. W. Routley seconded; motion carried.

• MERS Conference Employee Representative/Alternate – An election was conducted for the MERS Conference 9/28-29; Sheila Lee received 7 votes and Amy Stout received 5. Paul is requesting permission to certify the election w/MERS and authorize Sheila and Amy to attend the conference. R. Steinke so moved. M. Vargo seconded; motion carried.

• MERS Conference Officer Representative/Alternate – Paul requested that he be named as Officer Representative and Sheriff Purcell as Alternate to the MERS Conference. J. Strong so moved. L. Howard seconded; motion carried.

• Personal Property Tax Reform – Requesting permission to allow the State Treasury to complete Form 5448 on behalf of the County. W. Routley so moved. J. Strong seconded; motion carried.

• Informed the Board that the new chiller has been working fine, but have received complaints from neighbors regarding the noise. Paul is looking into a sound mitigation barrier to help curb that problem.

PUBLIC MATTERS & COMMENTS:

Karen Hahn – Register of Deeds – appeared before the Board to inform them that PA 224-232 of 2016 was signed by the Governor and will go into effect 10/1/2016. As a reminder, this legislation removes the per-page fee that the Register of Deeds currently charges to a flat fee of $30 per document. COMMUNICATIONS, MINUTES & REPORTS, RESOLUTIONS: J. Strong moved to accept and place on file Communications #1-3, Minutes & Reports #1-5 and Resolutions #1-2. M. Vargo seconded; motion carried.

MISCELLANEOUS & ANNOUNCEMENTS:

M. Vargo moved to go into Closed Executive Session to discuss EMS contract negotiations. J. Strong seconded; roll call vote 7 yeas, 0 nays; motion carried.

11:35 a.m. returned to Commission Meeting Paul informed the Board that Probate Judge Menezes has officially tendered his resignation/retirement effective 10/1/16.

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ADJOURNMENT:

E. O’Neil adjourned to the next regular scheduled meeting or call of the Chair at 11:37 A.M. ____________________________________________ Marcee M. Purcell, Mecosta County Clerk and Clerk for the Board of Commissioners ____________________________________________ Eric O’Neil, Chair Mecosta County Board of Commissioners

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CP 6-1

ZONING AMENDMENT RECOMMENDATIONS July 7, 2016

To: Mecosta County Board of Commissioners

From: Mecosta County Planning Commission

Re: Proposed Ordinance 16-003

Application presented by: Mecosta County Planning Commission 14485 Northland Drive Big Rapids MI 49307

Requested Action: Amend Zoning Ordinance Text as follows (Undeline indicates new language, strike out indicates language removed):

SECTION 3.43 SIGN REGULATIONS

A. Purpose and Intent

It is hereby determined that regulation of the location, size, placement and certain features of signs is necessary to enable the public to locate goods, services and facilities without difficulty and confusion, to promote traffic safety, safeguard public health and welfare, and facilitate police and fire protection.

In addition, it is the intent of this Ordinance to assure the continued attractiveness of the total community environment through the adoption of discretionary controls designed to preserve scenic, aesthetic and economic values within the County.

These regulations are designed to permit maximum legibility and effectiveness of signs and to prevent their over-concentration, improper placement and excessive height, bulk and area. In general, it is intended that signs of a general commercial or industrial nature be prohibited in districts where commercial or industrial activities are prohibited and that signs in residential districts be limited to those directly related to activities on the premises.

B. Definitions

The following words and phrases shall have the meanings set forth in this Section when they are used in this Section:

Accessory Sign: A sign which pertains to the principal use of the premises upon which such sign is located.

Appendage Sign: A sign that is intended to draw attention to one or more of various services, items for sale, contests, etc., and is attached as an appendage to an accessory sign, sign support or any part of a sign structure. Appendage signs are prohibited throughout the County.

Banner Sign: A sign on paper, cloth, fabric or other combustible material of any kind, either with or without frames, used for a temporary purpose.

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CP 6-2

Billboard: A large (over 200 square feet) permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or non-commercial messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.See “Outdoor Advertising Sign”

Building Frontage: The length of the portion of a building facing a street abutting to the premises on which a business is located.

Bulletin Board: A sign with temporary or replaceable letters or characters, used to announce dates of functions or activities.

Canopy: A suspended covering, often movable, placed above a door, window, or other entranceway. Canopies can be constructed of cloth, metal, wood, or other materials.

Construction Sign: A sign advertising a project under development, erected for the period of construction, identifying its developers, contractors, engineers, brokers and architects.

Directional Sign: A sign, the primary purpose of which is to expedite the flow of vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic to, from and within a site.

Electronic Message Board: A sign that is designed so that its characters, letters, illustrations, or other content can be changed, altered, or rearranged without physically altering the permanent physical face or surface of a sign. The message of an electronic message board can only be varied by electrical or electronic means and not manually.uses lights to display messages,

Flag: A banner of distinctive design used as a symbol.

Flashing Sign: A sign that contains sequential flashing light sourceis intermittently illuminated or reflects light intermittently from either an artificial source or from the sun and is used solely to attract attention in a non-informative way.

Freestanding Sign: A sign supported by one or more uprights, poles, pylons or braces placed in or upon the ground and not attached to any building or other structure.

Grade: The average elevation of an area within a radius (of the sign base) equal to two times the height of the sign.

Handicapped Sign: A sign limited to indicating that off-street parking is reserved for the physically handicapped, or a sign which is limited to indicating facilities for the physically handicapped.

Illuminated Sign: A sign which has characters, letters, figures, or designs which are illuminated either internally or with external shielded lights.

Interior Sign: A sign which is visible from any public street, sidewalk, alley, park or public property and located within a building.

Marquee Sign: A sign attached to or hung from a marquee, canopy or other covered structure projecting from and supported by the building.

Maximum Sign Height: Shall be measured from grade or sidewalk to the highest edge of the sign surface or its projecting structure.

Message Board: A sign with removable characters, letters, or other content that can be changed, altered, or rearranged without physically altering the permanent physical face or surface of a sign. The message of a message board can only be varied manually and not by electrical, electronic, or other means.

Minimum Sign Height: Shall be measured from grade or sidewalk to the lowest edge of the sign surface or its projecting structure.

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Moving Sign: A sign that has motion either constantly or at intervals or that gives the impression of movement through intermittent, flashing, twinkling, or varying intensities of illumination.

Non-Accessory Sign: A sign which does not pertain to the principal use of the premises on which such sign is located.

Outdoor Advertising Sign: A permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or non-commercial messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.

Off Premises Sign: A sign providing information pertaining to activities, products or services not located on the same property as the sign.

Portable Sign: A sign, sign board, or banner which is not permanently anchored or secured to either a building, structure or the ground; or any sign attached to a trailer or other vehicle not accessory to the vehicle or its use, but used with the express intent of advertising.

Premises: A lot or group of lots with one or more buildings which functions as a single use is under the same ownership or control and is not divided by a public street. Multiple tenants of single premises may share common entranceway and off-street parking. Examples of premises include a shopping center, a multiple family apartment complex, and an educational or medical campus.

Projecting Sign: A sign so constructed and erected as to be attached at one end to a building, metal pole or other structure, and projecting there from.

Roof Sign: A sign which is erected, constructed and maintained on or above the roof of a building or any portion thereof. Roof signs are prohibited in the County.

Sign: Any visual or graphic device designed through use of words, numbers, characters, or symbols to inform or attract attention and which is designated to be visible from outside any building or structure in which, upon which, or attached to which it may be located.

Sign Area: The entire area within a circle, triangle, rectangle or other geometric shape enclosing the extreme limits of writing, representation, emblem or any figure of similar character, together with any frame or other material, graphic or color forming an integral part of the display or message, or used to differentiate the sign from the background against which it is placed; excluding the necessary supports or uprights on which such sign is placed, if no advertising matter is placed thereon.

Sign Erector: Any person engaged in the business of erecting, constructing, altering, or removing signs on a contractual or hourly basis.

Temporary Sign: A sign intended to be displayed for a limited period of time

Wall Sign: A sign attached to, painted on, inscribed, or otherwise set upon the exterior wall or surface of any building. A mural, is considered a wall sign. Aa sign painted or inscribed on a canopy, and channel letter signs shall also be considered a wall signs.

C. Computation of Sign Area.

For the purposes of this Ordinance, the total area of a sign shall be expressed in square feet and shall be computed as follows:

Single-Face Sign: The total area of a single-face sign shall be computed as the number of square feet within any single or combination of geometric shapes -- such as a square, rectangle, triangle or circle -- encompassing the extreme limits of an individual letter(s), word(s), message(s), representation, emblem or any similar figure, including open space(s), together with any frame or

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other material forming an integral part of display used to differentiate such sign from the background against which it is placed.

Double-Face Signs: For double-face signs having two (2) faces of equal size arranged and/or positioned back to back, parallel to each other, with no more than a two (2) foot space between the two faces; the area of the sign shall be computed as one-half (1/2) the total area of the two (2) faces. When the faces of such a sign are not of equal area, then the area of the sign shall be computed as the total area of the largest face.

Three-Dimensional Signs: For signs which are designed as a three- dimensioned geometric form such as a sphere, cone, cylinder, or cube; the area shall be computed as one- half (1/2) the total surface of the geometric form.

D. Permit Required for Signs

Sign Erection Permit: It shall be unlawful for any person to construct, erect, re-erect, move, alter, enlarge, or illuminate, any sign unless a zoning permit shall have been first obtained from the County, except as provided in Section 3.43 (H) (Signs Exempt from Permit Requirement). Any sign that makes use of electricity shall, in addition to a sign permit, require an electrical permit, regardless of size; also a building permit may be required.

Sign Maintenance or Change of Message: No permit shall be required for ordinary servicing, repainting of existing sign message, or cleaning of a sign. No permit is required for change of message of a sign designed for periodic message change without change of structure, including a bulletin board or billboard, but not including a sign to which a new permanent face may be attached.

Planning Commission Approval: All subdivision/development signs, time/date/or temperature signs, or any type of sign not explicitly defined herein must be approved by the County Planning Commission before a permit shall be issued.

Sign Erector Requirements: Permits for the erection of signs shall only be issued to licensed sign installers and general contractors qualified to carry on such work under the provisions of this Article.

Permit Applications: Applications for sign permits shall be made upon forms provided by the Mecosta County Building & Zoning Department for this purpose and shall be completed as required.

E. Sign Erector Requirements.

Insurance Certificates: Before a sign permit is issued, the installing company shall submit for filing with the County, a valid Certificate of Insurance, for public liability in the amount of One Hundred Thousand ($100,000.00) Dollars for injuries to one (1) person and Three Hundred Thousand ($300,000.00) Dollars for injury to more than one (1) person, and property damage insurance in the amount of Twenty-Five Thousand ($25,000.00) Dollars for damage to any property due to the actions of himself or any of his agents or employees. Said certificate shall provide for notification of the County ten (10) days prior to expiration of insurance.

Lapsing of Insurance: If at any time, the insurance of any sign erector is permitted to lapse, his right to obtain permits shall automatically be revoked.

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Notification of Change: A sign erector shall notify the Zoning Administrator of any change in address, and if a firm or corporation, any change in ownership or management if other than that indicated on the Insurance Certificates.

I.E. Certificate of Compliance

Compliance Certification: All signs shall be inspected at original installation and if found to be in full compliance with the provisions of this Article, shall be issued a Certificate of Compliance. The County shall cause existing signs to be inspected if deemed necessary to determine continuation of compliance with the provisions of this Article.

Responsibility of Compliance: The owner of any property on which a sign is placed and the person maintaining said sign are declared to be equally responsible for the erection, safety and condition of the sign and the area in the vicinity thereof subject to provisions of this Article.

J.F. General Sign Provisions

All signs which project over a private road or walkway, such as street signs, directional signs, or a sign on a canopy shall have under clearance from the lowest point of the sign to the ground or grade level of not less than eight (8)8 feet.

Public Rights-of-Way: No sign (or any pole or support cable of any nature) except those established and maintained by any local, county, state, or federal governments, shall be located in, project into, or overhang a public right-of-way or dedicated public easement, unless otherwise authorized in this Ordinance.

Traffic Interference: No advertising device shall be erected or maintained which simulates or imitates in size, color, lettering, or design any traffic sign or signal or other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead, confuse or create a visual impediment or safety hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

Clear Corner Vision: No sign above a height of thirty-six (36)36 inches shall be located within, project into, or overhang the triangular area formed at the intersection of any two street right-of-way lines (existing or proposed) by a straight line drawn between said right-of-way lines at a distance along each line of 25 feet from their point of intersection, unless visual under clearance can be assured on the plans. (See graphic)

Proximity to Electrical Conductors: No sign shall be erected so that any part including cables, guys, etc., will be within ten (10) feet of any electrical conductor, electric light pole, street lamp, traffic light, or other public utility pole or standard.

Illumination: No sign shall be illuminated by other than approved devices, and in no case shall any open spark or flame be used for display purposes unless specifically approved by the County Board. All illuminated signs shall be so arranged or shielded so as not to interfere with the vision of persons on adjacent thoroughfares. In no event shall light from an illuminated sign shine on adjacent property which is used for residential purposes.

Fire Escapes: No signs of any kind shall be attached to or placed upon a building in such a manner as to obstruct any fire escape.

Wall Signs: No wall sign shall project beyond or overhang the wall or any permanent architectural feature and shall not project above or beyond the highest point of the roof or parapet.

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Freestanding Signs: With respect to freestanding signs, components (supporting structures, backs, etc.) not bearing a message shall be constructed of materials that blend with the natural environment or shall be painted a neutral color to blend with the natural environment. Co-location of telecommunications facilities is encouraged on freestanding signs located within the C-3 Highway Interchange District. Freestanding signs in excess of twenty five (25) feet shall meet the “Fall Zone” requirements of telecommunication towers outlined in Section 3.20,(D)(1)(f) of this Ordinance.

Electronic message boards or changeable copymessage board signs in which the copy consists of an array of light, are permitted, provided

a. that tThe frequency of message change is not less than five (5) seconds.

b. All lights in a display shall activate simultaneously, remain activated for not less than five (5) seconds, and deactivate simultaneously.

c. Electronic message boards and message boards shall only be half the size of the total sign

d. Electronic message boards shall have automatic dimming capabilities through light sensors to meet the following regulations

a) Maximum of 3,000 Nits during dark hours

b) Maximum of 7,000 Nits during daytime hours

e. Video animation and phasing, rolling, scrolling, flashing, blending, and other transitions to the messages are prohibited.

f. Electronic message board signs are permitted by right in commercial and industrial districts and permitted by special use in residential and agricultural districts.

Billboards are permitted by special use in MDOT approved areas only.

Liability Insurance: If the vertical distance of a sign above the street is greater than the horizontal distance from the sign to the street right-of-way line and is so located as to be able to fall or be pushed onto or impacts public property in any manner, then the owner of such sign shall keep in force a public liability insurance policy in the amount of One Hundred Thousand ($100,000.00) Dollars for injury to One (1) person and Three Hundred Thousand ($300,000.00) Dollars for injury to more than One (1) person and Property Damage Insurance in the amount of Twenty-Five Thousand ($25,000.00) Dollars for damage to property. In lieu of an insurance policy as required herein, the applicant may post a bond or surety in the above required amounts with the County of Mecosta.

L.G. Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements

No sign permit is required for signs listed below. Such exemptions, however, shall not be construed to relieve the owner for its proper location, erection, and maintenance.

Government Signs: Signs erected by or on behalf of or pursuant to the authorization of a government body

Flags: Flags, pennants or insignia of any governmental or nonprofit organization when not displayed in connection with a commercial promotion or as a mean of advertising.

Address Signs: Signs not exceeding two (2) square feet in area

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Street Signs: Signs erected by any local, county, state, or federal governments

Architectural Features/Artwork: Integral decorative or architectural features of buildings or works of art, so long as such features or works do not contain letters, trademarks, moving parts, or lights.

Small Accessory Signs: Any accessory sign erected on a premise which is no more than two (2) square feet in area, The total area of all small accessory signs on one premise in AG or AF districts shall not exceed eight (8) square feet, except in Residential districts in which the total area of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed a total of six (6) square feet.

Temporary Signs, Banners, Flags: Temporary Signs, not specifically regulated in any other section of this Ordinance shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

a. No temporary sign or devices shall be located in the public right-of-way, attached to any utility pole, or located within five (5) feet from any public sidewalk or street right-of-way.

b. All temporary signs must be removed within fifteen (15) 15days of the conclusion of the event, activity, election, construction or sale, etc., for which the temporary sign is displayed. (amendment 14-007)

c. The total area, and height and number of temporary signage shall not exceed the following standards:

a) In residential districts, temporary signage shall be limited to six (6) square feet in area, and six (6) feet in height and four (4) per property.

b) In all commercial and industrial districts, temporary signage shall not exceed thirty-two (32)32 square feet, of total sign area per side or a height of eight (8) feet and two (2) per property.

b)c) In agricultural districts temporary signs shall be limited to a total of 64 square feet for all temporary signs, six (6) feet in height, and limit of six (6) signs per property.

M.H. Signs Prohibited Throughout the County

The following signs are prohibited throughout the County, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Article.

Moving Signs: Signs that revolve or are animated or that utilize movement or apparent movement to attract attention. No sign shall have blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights, or other illuminated devices such as a changing light intensity, brightness or color. No site shall utilize moving patterns of light so as to convey an illusion of motion or animation. Electronic message boards or changeable copy signs in which the copy consists of an array of light, are permitted, provided that the frequency of message change is not less than five (5) seconds. All lights in a display shall activate simultaneously, remain activated for not less than five (5) seconds, and deactivate simultaneously.

Flashing Signs: Signs which are illuminated by or in any manner incorporates lights that flash, twinkle, move, or give the appearance of movements.

Banners, Streamers: Exterior banners, pennants, spinners, other than a banner or pennant used as a permitted sign under provisions of this Article.

String Lights: Exterior string lights used in connection with a commercial premises,

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Unsafe Signs: Any sign which is structurally or electrically unsafe.

Utility Poles and Landscaping: Any sign erected on a utility pole, directional sign post, or landscaping including trees. Prohibited signs shall not include street signs erected by any local, county, state, or federal government or a public transit agency.

Business No Longer Existing (Abandoned Signs): Any business sign or sign structure now or hereafter existing which advertises a business conducted or a product sold, which no longer exists or is no longer in business on the premises on which the sign is located. Such sign shall be considered abandoned and shall, within 30 days after such abandonment, be removed by the sign owner, owner of the property where the sign is located, or other party having control over such sign.

Non-anchored Signs: Portable Signs and freestanding signs not permanently anchored or secured to either a building or the ground, , except real estate "open house" signs. except temporary signs

Signs on Vehicles: Signs displayed on any vehicle or trailer when the subject vehicle or trailer is parked in such a manner that the obvious intent is to attract attention to a business, service, or commodity on the premises.

Sign Structure Without Sign: Any sign structure or frame no longer supporting or containing a sign. The owner of the property where the sign is located shall, within 30 days of the removal of the message portion of the sign, either replace the entire message portion of the sign or remove the remaining components of the sign. This subsection shall not be construed to prevent the changing of the message of a sign.

Roof-mounted Signs.

Appendage Signs. (See Definition under Section 3.43)

Other Signs Prohibited: Other signs not expressly permitted shall be prohibited.

N.I. Construction and Maintenance Requirements

Materials and Design: All signs shall be designed, constructed and maintained in conformity with the provisions for materials, loads, and stresses of the latest adopted edition of the County Building Code and requirements of this Article.

Erector's Imprint: Signs which require a permit under this Article must carry the identification and address of the sign erector, electrical voltage (when applicable), and date of erection in clearly legible letters whether for the initial erection or re-hanging of a sign. In case of re-hanging or re-erection of any sign, the new erector must place his identification, address and the date on the sign.

Fastenings: All signs must be erected in such a manner and with such materials to remain safe and secure during the period of use and all bolts, cables, and other parts of such signs shall be kept painted and free from corrosion. Any defect due to the fault of the erector shall be repaired by the erector.

Freestanding Signs: Freestanding signs shall be securely fastened to the ground or to some other substantial supportive structure so that there is no danger that either the sign or the supportive structure may be moved by the wind or other forces and cause injury to persons or

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property. Freestanding signs shall be subject to the “Fall Zone” requirements of Section 3.20,(D)(1)(f) of this Ordinance as noted above.

Sanitation/Landscaping: Property surrounding any freestanding sign shall be kept clean, sanitary and free from obnoxious and offensive substances, weeds, debris, rubbish, and flammable material. All plant materials and other landscaping surrounding a freestanding sign shall be maintained on a regular basis, including pruning, mowing, watering, fertilizing and replacement of dead and diseased materials.

Maintenance: All signs and all components thereof, including without limitation supports, braces, and anchors, shall be kept in a state of good repair. Peeling or missing paint, holes, broken, cracked, bent, warped, rotted, discolored, sagging, out-of-plumb, worn, rusted or missing material parts shall be repaired within fifteen (15) days of written notification of the County. Failure to repair and comply with the provisions of this Ordinance shall result in the removal of said sign structure by the County with the cost of removal assigned and billed to the property owner on which the sign is located. Failure to pay the removal costs will result in the costs being included on the next property tax assessment by the County.

O.J. Nonconforming Signs

Intent: It is the intent of this Article to encourage eventual elimination of signs that as a result of the adoption of this Article become non-conforming, to administer this Article to realize the removal of illegal non-conforming signs, and to avoid any unreasonable invasion of established private property rights.

Lawful Existing Signs: Any sign lawfully existing at the time of the adoption of this Article which does not fully comply with all provisions shall be considered a legal non-conforming sign and may be permitted to remain as long as the sign is properly maintained and not detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the community except as hereafter provided.

Continuance: A non-conforming sign shall not:

a. Be expanded or changed to another nonconforming sign;

b. Be relocated, unless it comes into compliance with this ordinance.

c. Be structurally reconstructed so as to prolong the life of the sign; or so as to change the shape, size, type, placement, or design of the sign's structural parts; or so as to add illumination;

d. Be repaired or re-erected after being damaged if the repair or re- erection of the sign, within any 12-month period, would cost more than fifty (50) percent of the cost of an identical new sign. If deemed necessary by the County, the cost of an identical new sign shall be determined as the average of no less than three (3) cost estimates obtained from three (3) contractors.Be repaired if the sign has been structurally compromised; however face replacement and minor repairs may be done.

e. Be altered unless the alteration or reconstruction is in compliance with the provisions of this Article. For the purpose of this Article only, the term "altered" or "reconstructed" shall not include normal maintenance; changing of surface sign space to a lesser or equal area; landscaping below the base line; or changing electrical wiring or devices, backgrounds, letters, figures, or characters.

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Termination of Business: Nonconforming signs and sign structures shall be removed or made to conform within thirty (30) days of the termination of the business or use to which they are accessory.

Change of Property: If the owner of a sign or the premises on which a sign is located changes the location of a building so that any sign on the premises is rendered nonconforming, such sign must be removed or made to conform to this Article.

Portable and Temporary Signs: Portable and temporary signs that are nonconforming shall be altered to comply with the provisions of this Article or removed within ninety (90) days after the effective date of the adoption of this Article.

Administration: The County shall make every reasonable effort to identify all the nonconforming signs within the County. The Zoning Administrator shall keep complete records of all communications and other actions taken with respect to such nonconforming signs and all enforcement activities and actions of this Ordinance.

P.K. Permitted in Residential Districts:

For each dwelling unit, one (1) address sign meeting the standards identified herein.

Small accessory signs no more than two (2) square feet in area., The number of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed three (3).

One (1) subdivision entrance sign per vehicle entrance may be permitted on private property in compliance with the corner clearance provisions (as noted herein) and shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in area or a height of six (6) feet above grade. The location and appearance of all subdivision/condominium signs shall be subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission at the time of site plan review, provided that such signs shall be located no closer than twelve (12) feet from any property line. Adequate provisions shall also be made at the time of site plan review to insure continued maintenance of the sign.

No more than one (1) freestanding and one (1) wall institutional sign for schools, churches, libraries, or similar institutions having an area of no more than thirty-two (32) square feet, having a height of no more than six (6) feet above the established grade, and located no closer than twelve (12) feet from any property line.One freestanding sign, no more than 24 square feet, having a height of no more than eight (8) feet above grade and no closer than 12 feet from any property line for all permitted uses

One wall sign, no more than 32 square feet for all permitted uses.

Q.L. Permitted in LR:

(Height shall not exceed fifteen (15)eight (8) feet above ground level and shall be 12 feet from any property line)

For each dwelling unit, one (1) address sign meeting the standards identified herein.

Small accessory signs no more than two (2) square feet in area. These signs shall be located no closer than twelve (12) feet from any property line. The total number of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed three (3).

One (1) subdivision entrance sign per vehicle entrance may be permitted on private property in compliance with the corner clearance provisions (as noted herein) and shall not exceed twenty-four (24) square feet in area or a height of six (6) feet above grade. The location and appearance

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of all subdivision/condominium signs shall be subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission at the time of site plan review, provided that such signs shall be located no closer than twelve (12) feet from any property line. Adequate provisions shall also be made at the time of site plan review to insure continued maintenance of the sign.

No more than one (1) freestanding and one (1) wall institutional sign for schools, churches, libraries, or similar institutions having an area of no more than thirty-two (32) square feet, having a height of no more than six (6) feet above the established grade, and located no closer than twelve (12) feet from any property line. One freestanding sign, no more than 32 square feet.

One wall sign on promise no exceeding 20 percent of the square footage of the wall with a maximum of 100 square feet for all permitted uses.

For permitted commercial uses in the LR District, the total sign area for an occupied parcel of property shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet with a height no greater than fifteen (15) feet above grade.

For permitted commercial uses in the LR District, one (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per premises. Such sign shall not exceed fifteen (15) feet in height and fifty (50) square feet in area. The size of the permitted freestanding sign shall be counted against the total one hundred square feet allowed for all commercial signage as permitted above.

U.M. Permitted in AG and AF:

(Height shall not exceed twenty (20)10 feet above ground level and must be 12 feet from any property line)

Signs as permitted in all Residential Districts as noted above.

The total number of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed four (4).

Signs of a combined area of not more than thirty-two (32) square feet advertising the name and activities of a permitted nonresidential use or legal non-conforming use. Said sign shall be located on the same parcel as the use. Signs for discontinued legal non-conforming uses shall be removed as provided for in this Article.

Outdoor advertisingOff Premise – Non Billboard Signs

U. signSign area for any parcelall signs shall not exceed 200 12 square feet and shall be placed no closer than one every one-half mile.

a.

Up to 4 seasonal signs may be erected on site for a limited period of time during the year when retailing activities for a particular farm product or activity is available to the public. Said signs shall not have a total square footage of more than 64 square feet and must meet all setback requirements. (amendment #14-003)

W.N. Permitted in C-1:

(Height shall not exceed twenty (20)20 feet above ground level nor be closer than twelve (12)12 feet from any property line).

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The total sign area for an occupied parcel of property in the C-1 District shall not exceed one hundred (100) square feet per 100 feet of street frontage with the total sign area for any parcel not to exceed 200 square feet.

One (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per premises. Such sign shall not exceed seventy-five (75)75 square feet in area.

In addition to the signs allowed in paragraphs 1 and 2 above, wWall signs(s) may be erected on the rear or parking lot side of road or parking side of a structure a premises not exceeding one-half (1/2) square foot for each linear foot of the rear length of the principle building(s), provided that the total sign area shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet20 percent of the square footage of the wall with a maximum of 50 square feet per sign.

In addition gasoline service stations shall be permitted signs on each pump island indicating the prices and types of gasoline and the type of service. The aggregate area of such signs shall not exceed ten (10) square feet per pump island. In no event shall the total number of all such signs exceed twelve (12).

Directional Accessory signs, up to a total of sixteen (1634) square feet in area, designating entrances, exits, parking and unloading areas, shipping docks, and similar internal traffic control signs shall be permitted and located no closer than five (5) feet from any property line.

X.O. Permitted in C-2:

(Height shall not exceed twenty-five (25)25 feet above ground level nor be closer than twelve (12) 12 feet from any property line).

The total sign area for an occupied parcel of property in the C-2 District shall not exceed 125 square feet per 100 feet of street frontage with the total sign area for any parcel not to exceed 200 square feet.

One (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per premises. Such sign shall not exceed one hundred (100)64 square feet in area.

Wall signs may be erected on the road or parking side of a structure not exceeding 20 percent of the square footage of the wall with a maximum of 100 square feet per sign.

In addition to the signs allowed in paragraphs 1 and 2 above, wall sign(s) may be erected on the rear or parking lot side of a premises not exceeding one-half (1/2) square foot for each linear foot of the rear length of the principle building(s), provided that the total sign area shall not exceed forty-eight (48) square feet.


Theaters, except for adult-regulated uses, shall be permitted 100 square feet of sign area for changeable-message type marquee signs in addition to the district provisions of this Article.

Accessory signs, up to a total of 34 square feet in area shall be permitted and located no closer than five (5) feet from any property line.

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Directional signs, up to sixteen (16) square feet in area, designating entrances, exits, parking and unloading areas, shipping docks, and similar internal traffic control signs shall be permitted and located no closer than five (5) feet from any property line.

Z.P. Permitted in C-3:

(Height shall not exceed sixty (60)30 feet above ground level nor be closer than twelve (12)12 feet from any property line).

The total sign area for an occupied parcel of property in the C-3 District shall not exceed 150 square feet per 100 feet of street frontage with the total sign area for any parcel not to exceed 240 square feet.

One (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per premises. Such sign shall not exceed two hundred (200)100 square feet in area.


In addition to the signs allowed in paragraphs 1 and 2 above, wall sign(s) may be erected on the rear or parking lot side of a premises not exceeding one-half (1/2) square foot for each linear foot of the rear length of the principle building(s), provided that the total sign area shall not exceed sixty-four (64) square feet.




BB.Q. Permitted in I-1:

(Height shall not exceed eight (twenty (20) 8) feet above ground level nor be closer than twelve (12)12 feet from any property line).


One (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per premises. Such sign shall not exceed 64 square feet in area.

One (1) wall sign may be erected per building face up to one-hundred (100) square feet.

One (1) freestanding (ground or pole mounted) sign may be erected provided said sign does not exceed one-hundred (100) square feet of display area per side. Such sign shall be erected no closer than twenty (20) feet from any property line.

In addition to signs permitted in paragraph 1 above, one (1) wall sign shall be permitted for each tenant having an individual means of entranceway into the side or rear of a building. Such sign shall

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not exceed sixteen (16) square feet in area, and shall be erected not less than four (4) feet or more than twelve (12) feet above the established grade.



RO

W

ROW 25 ‘

25

‘ No sign

taller

than 36

inches in

triangle

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Date of Public Hearing: July 7, 2016

Comments From:

Township Boards: None

Health Department: None

Planning Commission: Plan Commission requested in the AF zoning districts that the distance from the road be decreased from 12 feet to 2 feet.

Others: None

Other Information: None

Planning Commission Action: Mike Tillman made a motion to recommended approval with the recommended change to the Board of Commissioners, seconded by Bill Routley. Recommendation was passed with a unanimous roll call vote.

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ORDINANCE NO. 16-003 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MECOSTA COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCE, ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

THE PROVISIONS OF PUBLIC ACT 110 of 2006, AS AMENDED. The Mecosta County Board of Commissioners, State of Michigan, ordains: Section 1. The Mecosta County Zoning Text, which is part of the Mecosta County Zoning Ordinance, adopted June 20,

2002, and effective August 5, 2002, is amended by changing and adding of ARTICLE III SECTION 3.43 SIGN REGULATIONS as follows:

SECTION 3.43 SIGN REGULATIONS

A. Purpose and Intent

It is hereby determined that regulation of the location, size, placement and certain features of signs is necessary to enable the public to locate goods, services and facilities without difficulty and confusion, to promote traffic safety, safeguard public health and welfare, and facilitate police and fire protection.

In addition, it is the intent of this Ordinance to assure the continued attractiveness of the total community environment through the adoption of discretionary controls designed to preserve scenic, aesthetic and economic values within the County.

These regulations are designed to permit maximum legibility and effectiveness of signs and to prevent their over-concentration, improper placement and excessive height, bulk and area. In general, it is intended that signs of a general commercial or industrial nature be prohibited in districts where commercial or industrial activities are prohibited and that signs in residential districts be limited to those directly related to activities on the premises.

B. Definitions

The following words and phrases shall have the meanings set forth in this Section when they are used in this Section:

Accessory Sign: A sign which pertains to the principal use of the premises upon which such sign is located.

Appendage Sign: A sign that is intended to draw attention to one or more of various services, items for sale, contests, etc., and is attached as an appendage to an accessory sign, sign support or any part of a sign structure. Appendage signs are prohibited throughout the County.

Banner Sign: A sign on paper, cloth, fabric or other combustible material of any kind, either with or without frames, used for a temporary purpose.

Billboard: A large (over 200 square feet) permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or non-commercial messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.

Building Frontage: The length of the portion of a building facing a street abutting to the premises on which a business is located.

Bulletin Board: A sign with temporary or replaceable letters or characters, used to announce dates of functions or activities.

Canopy: A suspended covering, often movable, placed above a door, window, or other entranceway. Canopies can be constructed of cloth, metal, wood, or other materials.

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emitchell

Text Box

CP 6-2a

Electronic Message Board: A sign that is designed so that its characters, letters, illustrations, or other content can be changed, altered, or rearranged without physically altering the permanent physical face or surface of a sign. The message of an electronic message board can only be varied by electrical or electronic means and not manually.

Flag: A banner of distinctive design used as a symbol.

Flashing Sign: A sign that contains sequential flashing light source or reflects light intermittently from either an artificial source or from the sun and is used solely to attract attention in a non-informative way.

Freestanding Sign: A sign supported by one or more uprights, poles, pylons or braces placed in or upon the ground and not attached to any building or other structure.

Grade: The average elevation of an area within a radius (of the sign base) equal to two times the height of the sign.

Illuminated Sign: A sign which has characters, letters, figures, or designs which are illuminated either internally or with external shielded lights.

Interior Sign: A sign which is visible from any public street, sidewalk, alley, park or public property and located within a building.

Marquee Sign: A sign attached to or hung from a marquee, canopy or other covered structure projecting from and supported by the building.

Maximum Sign Height: Shall be measured from grade or sidewalk to the highest edge of the sign surface or its projecting structure.

Message Board: A sign with removable characters, letters, or other content that can be changed, altered, or rearranged without physically altering the permanent physical face or surface of a sign. The message of a message board can only be varied manually and not by electrical, electronic, or other means.

Moving Sign: A sign that has motion either constantly or at intervals or that gives the impression of movement.

Off Premises Sign: A sign providing information pertaining to activities, products or services not located on the same property as the sign.

Portable Sign: A sign, sign board, or banner which is not permanently anchored or secured to either a building, structure or the ground; or any sign attached to a trailer or other vehicle not accessory to the vehicle or its use, but used with the express intent of advertising.

Premises: A lot or group of lots with one or more buildings which functions as a single use is under the same ownership or control and is not divided by a public street. Multiple tenants of single premises may share common entranceway and off-street parking. Examples of premises include a shopping center, a multiple family apartment complex, and an educational or medical campus.

Projecting Sign: A sign so constructed and erected as to be attached at one end to a building, metal pole or other structure, and projecting there from.

Roof Sign: A sign which is erected, constructed and maintained on or above the roof of a building or any portion thereof. Roof signs are prohibited in the County.

Sign: Any visual or graphic device designed through use of words, numbers, characters, or symbols to inform or attract attention and which is designated to be visible from outside any building or structure in which, upon which, or attached to which it may be located.

Sign Area: The entire area within a circle, triangle, rectangle or other geometric shape enclosing the extreme limits of writing, representation, emblem or any figure of similar character, together with any frame or other material, graphic or color forming an integral part of the display or message, or used to differentiate the sign from the background against which it is placed; excluding the necessary supports or uprights on which such sign is placed, if no advertising matter is placed thereon.

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Sign Erector: Any person engaged in the business of erecting, constructing, altering, or removing signs on a contractual or hourly basis.

Temporary Sign: A sign intended to be displayed for a limited period of time

Wall Sign: A sign attached to, painted on, inscribed, or otherwise set upon the exterior wall or surface of any building. A mural, a sign painted or inscribed on a canopy, and channel letter signs shall be considered wall signs.

C. Computation of Sign Area.

For the purposes of this Ordinance, the total area of a sign shall be expressed in square feet and shall be computed as follows:

1. Single-Face Sign: The total area of a single-face sign shall be computed as the number of square feet within any single geometric shapes -- such as a square, rectangle, triangle or circle -- encompassing the extreme limits of an individual letter(s), word(s), message(s), representation, emblem or any similar figure, including open space(s), together with any frame or other material forming an integral part of display used to differentiate such sign from the background against which it is placed.

2. Double-Face Signs: For double-face signs having two (2) faces of equal size arranged and/or positioned back to back, parallel to each other, with no more than a two (2) foot space between the two faces; the area of the sign shall be computed as one-half (1/2) the total area of the two (2) faces. When the faces of such a sign are not of equal area, then the area of the sign shall be computed as the total area of the largest face.

3. Three-Dimensional Signs: For signs which are designed as a three- dimensioned geometric form such as a sphere, cone, cylinder, or cube; the area shall be computed as one- half (1/2) the total surface of the geometric form.

D. Permit Required for Signs

1. Sign Erection Permit: It shall be unlawful for any person to construct, erect, re-erect, move, alter, enlarge, or illuminate, any sign unless a zoning permit shall have been first obtained from the County, except as provided in Section 3.43 (H) (Signs Exempt from Permit Requirement). Any sign that makes use of electricity shall, in addition to a sign permit, require an electrical permit, regardless of size; also a building permit may be required.

2. Sign Maintenance or Change of Message: No permit shall be required for ordinary servicing, repainting of existing sign message, or cleaning of a sign. No permit is required for change of message of a sign designed for periodic message change without change of structure, including a bulletin board or billboard, but not including a sign to which a new permanent face may be attached.

3. Sign Erector Requirements: Permits for the erection of signs shall only be issued to licensed sign installers and general contractors qualified to carry on such work under the provisions of this Article.

4. Permit Applications: Applications for sign permits shall be made upon forms provided by the Mecosta County Building & Zoning Department for this purpose and shall be completed as required.

E. Certificate of Compliance

1. Compliance Certification: All signs shall be inspected at original installation and if found to be in full compliance with the provisions of this Article, shall be issued a Certificate of Compliance. The County shall cause existing signs to be inspected if deemed necessary to determine continuation of compliance with the provisions of this Article.

2. Responsibility of Compliance: The owner of any property on which a sign is placed and the person maintaining said sign are declared to be equally responsible for the erection, safety and condition of the sign and the area in the vicinity thereof subject to provisions of this Article.

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F. General Sign Provisions

All signs which project over a private road or walkway, such as street signs, directional signs, or a sign on a canopy shall have under clearance from the lowest point of the sign to the ground or grade level of not less than 8 feet.

1. Public Rights-of-Way: No sign (or any pole or support cable of any nature) except those established and maintained by any local, county, state, or federal governments, shall be located in, project into, or overhang a public right-of-way or dedicated public easement, unless otherwise authorized in this Ordinance.

2. Traffic Interference: No advertising device shall be erected or maintained which simulates or imitates in size, color, lettering, or design any traffic sign or signal or other word, phrase, symbol, or character in such manner as to interfere with, mislead, confuse or create a visual impediment or safety hazard to pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

3. Clear Corner Vision: No sign above a height of 36 inches shall be located within, project into, or overhang the triangular area formed at the intersection of any two street right-of-way lines (existing or proposed) by a straight line drawn between said right-of-way lines at a distance along each line of 25 feet from their point of intersection, unless visual under clearance can be assured on the plans. (See graphic)

4. Proximity to Electrical Conductors: No sign shall be erected so that any part including cables, guys, etc., will be within ten (10) feet of any electrical conductor, electric light pole, street lamp, traffic light, or other public utility pole or standard.

5. Illumination: No sign shall be illuminated by other than approved devices, and in no case shall any open spark or flame be used for display purposes unless specifically approved by the County Board. All illuminated signs shall be so arranged or shielded so as not to interfere with the vision of persons on adjacent thoroughfares. In no event shall light from an illuminated sign shine on adjacent property which is used for residential purposes.

6. Fire Escapes: No signs of any kind shall be attached to or placed upon a building in such a manner as to obstruct any fire escape.

7. Wall Signs: No wall sign shall project beyond or overhang the wall or any permanent architectural feature and shall not project above or beyond the highest point of the roof or parapet.

8. Freestanding Signs: With respect to freestanding signs, components (supporting structures, backs, etc.) not bearing a message shall be constructed of materials that blend with the natural environment or shall be painted a neutral color to blend with the natural environment. Co-location of telecommunications facilities is encouraged on freestanding signs located within the C-3 Highway Interchange District. Freestanding signs in excess of twenty five (25) feet shall meet the “Fall Zone” requirements of telecommunication towers outlined in Section 3.20,(D)(1)(f) of this Ordinance.

9. Electronic message boards or message board signs in which the copy consists of an array of light, are permitted, provided

a. The frequency of message change is not less than five (5) seconds.

b. All lights in a display shall activate simultaneously, remain activated for not less than five (5) seconds, and deactivate simultaneously.

c. Electronic message boards and message boards shall only be half the size of the total sign

d. Electronic message boards shall have automatic dimming capabilities through light sensors to meet the following regulations

a) Maximum of 3,000 Nits during dark hours

b) Maximum of 7,000 Nits during daytime hours

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e. Video animation and phasing, rolling, scrolling, flashing, blending, and other transitions to the messages are prohibited.

f. Electronic message board signs are permitted by right in commercial and industrial districts and permitted by special use in residential and agricultural districts.

10. Billboards are permitted by special use in MDOT approved areas only.

G. Signs Exempt from Permit Requirements

No sign permit is required for signs listed below. Such exemptions, however, shall not be construed to relieve the owner for its proper location, erection, and maintenance.

1. Government Signs: Signs erected by or on behalf of or pursuant to the authorization of a government body

2. Flags: Flags, pennants or insignia of any governmental or nonprofit organization when not displayed in connection with a commercial promotion or as a mean of advertising.

3. Address Signs: Signs not exceeding two (2) square feet in area

4. Street Signs: Signs erected by any local, county, state, or federal governments

5. Architectural Features/Artwork: Integral decorative or architectural features of buildings or works of art, so long as such features or works do not contain letters, trademarks, moving parts, or lights.

6. Small Accessory Signs: Any accessory sign erected on a premise which is no more than two (2) square feet in area, The total area of all small accessory signs on one premise in AG or AF districts shall not exceed eight (8) square feet, except in Residential districts in which the total area of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed a total of six (6) square feet.

7. Temporary Signs, Banners, Flags: Temporary Signs, not specifically regulated in any other section of this Ordinance shall be permitted subject to the following conditions:

a. No temporary sign or devices shall be located in the public right-of-way, attached to any utility pole, or located within five (5) feet from any public sidewalk or street right-of-way.

b. All temporary signs must be removed within 15days of the conclusion of the event, activity, election, construction or sale, etc., for which the temporary sign is displayed. (amendment 14-007)

c. The total area, height and number of temporary signage shall not exceed the following standards:

a) In residential districts, temporary signage shall be limited to six (6) square feet in area, six (6) feet in height and four (4) per property

b) In all commercial and industrial districts, temporary signage shall not exceed 32 square feet, height of eight (8) feet and two (2) per property

c) In agricultural districts temporary signs shall be limited to a total of 64 square feet for all temporary signs, six (6) feet in height, and limit of six (6) signs per property.

H. Signs Prohibited Throughout the County

The following signs are prohibited throughout the County, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Article.

1. Moving Signs: Signs that revolve or are animated or that utilize movement or apparent movement to attract attention. No sign shall have blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights, No site shall utilize moving patterns of light so as to convey an illusion of motion or animation.

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2. Flashing Signs: Signs which are illuminated by or in any manner incorporates lights that flash, twinkle, move, or give the appearance of movements.

3. Banners, Streamers: Exterior banners, pennants, spinners, other than a banner or pennant used as a permitted sign under provisions of this Article.

4. String Lights: Exterior string lights used in connection with a commercial premises,

5. Unsafe Signs: Any sign which is structurally or electrically unsafe.

6. Utility Poles and Landscaping: Any sign erected on a utility pole, directional sign post, or landscaping including trees. Prohibited signs shall not include street signs erected by any local, county, state, or federal government or a public transit agency.

7. Business No Longer Existing (Abandoned Signs): Any business sign or sign structure now or hereafter existing which advertises a business conducted or a product sold, which no longer exists or is no longer in business on the premises on which the sign is located. Such sign shall be considered abandoned and shall, within 30 days after such abandonment, be removed by the sign owner, owner of the property where the sign is located, or other party having control over such sign.

8. Non-anchored Signs: Portable Signs and freestanding signs not permanently anchored or secured to either a building or the ground, except temporary signs

9. Signs on Vehicles: Signs displayed on any vehicle or trailer when the subject vehicle or trailer is parked in such a manner that the obvious intent is to attract attention to a business, service, or commodity on the premises.

10. Sign Structure Without Sign: Any sign structure or frame no longer supporting or containing a sign. The owner of the property where the sign is located shall, within 30 days of the removal of the message portion of the sign, either replace the entire message portion of the sign or remove the remaining components of the sign. This subsection shall not be construed to prevent the changing of the message of a sign.

11. Roof-mounted Signs.

12. Appendage Signs. (See Definition under Section 3.43)

13. Other Signs Prohibited: Other signs not expressly permitted shall be prohibited.

I. Construction and Maintenance Requirements

1. Materials and Design: All signs shall be designed, constructed and maintained in conformity with the provisions for materials, loads, and stresses of the latest adopted edition of the County Building Code and requirements of this Article.

2. Erector's Imprint: Signs which require a permit under this Article must carry the identification and address of the sign erector, electrical voltage (when applicable), and date of erection in clearly legible letters whether for the initial erection or re-hanging of a sign. In case of re-hanging or re-erection of any sign, the new erector must place his identification, address and the date on the sign.

3. Fastenings: All signs must be erected in such a manner and with such materials to remain safe and secure during the period of use and all bolts, cables, and other parts of such signs shall be kept painted and free from corrosion. Any defect due to the fault of the erector shall be repaired by the erector.

4. Freestanding Signs: Freestanding signs shall be securely fastened to the ground or to some other substantial supportive structure so that there is no danger that either the sign or the supportive structure may be moved by the wind or other forces and cause injury to persons or property. Freestanding signs shall be subject to the “Fall Zone” requirements of Section 3.20,(D)(1)(f) of this Ordinance as noted above.

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5. Sanitation/Landscaping: Property surrounding any freestanding sign shall be kept clean, sanitary and free from obnoxious and offensive substances, weeds, debris, rubbish, and flammable material. All plant materials and other landscaping surrounding a freestanding sign shall be maintained on a regular basis, including pruning, mowing, watering, fertilizing and replacement of dead and diseased materials.

6. Maintenance: All signs and all components thereof, including without limitation supports, braces, and anchors, shall be kept in a state of good repair. Peeling or missing paint, holes, broken, cracked, bent, warped, rotted, discolored, sagging, out-of-plumb, worn, rusted or missing material parts shall be repaired within fifteen (15) days of written notification of the County. Failure to repair and comply with the provisions of this Ordinance shall result in the removal of said sign structure by the County with the cost of removal assigned and billed to the property owner on which the sign is located. Failure to pay the removal costs will result in the costs being included on the next property tax assessment by the County.

J. Nonconforming Signs

1. Intent: It is the intent of this Article to encourage eventual elimination of signs that as a result of the adoption of this Article become non-conforming, to administer this Article to realize the removal of illegal non-conforming signs, and to avoid any unreasonable invasion of established private property rights.

2. Lawful Existing Signs: Any sign lawfully existing at the time of the adoption of this Article which does not fully comply with all provisions shall be considered a legal non-conforming sign and may be permitted to remain as long as the sign is properly maintained and not detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the community except as hereafter provided.

3. Continuance: A non-conforming sign shall not:

a. Be expanded or changed to another nonconforming sign;

b. Be relocated, unless it comes into compliance with this ordinance.

c. Be structurally reconstructed so as to prolong the life of the sign; or so as to change the shape, size, type, placement, or design of the sign's structural parts; or so as to add illumination;

d. Be repaired if the sign has been structurally compromised; however face replacement and minor repairs may be done.

e. Be altered unless the alteration or reconstruction is in compliance with the provisions of this Article. For the purpose of this Article only, the term "altered" or "reconstructed" shall not include normal maintenance; changing of surface sign space to a lesser or equal area; landscaping below the base line; or changing electrical wiring or devices, backgrounds, letters, figures, or characters.

4. Termination of Business: Nonconforming signs and sign structures shall be removed or made to conform within thirty (30) days of the termination of the business or use to which they are accessory.

5. Change of Property: If the owner of a sign or the premises on which a sign is located changes the location of a building so that any sign on the premises is rendered nonconforming, such sign must be removed or made to conform to this Article.

6. Portable and Temporary Signs: Portable and temporary signs that are nonconforming shall be altered to comply with the provisions of this Article or removed within ninety (90) days after the effective date of the adoption of this Article.

7. Administration: The County shall make every reasonable effort to identify all the nonconforming signs within the County. The Zoning Administrator shall keep complete records of all communications and other actions taken with respect to such nonconforming signs and all enforcement activities and actions of this Ordinance.

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K. Permitted in Residential Districts:

1. For each dwelling unit, one (1) address sign meeting the standards identified herein.

2. Small accessory signs no more than two (2) square feet in area. The number of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed three (3).

3. One freestanding sign, no more than 24 square feet, having a height of no more than eight (8) feet above grade and no closer than 12 feet from any property line for all permitted uses

4. One wall sign, no more than 32 square feet for all permitted uses.

L. Permitted in LR:

Height shall not exceed eight (8) feet above ground level and shall be 12 feet from any property line

1. For each dwelling unit, one (1) address sign meeting the standards identified herein.

2. Small accessory signs no more than two (2) square feet in area. These signs shall be located no closer than 12 feet from any property line. The total number of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed three (3).

3. One freestanding sign, no more than 32 square feet.

4. One wall sign on promise no exceeding 20 percent of the square footage of the wall with a maximum of 100 square feet for all permitted uses.

M. Permitted in AG and AF:

Height shall not exceed 10 feet above ground level and must be 2 feet from any property line

1. Signs as permitted in Residential Districts as noted above.

2. The total number of all small accessory signs on one premise shall not exceed four (4).

3. Off Premise – Non Billboard Signs

a. Sign area for all signs shall not exceed 12 square feet and shall be placed no closer than one every one-half mile.

N. Permitted in C-1:

Height shall not exceed 20 feet above ground level nor be closer than 12 feet from any property line.

1. One (1) freestanding sign may be allowed per premises. Such sign shall not exceed 75 square feet in area.

2. Wall signs may be erected on the road or parking side of a structure not exceeding 20 percent of the square footage of the wall with a maximum of 50 square feet per sign.

3. Accessory signs, up to a total of 34 square feet in area shall be permitted and located no closer than five (5) feet from any property line.

O. Permitted in C-2:



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P. Permitted in C-3:





Q. Permitted in I-1:

Height shall not exceed eight (8) feet above ground level nor be closer than 12 feet from any property line.




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Section 2. This ordinance shall become effective 7 days after publication of the notice of adoption as required under MCL 125.3401.

ROW

ROW 25 ‘

25 ‘

No sign taller than 36 inches in triangle

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Date Adopted: Mecosta County Board of Commissioners Motion By: Supported By: ROLL CALL VOTE:

___________________________________________ Eric O’neil, Chairman MECOSTA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS I, Marcee M. Purcell, being the Clerk of Mecosta County and Clerk for the Mecosta County Board of Commissioners, do hereby certify that the Board Adopted the above amendment to the Mecosta County Zoning Ordinance, at a regular meeting of The Board held on _July 21, 2016. ________________________________________

Marcee M. Purcell, Mecosta County Clerk ___________________________________ Date Approved

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ZONING AMENDMENT RECOMMENDATIONS July 7, 2016

To: Mecosta County Board of Commissioners

From: Mecosta County Planning Commission

Re: Proposed Ordinance 16-004

Application presented by: Mecosta County Planning Commission 14485 Northland Drive Big Rapids MI 49307

Requested Action: Amend Zoning Ordinance Text as follows (Undeline indicates new language, strike out indicates language removed):

Section 2.17 C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District

C. Special Use Approval

12. Sawmills

Date of Public Hearing: July 7, 2016

Comments From:

Township Boards: None

Health Department: None

Planning Commission: None

Others: None

Other Information: None

Planning Commission Action: Ashley Adams made a motion to recommended approval to the Board of Commissioners, seconded by Gary Lambrix. Recommendation was passed with a unanimous roll call vote.

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ORDINANCE NO. 16-004 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE MECOSTA COUNTY ZONING ORDINANCE, ADOPTED PURSUANT TO

THE PROVISIONS OF PUBLIC ACT 110 of 2006, AS AMENDED. The Mecosta County Board of Commissioners, State of Michigan, ordains: Section 1. The Mecosta County Zoning Text, which is part of the Mecosta County Zoning Ordinance, adopted June 20,

2002, and effective August 5, 2002, is amended by changing and adding of ARTICLE II SECTION 2.17, C-1 NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICT C. SPECIAL USE APPROVAL as follows: Section 2.17 C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District C. Special Use Approval

12. Sawmills Section 2. This ordinance shall become effective 7 days after publication of the notice of adoption as required under MCL 125.3401. Date Adopted: Mecosta County Board of Commissioners Motion By: Supported By: ROLL CALL VOTE:

___________________________________________ Eric O’neil, Chairman MECOSTA COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS I, Marcee M. Purcell, being the Clerk of Mecosta County and Clerk for the Mecosta County Board of Commissioners, do hereby certify that the Board Adopted the above amendment to the Mecosta County Zoning Ordinance, at a regular meeting of The Board held on _July 21, 2016. ________________________________________

Marcee M. Purcell, Mecosta County Clerk ___________________________________ Date Approved

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MECOSTA COUNTY PARK COMMISSION March 15, 2016

The March, 2016 meeting was called to order by the Chairman at the Mecosta County Administration Building in Paris, Michigan, at 6:00 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Mrs. Vargo, Mrs. Fitzgerald, Mr. Maxwell, Mr. O’Neil, Mr. Perialas, Mr. Stanek, Mr. Stratton, Mr. Vogel, MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr. Johnson and Mr. Wheeler Also present: Jeff Abel – Superintendent, Karen Morningstar – Operations Manager, Kathy Maclean – Administrative Clerk and Don Hamilton of Lapham Associates.

Roll Call Approval of Agenda: Mr. Stanek moved, seconded by Mr. Vogel to approve the Agenda with two recommended additions. Motion carried.

Minutes: Mr. O’Neil motioned, seconded by Mrs. Fitzgerald to approve the minutes of the February 23rd Board Meeting, February 26th Millage Committee Meeting and March 4th Millage Meeting as presented. Motion carried.

Public Comment: Jim Chapman, representative from Boy Scout Troup 114 shared his concern with the Boy Scout lock being cut at the WPVRA. Board requested the Troup look at the cabin roof and provide a plan of improvement. Mr. Chapman discussed possible removal of the wood shed. Mr. Chapman provided a verbal history of the land as being designated to the youth of Mecosta County. The Scouts would like to continue to use the land as described. History was discussed regarding The County Board of Supervisors allocation of the land. Building code regarding the cabin was questioned regarding the safety and condition of the structure. Aaron & Michele from the County Building and Zoning department were recommended to analyze the structure. Mr. Chapman stated the Scouts use the property around 12 times a year and that it is open to any youth organization if approval from the Park Commission is obtained.

Reports & Updates Superintendent’s Updates Current Projects Status: Roof Replacement Project School Section Bathhouse Update Brower & Davis Bridge update from Consumer DNR Release of Buildings Update Itinio-Reservation Software Update Logging Completed at SS & Brower Park Concessions Contracts Update WPVRA Timber Sale Website Update Tubing Operation Update

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Wi-Fi Update Transaction Fee Schedule Review New Issues: Big Country Auction Proposal Completed issues/Items: 2016 Campground Licenses Finalized Cabin Furniture Replacement - 65 sets of bunks and 26 dressers received from Ferris Fire extinguisher inspection 2016 completed Presentation-Mecosta County Development Corporation Incident/Accident Reports: 1 Incident reported. Correspondence: None Committee Actions Finance

Goose Roundup proposal reviewed. MCPC would pay the DNR fee plus company charges. The company provides the dogs, crates, on shore equipment, and personnel; MCPC to provide up to 3 boats and drivers to locate and push geese. Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mr. Vogel that we hire Goose Control of West Michigan. Motion carried with unanimous roll call vote.

Masterplan Merrill-Gorrel Grant Recommendation/Resolution - Mr. Perialas moved, seconded by Mr. Maxwell to recommend to the County Board of Commissioners to approve and submit the application for the 2016 DNR Passport Recreation Grant for Merrill-Gorrel drainage and road improvements. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote. FSSLVP Update - A meeting is scheduled for tomorrow. The Superintendent will attend with various Park Board members to be provided with a project update. Skyweb Brower-WIFI Proposal was reviewed and discussed. Mr. Stanek motioned, Mrs. Fitzgerald seconded that we approve moving forward with Skyweb and refer a fee rate schedule to the Finance Committee, pending the approval of Consumer Energy, Mecosta Township and the County Administrator. Discussion period was held. Roll call vote, Yeas - Mrs. Vargo, Mrs. Fitzgerald, Mr. Perialas and Mr. Stanek. Nays – Mr. O’Neil, Mr. Maxwell, Mr. Stratton and Mr. Wheeler. Motion denied.

Personnel Returning Staff – Spreadsheet was reviewed. 18 Positions are available for new employees.

Rules & Regulations Amendment to County Board – Item is on the March 17th County Board of Commissioners agenda for review and recommended approval.

Millage Committee Logos - millage logos were revealed

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Update - Ballot Language Masterplan Amendment - Millage ballot language and the Amendment to the Parks Masterplan were approved during the previous meeting of the County Board of Commissioners. Upcoming Schedule - Grant application requests were submitted to the County Board for review and approval of resolutions, tasks list were developed, calendar of meetings schedule is being developed. Additional Updates - Hatchery building structure is sound; the formal report will be received soon. School Section conceptual engineering plan development is on-going. Free weekends - The Commission discussed offering free daily vehicle entry into the parks a couple of times each season. This would allow local residents the opportunity to visit the parks and experience the amenities available. Mr. Stratton suggested establishing a cut-off time during the afternoon. Mr. Perialas motioned, Mr. Maxwell supported permitting the Superintendent, in conjunction with the Finance & Masterplan Committees, to offer 2 weekends of free daily vehicle entry. Motion carried unanimously with a roll call vote.

Financial Financial Report - Revenue & Expenses was reviewed. Contractual Obligations spreadsheet was reviewed. Approval of Bills Mr. O’Neil motioned, seconded by Mr. Stanek to approve the bills, in the amounts of:

Pre-Approved: $5501.96 Customary & Ordinary $26038.31 Board Meeting Bills: $4885.14

Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

Public Comment: None

Other Business: Administration Office closing at noon on March 25th in observation of Good Friday. Park Open Dates: April 29th – Brower, May 6th – School Section, Merrill/Gorrel, Paris. Next Board Meeting is scheduled for 6 PM, April 19th @ the Admin Office Building in Paris. Finance Meeting scheduled for 5 PM, April 19th @ the Admin Office Building in Paris. Personnel Meeting scheduled for Noon, March 22nd. Masterplan Meeting TBD after April 10th.

Meeting adjourned: 8:35 PM Respectfully submitted, Jackie Fitzgerald Secretary

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MECOSTA COUNTY PARK COMMISSION April 19, 2016

The April, 2016 meeting was called to order by the Chair at the Mecosta County Administration Building in Paris, Michigan, at 6:00 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Mrs. Vargo, Mrs. Fitzgerald, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Maxwell, Mr. Perialas, Mr. Stanek, Mr. Stratton, Mr. Wheeler and Mr. Vogel.

MEMBERS ABSENT: Mr. O’Neil. OTHERS PRESENT Jeff Abel – Superintendent, Karen Morningstar – Operations Manager and Kathy Maclean – Administrative Clerk.

Approval of Agenda Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mr. Perialas to accept the agenda as presented. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes Mr. Stratton motioned, seconded by Mr. Vogel to accept the Minutes of the March 11th Millage Committee Meeting, March 18th Millage Committee Meeting, March 15th Board Meeting, March 22nd Personnel Committee Meeting, April 1st Millage Committee Meeting, and April 11th Personnel Committee Meeting Motion carried.


Reports and Updates Friends of School Section Lake Update – Linda Howard provided a financial update. Art Diehm provided a contractor status report on the Stone Pavilion renovations. The roof will be the last phase of the project to be completed; a lead time of two to three weeks is needed for the roof steel. A formal request was presented to the board to authorize Mr. Diehm to order the roofing materials needed, to be received and stored off site until funds to cover the cost of installation are raised. Mr. Wheeler motioned, seconded by Mr. Vogel to authorize Mr. Diehm to order the steel roofing at $15,000. Motion carried unanimously with a roll call vote.

Superintendent’s Updates

Superintendent provided an update containing 16 items. Action was taken by the board on 2 of those items as listed below:

• Cabin Transportation & Foundation - The Finance Committee recommends to the Commission to authorize the expense of moving, foundations and electric for the family cabins. Mr. Perialas motioned, seconded by Mr. Johnson to authorize the Superintendent to spend up to $10,000 to secure transportation, foundation and electric service for the School Section Lake family cabins. Motion carried unanimously with a roll call vote.

• Paris Manager’s Trailer - The DNR has two interns seeking housing from the beginning of May until the end of September. Paris Park has the opportunity to rent the available trailer to the interns. The Commission discussed deposit and rental rates. Mr. Perialas motioned, seconded by Mrs. Fitzgerald to authorize the Superintendent to negotiate rates and enter into a lease agreement for the rental of the Paris Park manager’s trailer. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

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Parks for Life Update – The Parks for Life committee meeting dates and times were discussed. Board members that are eligible to participate were encourage to take part in the upcoming meetings of this independent group.

Incident/Accident Reports – None

Correspondence - None

Committee Actions Finance Committee

Road Commission – Grading & Brine Fees - The Finance Committee recommended the park roads be graded and brined as needed prior to park opening and before all major holidays. Mr. Perialas motioned, seconded by Mr. Johnson that the park roads be graded and brined by the County Road Commission up to four times. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote. Brower WI-FI - Finance Committee recommends to the board to pursue Brower Wi-Fi service from Skyweb. Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mr. Perialas to contract Skyweb to install Wi-Fi services in Brower Park at an installation cost of $12,969.69 and yearly service cost of $2,148.94/year. Services will be available from Skyweb to campers at a rate schedule of $10/week, $20/month and $50/season for up to 3 devices per payment. Motion carried unanimously with a roll call vote. Community Event – Free Entry Weekend - The Finance Committee recommended the Commission provide a free entry weekend in conjunction with the DNR free fishing weekend. Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mr. Perialas to offer free daily vehicle entry into all Mecosta County Parks the weekend of June 11th and 12th. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote. Tubing Operation -The Park Board has authorized the Superintendent to acquire vehicle quotes from local dealers and state surplus. Brower Lottery Process - Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mr. Maxwell to hold the Brower Seasonal Lottery in August during the same weekend, or prior to the other campgrounds on the Hardy Pond reservoir. Motion carried Hardy Pond Trail Update – The Hardy Pond Trail will be referred to as “The Dragon” moving forward. This is due to the shape of the trail as it outlines the Hardy Pond. At the last Dragon Trail meeting financing options related to the maintenance of the trail were discussed. It is expected that the Park Board will be contacted in the near future for input related to the maintenance funding proposed by the trail committee.

Masterplan Committee

Grants Submitted – Letters of Support were reviewed with the board.

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Hatchery Report Review – Review of the 34 page report has been referred to Masterplan. A Masterplan Meeting is to be scheduled.

Personnel Committee

2016 Staff Outlook - One position remains open at School Section. Job Descriptions - Superintendent, Operations Manager and Administrative Office Clerk job descriptions have been modified and are recommended for approval. Mr. Stratton motioned, seconded by Mr. Vogel to accept the modifications to the job descriptions as presented. Motion carried. Organizational Chart – Modifications to the parks organizational chart were recommend. Mr. Stratton motioned, seconded by Mrs. Vargo to modify the organizational chart to have all full-time staff report to the Superintendent and Seasonal Roving Maintenance report to the Operations Manager. Motion carried.

Millage Committee

Marketing Materials Update - 1000 additional bumper stickers and 1000 additional pins have been ordered. An advertisement and article have been submitted to the Canadian Lakes Communique. 5000 educational flyers have been printed for distribution to absentee voters, expo’s, presentation attendees and park guests. Upcoming Events - The following events have been scheduled: All Township Meeting, Chamber Board, Community Expo, Chippewa Township, Senior Center, Morton Township, Rotary and the Chamber Golf Open.

Financial Financial Report – Revenue & Expenses & Cash Spreadsheet were reviewed. Capital Obligations Summary – Was reviewed Approval of Bills - Mr. Perialas motioned, seconded by Mr. Johnson to approve the Park bills in the amounts of:

Pre-Approved bills: $213.85, $3603.48 Customary & Ordinary: $10,477.21, $21,928.25

Board Meeting: $61,336.49 Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

Public Comment John Pasquentonio updated the Commission of the trail progress at the White Pine Valley Recreation Area. In addition, he has requested barriers be installed in the parking area, a new post for the gate and directional signage to the park location.

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Jim Buchanan thanked the Superintendent and the Board of Commissioners on the noticeable Brower Park improvements.

Other Business Board Member Hang Tags – Handed out.

Board Member 15 years + Lifetime Pass - Discussion deferred until next Board Meeting in respect of Mr. O’Neil’s absence.

Next Meeting - May 17th @ the Admin Office Building in Paris, MI. with a pot luck style picnic preceding at 5 PM.

Adjournment: 8 PM

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MECOSTA COUNTY PARK COMMISSION May 17, 2016

The May, 2016 meeting was called to order by the Chair at the Mecosta County Administration Building in Paris, Michigan, at 6:00 PM. Members Present: Mrs. Vargo, Mrs. Fitzgerald, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Maxwell, Mr. O’Neil, Mr. Perialas, Mr. Stanek, Mr. Stratton, Mr. Wheeler and Mr. Vogel.

Members Absent: None Others Present: Jeff Abel – Superintendent, Karen Morningstar – Operations Manager and Kathy Maclean – Administrative Clerk.

Approval of Agenda Mr. Perialas motioned, seconded by Mr. O’Neil to accept the agenda as presented. Motion carried.

Approval of Minutes Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mr. Wheeler to accept the Minutes of the April 15th Millage Committee Meeting, April 19th Finance Committee Meeting, and April 19th Board Meeting. Motion carried.


Reports and Updates Superintendent’s Updates

Superintendent provided an update containing 14 items. Action was taken by the board on 1 of those items as listed below:

• FSSLVP Updates – Financial status was reviewed along with a request from the FSSLVP group to move forward with the roofing phase of the renovation. Mr. Perialas motioned, seconded by Mr. O’Neil to authorize the Superintendent to move forward with creating a Second Addendum to the original agreement allowing renovation to begin related to the roofing phase of the project. Motion carried.

Parks for Life Update The Group meets weekly to establish actions for the group members. A donation of $1500 has been received.

Incident/Accident Reports – 6 reported and reviewed.

Correspondence Service Animals - A request letter has been received and distributed to the board requesting to allow comfort animals into Brower Park. Mr. Vogel motioned, supported by Mr. Stanek to deny comfort animals entry into the park as they do not fit the ADA description of service animals. Motion carried. WPVRA - Parking area and signage concerns from a local resident were submitted to the Superintendent and distributed to the board. The Superintendent recommends and the Board

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supports the Superintendent walk the property with Mr. Pasquantonio to evaluate and address concerns.

Golf Carts at Brower - A request letter was received and distributed to the board to allow golf carts in Brower Park as a special circumstance for handicap individuals. Current policy allows Brower guests to have licensed and registered LSVs in the park. Mr. Stratton motioned, seconded by Mr. Perialas to deny request for all golf carts in Brower Park. Motion carried.

Committee Actions Finance Committee

SS Main Restroom Ventilation – Quote was reviewed as an identical project to the work that was done previously on the Brower Park Sunny Acres bathhouse. Mr. Stanek motioned, seconded by Mrs. Fitzgerald to accept the quote from Eaton Heating & Air Conditioning for School Section Main bathhouse ventilation in the amount of $5275. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote. SS Art Barn Electrical – Quotes were reviewed. Mr. Stratton motioned, supported by Mr. Maxwell to accept the Remus Electric bid for the Art Barn Electric in the amount of $1135. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote. All Park Cabin Electrical Installation – Quotes were reviewed. Mr. Stratton motioned, seconded by Mr. Johnson to accept the Superintendent’s recommendation to grant the contract to Remus Electric in the amount of $8180. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote. Van for Tubing – Discussion took place regarding the possible donation of a van from the COA to fill the current vehicle needs of Paris Park and potential future needs related to starting a tubing operation and transportation service for park guests. Furniture for Family Cabins – Fabric options and price quote from Best Craft Furniture was reviewed. Mr. Stanek moved, seconded by Mr. Wheeler to move forward with the ordering of furniture at a cost of $4334. Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

Millage Committee

Marketing Material Update – Pins, bumper stickers, placemat ad, and 2 page information flyers have been purchased, printed and received. Upcoming Events – Discussed earlier in meeting. In Park Meet & Greets – Superintendent recommends scheduling Saturday in park millage educational presentations.

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Financial Report – Revenue & Expenses and Cash Spreadsheet were reviewed. Mr. O’Neil motioned, seconded by Mr. Stanek to approve paying the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th quarter MERS loan payments in the next check run. Motion carried unanimously with a roll call vote. Capital Obligations Summary - Was reviewed. Approval of Bills - Mr. O’Neil motioned, seconded by Mr. Vogel to approve the Park bills in the amounts of:

Pre-Approved bills: $4,293.13 Customary & Ordinary: $5,874.35

Board Meeting: $33,936.12 Motion carried with a unanimous roll call vote.

Public Comment John Pasquantonio discussed that highest park use at the WPVRA occurs in the winter and the new signage clearly marks the trails and direct guests, which has been the most frequent request of the park users. Mr. Pasquantonio also raised concerns with river traffic related to a proposed river tubing service from Paris Park.

Other Business

Board Member 15 years + Lifetime Pass – The board discussed offering a lifetime Mecosta County Parks vehicle pass to members who have served 15 years or more on the Parks Board. Mr. O’Neil motioned seconded by Mrs. Fitzgerald to approve a lifetime vehicle pass to 15 year plus board members. Motion carried.

Next Board Meeting: June 21st at the Paris Administrative Office Master Plan Committee Meeting: June 15th at 1:00 PM Personnel Committee Meeting: June 14th at Noon.

Adjournment: 8:15 PM

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Un-Approved MINUTES

MECOSTA COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION Mecosta County Services Building

July 7, 2016 I. Roll Call

Randy Maxwell, chair, called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. Present for roll call were: Mike Tillman, Gary Lambrix, Ron Simon, Ashley Adams, Bill Routley, Michelle Stenger, Zoning Administrator, & Annette Coles, Recording Secretary.

II. Matters Pertaining to the Public 1. Chair Maxwell asked if there was anyone who wished to address the Commission

regarding any subject that wasn’t on the agenda. • Willie Brenneman addressed the board in regard to a previous application

being denied, Harvey Shetler, at the June meeting. • Chair Maxwell replied that Mr. Shetler can appeal and should see the Zoning

Director, Michelle, in the office after the meeting or in the morning. The department would be able to help with the process.

• Bill Routley stated that they would like to have a work shop to address how they can work with the Amish and home occupations for the area. Michelle will put something together and bring to future meeting.

2. Chair then asked if there was anyone who wished to be on the next agenda. There

was no response.

IV. Public Hearings 1. Special Use Request #PPC16-011 – Gerald Kauffman, 11747 17 Mile Road, Martiny Township; Parcel #07 007 004 000. Property is zoned AF. Application to allow a home occupation in an oversized structure (80' x 60') for a pallet shop.

Ashley Adams read the application into the record. The applicant, Mr. Kauffman and his family, were present to speak in favor of approval.

• Mr. Kauffman stated that he was here to address any questions there may be and thanked the office staff and board for the opportunity to apply.

• John Rau, neighbor, stated that traffic should not be an issue, several delivery trucks, farming equipment, and milk trucks currently travel this road. One more truck will not hurt.

Those against approval present were Philip and Chris Vroman, Barbara Ross, Colleen Kaledas, and Carl Jefts, neighbors of Mr. Kauffman’s.

• Afraid of noise being too loud from generator and equipment. • Worried does not meet zoning ordinance. • Parking an issue for deliveries. • Traffic issues that may hurt roads. • Country feel will be taken away due to commercial use. • Believe this business should be in an industrial area not agricultural. • Do not see a benefit to the area community.

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• Worried about the air quality. • Will not allow for expansion if needed. • Excavation in wet lands was brought up and referred to soil erosion for

questions. • Mr. Jefts is not against the business but believes that it would fit better in a

different location.

Mr. Kauffman was given a change for rebuttal and allowed to answer questions from the board.

• The business does not saw the logs, lumber is brought in precut in size of 2” x 4” and is then cut into length needed for each pallet.

• One saw is used along with pneumatic air nailing equipment. • 80hp Generator will be used and a muffler/baffle can be purchased to quiet

the machine and comes with emissions compliance according to manufacturer.

• Building can be insulated to dampen the sound of machinery. No one else to speak for or against the applicant. Chair closed the public portion of the meeting and opened the floor to the Board for discussion and decision.

• Zoning ordinance states that home occupation is for home goods and pallet shop does not meet this need.

• Only 600 square feet is allowed for use of home occupation business, square footage of proposed structure exceeds this size.

• Limiting size of structure will not allow enough room for business to operate • Space needed for equipment will exceed allowed space. • Local area may be impacted from additional traffic and large trucks

travelling on area roads. • Nature of business production and how it is marketed does not meet area

or zoning ordinance guidelines. After discussion and based on the findings of facts listed, a motion was made by Bill Routley and supported by Mike Tillman to deny Special Use Request #PPC16-011 to allow a home occupation in an oversized structure (80' x 60') for a pallet shop. Property is zoned AF and located at 11747 17 Mile Road, Rodney, MI, Martiny Township; Parcel #07 007 004 000.

Roll Call Vote – 6 Yeas – 0 Nays

2. Text Amendment to Zoning Ordinance pertaining to Signs. Text amendment to Article III Section 3.43 Sign Regulations to bring the ordinance into compliance with current laws and the addition of regulating Electronic Message Board Signs. Specific changes and ordinance are available upon request at the Department of Building and Zoning’s Office.

Board requested clarification on some areas of proposed new sign ordinance.

• Any nonconforming sign needing to be replaced due to damage will need to meet new ordinances and acquire permits as required.

• Lighting requirements for LED are limited due to regulations. • Properties zoned AG and AF are limited to 12 square feet for signage. • Temporary use for portable signs as specified in ordinance.

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• Signs need to be 10 feet above grade • A minimum 2 feet setback for signs located in AG and AF zoned areas will

be required.

After discussion a motion was made by Mike Tillman and supported by Bill Routley to approve the amendment of Text to the Zoning Ordinance pertaining to Signs. Roll Call Vote – 6 Yeas – 0 Nays 3. Text Amendment to Zoning Ordinance Article II Section 2.17 C. Text amendment to include Sawmills in the C-1 district as a Special Use as shown below.

SECTION 2.17 C-1 NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICT


12. Sawmills

Discussion by the board; • An Industrial area is not always needed. • Industrial zoned property is limited within the county. • Do not see an issue with looking at each case as a special use permit.

After discussion and based on the findings of facts listed, a motion was made by Ashley Adams and supported by Gary Lambrix to approve the amendment of Text to the Zoning Ordinance Article II Section 2.17 C. Text amendment to include Sawmills in the C-1 district as a Special Use Permit upon Approval.

SECTION 2.17 C-1 NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICT


12. Sawmills Roll Call Vote – 6 Yeas – 0 Nays

V. Business Session

Old Business - none to discuss New Business 1. There are two properties located in Hinton Twp. being presented that are wishing to be

placed into farmland preservation. Properties are zoned AG and AF. After discussion and based on the findings of facts listed, a motion was made by Gary Lambrix and supported by Mike Tillman to approve the placement of proposed properties into farmland preservation.

2. There are no updates from other Boards at this time.

3. Minutes of June 2, 2016 Bill Routley motioned to approve the minutes, supported by Mike Tillman and passed unanimously.

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VI. Adjournment

Meeting adjourned at 7:13 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Annette Coles / Recording Secretary

_____________________________________, Chair _____________________ Randy Maxwell Date Approved

Mecosta County Planning Commission

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