7/18/13 - A request to increase the maximum allowable height for residences in Green Oak Township was not approved by the township board last night. About two months ago, the Livingston County Builderâs Association asked the township to change the height ordinance by increasing the maximum height for single-family residences from 28 feet to 35 feet. The township board referred the matter to the planning commission for review and recommendation. After looking at a number of factors, including how some builders use alternative measuring in an attempt to skirt the height limitation, the commission determined that the current 28-foot limit was sufficient. The township board chose not to approve the height increase last night. Planning Commission Chair Bob Moran tells WHMI that public safety was a major concern in considering the request. Green Oak firefighters would not be able to reach the tops of 35-foot buildings with ground ladders. They do have a vehicle ladder, but Deputy Fire Chief Kevin Gentry reported that the department already has problems accessing the tops of some residences in specific locations with that ladder. He says any increase in the height of local buildings would only increase the number of rooftops his department could not access in a timely manner during a fire. (TD)
↧