Lack of Quorum Delays Vote on Handy Rezoning PlanLack of Quorum Delays Vote on Handy Rezoning Plan

6/19/14 - The Livingston County Planning Commission heard presentations and citizens’ concerns about a proposed rezoning in Handy Township, but with less than half its members present it could not take any action. The commission gathered last night and heard about a proposal by the township to rezone recently-acquired parcels at the southwest corner of Grand River and Nicholson Road from agricultural residential to general industrial. Township officials told the commission the change is not unique in that area, with three other industrial parcels around Fowlerville, and that it was in keeping with the county and township master plans. The Handy Township Planning Commission voted to recommend the change earlier this month, with selling the property and using the money to help pay off looming sewer debts as one of their stated goals. The county planning commission’s recommendation is now needed to send the rezoning proposal to the township board for final approval. However, without a quorum of the board present, that recommendation could not be made last night. Residents who live near the parcel told the planning commission they do not want to see their property values decline or the character of the area changed by industrial facilities. They told WHMI they do not mind that he commission could not act last night, which will give its members more time to consider what is being proposed and why. The planning commission is considering holding a special meeting sometime in the next two weeks to be able to act on items on last night’s agenda, but no such decision has been made. (TD)