Sheridan Township Planning Commission
Sheridan Township Hall
Regular Meeting
June 1, 2023 - 7:00 p.m.
Planning Commission present: Harold Badger (Chair), Sally Jackson (Vice Chair), Scott Frederick, Peggy Vogt
Absent: Rick Offerson (excused, vacation)
Staff: Richard Porter, Supervisor, David Martin, Zoning Administrator, Doug Lewan, Carlisle-Wortman Associates
The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by a roll call of Planning Commission members.
Agenda: A motion was made by Frederick; seconded by Vogt, to accept the agenda as presented. Motion passed unanimously.
Minutes: A motion was made by Frederick; seconded by Badger, to approve the minutes of the April 6, 2023, meeting as presented. Motion passed unanimously.
Public Comments: None
Correspondence: None
Reports: Township Board - (1) Frederick reported that the Township Board is concerned re: the lack of progress on completing the revised version of the Master Plan; (2) There has been interest in gas energy turbines in the township. The Planning Commission will need further information in order to address this issue. Lewan will research and report back.
Zoning Administrator - Martin presented a list of the permits recently granted*.
Zoning Board of Appeals - Badger had nothing to report
New Business: Savion Energy has submitted an Application for Variance.* This is to include a change in height of lines and a perimeter fencing variance. The current variance application time of six (6) months has expired. After discussion it was suggested that Martin follow up re: 8' animal fencing with steel posts with no barbed wire. It was determined that the Zoning Ordinance re: fencing needs to be addressed. A Public Hearing needs to be scheduled to address a change.
Dollar General has shown interest in opening a DG Market in the former Dodge dealership location on North Clark Street.
Unfinished Business: There has been no contact or follow-up from the Big Craft project. They do owe outstanding fees.
Campers - There needs to be a clarification as to camper usage, time limits and sanitation requirements. There are several campers being used as residences in the township and zoning language needs to be updated.
Shipping containers: Some are being used for storage but there is a safety issue for damaged older containers or them being used as housing.
Residential solar: Nothing is needed to address the issue at this time. This is currently addressed as an "accessory use structure."
Amish housing - Applicants need to prove exemptions.
Dangerous buildings: Currently covered under IMPC - International Property Maintenance Code.
Adjournment: A motion was made by Vogt; seconded by Jackson to adjourn. Motion passed. Meeting adjourned at 8:58 p.m.
Minutes submitted by
Peggy Vogt, Secretary
Sheridan Township Planning Commission
Harold Badger, Chair
Sheridan Township Planning Commission
Approved at the October 5, 2023 meeting of the Sheridan Township Planning Commission.
*Copies of items referenced in these minutes are available in the Township Clerk's Office.