The Saline Township planning commission met for over two hours on June 2 and discussed several ordinances under review. This includes one possible ordinance that would provide oversight guidelines for new industrial use proposals that would be deemed too be high or intensive energy developments, or that could impact local resources, such as water or electrical power consumption.
Noise Ordinance
The township board requested the planning commission review and comment on the proposed noise ordinance. The current language sets the noise standard at 65 decibels at the property line, which is industry standard. It was noted that the consent agreement for the Related Digital data center project had been set at 55 decibels.
Moratorium on Industrial Zoning Projects
The township has been developing an ordinance that would establish a moratorium on future industrial zoning requests. The duration of the moratorium would be in effect for six-to-twelve months, which would prohibit any township proposals that required zoning variances or special use permits for industrial projects. The moratorium applies to all new industrial zoning requests but would not impact existing projects like the data center. Wind, solar and battery storage facilities would be exempt from the moratorium, which receive special consideration under a State of Michigan statute.
High Energy/Resource Impact Projects
An email has been forwarded to townships throughout the state with sample language that could be used to create an ordinance that would implement strict requirements on projects deemed to be “high energy/resource consumption” projects. The language will be forwarded to township consulting attorney Fred Lucas for review and recommendations.
Jupiter Energy
As a part of the agreement between Jupiter Energy and the township for the battery storage facility, the developer agreed to construct two pole barns onsite for use by the Saline Area Fire Authority. Construction of the pole barns would provide extra storage space for the department and closer access for any fire suppression services required within the township. One building will have a finished interior and the other an unfinished storage facility. The construction of the pole barns requires a site plan, including a public hearing, which was scheduled for the next planning commission meeting.
The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m. The planning commission next meeting is July 7 at 7 p.m. at the township hall, located at 5731 Braun Rd.
114 North Main St Suite 10 Chelsea, MI 48118
