Sylvan Township

Sylvan Township Estd. 1883

Planning Commission

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is made up of 7 members of the community, appointed by the Township Board. This commission is responsible for guiding and overseeing the development and growth of a community or municipality. The duties of a Planning Commission typically include:

  1. Comprehensive Planning: Developing and maintaining the Master Plan which is a comprehensive plan for the community’s growth and development. This plan includes land use policies, transportation plans, housing strategies, and environmental considerations.
  2. Zoning Regulations: Recommending and reviewing zoning ordinances that regulate how land and buildings can be used within the community. This includes determining appropriate zones for residential, commercial, industrial, and other purposes.
  3. Land Use Reviews: Evaluating and making recommendations on proposed developments, subdivisions, and site plans. This involves considering factors such as environmental impact, infrastructure needs, and adherence to zoning regulations.
  4. Public Input: Engaging with the public to gather input on planning matters. This may involve holding public hearings, workshops, or forums to ensure that community members have a voice in the planning process.
  5. Capital Improvement Planning: Collaborating on the identification and prioritization of infrastructure projects and capital improvements needed to support the community’s growth.
  6. Policy Recommendations: Providing recommendations to the local legislative body (township board) on matters related to land use, development, and community growth.
  7. Regional Coordination: Coordinating with neighboring communities and regional entities to address issues that may cross municipal boundaries, such as transportation and environmental concerns.
  8. Reviewing Amendments: Reviewing and recommending changes to existing zoning ordinances and comprehensive plans as needed to adapt to evolving community needs and priorities.

The Planning Commission meets the Third Thursday of every month, unless rescheduled or cancelled due to lake of business. The meetings will be held in person. The public may also view/hear the meeting through Zoom access by computer and smart phone using the following link:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82351253129
Meeting ID: 823 5125 3129
Meeting ID:
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+13126266799,,82351253129# US (Chicago)
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The public may only speak during the public hearing and during public comment by being physically present at the meeting. Such comments will be limited to three minutes per person for each item. Written comments may also be sent to the township offices at 18027 Old US 12, Chelsea, Michigan 48118-9673 prior to the public hearing will also be received by the Planning Commission at the meeting before close of the public hearing.

PC Members - 3 Year Terms

Name Term End Contact
Tom Bareis
Jan 2023
Sandie Schulze
Dec 2024 (2 year term)
Leah Herrick
Jan 2023
Courtney Heller
Mar 2024
Matthew Koenn
Jan 2026
Mike Van Buren
Dec 2024
Clifford Camp
Dec 2024

PLEASE NOTE: ANY ITEM FOR PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA THAT NEEDS ENGINEERING OR PLANNING CONSULTANTS REVIEW SUCH AS SITE PLANS, SPECIAL USE REQUESTS, SUBDIVISIONS AND SITE CONDO’S, NEEDS TO BE SUBMITTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DEADLINE FOR AGENDA DATE (NOTED BELOW), TO THE TOWNSHIP CLERK.

RE-ZONING REQUESTS MUST BE MADE 6 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING DATE.

Mailing Address: Sylvan Township, 18027 Old US 12, Chelsea, MI 48118

Central Email: spacheco@sylvantownshipmi.gov