City of Charlevoix
Planning Commission Meeting
February 12, 2001

Minutes

Members present: Barbara Fels, Dennis Kusina, Richard Hodgson, and Steve Bennett.

Members absent: (not excused): John Dobulis, Francis Flanders, Robert Lenhart, and Gina Whitney.

There was not a quorum for the meeting, so it could not be called to order.

The Zoning Administrator attempted to contact those members who were not present, to see if we could get a quorum. The attempt was unsuccessful, and she could not find another member to get a quorum for the meeting. She said some of the members were in Florida, and some she was not able to reach.

The City Manager was present and asked the Planner to check the legality of what the Commission could do in this case.

The Planner researched the Rules of Order and indicated the Planning Commission could table the items on the agenda to a future meeting or they could take action and then ask the full Planning Commission to agree with the approval.

Chairman Kusina stated he felt badly about the applicants attending the meeting, and then not being able to get a decision, especially since he could see nothing controversial about either of them.

Following a discussion as to the best way to handle the matter, it was agreed to ask those present in the audience if they had any questions or concerns that the applicants might be able to address.

JoAnn Curtis, representing Keep Charlevoix Beautiful, stated that their group has been trying to keep the signs in the city more pleasing, lit without being garrish, and appreciates the business people in town trying to make their signage look attractive and fit in the city. She asked about Olesons signage, and asked if they were going to have shrubbery, etc., to improve the appearance.

Kusina stated the pylon sign that is currently on the property is remaining as is. The variance is for the signage on the building, and he sees no problem with it.




Bob Kern, in the audience, asked Ms. Curtis what types of signs Keep Charlevoix Beautiful wanted. She indicated that exterior lit signs have been described as a problem shining in drivers eyes, etc. But, she mentioned that A.J. Witthoeft had stated at an earlier meeting that if they are placed right, installed by a professional, and at the proper angle, they can be very attractive and serve the purpose well.

The representative from Harbor Industries stated he might not be able to attend a meeting next week. Kusina stated he did not see that as a problem. He stated he did not feel it was right to make the applicants drive in for another meeting, when it is not their fault there is not a quorum.

The representative for the Carpenter Apartments also stated that he drove over from Gaylord, and does not look forward to having to make another trip over next week.

Kusina stated that the agenda items for tonight will all be tabled until a week from tonight, at 5:30 p.m. As the Council is meeting later that night, we can give them our recommendation following our Planning Commission Meeting. All members present agreed to the tabling of the matter.

The Zoning Administrator will check with all of the members prior to that meeting, to insure that we will have a quorum.