ZBA 3-10-26

The City of Bay City, Michigan Zoning Board of Appeals held a meeting on March 10, 2026, primarily to consider a non-use variance request from the Bay City Housing Commission regarding off-street parking requirements for a 60-unit affordable housing development on Columbus Avenue. The appellant requested relief from the zoning ordinance's parking standards, proposing 63 spaces instead of the required 110 spaces, citing lower vehicle ownership among affordable housing residents and the availability of public transit. The board discussed the unique zoning of the property, the impact of parking requirements on project feasibility and affordable housing density, and referenced upcoming zoning ordinance revisions that may reduce parking requirements. After deliberation, the board unanimously approved the variance, finding that strict compliance would be burdensome and that the variance would serve substantial justice. The decision was effective immediately, allowing the project to proceed without delay.