ZBA Meeting 4-14-26

The City of Bay City, Michigan Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) held a meeting on April 14, 2026, primarily to consider a use variance and dimensional variances for a property at 905 South Henry Street. The applicant, James Compo, sought approval to convert an undersized industrial lot into a parking lot, which is not a permitted primary use in the zoning district without a variance. The board discussed the need for a zero setback variance to accommodate the parking lot due to the lot's narrow width and the requirement for a site plan review by the Planning Commission before final approval. Concerns were raised about the lack of detailed site plans, traffic flow, engineering input, and compliance with city stormwater and sidewalk requirements. The board considered postponing the decision to allow the applicant to provide more detailed plans and consult with city engineering staff. Ultimately, the board voted on the use variance but did not approve it, with members expressing the need for more information before deciding on dimensional variances. The meeting highlighted the procedural steps and coordination required between the ZBA, Planning Commission, and city departments for property use changes involving parking lot construction.