Pontiac Planning Commission 6 9 26

The City of Pontiac Planning Commission held a meeting on June 9, 2026, focusing extensively on zoning and development issues, including a significant discussion on proposed regulations for data centers. The commission reviewed a zoning ordinance text amendment to regulate data centers, including requirements for special exception approval, community workshops, operational narratives, and escrow deposits for expert review. Commissioners debated buffer distances, noise and vibration concerns, and potential impacts on residents, ultimately deciding to postpone the data center ordinance amendment for further research and community input. Additionally, the commission considered a special exception permit and site plan for a new state-of-the-art gas station and convenience market at 939 Orchard Lake Road, approving the special exception with conditions including no alcohol sales through the drive-thru and requiring an opt-out lane to avoid a variance. The site plan was also approved with conditions such as final site plan review and metal dumpster enclosures. Other agenda items included a zoning map amendment for 79 West Howard Street from M1 to M2 to correct a classification error, which was approved, and an extension request for Big Daddy's special exception permit and site plan, which was also approved. The meeting concluded with discussions on public comment procedures and the election of the planning commission chair. Throughout, the commission addressed community concerns, traffic and safety issues, and compliance with zoning standards.