841 24 26018 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/9b18034c105d7df6b4e0c1e4bfd721d6.m4v 24133ee69c1fba728ae56068ac8e1efd https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/ca6b57e5e727dc09c8842d57f67cfb6b.pdf 2a21f573bf444bca87276173cd08bb91 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans' History Project Phil Tolson Vietnam War 1 hour 36 minutes 20 seconds (00:00:14) Early Life -Born in Akron, Ohio in 1949 -Family moved to Los Angeles, back to Akron, then to Michigan, then to Illinois -Father worked for a salt company, rubber company, and drove trucks -Family settled in St. Clair, Michigan and he graduated from high school there in 1968 -Worked for a railroad -Worked as a switchman, clerk, telegrapher, and interlocking plant operator -Enjoyed it (00:01:21) Getting Drafted -Got drafted in March, or April, of 1969 -Knew little, to nothing, about the Vietnam War -Only knew one man that served in Vietnam -Went to Detroit for his draft physical -Didn't see any men trying to get out being drafted -Army was taking pretty much anyone (00:02:43) Basic Training -Sent to Fort Knox, Kentucky for basic training -Arrived in the middle of the night and was greeted by screaming drill sergeants -Got a couple hours of sleep his first night there Woke up the next day a little after 5 AM and began processing -Processing took one week -Received uniforms, a haircut, did paperwork, and took tests -Immediate emphasis on discipline -Taught how to do everything the "Army way" -Proper hygiene and uniform protocol -Learned about military courtesy and military justice -Received rifle training and hand to hand combat training -Learned about tactics -Learned how to set up a tent -A lot of physical training -Adjusted easily to life in the Army -Understood that he needed to comply with the orders given him -He was in good shape -Some men resisted being in the Army -Various discipline problems -Knew they didn't want to be soldiers and tried to get discharged -One soldier was so desperate that he killed himself -Basic training lasted eight weeks (00:06:57) Advanced Infantry Training �-Sent to Fort Lewis, Washington for Advanced Infantry Training (AIT) -Went on bivouacks that lasted a week to ten days -More physical training -More weapons training -Geared toward fighting in Vietnam -Tried to recreate the conditions they would experience in Vietnam -Mock villages -Escape and Evasion course -If you were caught you were taken to a mock prisoner of war camp -Trained by a mix of new sergeants and combat veterans from Vietnam -Realized that he was going to be sent to Vietnam (00:09:13) Noncommissioned Officer School -Sent to Fort Benning, Georgia for Noncommissioned Officer (NCO, sergeant) School -Volunteered for it -Didn't want to follow incompetent sergeants into battle -Immediately promoted to E-4 (corporal) -If you graduated from NCO School you became an E-5 or E-6 (sergeant or staff sergeant) -More pay, more responsibility, and more freedom as a sergeant -Best training he received -There was a lot of harassment to weed out the weaker soldiers -Received more tactics training -Received more physical training -More weapons training with a wider variety of weapons -Learned how to go out on patrols and set up ambushes -Trained with the M60 machine gun, light anti-tank weapon (LAW), recoilless rifle, and mortars -Trained by Rangers and Green Berets that had fought in Vietnam -Trained exclusively at Fort Benning -Lasted 13 weeks -Completed it around Christmas 1969 (00:13:17) Advanced Infantry Training Instructor -Sent to Fort Polk, Louisiana to act as a sergeant and instruct soldiers in AIT -Recruits listened to him -Shared his room with only one other sergeant -Allowed to leave base at night once he was done for the day -Treated soldiers well because they responded well to his orders -Went on patrols in swamps and through farmers' fields -Stinking, brackish water filled with bugs and snakes -Completed that in March 1970 (00:16:08) Deployment to Vietnam -Went home for 30 days of leave -Glad to be back home -Started thinking about how bad Vietnam could be -Family handled it well �-Sent to the Oakland Replacement Depot in California -Terribly organized -Just found a bed and slept in that open bed -Only knew when to report to be bussed to a plane -Kept busy with menial duties to keep soldiers out of trouble -Stayed there for several days -Flew on a chartered commercial plane to Vietnam -Stopped in Hawaii and Guam (00:18:37) Arrival in Vietnam -Landed at Tan Son Nhut, South Vietnam -First impression was that the country was hot, humid, and it stank -Stayed near Tan Son Nhut for several days to adjust to the climate -First day there the base took rocket fire -Base personnel were nonplussed (00:20:10) Assignment to the 101st Airborne Division -Assigned to the 101st Airborne Division -Knew it was a dangerous unit and had heard of the Battle of Hamburger Hill -Flew up to Camp Evans near Hue and Quang Tri -Went through Screaming Eagle Replacement Training School (SERTS) -Learned about any enemy activity in the area -Shown what enemy booby traps looked like -Instructed on enemy tactics -Joined Bravo Company 2nd Battalion 506th Infantry Regiment in the field via helicopter -Loaded his backpack and boarded the helicopter alone -Dropped off at the landing zone and didn't see anyone around -Knocked down by the helicopter's prop wash and he couldn't get up -Believed he would get captured -Squad collected him, teased him a little bit, then helped him up -Dug in for the night -One soldier managed to dig his foxhole into a shallow grave -Joined them in April 1970 -First night in the field wasn't too bad -Unconcerned about enemy contact (00:26:32) Patrols with B Company -Assigned to a squad in a platoon in B Company -Introduced himself -Told them that he wanted to talk to the most experienced soldier in the squad -Wanted to listen to him about how to keep himself and his squad alive -Moved as a platoon -Squads went out on patrols on their own -One squad guarded the perimeter during the day and another guarded at night -Bill Williams was the company commander at the time -Green Beret and on his second tour in Vietnam -Strict, but likeable leader -Ran into light enemy contact shortly after his arrival -Travelled over hills and through thick jungle �-Never went on the trails -North Vietnamese Army used the trails and knew the trails -Allowed them to set up ambushes and booby traps -After a week in the country he got into a minor firefight -Everyone got into cover immediately and returned fire -Short, sporadic engagement -Everyone knew what to do -Didn't take any casualties, and didn't believe the NVA took any either -Went on patrols until B Company went to Firebase Ripcord (00:33:41) Stationed at Firebase Ripcord -Got to Firebase Ripcord in early July 1970 -Going to Ripcord used to be like a semi-R&R -Hot meals, hot showers, stay out of the rain, sleep in a bed, use a toilet [latrine-no running water] -Usually rotated onto Ripcord for one week then left after that week -When they initially got there it was a great place to be -Prior to getting to Ripcord they noticed more enemy activity -Signs of increased enemy movement -Used trails, broken limbs off of trees, and newly built bunkers -If they found a bunker they tossed in a grenade to clear it -Got back to Camp Evans before going to Ripcord -Returned to Camp Evans at random and stayed for only a few days at a time -Had a battalion stand down at Camp Evans in late June 1970 -Walked onto Ripcord out of the field -Ripcord was on top of a bare hill top -Barbed wire formed the first line of defense -Behind the barbed wire were claymore lines and remote detonated barrels of napalm -Further up the hill were bunkers manned by infantrymen -At the top of the hill were the key parts of the firebase: -Artillery, helipads, ammo dump, fuel dump, aid station, and command center -Started to have more contact in the field before going onto Ripcord -More fighting around Hill 805 near Ripcord (00:41:05) Siege of Firebase Ripcord Pt. 1 -Siege of Firebase Ripcord began on July 1, 1970-Hill 902 attacked that night -Stayed at Ripcord through the siege in July -Stationed in a bunker overlooking valleys and mountains -Took more enemy mortar fire as the siege intensified -More enemy sappers trying to get up the hill -Probing the perimeter to make a map of the firebase -He never saw any North Vietnamese soldiers -Mortar teams fired down the hill at random trying to hit possible NVA rendezvous points -As July continued the NVA artillery barrage got more intense -Eventually got so bad that it was safer to stay in a bunker �-Took about 20 rounds every minute -Barrage lasted for a week -A U.S. Chinook helicopter crashed on Ripcord on July 18 -Watched it crash, catch fire, and cause the ammo dump to explode -The ammo dump exploding only made the barrage feel more intense -Could only send up one man to collect water and food for the men in the bunkers -NVA snipers fired up the hill at them -Received little information about the ongoing battle -Watched firefights going on at night (00:47:28) Fall of Firebase Ripcord -Received little advancing warning that Ripcord was being evacuated -Told a couple days before the firebase fell that the firebase was being evacuated -On July 23, 1970 Chinooks came in to bring out the artillery guns first -Men on the perimeter moved up the hill to the command center to wait for a helicopter -Artillery and small arms fire got worse throughout the day -He got wounded by a mortar shell -Had to go from bunker to bunker to avoid getting hit by shrapnel or bullets -He was the last man to get out of his bunker -Wounded men were evacuated first -Told that no more helicopters could come until the fire let up -Some men considered surrendering to the North Vietnamese -Men spread out, dug in, and fired down the hill at the advancing enemy soldiers -He got knocked out and woke up later in the day after sundown -Finally managed to get on a helicopter with one other soldier (00:55:30) Regrouping at Camp Evans -Flight back to Camp Evans took about 15 or 20 minutes -Got a hot meal -Went to the aid station to get the shrapnel taken out of his leg -Told he should go to a larger hospital, but he refused -Battalion surgeon removed the shrapnel from his leg -Ordered to stay on a cot for 19 days so the leg could recover -Surgeon brought him food and changed his bandages every day -Stayed in the Camp Evans post office for a little while -Brought American prisoners to the Army jail in Long Binh -Took a truck to Phu Bai then flew to Saigon and from there to Long Binh (01:00:42) Fighting on Hill 805 -During the Ripcord Campaign he saw action on Hill 805 -Came in on a landing zone near Hill 805 that was occupied by NVA troops -Took fire as soon as they landed -Took cover behind a log -Saw a man get hit as soon as he got off his helicopter -Phil went over to help him -He and a medic were able to get a man behind the log -Firefight stopped and he regrouped with squadmates -Moved up Hill 805 -Found a dead enemy soldier �-Looked Chinese, not Vietnamese -Appeared to have poisoned himself -Found an abandoned bunker with medical supplies and weapons -Placed the dead soldier in the bunker and blew up the bunker (01:07:53) Siege of Firebase Ripcord Pt. 2 -During the siege of Ripcord they laid down miles of wire in hopes of stopping the NVA -Proved to be useless when the siege got worse (01:10:20) Soviet Military Presence -His unit saw a Soviet military advisor during a patrol near Hill 805 -Heard movement near his squad's position -He went over to see if they were South Vietnamese/American or enemy soldiers -Turned out to be his platoon's lieutenant -Lieutenant yelled at Phil for seeing one soldier in his squad not wearing a shirt -Phil explained that that was impossible since his squad was with him -Man was described as being tall, white, and blonde -Evidence points to the conclusion that the man was a Russian (01:12:18) Escorting Prisoners & Drug Use -While at Camp Evans he escorted American prisoners down to Long Binh near Saigon -Did that three times -All the men he escorted had gotten in trouble for drug use -Knew there was drug use in the rear, but it didn't cause any major problems -Didn't think anyone did drugs in the field (01:13:59) Returning to B Company -Returned to his unit after about one month of recovery at Camp Evans -Most of the same men he served with at Ripcord were still in B Company -Had not sustained a lot of casualties at Ripcord -Went on patrols -Didn't see any enemy activity -Had some Kit Carson scouts -Kit Carson scouts: Viet Cong that defected to help South Vietanm -Rewarded with some land and shelter -The scouts were allowed to return home every month on leave -Sometimes they all went home at the same time then enemy activity got worse -Never seemed to be any help -Stayed with B Company until January 1971 when he left Vietnam (01:16:28) R&R -Went on R&R in Hawaii -Married his high school sweetheart -Is still married to her as of 2015 -Wasn't a good feeling going back to Vietnam, but knew he would get home soon -Got married in September 1970 �-Had to be in Vietnam for a while to get R&R -Married and engaged men got to go on R&R first -They went to Hawaii -Single, or married men that didn't want to see wives went to Australia, Thailand, etc. -Went on R&R in Vietnam -Went to a Vietnamese beach resort -It was beautiful and safe (01:18:42) Coming Home & End of Service -Wanted to leave, but didn't want to leave his friends in Vietnam -Got home in the middle of the night -Wife was renting an apartment -He was allowed 30 days of rest before he had to go back to work -Stayed in the apartment for almost all 30 days -He was so bored with civilian life he thought about returning to Vietnam -Didn't visit his parents for a month and a half, but they didn't visit him either -Took 19 hours to fly from Vietnam to Fort Lewis, Washington -Got a steak dinner -Took three days to get discharged -Flew back to Michigan from Washington -Wasn't harassed by protestors or civilians on his way home (01:20:59) Life after the War -Went back to work for the railroad -New workers resented him for getting his job back -Went to work for a salt company and lived in Chicago for a few years -Transferred back to Michigan -Worked for the salt company for 18 and a half years -Worked 11 jobs in 10 years -Got a job with the government for five years then permanently retired -Had issues with PTSD after the war -Took 20 years to get diagnosed and get medicated (01:23:42) Reflections on Service -Felt it was a good thing for him -Taught him about real priorities -Learned that if there is an issue to take action, don't just complain -If there is no viable solution for the problem, then forget about it -Showed him what he was capable of doing -Taught him that he could live with less if he needed to -Didn't talk about his experiences until later -No one seemed that interested at the time (01:25:34) Ripcord Reunions -Contacted by the writer Keith Nolan for Nolan's book on the Battle of Firebase Ripcord -Learned about the Ripcord Association and its reunions through Keith -Attended the first Ripcord Reunion and enjoyed it -Went to three or four more after that first one -When those veterans were together it was like they were all young men again � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27_TolsonT1888V Title A name given to the resource Tolson, Thomas Phillip (Interview outline and video), 2015 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2005-10-09 Description An account of the resource Phil Tolson was born in Akron, Ohio in 1949. He was drafted in March, or April, 1969 and received his basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky. He was sent to Fort Lewis, Washington for Advanced Infantry Training then went to Fort Benning, Georgia for Noncommissioned Officer School and was promoted to the rank of sergeant. He helped train new infantrymen at Fort Polk until March 1970 when he was deployed to Vietnam. Upon arrival in Vietnam he was assigned to lead a squad in Bravo Company 2nd Battalion 506th Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division. They went on patrols around Camp Evans and Firebase Ripcord before going onto Ripcord in late June/early July 1970. Bravo Company was stuck on Firebase Ripcord through the battle from July 1 to July 23 when the base was evacuated. During the evacuation Phil was wounded and recovered at Camp Evans for a month before rejoining his unit. He conducted patrols with Bravo Company until he left Vietnam in January 1971 and was discharged at Fort Lewis, Washington. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tolson, Thomas Phillip Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American United States. Army Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Moving Image Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project collection, (RHC-27)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University Libraries. Allendale, Michigan Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/x-m4v application/pdf https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/125eadc257caf9ab9f29c1d572a3384f.mp4 3d3897369c7e26fc95147b91cb45342b https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/0f36d5d9f23f0c70d3d84ff4b3b08053.pdf 19fde60e59ff92179ac34418258312a4 PDF Text Text ORAL HISTORY INTERVIEW ALAN TOMS – NO. I Interviewed by: James Smither PhD, GVSU Veterans History Project, Transcribed by: Joan Raymer, July 16, 2011 Interviewer: Now Alan can you start us off with a little bit of background on yourself and your family? I was born in Toronto Canada in 1939 and the earliest memories I have was when my mother would be packing up a box of clothes and other dry good items to send to Europe. It was known then as a care package and the thing that’s interesting about it is that my wife was the daughter of a German seaman in the German navy and was on the receiving end of these packages. 1:06 A lot of my relatives were in the service and they were all conscripted, and I don’t think any of them joined, to the best of my recollection. But, starting off, my grandfather was in the First World War, and he said that he remembers that he walked all the way across France during all those campaigns and part of the Canadian Army as an infantryman. Some of the other things he told me was his father served in the English Army, because he was born in England, Blackwell, and his father, part of the time, was stationed in Poona, India, right outside of Bombay, and won a medal for shooting, which my grandfather had passed on to me. 2:03 I’m supposed to pass it on to another relative of mine, hopefully, perhaps will serve in the military. He also mentioned the fact that his father fought in the Boer War, with the English, in South Africa, right around 1900 My other uncles were in the Canadian military, my uncle Bud was an ambulance driver in Holland and my uncle Les was in the Canadian Air Force, enlisted and served as a crew of the aircraft and he was a bombardier, and he said that he had been over most of the large cities in Germany. I thought about it and I didn’t think 1 �too much about it then, but I think about it now, because my uncle was quite a very timid man. 3:01 He must have been terrified--from the books that I’ve read of the things that went on when they were trying to be up there over those German cities. Interviewer: Then you mentioned that you remembered when one of your uncles came back from the war. My Uncle Bud came in his uniform and picked me up from school and I was in, just about, the first grade when the war was ending and it was quite a moving experience. Interviewer: You had—and that was his first—when he’d just got back? He’d got back, he’d just gotten back to Toronto, but I had another brother Denny and he just loved coming over to our house and doing things with us. So, it’s the first thing he did when he got out of the—when he came home. Interviewer: How was it then that you wound up in the U.S? My father, after the depression—he did find employment during the depression. 4:04 Then somehow, he got working with plants that made gears, and he somehow learned that trade and I really don’t know how, because I was five, six, or seven when he was getting established, and then I know he said one day that we were going to move to Woodstock and leave Toronto, which I really didn’t want to do it because I really liked where I was. We moved to Woodstock and he was working there at a place called Rollins Gears and he was a gear specialist. I guess he was self-trained, because he was a high school graduate and not any further, but we lived there in Woodstock for two years and then he said we were going to move to America and he had a sponsor and he had a job there that was lined up, and also related to the gear cutting industry. 5:03 So, we moved to urban Detroit and it was quite exciting, because we were dressed quite 2 �differently. I remember when we came to Detroit I had l had leather pants that came down to my knees and socks that came up to my knees also, and then some boots. I actually had a coat that had fur around it, around the head, the hood and that’s how I went to school. Interviewer: In the 70’s that would have been fashionable. Right, well I had to get—then I had a—the Canadian Maple Leafs had won the Stanley Cup and I had a big Maple Leafs sweater and, of course, I could never wear that anymore, because the very year I went there, the Detroit Red Wings won the Stanley Cup and they were going—they were hockey crazy in Detroit. I was from Canada, so I had to get out of those clothes and fit in, in the fourth grade. 6:00 Also, when I came, they thought I was smarter than what my grade showed, so they put me ahead a half a year, because I could multiply by three numbers and they couldn’t. But, then they found out I couldn’t write, because in Canada you print until the sixth grade and this was the fourth grade and so, then they put me back a whole year, which was embarrassing, so I lost a half a year, so I became the oldest kid in the class. So, I was the oldest kid in my class throughout my high school schooling. The thing was, in Canada you end up with better penmanship than you do in America. I have letters from Canada, from my mother and everything, and it’s a better system there so, but at the time I was quite embarrassed. Interviewer: Now, you eventually move on from Detroit though, while you’re growing up? Yeah, my dad was offered a better job at Continental Motors, which was in Muskegon at the time. 7:03 A very, very large plant, I think it was about a mile on each side and once again in the gear cutting industry, but they wanted him to work seven days a week , 3 �so after about six months he quit that job and found a job, while we were living in Muskegon, in Grand Rapids, at Lear, in gear cutting, in downtown Grand Rapids. Then we did move to Grand Rapids and he was once again involved in this gear industry, so I really moved around an awful lot, but looking back on it, it was really quite interesting. We always improved, every step of the way, my dad was getting better work all the time and I was getting older. 8:00 Now, when I look back it was quite an adventure. Interviewer: And he eventually sets up his own business too, doesn’t he? He started a gear manufacturing plant called Gear Research up on Taylor, which is up in Creston Heights and they were there about five years. A couple of interesting things there, I worked there when I was fourteen and I would take the bus down and work there in the afternoons, in the shipping department, boxing up gears. One thing that is kind of interesting is that one of our employees was Roger Chaffee, the astronaut. He was a student and I worked there over the summer and so did he. And he was a student in engineering at Purdue. His father worked for my dad too in the inspections department, Don Chaffee, and sometimes we would have too many gears to pack, so he would come out. 9:00 He was a student and he was working on the gear cutting machines, but he would come out in the shopping department and help me, because we were overloaded with stuff to ship. But they made gear assemblies for, I remember, Brunswick Pin Setters, which was based out of Muskegon, and made gears for Abrams Instruments, which was out of Lansing. There was always trouble, because that was Air Force related and those gears would come back rejected and there was always a lot of flak about that. We’d get the boxes back and it was a lot of trouble, because the ―so called military‖ 4 �establishment had tougher criteria than what my dad thought was necessary for these gears, so there was always a big problem there. Interviewer: Now, how was it you wound up in the army? 10:03 I was a student at Godwin High School and from there I went to Junior College in Grand Rapids, here and then I went to Western Michigan University and lived there in Vander Cook Hall, in the dorm and my grades were not very good and I was really more interested in having a lot of fun, and I joined a fraternity, Tau Kappa Epsilon, which I shouldn’t have done, learned the Greek alphabet and di a lot of other things like that. In general, I was going to sports events and my grades were not very good. They were not good enough to stay in school and that was rather embarrassing, so rather than embarrass my family any more, I joined the army. I’ll be on my own and I won’t be a problem for my family either anyway. 11:05 So, then I got in a little trouble with the law, minor in possession, doing a little drinking and creating a public disturbance. Anyway, I was interested in—I was in a lot of running events and a was a fair to middling runner, I was a long distance runner and I even ran in the Greek Week, I ran the mile for Tau Kappa Epsilon, and I placed fifth in the Greek Week activities. I played basketball for the fraternity and I liked doing things like that. I—throughout my life, work’s okay, but I work, so I can have a good time, that’s my object. Interviewer: Why did you pick the army? Well, I could get a guarantee in the army that I knew that they would honor, so I joined, because I wasn’t really interested in the navy, or the air force. 12:03 I thought that—I was an avid reader even then and it just appealed to me and I guess I read Leon Uris’s ―Battle Cry‖, Iwo Jima, and that’s why I guess I thought I’d probably be a lot better off in 5 �the army, but that was a mistake. The reason it was a mistake, my view from reading was nothing like what the real army is, in fact, a person that hasn’t really ever been in the army, which really amount to living outside twenty-four hours a day. It’s a lot different than what anybody could ever imagine. Reading will help a little bit, but the real thing is quite different. In 1961 I joined the army and I went to—down to Detroit. 13:00 And they said, ―You got a Canadian birth certificate and you don’t have any citizenship papers‖, so they sent me back to Grand Rapids to sit. I had to come back to Grand Rapids after being down there in Detroit, down on Jefferson Avenue at the induction center, and I had to go home and get my citizenship papers and then I went back and that’s when the adventure started. Interviewer: Where did you go for boot camp? We left there in a train and I went to Fort Knox and I was in basic there and after eight weeks, I got assigned to some other type of training, I didn’t know, and I really didn’t care, because like I said, I joined the army for fun, travel, and adventure and I really didn’t care what kind of job I got, because I had a guarantee I was going to go to Europe. 14:02 What capacity it was, it didn’t really matter to me, because I already had three years of college and I thought, ―This is going to be an adventure‖, and in the end it was. Interviewer: Now, tell me a little bit about the boot camp experience itself. How were they running the boot camp in 1961? Well, they’d stand you out there, I could tell you it was three in the morning, but it was probably about six, in the rain, and there would be a platoon sergeant standing in front of you and he would swear without letup. He could hardly see us, because it was pitch black, and we’d be standing there with our rifles and steel helmets on, and all ready to go 6 �to the range and he would tell us in so many words what would happen if we messed up marching to the range, which was a few miles, not five, or ten and it took us about an hour to walk there, march there, there is a difference. 15:00 Anyway, he cursed us up and down, didn’t know us, and like I said, I don’t think he did even see us. Anyway, there was just an awful lot of that and some of the guys in the formation were crying, standing out there crying. At the time you had the draft and those people. We were in Kentucky and there were people from--and people dragged out of those hills to be in the army, and from the Virginias and they didn’t want to be there, they just wanted to be home, and it was kind of sad. Anyway, we would go to the range and fire, and the army taught me how to fire. I had a shotgun at home and went out hunting, but never hit anything, but when I got in the army, they actually taught be how to shoot. We had a M1 rifle and a M-1 rifle has a clip that you push down, so when you hear now about different things happening in the United States and they say, ―Well, I had a thirty round clip‖, it doesn’t have a clip, it has a magazine. 16:01 A magazine comes up from the bottom and a clip is pushed down from the top, it’s not a thirty round clip. Anyway, a M1 has a seven round clip that you push down. They taught me how to fire and we went to the firing range for qualification and you had to get sixty, sixty hits on these targets that would pop up and it was very realistic. I did my best, because I was a fair to middling athlete, and I got fifty eight, so an ―expert‖ was sixty and above, and I fired ―marksman‖, which was fifty eight and that was okay, because as long as you try your best and I was satisfied with that. A lot of guys did fire ―expert’ though and it was quite authentic. Interviewer: How much did they do in terms of physical conditioning? 7 �Well, we had to take a PT test and I did well. There were five events and a hundred on each event was possible and you could get five hundred maximum. 17:03 I probably got four sixty, four seventy, I could always do that. Later on—that was one thing nice about the old army, they had the same test and later on I got four ninety nine, I only dropped one point in the grenade throw, but that was a tough test and to get a hundred points you had to run a mile in six minutes in fatigues and combat boots. You could have a t-shirt on, but to run a mile in six minutes with boots on—I did that later on when I was in my middle thirties and almost forty, I could do that. Interviewer: But, as someone who had been a distance runner and things like that, you were in reasonable condition when you went in. I was in excellent condition. Interviewer: How did yo do in terms of adjusting to the discipline in the army? Not very good, I don’t know, call it whining, or complaining, I wasn’t the best soldier. 18:01 But, they always knew that if they needed something done, if you needed somebody who could shoot, or run, or join a team, or be on time, or to be accountable, I was good at that. In those days you had guard duty, you had KP, on KP there were about six different jobs. The job that I quickly jumped right into was pots and pans, and the reason I did that was to avoid the wrath of the people who worked in the mess hall, because even the privates would be swearing at you, they wouldn’t hit you, but they would just get in your face, even though they were PFC’s, they were cooks and they would just be all over you, but all you had to do in pots and pans was keep those pots and pans clean, keep that soap hot and keep a lot of suds in there to break down the grease. 19:00 Then they would stay out of your face and off your back. You didn’t want to be 8 �the outside man, because you would have frozen to death outside washing garbage cans all day long. You didn’t want to be a DRO, dining room orderly, because they would just be all over you. You couldn’t put the salt and pepper shakers on those tables the right way, no matter how many different ways you did it, it was wrong and they would just be all over you all day long, just constant yelling. I was buried in suds with those big gloves up to my elbows, in peace, for the entire day, so it was a good idea, I guess. Interviewer: Now, were you older than most of the guys you were training with? Because I had already gone to college, I was twenty-two, and coming down there on the train they had a club car and everybody was drinking, but I have—and I like to drink, but I didn’t drink, because I didn’t want to go into basic with a big hangover. 20:00 Then when I was in the reception center, for a week at Fort Knox, and that’s where you take these tests, and these tests govern what kind of a job you get. By then I was starting to think that maybe I should start trying to do things right, so even though they were drinking and running around on the post, because there wasn’t much accountability when you’re in the reception center, so people, they would drink, and they would carouse, and things would go on all night long, and just raise hell in the barracks, but I got a good night's sleep before these tests. These tests were eight hours solid and what you come out of there is your—that test is a combination of math and English and what you come out of there with is your GT score, general technical, and you carry that with you the rest of your army career, and I got a hundred and twenty six, and that’s one of the highest scores they’d ever seen. 21:01 I never ran into anybody that had a higher score than that, but I had three years of college and I was sober and I was ready. I went into it with a good night's sleep and I got a great score. And so, they—I got offered jobs later on in the army 9 �and they always said, ―You have a high GT, Toms‖, you didn’t even have to prove, or just---or you didn’t even have to go in and act smart, they knew that just by looking at my paper work and that helped me. Interviewer: What kind of training, then, did you get after boot camp? After I hitchhiked home on Highway 31, which nobody used to go out there in uniform, on Highway 31 and hitchhike home for Christmas, which I immediately did. I hitch hiked all the way home and didn’t pay a cent, because I’m English and I’m cheap and that’s how I accumulate money and that’s why I have money. 22:00 Then when I came back they said, ―Don’t you bring a car to this post‖, and I brought my car to the post and I hid it on the other side of the post and on week-ends when I was in AIT, Advanced Individual Training, I would go over to the bus station and there would be two hundred guys trying to get to Louisville and I’d say, ―Anybody wants a ride to Louisville, give me a dollar‖, so I’d fill up my car with people and for five, or six dollars you could drink—I could drink for two days on five, or six dollars, because drafts were ten, or fifteen cents, maybe a quarter. Anyway, I reported there to that AIT and I saw these guys outside sitting in the snow, with their winter outfits on, and they were sorting brass. It was fifty caliber brass, links of brass, and I thought, ―Oh my God, I’m in tanks‖, and I thought, ―This is going to be bad‖. That’s what is was and they had M-48, M-60 tanks, and that was the training that I got, eight weeks of tank training. 23:00 Interviewer: Now, what does that consist of? Do you learn all of the jobs in the tank? You learn how to drive the tank, you learn—you have classes on tank communication, tank radios, and we fire the coaxial machine gun, that’s a machine gun that’s mounted on 10 �the tank and the main gun that’s 105mm and on the same access as that coaxial is a 30 caliber machine gun. You sit in the tank and you do fire that machine gun on the range. But, one thing was, we were at the firing range and we had no idea they were going to fire this main gun and we were just lolling around on the ground out behind this tank and what they were doing was, they were fore sighting this main gun, lining the sights up with the gun itself, and all of a sudden this tank fired and I was about fifteen feet behind it. 24:00 Well, it just about knocked me down, because there’s a big ball of fire three, or four meters across that comes out of the muzzle and it’s physical, because it will knock you, because the oxygen is burned out of the air and creates a vacuum and the air rushes in and makes this big sound, but it actually moves you. But anyway, I’ve never heard any sound that loud since, up to that time, or since then , I couldn’t believe anything could ever be that loud as when that tank fired, and the tank, of course, rocked back and moved back. It weighs fifty-two tons, but it moved back about three inches when that gun fires. These NCO’s, they knew what was going to happen and they just stood up. We didn’t have ear plugs, nothing and we got away from that, after that, but they thought that was great fun to scare us. I’d never heard anything like that in my life. Interviewer: Did you stay with the tanks, or did you find a way into something else? I stayed in tanks, because if you’re in a combat arm, you can make rank faster. 25:03 And after that training I went to—I went by bus to Fort Dix and I went to the Jib and saw Chubby Checker there live, we didn’t have any civilian clothes there—live. We were taken by bus after we were at the reception center there for about a week and what my main function there was to stay out of Hoff detail. They would have formations, but they didn’t know who we were. There would be thousands of people standing outside, me and 11 �some other people, we wouldn’t even go to the formation, because you knew at the end of the day, on the board, they would have a list of people who were shipping out, because from there you would go by bus to Brooklyn to get on the ship. 26:00 So, they would just keep you busy all day long, working in the mess hall, working in the barracks, so we would just go and stand behind the barracks somewhere with some other company, while our company was having formation. They’d take all these people out for detail and we’d appear and we’d go hide in the barracks and mess around the whole day until five o’clock came and you’d go and see if your name was on the list to ship. We just avoided detail. Anyway, finally my name was on the ship and you got your duffle bag and got on the bus. We went on the bus and went to Brooklyn, down to the docks, going all the way through Brooklyn, it was exciting. This was Brooklyn in 1961; actually it was 1962, because it was February. We got there and on the dock they had a band playing ―When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again‖ and it was really something, you know. Interviewer: A sendoff Yeah, it was something and the next band I heard was when I got on the ship going to Vietnam, a little bit different. 27:00 Anyway, we got on the ship, it was 1962, in February, and that was the year when they had enormous storms on the Atlantic and people were throwing up before we got away from the land. That ship, it took us usually seven days to cross, but it took us eight. I was in C compartment, and twenty-two hundred soldiers on there. Interviewer: Now, was this a troop transport? It was the Gordon, and the waves were seven stories high and they came at us just like enormous apartment buildings. When the bow would go down and you could look up 12 �and it was seven stories above the water. When the bow would go down, the whole ship shuttered. 28:00 This is a big ship, because the screw, the propeller came out of the water and then would go back down. No one was allowed out on the deck, because the waves were coming over the tail and over the bow of the ship. And I remember you go up a long way to get on that ship, up the gangplank and there was a lot of the ship above water until you got out there in that ocean. Anyway, I was on KP down there, but there wasn’t much KP, because everybody was sick and we were just sitting, but you still had to go to your job eight hours a day, but we’d just sit in the mess hall and if you could get up and do something--all the cooks were Filipinos and if you could get up and do some work, you did, but most of the guys sat along the wall throwing up and had these barf bags. People were in the chow line and the mess sergeant would go down there and say, ―Get that guy out of the chow line‖, people would be throwing up in the chow line, because you couldn’t keep anything down. Interviewer: Right 29:00 Anyway, they had salt water showers, there was no fresh water and after your shower you were all gummed up, but I showered, probably, a couple of times. Then there were a lot of gangs on the ship, tough guys, that wanted to fight, and I remember the guy I knew, a big guy, named Hicks, came in there looking for his hat and this guy that Rob was hanging around with, he was from Detroit and he was strong guy, and he started going through our lockers and this guy named Senna from Detroit said, ―Don’t open my locker‖. This was about a six foot four guy that looked like Cassius Clay in every way. The guy looked at Senna, Senna got off his bunk and said, ―Don’t open my locker‖ and the guy looked at him and didn’t open it and I thought you’re crazy Senna, because this 13 �guy will kill you, and I’ll probably get killed , because I’m only two feet away and can’t move. 30:00 See, there were five bunks in there and the lowest one was right on the floor and those bunks were only about a foot and a half and you had to slide into them. Once you’re in the bunk, there are five on top of each other. You slide in and you couldn’t turn over, you had to lie—the only way you could turn over was to slide out, turn over and slide back in, there were five f them. Anyway, I tripped that way all the way to Bremerhaven. Anyway, we got to Germany and I didn’t know that all of northern Europe was underwater too and there were a hundred and some people died in Hamburg and all the lowlands were flooded. All those countries, Belgium, northern Germany, Holland, they lost—thousands and thousands of people died in northern Europe during that storm. Interviewer: That storm you were in, you just kind of took the storm with you as you went across the Atlantic. Well, it was all going on at the same time. 31:00 We walk around now, in Europe, you’re in Hamburg, where the Elbe River came up so high there’s markers all over along that shore that shows where it came up in 1962. There are newspaper articles and all types of things. Anyway, my wife was there and she was on the water, because she lived on a house boat in Hamburg and it was quite exciting. We came into Bremerhaven and finally the water was calm, because we were going into the harbor. So, everybody got outside and it was February, so we had our coats on, overcoats, and at the very same time a great big Russian freighter came out with an enormous Hammer and Sickle on the stack. We gave that ship the finger and cursed, you should have heard the profanity and they were only about a hundred yards away. 32:04 We were just screaming and 14 �everybody was just so happy to be outside in some fresh air from being in that prison. Where my bunk was, it was three floors below the water line and no windows, there were no windows in there. We took the train from there and there were only two going—this very strong tough guy named Dan Senna, he and I were the only ones going to Baumholder and in tanks, in armor, Eleven Echo, that’s the MOS. Anyway, they said, the people on the ship said, ―You won’t like Baumholder, it’s the A-hole of Europe‖, and I said, ―Where are you going?‖ ―Going to Munich, going to Frankfort‖, we were the only ones going to Baumholder. Well anyway, Baumholder is a large post with ten thousand soldiers, the largest concentration of American troops, all combat arms, infantry, armor, artillery. 33:04 That’s where we ended, two of us and we ended up in B company 68th Armor. Interviewer: Was that part of a division? That was part of the 8th Infantry division and it was headquartered in Bad Kreuznach. This is over close to the French border not too far from Trier. Interviewer: Alright, and what duties did you have there? Well, I started off as a tank loader, the lowest thing, but it didn’t really matter, but after I was there about six months I started thinking about the fact that I didn’t always want to be a loader and I thought, ―Well, after this guy goes I’ll be the driver‖, and somebody else came into the unit and they made him the driver. I thought, ―I’m never going to get ahead here, I’m just going to be a dud‖, and it was really disheartening. There were some shifts around and I got stationed on this other guy's tank and he said, ―I want you to drive, Toms‖. 34:00 I said, ―Okay‖. I’d never driven much, a little bit around the motor pool anyway, so then a battlefield problem came up and I ended up—I drove that tank all the 15 �way across Germany, a battlefield problem in the winter and your head is sticking out and the cold air is just roaring in there. By the time I got to where we were going, which was Hohenfels, which is over close to the Czechoslovakian border. We were close to the French border and it took us, I think, three days to get there on the Autobahn and everything, but it was really a thrill, so I established myself as a tank driver. Then the tank gunner came around and he said, ―You’re going to have to be the gunner Toms‖, and I thought, ―I’m a PFC, and all of a sudden I’m the driver, that’s an E4 position, I’m the gunner, that’s an E5 position, and I’m a PFC‖. 35:00 I was a PFC for over two years. I had two years in grade before I made spec four, and part of the problem was that I had two article fifteens, which is non-judicial punishment. I got one of those for one time missing bed check. I was about ten miles away in a little town called Reichenbach, and I said, ―I’ve got to be back at the barracks at twelve‖, because if you have a pass you have to be home, you have to be back in the barracks in bed, at midnight when they make the bed check. He said, ―We’re calling a cab‖, but they had an overnight pass and they just tricked me. There was no cab coming and it got to be ten to and I said, ―You didn’t do anything‖, and they just laughed and they were in this bar in Reichenbach and they didn’t call, so I got a cab and got back to Baumholder, back to the barracks. I lived in the barracks for eight years, anyway, and that’s not fun. Anyway, I got an article fifteen and they didn’t want to—I told them my story and they didn’t want to hear it. 36:04 So, I got seven days shoveling coal as my punishment, because every room had a coal burning stove, that’s how we kept warm, so if your room was cold, you got some wood, and you got some coal and you made it warm, you didn’t just turn up the heat, or go and complain to somebody. I was up at five, because that’s when they got you up, and revalie was at 16 �six, so I was up, fully dressed in my clean fatigues, with my spit shined boot, had already made my bunk, and buffed the floor. I was doing something, I was buffing the floor, or something and I didn’t hear them yell outside. We had the formation at six and I looked out the window and there were a hundred and fifty of them standing outside and I’m standing in the room. They said, ―You missed formation Toms‖, and I said, ―I was buffing, and I didn’t hear anybody yell outside‖. 37:00 Once again, another article fifteen, another seven days shoveling coal. I went in there and they introduced me to the first sergeant, and he asked me if I had anything to say and I said, ―I was buffing, I was up fully dressed‖, and he told me to ―shut up‖, and get out of the orderly room and that I was getting an article fifteen, so I did just that. Anyway, that’s why I was a PFC for two years. Then while I was a PFC we had tank gunnery where we go to Grafenberg, which is a big former German training area over on the East German border. There were seventeen tanks in our company and we’d try to fire—you have a day course and a night course and they keep score and it’s an honor to fire high gun in the company. 38:04 I had a good tank commander, and I had a good driver, a good loader, and before we went to tank gunnery the commander said, ―We’re going to have an auction and we’re going to auction off these tanks. We’re going to have a contest and the tank that wins will get half the money, who won the competition, and the guy who buys the tank at the auction will get the other half of the money‖. I had been loaning out money, because somebody came down to my room and wanted to borrow five for ten and I thought, ―Pfffff, he is a sergeant and I’m a PFC, that’s great‖, and I said, ―I’ll give it to you, here’s five‖, and at the end of the month he gave me ten dollars. About a year later I had money loaned out to fifty-six different people and I had over twelve hundred dollars loaned out. 39:03 In 17 �fact, when we lined up for pay, and we lined up alphabetically and my name is Toms, and I’d have to stand in the pay line, because they paid you in cash, and I’d have to stand there for an hour. I told my platoon sergeant, ―I can’t wait in this line for an hour. I’ve got to get to Alpha, Bravo and Charlie Companies, because there are guys over there that owe me money and their names don’t start with T. They’ll be AB and C, and they’ll be down in the village drinking and spending money on those women, (I was going to use the other term that starts with W), and I’ll never get my money. I’m going now, and I’ll be back before they get to T‖, so I’d have to run to the company, with my book, get the money from them and then run back to the company. Anyway, when the auction came, come to find out, and I was still a PFC, the people who held all the ranks, they didn’t have any money. 40:02 So they started this auction, who wanted to buy this tank, who wanted to buy that tank, and there were only a couple of us that had any money and the people who were loaning out money were low ranking people. So finally a couple of sergeants said, ―They’ll probably have to go home and ask their wife for some money‖. Anyway, we had the auction and everybody was totally flabbergasted. I bought my tank and one other tank I thought would win. Anyway, to make a long story short, we won; we won the tank gunnery combined. We were in second place after the day run, and the night run, we won that too, so my tank sergeant, Easton, and I, we won the competition, so I got all the money. I got the money, because—you know now, I had to split it four ways. The money was split to four crew members, but they didn’t buy our tank, because they didn’t have any money, so I got more money than anybody. 41:00 We did win and we were part of the 18th Division and I found out that we were—our score was third highest in the 18th Division, and our battalion was fifty four tanks and we were the 18 �highest in our battalion with our score, but there were other tanks, maybe Bad Kreuznach, Mannheim and some other places, so we were third in the division, so we got in some van and they took us to Bad Kreuznach division headquarters and the division commander presented us with an engraved Ronson lighter that had the 18th Division crest on the lighter and I didn’t smoke, so I kept it and gave it to my mother when I got home, because she smoked, and my father did, so I gave her the engraved lighter. Interviewer: Now, how long did they have you in Germany for that tour? That was two years. Interviewer: Okay, are there other—why did you stay in the barracks the whole time? Was there just nowhere else to go? 42:00 You couldn’t, the only people that got to live in what’s known as family housing, were the people who were married. Interviewer: Right Only NCO’s and even just the higher ranking NCO’s and most of the officers, so I lived in the barracks with one company down , Bravo company, no Bravo company down— One company down and one company up, I can’t remember, I was in Echo Company first and then Alpha Company, but it was dangerous. They sold beer upstairs, they had a little restaurant up there and even the sergeants, they’d want to come down and fight at night. I remember, I pushed my wall locker away from the wall and they said, ―Rich is looking for you, Sergeant Rich‖, and I was a private. I had to hide behind that wall locker, because Rich wanted to come in and fight. The one time, I was down there in my room, I was down there visiting a friend of mine who was a fighter himself. 43:01 The door burst open and this guy named Greenway came bursting, came into the room and I had 19 �to—I’d been to town and in order to go to town then you had have a coat and tie on, you couldn’t just—no casual dress. I was standing there with my topcoat on and my tie and he burst in this room and he said, ―I think I could whip your ass, Toms‖. He flew into me, I was—he came across the room and I started to take my jacket off and I got both my arms behind me getting out of my jacket and he punched me in the face, but the thing was, he was about my size and I didn’t go down, but then somehow, even in the army, the guy had long hair and I got a hold of his hair and pulled him around and punched him a few times. Anyway, I got on top of him and I won this fight. But that was—I didn’t mention earlier, but I had fought in the Golden Gloves. 44:02 I was a fair to middling basketball player, but there were great fighters on this team at Godwin, where I went to high school and I got cut from the team, so I went and hung around with some tough guys and went down and fought in the Golden Gloves tournament in the Civic Auditorium and I lost to a guy from the Moose Lodge. It was a three round decision, so I learned an awful lot about boxing. I fought a lot of tough guys and I took a lot of beatings over there at the Westside Youth Commonwealth, in training. But I did learn a lot and it was okay, because I had gloves on and it was a sport, it wasn’t fighting, it was boxing, there’s a difference and I learned a lot, so I was able to get Greenway off my back and I punched him enough times that he quit, which was the only fight I won in my life, but I didn’t start it either, which was good. Interviewer: Did you get in many fights, or did you mostly stay away from them? Most of the time I tried to stay away from them, but one time I was with this tough guy, he was on the ship, Senna, and we were in Ebertsheim drinking. 45:07 We had gone outside and I didn’t know he was such a fired up guy, I knew he was probably the 20 �toughest person I had ever met in my life, we walked down the street and there were three black guys standing there and we just walked between them, I just walked between them on the sidewalk and one of them said something and Senna hit this guy and knocked him out in the street. I thought, ―Are you crazy?‖ So then, the two of them, the guy laid there, they took off running down the street the other way. I said, ―They’re coming back you fool‖, and we ran, we took off, we were all dressed, we had a top coat on, tie, coat, we ran down and hid behind some houses. The came down the street, and this is no lie, there’s five of them. Anyway, they came around the corner and they found us. 46:00 A guy came up to me, a huge guy, got me in a headlock and started punching the shit out of me. Anyway, I just remember Senna knocking people down. Anyway, the next thing I know this guys’ grip is relaxing on me, cuz I’m trying to flail away, but I couldn’t because this guy was twice as strong as I was and twice as big. Then Senna is punching this guy in the head who’s got me in the headlock, the guy releases me and goes down on the ground. There are a couple of guys laying there, one guy is running away and I never saw anything like it in my life. I fought in the Golden Gloves with guys who were city champions and I saw the best fighters who ever came out of this area and I really learned a lot, but this guy was unbelievable and he had never fought in the Golden Gloves. So then, I was bleeding, and I got a big scar right there and had about eight stitches there, I was bleeding and had blood all over my clothes, we ran down this alley and I knew they were coming back and they did, and I thought, ―They’ll kill us‖. 47:00 We crawled up on the top of a garage roof and lay down on our backs and we could hear them running up and down the alley looking for us and I thought—anyway, somehow they left and we made our way back to a bar and I got in the bathroom and cleaned myself up and we got 21 �back to Baumholder and I went down to the center and got my face stitched up, but there was an awful lot of that in the army. Interviewer: Life in the army at that point was, you had your duty and what you were doing and then there was drinking, and fighting and at least some of the womanizing that was sort of what one did. Yup, yup Interviewer: All right now, how long had you enlisted for? What was it? I enlisted for three years. Interviewer: Then did you then decide to go ahead and reenlist and stay in? Anyway, I started—I got the idea that since I wasn’t a stupid person, I could soldier and I could try to make it my life. 48:00 You have what is known as a guard mount, you go down there and you’re inspected for guard and there’s seven post, three men, three reliefs, there’s twenty-one guards, but there’s twenty-two people that report for guard. The one person on the guard mount will be picked as knowing military subject and he will be known as the Colonels orderly and he won’t have to walk guard, he’ll just have to go up and report to the Colonel and the Colonel will just say, ―Good job, make a pot of coffee and you’ll be free, you won’t have to walk guard and you’ll have the next day off‖. So, I thought that would be a good thing to do, so I shined up all my clothes, got new fatigues, went down and got the supply sergeant to give me—I traded in my field jacket, and I kinda got in good with him, because he was the volleyball coach and I was playing volleyball. I got completely—I got my whole uniform done over, so I was extremely—I was so sharp I could hardly walk. 49:00 All my stuff was pressed, starched, I had a clean haircut, spit shined, even when we had guard mount overshoes and 22 �field pants, I spit shined my goulashes, those buckle goulashes. I went down there to guard mount and I started answering those questions they would ask. They would ask you your weapon serial number and ask you about who’s the Secretary of Defense, who’s the—the one time the guy asked me, ―Who’s the prime minister of Egypt?‖, and I said it was Gamel Abdel Nasser and I was just a—I would read the Stars and Stripes, I was just a news junkie and I knew all this stuff. The only thing I had to do was brush up on military subjects, because they would ask yo some military things too, the maximum effective range of your pistol, and about tank gunnery and about all kinds of military stuff, map reading and everything. I started making Colonel's orderly and if you made it two times in a quarter you’d get a three day pass. I made it six times in a row and they always owed me a three day pass and they owed me a three day pass from the tank gunnery. 50:02 Then they said, ―If you make Colonel's orderly ten times, then you don’t have to pull guard any more‖, so I said, ―Okay, but I already made it six‖. The first sergeant, he hated my guts and he said, ―You start over at zero Toms‖, so I said, ―Okay‖, you obviously said ―Okay‖, so then I started making it again every time I was on guard and I made it six times in a row and I got up to ten and he said, ―You’re off guard‖. I went to the NCO Academy, volunteered, I’d just made E4 and the top ten percent graduates at the NCO Academy got promoted, so I went from one month—one month I was a PFC and a month later I was an E5, I jumped up two ranks after waiting two years in one rank. 51:00 I made two ranks in one month, so then I was a spec five and I didn’t have to pull KP anymore, I didn’t have to walk guard anymore, I’d already just made the sixteen times Colonel's orderly, but by then I was a knowledgeable soldier and I was sharp and I made soldier of the month there and I won the tank gunnery. 23 �Interviewer: Now, did you get a chance during that tour in Germany to go very far afield off base? Yeah, I had all these three day passes and I saved all my leave and I got there in February and I was really good with money even though, as an E2, I made eighty six dollars a month, but I saved I saved enough money somehow and I took a train and I went to Barcelona with this very tough person, Dan Senna, but we kinda argued a lot, so I wanted to do things my way and he was sure going to do things his way, but anyway, we went to Barcelona on the train and it was wonderful. I only had about twenty dollars to spend once I got there. 52:00 But, we stayed in a hotel in downtown Barcelona and went out to a place called Castle Hills, on the bus, and stayed out there for a week and then we came back on the train. I ended up going to Barcelona three times on that tour of three years and I went to Paris seven times on the train, because you just had to get to Reichenbach, which was about ten Kilometers away. The train from Frankfort to Paris went right past there and that was a stop, so you just had to get to Reichenbach and six hours later I was in Paris. Then I went to Amsterdam, I went almost twenty times to Amsterdam. Interviewer: Now, did you speak any European languages? I took a course, they had a course during the daytime in German--I took that. I took University of Maryland for three credit hours, I took that German. 53:00 I got quite good at it and they asked me, when the instructor left that taught the troops, the troop class each day, if I wanted to be an instructor, and I said, ―There’s no rank and I’ll end up being a spec five forever‖, so I didn’t take that job. I went back to the motor pool being a tank driver and gunner. 24 �Interviewer: So, how did you kind of get around otherwise if you’re in France, or in Spain, or someplace like that? Well, we’d always take the bus. They said, ―You should buy a car‖, but I didn’t want to buy a car, because I liked the public transportation and to me that was just a—I didn’t want to drive, not at all. For the whole tour I didn’t want to drive. Interviewer: In Europe you can get around pretty well public transportation. I always tool the bus and it was just great and it was no problem at all. 54:00 Then taking the train was just wonderful. It was eight hours to Amsterdam and I’d take that three day pass and leave on Friday and I’d be in the club car, get something to eat there and it was just absolutely wonderful. Go from there to Koblenz, change at Koblenz, into Bingen and into Amsterdam. I’d get myself a hotel room; it was just paradise, that’s why I went there so many times. It was actually the best years of my life. I didn’t have very much money, it was just the whole thing, Amsterdam, it was the start of the music thing—I didn’t—I was just a--I just loved the music, I liked all the women in Amsterdam, I liked the drinking and all that, but to me the music was the most—the greatest thing. I remember being in the bars and those Beatles songs would come on and everybody in the bar would be standing singing those songs. Total strangers would have their arms around me, it was just the most fantastic thing and I just loved it. 55:02 of course coming back on Sunday with a hangover was pretty rough. Interviewer: Now, when that tour in Germany finishes then what happens to you? Well, I applied for OCS and I came back and I went to—I applied for infantry and they said, ―You have enough math‖, because I had four years of high school math, trigonometry, geometry and everything, so they sent me to Fort Sill to artillery OCS, a six 25 �months course and I was there four months. I quit after four months, because my grades as a lower--middle classman were fine, but I could see that I wasn’t going to be as knowledgeable as I should have been to be an officer in artillery, so I quit before they quit me. 56:02 I didn’t want to flunk out, so I quit at the end of that, and I have a little bit of a problem standing up in front of a group, so we had some group and giving a presentation I’d choke up. I did that a couple of times and I thought, ―I have to get over this‖. It was really embarrassing to have a firing mission and not be able to talk, it was sort of like in ―The King's Speech‖, it was like that and back in Canada I used to sing ―God Save the King‖. I was King George the VI, from the movie ―The King's Speech‖. Interviewer: Now, did you take steps to kind of learn how to talk in front of people? Well, after I flunked out of OCS after four months I was kind of depressed and I was assigned—I was sent to the 2nd Infantry Division at Fort Benning and I was in the motor pool, it was in armor and they had tanks there. I could really drive that tank and I was the only one that could drive the tank on the train. 57:05 They were going to ship tanks to North Carolina for a maneuver and nobody could drive the tank onto the train car. I said, ―I’ve driven plenty of them on the railcar‖, because it’s scary, you go up like this and you can’t see anything except the sky and then the tank falls forward. You’re on the ramp and it falls forward and you’re on the train while somebody is on the ground walking you forward, ground guiding you and I could drive the tank on the train, so I drove all the tanks in the company on the train. Anyway, I made the—they asked if anybody wanted to go airborne, they had an airborne class and they got nine hundred people and they needed fifty more just to fill up the class. ―Even though you guys are in armor, do you want to go airborne?‖ I said, ―Hell yes, after that OCS thing, I’m ready, I’ll jump out, I’ll 26 �do anything‖. I was just kind of depressed with my accomplishments. 58:00 Anyway, I went to that airborne school, nine hundred, and that was tough, but I was really good, not great, but a really good athlete, but that airborne training was tough and I almost didn’t make a certain part of it, because I had trouble doing this PLF, parachute landing fall. You’re hooked up in a harness, they swing you back and forth and they drop you. You have to hit and do a perfect parachute landing fall and I was borderline, but on my very last one, they said, ―We’ll give you one last chance Toms and if you hit this one, you’re going forward‖, I hit it and I got to go. Anyway, up there with sixty-four jumpers, it was unbelievable. They opened that door up and I jumped out of that airplane and I jumped out twice on my birthday. I’m not even in the infantry and I jumped out twice on my birthday and I’ll tell you it was exciting. Interviewer: How old were you by that time? Twenty-six, twenty-five-- anyway I made soldier of the month, battalion soldier of the month. 59:02 Then went to training in Fort Bragg, North Carolina and they said, ―We don’t want you to go with us, you stay back and study for division soldier of the month‖, so I stayed back and studied, but then I never--then Vietnam picked up and the 11th Air Assault changed to the 1st Cav and I never, ever, did go up for division soldier of the month, because I got sent over there to the 1st Cav and it was back to being a nothing. I got assigned to this company and I was a spec five. They were all—just lines and lines, hundreds of helicopters and Chinooks and Hueys and I was just off a tank from an office over in Sand Hill, this is a different part of Fort Benning. They assigned me—they said, ―Well, we’re leaving in a week Toms, you’ve got to go over and get POR qualified‖, which meant qualified to ship out to Vietnam. 00:02 They said, ―You better go over 27 �and get your shots, we’re going to give them all to you in one day, because you don’t have time‖, so they gave me seven shots, so then I went down to the flight—they said, ―Go on down to the flight line‖, so I got down there and you meet your crew. So, I got down there and met them and I started to pass out, because they gave me all these shots. I said, ―I’m sorry I got to sit down‖, and I sat down and passed out and laid over there for a while, because I had all these shots going in me. Interviewer: At this point, you say you’re coming in from tanks, so you don’t know anything about the helicopters or whatever, what kind of assignment did they give you then? They said, ―You’re going to be a door gunner, because you’re in armor and you know a little bit about weapons. You fired machine guns and you know a little bit about them. You know how to take apart a thirty caliber machine gun‖. 1:00 I said, ―Oh yeah‖, ―And fire these weapons?‖ I said, ―Oh yeah‖, and that’s what they did with all the tankers, they made them door gunners. They said, ―You’re going to get flight pay‖, and I, for years, made $99.37 and now as a spec five, I was making $210.00. To make another eighty some dollars flight pay and be a member of a flight crew was--I thought, ―This is really special‖, so that’s what I did. And then just like in the movie with Mel Gibson there, we were soldiers, we were young. We took the bus to Charleston, south Carolina and there was a band playing ―When Johnny Comes Marching Home‖, we got up on it and took that ship, got on there and they said, ―You’re in C compartment‖, and I thought, ―I remember that, that’s KP‖, and I said, ―I don’t pull KP, I’m a spec five‖, see, I was still mouthy, and he said, ―You’re going to be a KP pusher, you go to the mess hall. You’ll be in charge of the KP‖. 2:00 I thought, ―The whole thirty days‖. We left and 28 �went down past Cuba, through the Panama Canal, that was exciting, landed fifteen days later at Long Beach. It’s not like the movie where everybody gets off, goes into town and gets drunk, except one person from the platoon, a thirty man platoon, he gets to go in. Of course it was kiss ass Schoenborn; he got to go into Long Beach and the rest of us, twenty-nine of us, we just stood on the deck looking at Long Beach. We were there for a day, they had to fuel it up and get more food on, or whatever and we left for Vietnam. Fifteen days later, it was just like a big lake, we fired machine guns off the back, pistols, and rifles, fired everything off the back deck. We did PT on deck every day and then down in the kitchen. It was a little better because I was a spec five, unlike the first trip there was no trouble, no fighting. 3:01 Then we got to Vietnam, we stopped and you could just barely see the shore, but I could hear cannon fire, ―boom‖, and I thought, ―My God‖, ―boom‖. Interviewer: What did you know about Vietnam at this point? I was a phys-ed major in college and I was geography minor, so I knew right where we were, and crossing the International Date Line I knew what part of the world we were in. I knew that we had been there before and I knew about the French at Dien Bien Phu, I knew the history and I knew about Ho Chi Minh and I knew about China. The reason we went to Vietnam was justified, bona fide, the reason we went there was to stop the spread of communism. The communists were in Cuba, they were in all the European countries, and communists were very big in France, Italy, Spain, and Greece, even in England. 4:04 And they were all over South and Central America, of course, China, Russia and they were in North Vietnam and that’s why we were in South Vietnam, to stop it, that was far enough, that’s why we were there. I know the premise, the Gulf of Tonkin incident and 29 �all that was falling, but we were in there and I wasn’t running that. Anyway we got off and came down those cargo chutes with all that equipment. I had that M-60 machine gun and I don’t even know how I carried all that, because I weighed a hundred and –I fought in the golden gloves at 126 and that’s what I weighted when I came off that ship and still do. I got in that big landing barge and I kind of laughed, because I never thought we’d go over the edge, over the side of that ship on the cargo net. Anyway, I crawled down there and somehow I ended up in the front of the landing barge and standing there I thought, ―It must be the Colonel‖, and I can’t remember his name, but he had a horse and I wish I could remember his name. 5:07 He was kind of eccentric, he was kind of a famous guy. Interviewer: He had been in the Cavary a while. Yeah, and he had a horse and I was just somehow standing behind him, just fate, and we got up to the shore and that big door came down and everybody walked off in about a foot of water. We walked in there and there were television cameras and photographers and everything. We went in and we went through there and I just looked around and I had no idea that I was ever going to be on the front of a magazine. We went and got on a C-124 and we flew to An Khe and it was dark when we got there and I had no idea and they said, ―You all set up your tents‖. Everybody had a shelter hat and teamed up with somebody and put up a pup tent wherever you wanted to. The next day, they were all over the place jumbled up and not very military. So, then after that, the next day, we had to get up and line them all up, which is natural, because we were in the army. 6:01 We used those pup tents about the first two months, but it rained every night and every night the rain would just come through the tent and you’d have to get out of your sleeping bag, 30 �hold up all of your bedding, and squat inside that pup tent while that rain ran through the tent and then you’d lay it back down again and go back to sleep. Interviewer: Did you have air mattresses? Yes, we had air mattresses, but for some reason they did not keep you off the ground high enough to stop that waster from soaking that sleeping bag, because they were hanging all over the next morning. Interviewer: Yeah, so once the flood water went away you could lay them back down. The thing was, the very first morning it was so different. It was like when you go from Michigan to Florida. The fauna, the trees, everything, the smell and everything and when that sun came up the next morning it was like misty and I thought it was just like being— such a strange thing, I had never been in anything like that, except maybe Florida maybe, because I’d gone down to Florida, hitchhiked down there actually. 7:08 I saw a line of about two or three hundred Vietnamese workers, and those conical hats and black pajamas, five hundred yards away on the other side of the airstrip, and I thought, ―God, this is really the orient, look at these strange people‖. I was really something, and the smell, that ground was red and it smelled different, because everything smelled different. Anyway, An Khe, where we were, was a big circle with all the units around the circle and in the center were four hundred and thirty-five helicopters, including six of those flying cranes, those big grasshopper looking affairs. The first day they started flying and they said, ―You’re just going to be on standby Toms, because we don’t have a crew for you. There are ten helicopters in your platoon, but you’re going to be an extra, but you can fly right now‖. 8:08 So, the first day, I went over there and they showed me about the 31 �rockets and M-60 machine guns and I was in charge of loading up these rocket pods, seven rockets on each side, two M-60 machine guns, that were belt fed, on each side and then the crew chief, he had an M-60 machine gun and I, the door gunner, had an M-60 machine gun and I fired out. The door was open and I sat on a little seat. I was in charge of loading up the ammunition, cleaning those six M-60 machine guns and loading up the rocket pods we were flying. Then about a week later there was a guy in the next bunk to me and I can’t remember—I just remember his name was Knight and they went out, I was in the tent and they came back and said that Knight got hit and they said, ―You’re going to take his place‖. 9:02 I never—they came in—―Knight got killed‖, that’s what they said, and they folded up his bunk, picked up his stuff and took it up to supply and I took Knight's place. I never saw that, and after that and I thought, ―This is real stuff, Knight’s dead‖, and I didn’t know him from a hill of beans. I didn’t even talk much to him, because for some reason I was off on detail and I didn’t see much of him, so I took his place. We started going on these missions and supporting the infantry in what they were doing. We’d go to Pleiku a lot and I remember they’d take that helicopter down the riverbeds, low, ten feet off the water and there would be Vietnamese just standing in the river, crossing, or doing whatever, or fishing, or washing clothes and they’d see us coming and they’d lay down, lay down in the water, because they didn’t know what we were going to do, because we were harm. Interviewer: At this point did you have any orders? Were you looking for things to shoot at, or were you just on reconnaissance? 10:03 We would shoot at whatever we were told to shoot at. We would—now I was a spec five and they didn’t really come out and tell us very much about what we were doing, or 32 �anything else. Later on when I got to be an E8, I would always call the platoon together and I would give them a, what we called, a five paragraph field order. Situation, admission, execution, logistics, I can’t remember all five parts of it, but I would tell everybody what’s going on and I said, ―The reason I’m telling you guys is to bring you into play, so you know what the hell is going on and this isn’t just boredom, even if it is just a field problem, you still have situation, admission, execution, a five paragraph field order‖. No one ever gave that to me, so consequently, most of the time I was ill informed and I didn’t know what was going on and what units of the enemy we were supposed to engage in. 11:01 Interviewer: When you first got there, was it 1965? 1965 in July Interviewer: Okay, so you’re with the 1st Cavalry Division, 1st Battalion, 9th Cavalry, with helicopter units. This is really the first large [division sized] army formation that went into Vietnam at that point, and when you were based there at An Khe, initially, was there a lot of security around the base? Were they worried at that point about Viet Cong attacks and things like that, or was it fairly loose when you first got there? Well, we had full guard every night. We’d have at least two hours in a fox hole with sandbags around it, close to where our tents were. That was what was known as the inner perimeter, but then they had an outer perimeter, which was up the hill out further, but I never got assigned to the outer perimeter. So, we were the second line of defense. 12:00 But, sitting out there on guard and every—I don’t know, it was just, at night you’d be looking into—and there would be shadows and things and it was scary, because these 33 �people could crawl up on you. When I was a kid I used to do that, when I was a kid I was always the Indian and that was my bit. I would crawl up and I could tell you a lot more stories about being in the army at the NCO Academy, I was really good at crawling up on people and sneaking up on—especially, even in the daylight, because like I said before, I was always the Indian. I know these people could crawl up on you in the dark and all of a sudden be right onto you, and you’d be overwhelmed really quick. So, I didn’t have any problem with falling asleep on guard. I had a little problem with every shadow, it was something. There were a few times when we parked these helicopters, out on the different operations, where—well, you’re out on guard and here are these great big helicopters there on a dry spot in the middle of a bunch of rice paddies. 13:03 And I thought, ―Oh my God, I’m out here all by myself, everybody else is asleep, two helicopters by themselves and in the daytime there’s all kinds of Vietnamese and then they kind of fade away. Well, who knows who they are, so they could be sneaking up on you‖, so I’m kind of hustling around there, moving around these two helicopters for my two hours and then I’m supposed to go to sleep and I’m a case of nerves, because I knew that they could—anybody that’s armed with even a bow could sneak up on you and kill you in a minute. Just with not even a real weapon, or even a spear. There were people, when we were off, over by Pleiku, fifty miles away, not very far, there were Montagnards and they had spears and we’d see them all the time. Primitive people with a loin cloth on and that was all and they’d be out tending some kind of little plot of ground they had, growing some things. 14:04 I was kind of terrified at night and I was glad when it finally got daylight and you could see. Interviewer: Did you actually get people infiltrating the base and doing damage? 34 �They did, but not—only one time and it was in Hong Kong Mountain. One time we were woken with a lot of racket and they had gotten up on top of Hong Kong Mountain and there was a platoon of people up there all the time and they attacked them. You could hear a lot of things going off and see some flashes of light, but they were repulsed by the people in the 1st Cav. Interviewer: But the base that you were actually on did not get infiltrated? We never did, we were just sitting there, everybody knew where we were, there were twenty-five thousand troops, it was a large division, the 1st Cavalry, the entire division was in one big circle and we were sitting right there. Everybody knew, everybody in North Vietnam, and China, knew exactly where we were sitting. 15:02 Interviewer: There may have been a certain amount of safety in numbers there against that kind of infiltration. Oh, there was, and like I said, two perimeters and I just had an M-16 and I wasn’t armed with anything special. At night you don’t have much in field of fire, because somebody could be up on you in a minute. Interviewer: Right, and did you have Vietnamese working on the base during the day? We had a Vietnamese, it was a tall Vietnamese, the tallest I had ever seen, was our interpreter and there were a lot of civilian day laborers. There was nobody there at night. During the day they would come in, but not in our immediate area, not in our company, or in our troop area, not close to us at all. We’d just see them out there doing things on the heli pad, or doing different things, but with supervision in a large group. 16:00 You could go into the village, sometimes they would let you get on—you could walk to the 35 �village, about two miles into An Khe, or you could jump on a truck, You could just stick out your thumb, everybody stops. We’d go into the village, but you had to have everything with you and we’d go into the village for some women, they had what was known at ―boom, boom girls‖, for some ―boom, boom‖ and it was about a hundred dong, about a dollar. Anyway, we’d get on a truck and you could go in there for the day, but you had to have all your stuff with you. You had to have your web gear on, your—you didn’t have to take your steel helmet, but you had to have your weapon with you. I had a... being on a helicopter, I had a pistol, a forty-five, which is the same pistol I had when I was in tanks. We were in armor and we don’t carry rifles in armor, our personal weapon is a pistol and I did qualify expert with a pistol. 17:02 I missed that in rifle by two, but I could fire—when they gave me a pistol I thought, ―Oh good, a second chance, they’re giving me a chance again to get that expert rating‖, and I did with the pistol, and actually, it was relatively easy. Interviewer: Now, was it safe to go back and forth to An Khe at that point? Yeah, we never—there were a lot of people when we were in the village and they were selling beer and Schnapps and beer, there were two kinds of beer, ―Tiger LaRue‖ and ― 33 Bop‖, which was known as ―Bomb a Reba‖, I don’t know how much that means, I can count, but you had to know how to count, because you had to tell those ―boom, boom girls‖ how much you were going to pay, you needed to—they liked to dicker a bit, not a great amount, but you could dicker. Interviewer: Then did they make sure that everybody came back at night? Well, you came back on your own, you were told, yeah, told. It was on a river and they had a water purification truck down there, there was no bottled water. 18:01 I think 36 �that’s what would do some damage, and something about some flak, about some corruption, something about millions and millions of dollars in contracts for bottled water. I said, ―I don’t care, we’re not in Iraq, you can get water out of the water buffalo like I did, that’s why we have water purification teams, I don’t need bottled water. Your bottle is your canteen, fill it up with water out of the water buffalo, it’s water, you don’t need to have a plastic bottle‖. Interviewer: Well, I guess we’ve gone upscale as far as that. Well, it’s costing us too much money we don’t have. Interviewer: All right, how long was it before your division started to get into large scale action after you got there? In October, that’s when they said there’s a big thing—they over ran Plei Me, but then that was an outpost armed by ARVN’s. 19:03 Army of the Republic of Vietnam and the people that over ran them were people known as PAVN’s, People’s Army of Vietnam and I said to a really good friend of mine, ―What are we doing fighting the people?‖ Anyway, I said, ―It’s the People’s Army of Vietnam‖, anyway, a great friend of mine. So anyway, things really started happening then and they said, ―The 7th Cav’s involved and we’re going to be supporting them‖, so we just loaded up those machine guns and those rockets and we would fire everything, though I can actually say, I never saw a North Vietnamese soldier. I never—we would unload and we would fire that stuff where we were directed by the people on the ground and we would come back to the, what they called the heli pad, the ―golf course‖, the big circle, and we would load up the rockets again, load up the machine guns and go and unload the thing three, or four, times a day and we would do that every day for a month, every day seven days a week. 20:08 37 �Interviewer: So it’s not just that intuition fight in the Ia Drang Valley for that first Mel Gibson movie part of it, but continued action in that area over that period of months. We knew there were American troops down there, we could see some of them One time they said that there wasn’t a medevac around and would we land and pick up a wounded soldier, so we landed the helicopter and we thought, ―Ppppp, here we are sitting in the middle of all this stuff‖, and here’s this guy, a great big black guy, and he must have weighed two hundred and fifty pounds. We were--me and the crew chief, we got this big guy under his arms and started pulling him and he had a big hole in his stomach. I thought, ―My God‖, because I’d never seen anybody wounded like that. 21:01 He had a—there was nothing coming out of it, it was just a big hole about an inch in diameter. I thought, ―My God look at this, don’t look at that, you might get sick‖. We got him up into the helicopter and laid him on the floor and took off. I thought, ―I’m glad we’re back up in the air, because obviously, whoever shot this guy is not very far away and I’m glad the helicopter got off the ground again‖. We’d fly in pairs and we’d usually fly with the same helicopter behind us. We would be the lead helicopter, because our pilot was a Captain, yeah, Captain Kidd, the name of the pirate. Anyway, we were flying alone, we had a 1st Lieutenant copilot, we were flying, it was in the Ia Drang Valley, and he said, ―Where’s, what’s his name?‖ 22:02 B-1, B-2, they had a code name of the helicopter and they were Charlie something, it was, we were Charlie 3 and they were Charlie 4, he said, ―Where’s Charlie 4?‖ I looked around and said, ―I don’t see them‖, and I didn’t think anything of it, and come to find out, they were gone. They got shot down and we never saw the four people in that tank crew, in that helicopter, never saw then again, and I 38 �thought, ―My God‖. We went back down to An Khe, landed that helicopter and he said, ―Their chopper’s parked right beside us, you got to be kidding me‖, and I never saw those people again. I can remember one, the pilot, or the copilot was a Hawaiian warrant officer and he was--it seemed like he was about twenty years old, of course he was a little bit older, for just a young, fresh faced, guy and I never saw any of those people again. Interviewer: But, the chopper itself got back? No, the chopper was gone. 23:00 Interviewer: Oh, so when you got back there was a place where the chopper should be, but it wasn’t there? And I, really—that’s how this really was, and in real combat you don’t really see—it’s not all—the enemy’s not out there, it’s not frontal attacks like, maybe, it was in Korea, it’s just a strange thing, all of a sudden somebody’s there and then they’re gone. They were gone and I never saw them again. Interviewer: Now, did you take much ground fire at this point? One time I was on KP, even though I was a spec five, and a guy named Meyers, who I had been playing cards with the night before, owed me forty dollars, and he’s firing the machine gun out of the helicopter, taking my place and he fires the machine gun into the rocket pod. The pod blew up and brought the chopper down, it blew up and he got a wound in his leg, so they evacuated him to Japan, with my forty bucks. 24:07 But, he lived and I thought, ―Oh god, there goes—there’s that‖, and one other time we were going out in the jungle there and Warrant Officer Green said, ― The stick’s dead, we’ve lost hydraulics‖, and that might have been caused by ground fire. The hydraulics went and he said, ―We’re going to land it and it’s going to be rough‖, so the propeller keeps 39 �turning, but he auto rotated the chopper down to the ground, but it came down and he said, ―Hold on‖, So I grabbed on and that thing hit the ground, ―kabam‖, and bounced about three times and finally came to rest and then somebody came and picked us up and we left that helicopter sitting right there and never saw it again either. 25:01 We were lucky that helicopter didn’t crash, because it was—I don’t know how he even found an open space, because there were trees everywhere, vegetation and, you know, you can’t hit anything, the helicopter’s like a big spider with that chopper going around, you can’t hit anything, or it well just flip right over. He landed it on the skids and it bounced there on the ground and we jumped off and grabbed all our stuff, weapons, grabbed the weapons and as much as we could and threw them in this other helicopter and got out of there without the rockets. Interviewer: Now, what you’re doing, you’re landing in the middle of nowhere and there’s not American forces around. I know it, yeah 25:37 The end of interview tape I 40 �41 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context TomsA Title A name given to the resource Toms, Alan (Interview transcript and video, 1 of 2), 2011 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Toms, Alan Description An account of the resource Alan Toms was born in Toronto, Canada in 1939. Because of his father's occupation, Toms' and his family moved several times while Toms was a child, eventually ending up in Grand Rapids, Michigan. After graduating from high school, Toms attended junior college in Grand Rapids before enrolling at Western Michigan University, although he eventually left the university. After leaving Western Michigan, Toms joined the Army and went through his basic training and armored AIT at Fort Knox, Kentucky. From Fort Knox, Toms deployed to Germany for a three-year tour as part of an armored unit. After his tour in Germany, Toms went to the artillery OCS at Fort Sill, Oklahoma but did not do well and eventually transferred to the 2nd Infantry Division at Fort Benning, Georgia. While at Fort Benning, Toms went through Airborne training before transferring to the 1st Cavalry Division and was with the division when it deployed to Vietnam. While in Vietnam, Toms served as a door gunner aboard a helicopter. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission (Kentwood, Mich.) WKTV WKTV (Wyoming, Mich.) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings United States. Army Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2011-03-10 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/9f93959232c9239f687da945642eb3d0.mp4 8dcb887970d80a6f09663566a31cb153 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/244a66aae546c6ad42d2c4cf416c5d83.pdf 204ccd25648ecd1c99bf71b94f408ea2 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project Vietnam War / Cold War Alan Toms 2 Interview Length: (01:41:34:00) Vietnam Deployment (00:00:39:00)  While Toms was in the Ia Drang Valley, the operation he was a part off lasted for about two months and during that time, Tom’s flew aboard a helicopter gunship (00:00:39:00) o The gunship was a “B” Model Huey helicopter mounted with six machine guns and fourteen rockets; using the weaponry, Toms’ helicopter provided support and performed reconnaissance by fire (00:00:52:00) o In the center of the Ia Drang Valley was the city of Pleiku but the majority of the fighting occurred around the valley (00:01:12:00) o Because his helicopter was providing support, Toms was only on the ground a couple of times, whenever the helicopter had to land (00:01:48:00)  One time, the helicopter was waiting on the ground to receive a mission, which was quite typical and there were a large number of body bags about fifty to one hundred and fifty yards away from where the helicopter sat; Toms inquired what was going on and someone told him that those where infantry who had been hit but did not make it and were waiting to be airvaced out (00:01:58:00)  Toms did not want to get any closer to the bodies because he already had enough things to worry about (00:02:42:00)  Toms was aware that there were infantry in his own unit who were missing but he did inquire too much about them; he just packed up his things while other people came in to replace the missing soldiers (00:03:02:00)  Toms’ helicopter tended to be fifty to one hundred yards off the ground and he could see quite well what was going on, hoping that the helicopter would not take any fire (00:03:28:00)  If the helicopter ever did go down, it would be in the middle of a denselyjungled area, without a settlement nearby to walk to, and Toms was sure that either the Viet Cong or NVA would show up quickly (00:03:38:00) o Toms worked as a door gunner, firing an M-60 machine gun on one side of the helicopter while the helicopter crew chief operated the M-60 on the other side of the helicopter (00:04:35:00)  Every member of the crew wore helmets fitted with communication equipment so Toms could hear everything that the pilot and co-pilot were saying and vice versa (00:04:51:00)  Toms knew about what was going on as much as anyone in the helicopter, which was really good (00:05:01:00) o The crew usually did not use any of the rockets unless there was an actual hard target (00:05:19:00) �  o During reconnaissance by fire missions, the crew would fire the machine guns into wooded or jungle areas, with the objective to flush out whoever was hiding in the woods or suppress them so that the unit could land infantry and allow the infantry to maneuver (00:05:29:00)  As far as he could tell, Toms’ helicopter did not receive any return fire from enemy units on the ground (00:05:57:00) o One time, the helicopter was flying in an area with a suspected enemy presence, there was a person riding a bike and Toms received the order to put so fire on him (00:06:06:00)  The bike was leaned against a tree, so Toms shot several rounds into the tree as the helicopter passed by (00:06:28:00) o Once, the helicopter landed and there were two Viet Cong who had been taken captive sitting there but the two only looked ten years old, sitting in their black pajamas; Toms considered it kind of pathetic that the enemy looked like kids but it was such a big event to capture them (00:07:08:00)  The two Viet Cong looked as though they had not eaten anything in several days and were afraid of what was going to happen to them; the soldiers who were there were knocking to two captives around, roughing them up (00:07:35:00)  Based on the two captives, Toms assumed enemy should not have been too formidable but the enemy were more formidable than they looked; they had a cause to fight for and they fought as a team (00:08:01:00)  The enemy did not need to look the role of soldier to be effective; all they needed were decent weapons and the correct mindset to be dangerous (00:08:23:00) o The Ia Drang was heavily forested and in the open areas was elephant grass, which was tall grass that could grow taller than a soldier’s head (00:08:55:00)  If someone was laying down on the ground, Toms could not see him unless the person really presented himself (00:09:21:00) Toms had several friends from Fort Benning who in the infantry section of the 7th Cav. and they would often stop to see Toms (00:09:43:00) o When they stopped by, Toms knew that the soldiers had changed, including how they dressed and the way they talked (00:10:06:00)  The soldiers told stories about shooting enemies with their pistol who had crawl up close to the soldiers at night (00:10:19:00)  Toms was somewhat relaxed about the situation because he was in the air but the soldiers on the ground were in the middle of the fighting and Toms could tell they were shook up about what happened; looking into the soldiers’ faces, Toms could tell that they were much older than when he had talked with them only a couple of months before (00:10:52:00) The only real time the any attacked near where Toms was based was the attack on the platoon atop Hong Kong mountain (00:11:55:00) o One night, there was a lot of fire atop Hong Kong mountain and the soldiers stationed on the top of the mountain had to beat back an attack by the Viet Cong (00:12:15:00) �  o The attack was a big deal the next day because it was at night and the fighting was visible on the ground; the soldiers below the mountain could see the tracers and hear the sounds of battle quite clearly (00:12:30:00) o The enemy never tried to mortar Toms’ base camp, although Toms does not understand why; his and the other units were in a fixed position, just sitting in a big circle (00:12:46:00) According to Toms, he was not afraid when he would ride in the helicopter; he had gone through Airborne training, including jumping out of airplanes, and that was more unnerving than flying in a helicopter (00:13:20:00) o Toms rationalized it that once the helicopter took off, there was nothing he could do and he was just going to be there (00:13:35:00) o During flights, Toms was continuously searching for targets of opportunity that appeared and would be worth shooting at but most of the time, Toms was figuring what he was going to do and had his equipment on his body in case the helicopter did go down (00:13:45:00)  Apart from his .45 pistol, if the helicopter crashed, Toms planned to grab an M-16 rifle in the floor; he kept his canteen full and carried a couple of candy bars for food (00:14:09:00)  Toms knew that if the helicopter went down, his first move was getting away from the helicopter as quick as possible before preparing to defend the other members of the crew, depending on their condition (00:14:26:00)  During flights, Toms wore a safety belt attached to the floor so he would not fly out in case the helicopter dipped and he learned how to get out of the belt quickly so in the case of a crash, he could be off the helicopter quickly with all his equipment with him (00:14:50:00)  Toms had other parts of the plan, including keeping his flight helmet on instead of reaching for his other helmet because there would not be time (00:15:16:00) o Toms never had to put his plan into action because the only time the helicopter went down was when the hydraulics failed (00:15:30:00)  The helicopter was not in a hot area, so there was no danger from the enemy; the biggest danger was getting the helicopter down without crashing and the pilot did an excellent job of that (00:15:52:00) After fighting in the Ia Drang Valley, Toms’ unit moved to the coast, around the town of Bong Son, although Toms’ helicopter continued their missions of providing covering and suppressing fire of infantry on the ground (00:16:28:00) o The only major incident that Toms remembers from around Bong Son was when on the unit’s jeeps hit a mine (00:16:57:00)  Because Toms’ helicopter was not that far away, the pilot said they were going to fly over and take a look (00:17:28:00)  Toms had an image in his mind of what the wrecked jeep was going to look like but when the helicopter arrived, there was just a big black circle with a tire laying nearby (00:17:35:00) �   What ever the jeep hit must have been pretty big because although the helicopter crew looked and looked, all they could find of the jeep was that single tire (00:18:06:00) o The coastal area was just as dangerous as being in the Ia Drang Valley, although the beach looked like any one would find in Florida (00:18:35:00)  The entire area composed of rice paddies and was heavily farmed, including growing tapioca rice (00:19:04:00)  Once, two helicopters flew out and landed in the middle of some rice paddies, where curious farmers gathered around them; however, Toms did not like the situations because if any of the farmers were carrying anything, they could blow the helicopter away (00:19:24:00)  Toms knew he was in the third world because at one point, a five year old walked up and was smoking a cigarette (00:19:54:00)  The Vietnamese stayed around the two helicopters, who ended up spending the night in the rice paddy (00:20:30:00) o As far as Toms was concerned, he could not trust any of them, so the crews rotated guard duties and Toms remembers that when he was on guard duty, it was terrifying because they were so vulnerable (00:20:46:00)  Toms was glad when it became light and the helicopters were able to take off and get out of there (00:21:38:00)  Although nothing happened during the night, had Toms been the VC, it would have been a excellent opportunity to destroy two helicopters that were just sitting there (00:21:54:00) There were civilian Vietnamese workers on the base where Toms was stationed but they were always supervised, although Toms does not know by whom (00:22:16:00) o There were hundreds of civilians working on different construction projects on the base (00:22:29:00) During some nights, Toms wished he had brought his long underwear because during the rainy season, the soldier’s clothes got so wet that it was hard to keep warm, especially during the night (00:22:48:00) o During the rainy season, Toms was stationed at An Khe and the rainy season tended to overlap with winter and the Christmas season; it did not get cold enough that Toms needed to constantly wear a field jacket unless he was standing guard duty but it was still cold (00:23:09:00) o It did not rain all the time, just in the afternoon and at night, which was a difficult period to try and dry things out (00:23:29:00) o Both the jungle and the type of ground helped to maintain a relatively even temperature during both night and day; it was cold but not too cold and the main problem was being wet (00:23:52:00) o Because the soldiers in Toms unit were some of the first regular American soldiers in Vietnam, they had regular Army fatigues and combat boots, not the necessary jungle fatigues and jungle boots (00:24:11:00)  The uniforms did not rot off the soldiers as happened later because Toms and the others were smart enough to rotate their clothes (00:24:24:00) �  Toms spent a full twelve-month tour in Vietnam and within those twelve months, there was some turnover of soldiers within the unit; towards the end of Toms’ tour was when the worse soldiers were arriving in Vietnam (00:24:52:00) o Just as Toms was leaving was when the drug use in Vietnam began increasing; apart from drugs, there were also isolated incidents of fragging officers in the division that Toms heard about (00:25:07:00) o There were some real troublemakers that came into the 9th Cav. and although Toms knew the soldiers he served with were good, he was not so sure about the new soldiers, so as new ones came in, Toms was glad to be leaving (00:25:45:00)  Toms was on the first soldiers to leave the unit and when he received letters from his friends still in the unit, the friends would write about how the new soldiers caused problems and did not fit in (00:26:01:00)  Although the new soldiers had to go through their AIT, the Air Cav. was a home for soldiers whose MOS did not translate to combat in Vietnam, such as Toms having an armored MOS (00:26:52:00)  Nevertheless, it was not difficult to pick up the job or learn the weapons (00:27:28:00)  The new soldiers simply did not have a military background, unlike Toms, who had been in the military for roughly three years before he deployed to Vietnam (00:27:43:00)  There were some draftees who had a college education and Toms found plenty of people who he could converse with and learn from (00:28:21:00) During Toms’ tour, the Army offered several different R&R locations, including: Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Hawaii (00:29:27:00) o However, Toms viewed the far-off R&R locations as a waste because the military paid to transport the soldiers there (00:29:47:00) o When Toms received his own R&R, he had the option of going to Vung Tau, with was a costal resort near Saigon; Toms agreed and received at three-day R&R pass (00:30:08:00) o Toms went to Vung Tau and the resort had some of the most beautiful beaches that Toms had ever seen (00:30:45:00)  While Toms was at Vung Tau, it did not feel like there was a war going on (00:31:09:00)  Toms met some other soldiers who were also on R&R in Vung Tau; all the other men were single, like Toms, so they picked up some women and went to the beach to hang out (00:31:40:00) o Later, Toms put in for a more extended leave and was able to travel to Hong Kong with another soldier in his unit (00:32:27:00)  The other soldier was an African-American from Denver and was well educated (00:32:34:00)  When Toms and the other soldier went to Hong Kong, they ran out of all their money, so Toms called his father in Grand Rapids, asking his father to send six hundred dollars from Toms’ bank account and Toms’ father said okay, asking what part of Hong Kong Toms was in (00:32:56:00) �    Toms’ father wired the money and Toms gave some to the other soldier, with the other soldier saying he would pay Toms back (00:33:18:00)  Toms and the other soldier had a wonderful time in Hong Kong, including going on a tour and going onto mainland China [in the British part]with some girls to visit both the English New Territories and a Buddhist monastery (00:33:28:00)  After Toms had left Vietnam and was back in Michigan, he received a letter from the other soldier with the money Toms had loaned to him in Hong Kong (00:34:07:00) When Toms’ troop transport landed in Vietnam, there were thousands of soldiers aboard and if they all had the same rotation date, then they were all going to leave Vietnam on the same day (00:34:33:00) o Therefore, some of the soldiers left early and some left late, with Toms leaving early (00:34:42:00)  However, none of the soldiers knew whether they were going to be leaving early or later and there was no sense in asking any of higher-ups because they did not know either (00:34:49:00)  A soldier would usually receive two or three days of advance notice before he was supposed to ship home (00:35:24:00) Toms gambled his entire time in Vietnam, never lost, and won a total of $1700, apart from the $210 he made every month (00:35:34:00) o Toms kept the money in his duffel bag because there was not a bank nearby but he was terrified that at some point, someone would cut open the duffel bag and take his money because everyone knew he had the money (00:35:43:00) o There were card games that Toms was involved in and even played against the company commander (00:35:58:00) o The day before Toms left, another soldier want to flip quarters with Toms; Toms promised he would not lose and ended up taking a lot of money from the soldier (00:36:11:00) During his journey out of Vietnam, Toms first flew from his unit’s base to Pleiku, where a C-141 flew him back to the United States (00:36:25:00) o However, while Toms and two hundred other soldiers were waiting on the tarmac to board the plane, they were all told to dump their ammo and duffel bags on the tarmac (00:36:37:00)  All the soldiers dumped out their bags and officers came through to check and make sure the soldiers were not taking anything illegal or contraband back to the United States (00:36:58:00)  Toms had nothing because after a year, he did not want to get in trouble but just get on the C-141 and lift off (00:37:15:00) o After the soldiers repacked their bags, they boarded the C-141, which flew first to Japan then to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines; eventually, the plane arrived at Travis Air Force Base just outside San Francisco (00:37:27:00) o Toms was dressed in his military uniform when he walked through the airport in 1966 and nobody said anything to him (00:37:52:00) �  o Once at Travis, Toms got himself a taxi and a hotel room, where he stayed for two days, going to different night clubs and meeting another Army soldier and his wife who took Toms all around the city (00:38:31:00) o Toms eventually flew back to Michigan for a ten-day leave (00:39:12:00) When he returned to the United States, Toms had to re-enlist in order to attend OCS, so he now had a six-year commitment, with four and a half years remaining (00:39:35:00) o Toms knew he was going to have to stay in the military but he was kind of worried because he was still an E-5 with little prospect for promotion, which tended to come slowly (00:39:48:00)  However, because Toms had been in armor when the war started, promotions were coming fast to armor soldiers but he did not know about that because he was only an E-5 (00:40:06:00) o When Toms arrived at his new assignment at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, he was told that he needed to go in front of the promotion board for a promotion to an E6 and after he went in front of the board, Toms knew he was going to get a promotion (00:40:20:00)  Toms did receive his promotion to E-6 and did extremely well in front of the promotion board because he had gotten soldier-of-the-month so many times in Germany (00:40:41:00)  Eventually, Toms heard that the Army needed men to attend drill sergeant school at Fort McClellan, Alabama and Toms decided to go (00:40:57:00) o Toms went down to Fort McClellan with about eighty other soldiers, with the top 10% percent being honor graduates and Toms managed to graduate sixth in his class (00:41:13:00)  While at Fort McClellan, Toms and the other soldiers learned how to teach basic training, including memorizing the drill and ceremony manual wordfor-word because they had to teach exactly how the manual said to teach (00:41:31:00)  The soldiers also covered all the subjects that were taught in basic training, including physical training and how to teach it, rifle training, protective masks, infiltration courses, and Army manuals (00:41:55:00) After finishing the training at Fort McClellan, Toms went back to join a basic training battalion at Fort Campbell, Kentucky and was given the job of being a platoon sergeant (00:42:30:00) o As the platoon sergeant, Toms had two other E-6s as assistants and was assigned the task of teaching the sixty soldiers his platoon received from the base’s reception center (00:42:42:00) o When Toms arrived at the training battalion, there were a couple of other sergeants but only one opening as a platoon sergeant, so the officers asked if any of the sergeants wanted to take the position (00:43:28:00)  However, since Toms had the lowest rank, he did not say anything; nevertheless, the other sergeants said to let Toms do the job and the person who was asking asked Toms if he want to do the job, who said it was okay with him (00:43:45:00) � o The platoon sergeant position carried a lot of responsibilities, such as getting sixty men to follow Toms’ directions and if it did not go well, then he would be called to account (00:44:16:00)  Toms’ tasks were distributing jobs to his two assistants and running the sixty-man platoon; however, running the platoon was easy because Toms had been to drill sergeant school and the men had not (00:44:37:00) o Most of the men in the platoon were college graduates and fantastic athletes, with several gaining maximum scores on the PT tests (00:44:53:00)  The distribution of the soldiers was roughly half enlistees and half draftees; overall, the men had good attitudes, although there were a couple of troublemakers but not what Toms would categorize as bad troublemakers (00:45:04:00) o Toms had been in a fraternity while at Western Michigan University and he felt the fraternity overdid it in trying to be mean to new members and making it clear that the new members were under the charge of the fraternity, doing things that Toms believed were unnecessary (00:45:50:00)  When Toms was a low-ranking member of the military, a lot of similar things happened, which caused Toms to vow that those things were not going to happen if he ever made rank (00:46:12:00)  There was so much swearing in the Army that the swearing became insignificant to Toms; when Toms used the same vocabulary towards the men in the platoon, it shocked them but managed to get their attention (00:46:28:00)  Apart from a couple of vivid incidents, Toms did not directly mess with any of the men in the platoon; instead, he would either curse at them until they came around or shame them (00:46:49:00)  Vietnam was going on and most of the men in the platoon were probably going there, so Toms would say that if someone messed up in training, imagine what it would bee like when the fighting was real (00:47:12:00)  Because Toms lived in the barracks, the soldiers saw that it was not a part-time role for Toms because even he would be spitshining his boots (00:47:40:00) Toms held the drill sergeant position for two years, through 1968 (00:48:11:00) o During this time, attitudes in the United States changed and there became more protests, which Toms read about in the newspaper (00:48:33:00) o Toms himself was in favor of the war simply because before the war, he was watching the spread of communism through Europe as well as both Central and South America and on college campuses in the United States (00:48:45:00)  Toms was considered somewhat liberal in the military but he did not know anyone in the military who thought differently than Toms (00:49:32:00)  In terms of the recruits, they did not become more military; the recruits learned to suppress their believes because they knew that they were not going anywhere and their lives would be a lot hard if they made the drill sergeants mad (00:50:00:00) �o While he was a drill sergeant, Toms did not expect to be sent back to Vietnam because the Army was large enough that there were enough replacements; not even all the drill sergeants were Vietnam veterans at this point (00:50:50:00)  As it turned out, Toms received orders for Germany and he figured that by the time his tour in Germany was over, the war in Vietnam would be over as well (00:51:08:00) Second Germany Deployment (00:51:21:00)  Toms eventually deployed to Bad Herzfeld, Germany, which was near the East German border and was supposed to be the first line of defense against the East German and Russian armies (00:51:21:00) o The base at Bad Herzfeld was about twenty kilometers from the East German border and soldiers often went on patrols into the “five kilometer zone”; no American soldiers were allowed into the zone except for the soldiers assigned to the patrols (00:51:40:00) o Initially, Toms was part of “I” Troop, 14th Cavalry, which was headquartered in an area where Russian and Warsaw Pact forces were expected to mass their troops for an attack (00:52:01:00)  However, the unit’s designation changed to the 11th Cavalry, known as the Black Horse Cavalry for a black horse on the unit’s patch (00:53:01:00) o Toms’ platoon had an infantry section, an armored section of three tanks that Toms was a member of, and a scout section with two M-114s, where the platoon sergeant rode whenever the platoon went into the field (00:53:23:00)  Whenever the platoon went into the field, the armored section would just follow along because they did not have a specific mission (00:53:55:00)  The M-114s were small armored vehicles that appeared as a chopped down version of an M-113, which the infantry squads rode in (00:54:14:00)  Eventually, Toms suggested to the platoon sergeant that he be put into an M-113 to be the point man and another person could run the armored section (00:54:38:00) o The new job was more exciting because Toms was in front and could make initial contact with the enemy (00:54:55:00)  However, whenever the unit went to tank gunnery, Toms rejoined his tank (00:55:21:00)  The tanks in the armored section were M-60s (00:55:28:00) o The base where Toms was stationed was just on the outskirts of Bad Herzfeld itself (00:55:41:00)  The base was and old German Army base from World War II and as Toms suspects, all the way back to World War I, based on the barracks where the soldiers slept (00:55:55:00)  The soldiers could walk out of the base, go down and hill, and be in Bad Herzfeld (00:56:12:00)  On the next hill over was a West German Army post that Toms went to on several occasions to compete in athletic events (00:56:19:00) �     A lot of Germans worked on the base and when Toms’ barracks were being re-modeled, Toms was allowed to live off-base, so he found an apartment in the town (00:56:39:00) o The soldiers on the base were able to go into the town and visit restaurants (00:56:59:00) o There was an NCO club on the base, which was really nice and often had a live band (00:57:03:00) Toms took a lot of trips from the base, including to Amsterdam, but he eventually started taking his car to Hamburg (00:57:42:00) o While vacationing in Hamburg, Toms meet a German girl, the couple dated and eventually married (00:57:50:00)  Before Toms and his wife married, the base chaplain advised the couple not to marry in Germany because of the Armed Forces agreement, which said a soldier could not marry a German girl; if they married in Germany, Toms’ wife would become a dependent and the U.S. government would have to pay for her, something they did not want to do (00:58:01:00)  Instead, the chaplain advised the couple to go to Switzerland, which they did, and they married in Basel, Switzerland (00:58:12:00)  After marrying in Switzerland, Toms and his wife returned to Hamburg, where they had a marriage ceremony at a church (00:58:20:00) Toms was stationed at Bad Herzfeld for his entire three-year deployment (00:58:46:00) While Toms was deployed in Germany, he and the other soldiers were aware of the activities of the Baader-Meinhof Gang, an anti-American terrorist group (00:59:06:00) o As well, it was the 1960’s and both Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin were playing in Frankfurt but Toms did not see them (00:59:12:00) o There was a newspaper called the “Overseas Weekly” and Toms knew some of the reporters, who were radical friends of his wife (00:59:51:00)  One time, the reporters came to Bad Herzfeld to do a story, came to the headquarters and asked for Toms; the request shook everyone on the post up because the newspaper went all over Europe each week (01:00:13:00)  Toms did go with the reporters to the border and although parts of the story ended up in the newspaper, it was not the big thing that everybody feared it would be (01:00:37:00)  Toms visited the reporters’ apartment in Frankfurt and they had a lot of radical literature, were using drugs, and Toms being a soldier and associating with them was risky (01:00:54:00)  Whenever he was with the reporters and their radical friends, Toms just had to be careful about what he did (01:01:52:00) o On the whole, the German population were not hostile towards the soldiers; the Germans were rapidly recovering from the end of World War II (01:02:03:00) There was always the fear that the Soviets would attack, especially because things were going bad for them at the time; either the Soviets were going to have to attack soon or give up, so the soldiers were always ready and expecting things to happen (01:02:35:00) o The soldiers knew that the Soviet economy was going bad (01:03:08:00) o During one of the Arab-Israeli wars, the Soviets supplied the Arab nations with T62 tanks; during tank gunnery, Toms was able to go through a captured T-62 tanks and he never saw anything so primitive (01:03:16:00) � The tank was armed with a huge, 155 mm gun but the tank itself was not really something Soviet soldiers could fight out of; it was basically a platform for the huge gun and a couple of machine guns (01:03:51:00)  A lot of the interior of the tank was made of wood while even the tanks Toms first started out with, the M-48s, did not have wood (01:04:12:00)  Toms actually felt sorry for the Soviet soldiers because that was supposed to be their best tank (01:04:26:00) o Toms also did a lot of reading and knew that the Soviets were having a lot of problems that increased as times went on (01:04:36:00) o As well, the difference in the standard of living between the recovering East and West Germany became more apparent, although Toms did not fully see it until he later received an assignment in Berlin (01:05:01:00)  While in Berlin, Toms was able to go into East Berlin and see how things really were there (01:05:12:00)  After seeing the differences between the East and West, Toms became less worried about the Soviets because they did not have the capabilities to fully defeat the western nations (01:05:30:00) Return to the United States (01:05:38:00)  Toms finished his deployment at Bad Herzfeld in 1970, when he received orders to go back to Fort Knox and be a drill sergeant (01:05:38:00) o The people who Toms was training now had already completed basic training and were coming to the training battalion for armored training (01:05:55:00) o During the eight-week course, Toms and others taught the recruits about how to drive a tank, tank communication, and tank gunnery (01:06:07:00) o When Toms returned to the United States, his wife came with him and she began going to school; although she had the high school equivalent in Germany, it was not recognized in the United States, so she had travel twenty miles to the south of Fort Knox to get her GED (01:06:30:00)  Later on, after she completed her GED, Toms’ wife went to college and eventually received a Master’s Degree (01:06:55:00)  Toms’ wife had already been married to an American and had son by that man who was four when Toms married his mother; the son did not speak English, so he and Toms spoke in German until they moved back to the United States and the son began taking classes in English (01:07:06:00)  Toms’ wife did not have much problem adapting to living in the United States and did excelled in her GED studies; normally, it was one test per day but Toms’ wife took them all in a six-hour block (01:07:34:00)  Toms’ wife then began taking courses to being her college studies and in one of the courses in logic was Toms’ company commander, who worked with Toms’ wife on some of the work because she had a more open mind (01:08:04:00)  The recruits who Toms was training now had been through the eight weeks of basic training and were less intimidated because they knew the drill sergeants’ tricks; Toms and the other drill sergeants had to treat the recruits more like men (01:09:02:00) � o On the weekends, the recruits were usually free to leave the base, whereas in basic training, the recruits were confined to their barracks for six weeks unless they marched to the PX (01:09:15:00) o There were not a lot of troublemakers amongst the recruits and although the Vietnam War was beginning to die down, the recruits knew that they would be joining an armored unit somewhere (01:09:48:00)  There were a few incidents where Toms had to use his rank to scare someone into doing what needed to be done (01:10:03:00)  The armored forces were usually dedicated to fighting in Europe; even armored units stateside were nothing like the forces in Europe, where there were thousands of soldiers living on huge bases (01:10:35:00) Toms stayed at Fort Knox for two years before he applied to go to the “bootstrap program”, which was a program that if Toms received a letter from a university saying he could completed a program within eighteen months, the Army would send Toms and his family to that university (01:11:27:00) o Toms went back to Western Michigan University and completed his degree program in eighteen months, with his lowest grade being a “B+” (01:12:03:00) o Toms’ wife also started attending the university and completed a full, four-year degree in two years, minus two courses (01:12:20:00) o Toms could not take just the courses in his degree program because he had been out of school for so long and some of his credits were no longer recognized; Toms ended up taking graduate-level courses for some of his credits because he already had certain courses (01:12:45:00)  Toms took one course with a professor who had given him a “D” when Toms first attended the university and Toms was determined to get a better grade than the professor, which he did (01:13:26:00) o Before Toms got his degree, he had to do practice teaching and was assigned to Kalamazoo Central High School, which was rough (01:14:43:00)  Toms taught grades nine through twelve for five hours a day; the instructor told Toms that he was in charge and then Toms never saw the instructor again for the entire semester (01:14:52:00)  The kids Toms taught were worse than anyone he encountered as a drill instructor; however, being a drill instructor helped Toms during the teaching (01:15:10:00) o While at Western Michigan, Toms became involved with the university’s ROTC and attended several group functions with his wife; after he completed his degree, Toms was given the option of working with the ROTC program (01:15:27:00)  One night, Toms received a phone call from the Department of the Army asking if he had ever been to Berlin and when Toms said no, he was told they could give him a deployment there (01:15:45:00)  Toms went down to the ROTC the next day and said he would not be able to work for them because he had received an assignment to the Berlin Brigade (01:15:57:00) �Third Germany Deployment (01:16:14:00)  Toms’ assignment to the Berlin Brigade started off bad (01:16:14:00) o When Toms arrived at headquarters, he was told to join the 40th Armored but was also told that there was not a position open for him; however, the personnel at headquarters were lying because of another sergeant (01:16:18:00)  The other sergeant was an E-6 who had a year to go, was liked by the personnel at headquarters and was occupying Toms’ position, (01:16:27:00) o Explaining he had a Phys. Ed. degree, Toms asked if he could work recreation services because there was fantastic physical activity program for the soldiers; there was an opening in the section, so Toms worked there (01:16:39:00)  When he took the job, Toms was told he out-ranked the NCO in-charge of the program and was asked if that would be a problem, but it was not for Toms (01:17:34:00)  The main things Toms did apart from managing twenty-five civilian and military workers was work with the boxing team, being a judge for boxing matches and organizing various running teams (01:17:53:00)  Toms’ running teams competed against the British, French, and West Germans and won every time (01:19:04:00)  No soldier could serve in a unit in Berlin if he had any recent disciplinary action and a soldier could only serve in Berlin once (01:19:46:00) o Berlin was such a sought after assignment because it was right in the middle of everything that was going on; as well, the city was beautiful, both in historical beauty and in things to do (01:20:04:00)  The living conditions for the soldiers were like nothing else in the military and the soldiers were able to live there free (01:20:39:00)  Toms went into East Berlin with his wife and when they went, Toms had to be in uniform in order to get through Checkpoint Charlie (01:21:01:00) o Toms and his wife would spend the entire day in East Berlin and they needed to be out by a certain hour (01:21:11:00) o When they went over, Toms had to exchange his and his wife’s Western marks for Eastern marks at a rate of one to one; however, because the East Germany guards were unable to even touch or search Toms, he began exchanging his West German marks in West Berlin at a rate of nine to one (01:21:26:00)  Thereafter, when Toms and his wife went into East Berlin, they had all kinds of money (01:22:07:00)  Once, Toms and his wife went to a restaurant at the Alexander Platz hotel and ordered the best items on the menu, filet mignon and wine from Hungary, spending around 100 marks but because Toms exchanged marks at nine to one, price did not matter (01:22:45:00) o Toms remembers that at one point, there were five people waiting on his and wife’s table (01:23:02:00) o Despite what Toms and his wife were able to do, it was sad to see the plight of the people in East Berlin due to communism (01:24:13:00) �  East Berlin looked like it was from the 1920s with the exception of the hotel and massive television tour (01:24:26:00)  None of the buildings had been cleaned; a material would coat the walls of a building, making the walls dark and if the material was not sand-blasted or scrubbed away, then the walls just got darker and darker (01:24:38:00)  Toms and his wife would always see Russian soldiers in uniform; invariable, the soldiers would be short and dark-skinned, marking them as conscripts from the east (01:25:09:00) Toms extended his tour one year while in Berlin, making it so he spent four years total in the city, leaving in 1979 to go to the Virginia Military Institute to be an instructor in the ROTC department (01:25:41:00) End of Military Service / Post-Military Life / Reflections (01:26:01:00)  When Toms went to the Virginia Military Institute, he took over the ROTC department from another E-8 (01:26:01:00) o Toms and his family rented a house in the country and his children, his son and a daughter who had been born in Berlin began attending school (01:26:08:00) o With her degree, Toms’ wife was able to get a job at the local grade school and Toms began teaching in the ROTC department, specifically teaching freshmen and sophomores in armored subjects, such as tank driving, tank communications, and tank gunnery (01:26:20:00)  Meanwhile, the captain in the armored section taught tactics to the juniors and seniors (01:26:41:00)  There was a major in-charge of the department and every so often, he would teach one of Toms’ class, just to kept up to date (01:26:57:00) o During some of the classes, there were five tanks in a field and the cadets drove the tanks around the field (01:27:38:00)  The classes also went to a firing range at Fort A.P. Hill and at another base; the cadets could fire the co-axial machine gun but that was it, although they could simulate firing the main gun (01:28:09:00) o The cadets Toms taught were highly motivated; one cadet was the son of the Secretary of the Army (01:28:49:00)  Some of the cadets were marathon runners and Toms would talk with them about his experiences, including going to Washington D.C. and running in the Marine Corps marathon (01:29:04:00)  From the military institute, Toms went to Fort Lee, Virginia and processed out of the Army there; while Toms processed out, the Army tried talking him into claiming some type of disability although the only time Toms had been in the hospital was when he hurt his back taking a track off a tank (01:30:06:00)  Toms finally left the Army in 1981, having served twenty years (01:30:56:00)  After Toms got out of the Army, he and his family returned to Grand Rapids, where they purchased a house and Toms got a job working for the Kentwood School district as a supervisor to the custodians (01:31:05:00) o Toms stayed in the job for two years, working at three different schools, where half the employees cooperated with Toms and half did not (01:31:27:00) �  o After two and a half years, Toms began working with rental houses, tendered his resignation to the school district and began working fully with rental houses, which were more profitable (01:32:09:00) Over the twenty years that Toms was in the Army, the Army itself changed a lot, including the PT tests (01:34:02:00) o Toms himself is not a advocate for change unless the change improves things and in his opinion, the tests the Army had were good as they were (01:34:09:00) o The Army also changed the designation of people going through training, which Toms believes was a bad idea because the Army should not be giving titles to people who do not know anything yet (01:34:39:00) o During the 1960s and the Vietnam war, there was more of a laissez-faire attitude and Toms believes that the country did not survive that period; the country is a little to lax with their finances (01:35:17:00) o Toms feels that the Army today is very well equipped to complete the missions that they have assigned to them (01:36:39:00) When he came out of the Army, Toms feels that he was a lot more educated and was able to combine all the things he had learned in school with what he had read (01:39:24:00) o The instructors Toms had in college were good but the ones in the Army were just as equal (01:39:32:00) o Toms learned not to anticipate that something was always going to be good; something bad might happen and Toms needed to be ready (01:40:06:00)  When Toms was on the tank, he would be constantly thinking about what would happen if the tank was hit but an enemy RPG or tank (01:40:15:00) o Toms learned that he needed to maintain all his equipment, lest he be caught out in a time when he needed it (01:41:14:00) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context TomsA2 Title A name given to the resource Toms, Alan (Interview outline and video, 2 of 2), 2011 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Toms, Alan Description An account of the resource After completing his tour in Vietnam with the Air Cavalry, Alan Toms returned to the United States, where he completed drill sergeant training before going to Fort Campbell, Kentucky. From Fort Campbell, Toms deployed for a second time to Germany, where he met a girl from Hamburg who he eventually married. Toms returned to the United States in 1970 with his wife and her son and went to Fort Knox, Kentucky to give more basic training. Eventually, the Army sent Toms back to Western Michigan University, where he finished his degree before deploying for a third time to Germany, to join the Berlin Brigade. Finally, when Toms returned to the United States, he went to the Virginia Military Institute's ROTC program before finally retiring from the military. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Kentwood Historic Preservation Commission (Kentwood, Mich.) WKTV WKTV (Wyoming, Mich.) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings United States. Army Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2011-03-10 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c00cf0cd6127ab661db97c7c7362aee8.pdf 1a70f37ec4c84ac0db1443ed6e00b9fc PDF Text Text I I , ... ... . 'i LAND USE MASTER PLAN REPORT for COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP Livingston County, Michigan prepared for the purpose of being used as the basis for preparing a new and revised Zoning Ordinance for the Tovnship. prepared for the ••••• To'lfflship Board and Planning Commission with the assistance of: Robert B. Hotaling, PCP#2 Jeanne B. Hotaling, Associate Philip D. Gardner, Resource Development Specialist ,--·- ~,' compiled from a series of Reports November 1987 �& LAND USE MASTER PLAN REPORT for COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP Livingston County• Michigan prepared for the purpose of being used as the basis for preparing a new and revised Zoning Ordinance for the Township. LR·nr,11 TUC" I 18\"1,\RY r\,...I , ,.~--! 11 I .l!J•'";l ~J ,C,.!; Pl.-, OF1 ~ . , " " ··.~ 11• · -·'.••,n+ 0 r Inc • v..:, _.,, "-"" _...,. ·• l -J - V prepared for the ••••• Township Board and Planning Commission with the assistance of: Robert B. Hotaling, PCP#2 Jeanne B. Hotaling, Associate Phi.lip D. Gardner, Resource Development Specialist compiled from a series of Reports November 1967 �COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP LIVINGSTON COUNTY, MICHIGAN October 2, 1986 Cohoctah Township Board Members Supervisor: Rex L. Peckens 7850 Oak Grove Road Howell, Mi 48843 (517) 546-6997 Clerk: Sandra Klender 6875 Fleming Road Fowlerville, Mi 48836 ( 517) 223-9958 Treasurer: Mary Ann Reneaud 1108 Faussett Road Oak Grove, Mi 48863 (517) 546-1845 Trustee: John A. Ishler 8541 Jon-Era Lane Howell, Mi 48843 ( 517) 546-9721 Trustee: Marshall E. Forbush 4527 Lovejoy Road Byron, Mi 48418 ( 517) 634-9983 Assessor: Rex L. Peckens Zoning Administrator: Mark Klett 2010 Chase Lake Road Howell, Mi 48843 (517) 546-5874 Boa.rd of Appeals: Chairman: William Klender Representative from Planning Commission Secretary: John A. Ishler Representative from Township Board Member at Large: Fred Galbraith 11873 Durand Road Howell, Mi 48843 (517) 546-5817 �COHOCTAH TOWNSHIE · Livingston County, Michigan Cohoctah Township Planning Commission Chairman: William Klender 6875 Fleming Road Fowlerville, Mi 48836 (517) 223-9958 Secretary: Martha Harris 1600 W. Cohoctah Road Cohoctah, Mi 48816 ( 517) 546-0031 Vice Chairman: George Reneaud 1108 Fa us sett Road Ca.k Grove, Mi 48863 (517) 546-1845 Members: Harry Brown 3126 W. Cohoctah Road Fowlerville, Mi 48836 (517) 223-3187 Marshall Forbush Representative from Towship Board currently one vacancy. Township Attorney: T. Gilbert Parker 6U E. Grand River Howell, Mi 48843 Planning and Zoning Consultants: Robert B. Hotaling, PC?#2 Jeanne B. Hotaling, Associate Philip D. Gardner, PhD., Resource Development Specialist �LAND USE MASTER PLAN !,-~-.. TABLE OF CONTENTS Page No. Foreward by Consul.tant i Basic studies Popul.ation and FA:onomic Development Characteristics, Trends and ProJections l Popul.ation Trends 1 · P~pul.a.tion ProJ ect ions 1 Age Composition 1 Households 2 Education Levels 2 Residence 2 Journey to Work 2 Labor Force Characteristics 3 Occupational Characteristics 3 Family Income 4 Summary 4 Table No. l Age Profile 5 · Table No. 2 School Enrollment 6 Table No. 3 Residence Longevity 6 Table No. 4 Journey to Work 6 Table No. 5 Occupational Distribution 7 Table No. 6 Popul.ation ProJ ections 7 Soil Resources 8 Agricul.ture 8 Recreation 9 Wetlands 9 --~ Building Site Development and Sanitary Facilities 10 �- f 10 Summary Agricultural Information f The Livingston County Farmer as a Producer ll Agriculture 12 Market Value of Agricultural Products Sold 13 Crop and Livestock Data 14 Farm Operators 15 Farms with Sales of $10,000 or more 16 Housing Profile 17 Housing Stock 17 Housing Value 17 Table No. 6 Data on Housing Unit Trends 19 Table No. 7 Housing Values 1970 and 1980 20 Table No. 8 Housing Values 1980 to 1985 21 Specific Land Uses and Structural Use Types 22 General Tax Information 24 Table No. 9 General Tax Information 24 Table No. 10 Assessed Value by L&nd Use 24 Current L&nd Use 25 Table No. lOA. Current L&nd Uses by Ownership 25 Table No. 11 Sizes and Characteristics of Parcels 27 Map No. l United States Geological Service (U.S.G.S.) Base Map 28 & 29 Map No. 2 u:ication of Dwellings 30 & 31 Map No. 3 Land Uses other than Dwellings 32 & 33 Map No. 4 Water Bodies and Wetlands 34 & 35 Map No. 5 Road System 36 & 37 £waster Plan for L&nd Use 38 0 �- r I ._.:.... ,,, r·- Development Standards for I.and Use Categories 39 Agricultural Areas 39 Resource Conservation and Development I.and Uses 40 Shiawassee River Conservation and Sprague Creek Conservation Area.:..; 41 Settlement Areas 42 Residential Areas - Low Density 43 Open Space Areas 43 Commercial Areas 44 Industrial Areas 45 Map No. 6 46 A & B .!vkster Plan I.and Use Policy Master Plan for Roads and Highways 47 Map No. 7 Cohoctah Township in Relation to Michigan and its S.M.S.A. 's 48 Map No. 8 Regional Y.ap of Mljor Access Highways and Local Governments 49 Ivap No. 9A Regional .Access to Cohoctah Township 49A Purposes of Roads and Highways 50 Present Road and Highway System 50 Proposed Road and Highway System 51 Planning Standards for the Functional TiJPes of Roads & Highways 52 Off-Street Parking Policy 55 Off-Street Loading and Unloading Policy . 55 Table No. 12 Traffic Volume Trends on Major Highways 56 Ivap No. lO ~aster Plan for Roads and Highways - Regional 58 M:Lp No. ll Yaster Plan for Roads and Highways - Township 59 Master Plan for Water Supply and Wastewater Disposal 61 Past and Present Systems 62 & 60 �- r I ( .-~ ..... Map No. 12 Surface Drainage and Gravity Flow Systems 64 & 65 Future Procedures and Strategy for Carrying Out the The Land Use Master Plan 66 Int reduct ion 67 The Planning Commission to Get Community Support 67 The Plan lw11st be Flexible 67 The Master Plan a 20-30 year Program 68 The Plan Must be Comprehensive 68 Changes and Trends in Development Patterns of the Region will Influence the Plan 68 The Plan Must be Changed Occasionally 68 The Plan Must be Updated Periodically 69 �- I • I .F oreword by the Township's Planning and Zoning Consultant The formulating of this Master Land Use Plan is a major effort on the part of the Planning Commission with the involvement of the Township Board of Cohoctah Township to more adequately plan for ~he future orderly use of the Township I s valuable land resources, the use of them and the equipping ot land uses, both existing and ruture with public improvements. These latter will become increasingly necessary in the future development of the Township, and will be very costly. Theretore, preserving open lands in harmony with orderly concentration of housing, commercial, industrial and public and semi-public developments now and in the immediate future is a fundamental policy to be encouraged through land use planning and zoning if efficiency and economy in the use or the Township's tax base is to oe realized, and a sound real estate investment market by private developers is to be projected beyond initial exploitation only. The Plan has been prepared under the authority of Public Act 168 of 1959 (MCL 125.321 and 125.333) and the Cohoctah Township Board Resolution establishing the Planning Commission under P.A. 168 have been followed in the preparation of this Plan so as to make it as legally effective as is possible as a basis for future land uses. Upon completion, it will be used as the basis for preparing the Zoning Ms.p and various specificationl:5 to be included in its text. At some time in the future, it can also be used as the basis for making engineering, architectural, landscape architectural, environmental and other more specific studies for roads, public utilities, schools, recreation areas, open space and other public and private facilities. The I-aster Land Use Plan will become the fundamental policy plan for the successful coordination of all of the private development projects and public works programs. Obviously if one or mere private development or public 'WOrks projects fail to follow the Plan, the Plan for orderly development and the economical provision of necessary public improvements becomes increasingly expensive, if not impossible. A major consequence of this would be to revert to the typical individual land use decision-making which has caused the degree of disorderliness which exists in the Township today. The ~ownship mere than likely at some time in the future will be confronted with seeking a solution to the problem of providing a sanitary sewer system and possibly a water distribution system for those areas already being developed to urban concentrations. On-site septic systems and wells and the lack or tire hydrants for tire fighting will continue to increase the need to overcome these potentially unsate and unhealthy environmental conditions in areas of concentrated development, particularly in those areas which have so many floodplain and high water table areas. Land use planning and implementation of these through public utility systems are usually and ultimately the only means for a Township to overcome such problems. The taxpayers of Cohoctah Township desrve to have a plan for the future real estate development of the Township; so that their present and other's future investments will not only be protected but enhanced. But, more importantly, so that the environment in which they live and work can be healthy, safe and working in ·b ehalf ot improving everyone's quality of living. �I ..r r t. I f f In carrying out of this Plan it is most important that unilateral decisions by Township, School, County, Regional, State and Fedt:!ral officials and agencies be discouraged when they do not give serious consideration to the Planning Commission's adopted Master Land Use Plan. Such unilateral decisions could encourage others to follows, and this ~sults in a disorderly pattern of development. Since under Michigan law the Township Planning Commission is the only public body given the legal responsibility to comprehensively plan for all aspects of land use development, there is some basis in this for other public officials at the various levels of government to respond_and coordinate their individual development planning programs with that of the Township's more comprehensive and all-inclusive Master Land Use Plan. Finally, once adopted by the Planning Commission, the Master Land Use Plan sets into motion MCL 125.330. This section of the Township Planning Act, P.A. 168 of 1959 procedurally requires all public agencies and officials to submit their public utility and facility project plans to the Township Planning Commission for review and recommendations as to its compliance with the land Use Plan before the agency or official can proceed to implt:!ment their projects. To quote the statute "no _s treet, square, park or other public way, ground or open space I or public b,dlding or structurt:! shall be constructed or authorized in the Township •••••••• or by the board, commission or body having jurisdiction ••••• until it shall be submitted to and approved by the Planning Commission." The interpretation that has been placed upon "approved", is that the Planning Commission has the legal procedural power to review, comment upon, and make recommendations to the public agency or official responsible for initiating the project; as well as informing the general public of its findings and conclusions. It therefore seems only reasonable that all public and private organizations and individuals should be involved both during the preparation of the Plan and then to meaningfully assist in carrying it out. -c:2:6-f.~~~/ ~ P'"'l':CP~'--"' .. Professional Community Pla State of Michigan Registration Certificate Ho. 2 �BASIC STUDIES for the LAND USE MASTER PLAN and ZONING ORDrnANCE for COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP Livingston County, Michigan prepared for the: Cohoctah Township Board and Planning Commission with the assistance of: Robert B. Hotaling and Associates Land Use Planning and Zoning Consultants June 1986 �1. POPULATION AND ECONOMIC DEVELO,MENI CHARACTERISTICS, TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS General characteristics on the population of Cohoctah Township was obtained from the 1970 and 1980 Censuses. Because the Township's population is below 2,500 individuals data specific to age, education, income, and work force status can not be reported. Information, however, can be obtained from the 1970 and 1980 housing censuses for the Detroit SMSA which is tabulated by census tract. Cohoctah and Conway Townships comprise census tract 7103. All tabular data in this section is for both townships. These figures are representative of population characteristcs in Cohoctah Township. Population Trends The population of Cohoctah Township in 1980 was 2,436, according to the 1980 U.S. Census. This was an increase of 67.5% people between 1970 and 1980. For the decade 1960 to 1970, the township's population increased 25.3%. The 1970-1980 rate of growth was comparable to the Livingston County growth rate of 70% for the same period. In comparison to neigboring townships, Cohoctah has experienced a higher rate of population growth, except for Oceola and Howell Townships (Conway, 48.5%; Deerfield, 50.6%; Handy, 31.6%; Howell, 64.8%; Howell City, 33.~%; and Fowlerville, 15.7%). In actual numbers the Township's population increased by 982 individuals. Population Projections The Southeast Hichigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG> has developed estimates for future population in the seven county Detroit region. Preliminary estimates for Cohoctah Township for the period 1980 to 200~ reflect a continuation of the ~rowth trends of the last decade. By the year 2005, the township's population is estimated to reach 4~38 individuals, a 2102 person increase. If the growth is distributed evenly over the two decades, the. rate of growth would be approximately 43% per year. This rate is the eighth highest in the county, and except for Oceola, the highest in the county's western region. Projections, lik• th•s•, are not always accurate. Made in 1985, SEMCOG analysts were able to adjust the estimates with regards to the 9eneral economic conditions experienced throughout the state. These estimates are not unreasonable given the easy access to nearby commercial and industrial centers, availability of land at favorable prices, as compared to the townships to the east, and natural features. The township is an attractive place to live which will serve as a magnate for those individuals seeking rural living environments. Age Composition .. / The distribution of population by age provides information about school-aged children, the elderly, and long term potential growth. The age profiles for 1970 and 1980 are shown in Table 1. The population has remained fairly evenly distributed across age groupings over the last two decades. There has ~een a small shift �2. from a younger to an slightly elder population. The median age has increased from approximately 23 in 1970 to 27 in 1980. The largest increases have ccurred in the age groups cf 20 to 24, 25 to 34, and 35 to 44, which points to the likehccd of future increases in school-aged children as couples in these age groups begin having children. The youngest age grouping << 5) as a percentage of the total population re~ains small which suggests that families are having fewer children. Finally, there appears to be a slight growth in the elderly population above the age 6~. The change in numbers between 1970 and 1980 fdr the 5~ to 64 age group indicates that a larger number of people will be entering the over 65 age group during this decade. Depending on the number which elect to remain in the Township, special needs (facilities and programs> of the elderly will need to be addressed. Households The number cf households in the Township has increased to 726 from 392 in 1970. This is an 85% increase. The average number of people per household has declined from 3.76 persons in 1970 to 3.36 persons in 1980. This change is also reflected in the age profiles shown in Table 1 where there has been a decline in the percent of persons in ages below 10. Households in Cohoctah Township do not vary in size from neighboring townships <Conway, 3.56; Deerfield, 3.31; Handy, 3.02; Howell, 3.34, and Oceola, 3.28). Education Levels Seventy-five (75) percent . of Cohoctah Township's population over the age of 2~ has completed high school. This rate of completion is a dramatic improvement over 1970 when only 48% of the over 25 population had completed high school. In addition, the percentage of individuals completing college has increased 5% from 3% in 1970 to 8% in 1980. While this trend is in a positive ~irection, the Township has one of the lowest rates of college completion in Livingston County. All grade levels, except kindergarten, have experienced increases in enrollments (Table 2). Particularly encouraging is the large increase in the number of young adults attending college. Residence Far 57% of th• people over age 5, they have resided in the same house for the last five years (Table 3). This high percentage reflects a stable community. In 196~, newcomers to the county were likely to come from another part of the SMSA, but not the central Detroit area, or outside the SMSA. By 197~, the majority of newcomers were from another part of the SMSA, except for Detroit. There are only a few ethnic minorities in the Township (less than 1% of the population). Journey to Work The mean travel time to work far a resident of the Township was 33.5 minutes in 1980. The figure for 1970 was not available, but �3. available evidence indicated that the travel time may have been shorter. In 1970, 92% of the workers worked within the County. By 1980, the number of workers having emplyment in the county rose to 916; however, as a percentage of the total labor force, only 75% worked in the county. Many workers now have jobs in Wayne and Oakland Couties while very few people work in Detroit (Table 4). The distance to work figure is further evidence that the Township is attracting persons who are seeking a rural environment; yet maintain strong ties to th• urban center for employment and entertainment. Labor. Force Characteristics The strength of the community can be measured by the number of people in the labor force, household income, and dynamics of the economic base. According to the 1980 census, 63% of persons over age 16 (1818 individuals> were considered participants in the labor force. Of these participants, 14% considered themselves to be unemployed. The Township's unemplo)'lllent rate was higher than the county rate of 9.7% and several neighboring townships <Deerfield, 11%; Howell, 8.2; Oceola, 9.1%). Only Handy Township had a higher rate. The poor economic conditions throughout the state during and just after this reporting period caused the unemployment rate to remain at high levels. Recent improvement in the state's economic performance has reduced these levels. Women's participation in the labor force is of special interest. In 1970, only 30% of the women over 16 participated in the wo~k in the Township. By 1980 the rate of participation had increased to 47%. Women experienced a slightly lower unemployment rate of 12% than men. Of the women with children under 6, 22% were employed in 1970. By 1980, the rate of participation had increased to 42%. There was an increase of 26% from 1970 to 1980 in the number of women in the work force whose husbands were present in the home. In 1980, nearly half the women with husbands were working. This trend is consistent with national figures on the increased participation of women in the work force. Occupational Characterisitcs In 1970, members of th• Nork fore• were conc•ntrated in tNo major occupational catagaries: operators, +abriciatars and assemblers, and farming Nith 32, and 20 percent of the work force, respectively. The remaining participants were nearly evenly distributed across managerial, technical, sales, and precision production occupations <Table~>. By 1980, there had been some dramatic changes in the composition o+ the work force. Farming saN an actual decline in total numbers and dropped to 7% of the work force. While the number of operators and fabricators increased, the rate o+ participation in this catagory dropped to 23%. As the labor force greN between 1970 and 1980, more people were working in technical, sales, and administrative support, and precision production and craft occupations. The dramatic decline in farm workers corresponds, in part, to national trends due to a depressed agricultural sector and to increasing competition for farmland for other uses. Employment opportunities in technical and sales and clerical occupations reflect the changing demands for labor within the county. �4. One-third of the labor force works in the manufacturing sector with approximately 15% in the wholesale and retail and professional sector. Seventy-five (7~) percent of the work force is considered private wage and salary. The number of individuals working for local government increased sharply, 166%, _during the past decade. The number of peopl~ considered self-employed declined over the same period. Family Income The median family income was 923,464 <average was 924,652) in 1980. This figure compares to a median family income of S9,413 in 1970. In comparison with the rest of Livingston County where the median income is 926,339, Cohoctah has a slightly lower median salary. On a per capita basis, the average income is S7,076 per person. Approximately, 9-x. of the families had income under the official income poverty level. This level is nearly twice the county average. Poverty can be partially explained by the high unemployment rate and the poor performance of the farm sector. Summary These characteristics of Cohoctah's popul.ation indicate that while the community is stabel in that over 60% of the people have lived in the Township for over 10 years, there are a number of changes occurring. The population is not aging as rapidly as other areas o+ the State due to an influx ·of younger families. Education and family income levels have increased. The most noticeable change has been in the organization of the work force with more people traveling farther to work and engaging in a different mix of occupational activities than 10 years ago. These factors will influence the development pattern of and services offerred by the Township. �-5. TABLE 1. . Cata9ory Less than s AGE PROFILE OF COHOCTAH AND CONWAY CENSUS TRACT 1970 Number " 1980 Number % " Increase 255 10 367 9 9 331 13 418 10 26 10 to 14 364 14 485 12 33 15 to 19 272 10 411 10 51 20 to 24 133 5 259 6 95 25 to 34 331 13 688 16 109 35 to 44 299 11 596 14 99 45 to 54 277 11 335 8 21 55 to 64 162 6 323 8 99 65 to 74 116 4 167 4 44 60 2 109 3 82 s to over 75 Total Median A9e 2614 4158 23 27.1 44 59 �--6. -~- ... TABLE 2. SCHOOL ENROLLMENT OF COHOCTAH AND CONWAY CENSUS TRACT (Ages 3 years old and over> 1970 Nursery Kindergarten Elementary <l-8) High School (9-12) College Total TABLE 3. 63 640 289 46 1029 100 6 20 36 74 RESIDENCE OF TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS FIVE YEARS PRIOR TO CENSUS <Persons, 5 and over> In 1965 Same House Central City <Detroit) Another part of SMSA Outside this SMSA Abroad Total TABLE 4·. ,. 1980 27 67 767 381 80 1322 ,. 1393 57 54 543 2 22 362 8 2448 <1 ,. In 1975 2198 150 1199 315 0 3862 15 57 4 31 8 0 JOURNEY TO WORK FOR COHOCTAH AND CONWAY CENSUS TRACT (16 years old and over) Worked in SMSA of residence Detroit-Central Business District Remainder of Detroit City Remainder of Wayne County Oakland County Livingston County Worked outside of SMSA Place of work not reporteod Total Workers 1970 45 'J.T 5 'J.S 14 10 21 2 1 3 31 22 47 669-1- 118 832 80 14 1980 1217 7 37 137 120 916 194 l 11 1511 Y.T 81 <l 2 T.S 9 11 10 75 8 61 13 7 <1 3 *Estimate that 142 workers work outside, county; 527 workers work in Livin9$ton County or 92~ of the work force working in SMSA. �1, 1. I__ / OCCUPATIONAL DISTRIBUTION FOR LABOR FORCE PARTICIPANTS IN COHOCTAH AND CONWAY CENSUS TRACT TABLE 5. , 1-· I I I I I I I I I I I I 1----- 1 Net Change 12 1980 221 14 2 124 1S 351 22 7 81 10 208 13 3 Farming 170 20 114 7 -13 Precision Production, Craft and Repair Occupations 102 12 313 20 8 Operators, Fabricators, Assemblers and Inspectors 275 32 359 23 -9 Total 852 . I I 1970 100 Managerial and Professional 1. Technical, Sales, Administrati ve Support 2 • Service Occupat i ens 3. % % 1S66 1• includes executive, 1'Dana9erial, and administrative occuptions and professional specia~ties <teachers, health workers>. 2.includes technicians, sales occupations, administrative support occupations, and related occupations 3,includes private household, protective service and general service occupations. fo PUl"-TION VRDJ EC.TIOMS' F Ort TA&L..e '9 · 1980 COMMUNITY CENSUS POPULATION COHOCTAH TWP(~~r-c.:=:;; -:' ' o'?J CONWAY TWP GENOA TWP GREEN CA~ TWP HAMBURG TWP HANDY TWP HARTLAND TWP HOWELL HOWELL TWP IOSCO TWP MARION TWP ncEOLA TWP P!N"CKNEY PUTNAM TWP TYRONE TWP UNADILLA TWP $ VERSION 94 YEAR ;zoo, POPULATION 7617. .!04~;l. BRICHTON - BRIGHTON TWP DEERFIELD TWP FOWLERVILLE U\/1N<."STOk C oui.iY,,. 2611. 2289. 9261. 10802. 11318. 239.?. 6034. 6976. 3999. 1436. 4754 . 41..7,. 1390 . 42,3 . 6077 . 2874 . QROWTH 1980"""'.;;!005 POPULATION 4,3a. 3::349. 9230. 210.?. 3722. 1111. 306,. 776. 8436. 17697. 14909. 174~,. 4049. 1,196. ~2,,. 8604. 2791 . 10100. 9343. 1917. 7783. 1266-4 . 469~. 4107. 6167 . 16:57. 916:? . 2~79. 460~ . 13,5. ,346. ,108. ,27 . 3,30. 6~87 1818. 1'QUT1fEAIT Mlt~ll..AN ColJNCIL dF ~Ot'EIZ.U l'v\£N"n (S'fN\CoG" ~ PERCEf'. GROWTH POPULATIC 4;? . 33. 91. 38 . 54 . 54 89 10 02 49 69 . ~7 1,1 84 32 . 67 115 . 16 94. 38 112. 46 123. 37 . 83 . 108. 63 . ICJB.S- ES"Tlll'l•TE 78 90 01 39 26 �---8. SOIL RESOURCES The characteristics of the Township's soils provide information on the limitations and potential of th~ natural resource base for various land use activities. Data obtained from the 1974 Soil Survey of Livingston County (Soil Conservation Service, USDA> has be•n used to identify soils for specific uses including agriculture, wetlands, recreation and development. For development pur·· poses, particular attention is given the soil's capacity to support buildings and the soil's suitability for septic tanks. I I I I I I I I I I Cohoctah Township's soils have intricate, intertwining patterns; thus it is common to find productive soils lying next to unproductive soils. Because of the river and creek systems and their drainage areas, the major limitation for certain uses centers on the control (drainage) of water. Erosion on steep slopes can also be a problem on some soils. These restrictions can influence the amount of land available for intensive uses. Agriculture Nation-wide, the Soil Conservation Service uses a capability classification system to describe the suitability of soils for the commonly grown field crops~ In this system soils are grouped according to their -limitations for crop production. The highest rated class of soils, those with few limitations, are not found in the Township. The Townsh.ip does contain classes that are moderately to severely limited requiring some special conservation management. The productivity of the Township's soils vary wi~ely. Rather than use classes to designate soil groups, predicted yield data was used to rank soils as high yields, average yields, and low yields and not suitable. The yield data was estimated by the Soil Conservation Service under two sets of management assumptions. Figures used in this report reflect estimates based on the assumption that co•mon management practices prevail. Common management entails a l~ume-grass, crop rotation, some fertilizer supplemented with barnyard manure and lime are applied to the soil, and lncomplet• water management strategies. It . should b• k••P in mind that potential yields are higher and that under good manag•ment poorer soils can out perform more productive soils that are poorly managed. The figures used in making these estimates have become outdated due to changing practices. However, the information does provide a good basis for understanding the relationship between soils. Most importantly, this section does not take into account the economic viability cf farming and does not attempt to distinguish farmland on an economic criterium. These three soil classifications have been designated on Map 1. Lands with the highest potential yields are found throughout the �---- I I .-- 1 I I I I I I I I I I I 9. Township with a heavy concentration in the northeast sections. These soils tend to be better drained, being away from major streams, and less prone to erosion than the other soil groups. However, there is an intermingling of low yield-unsuitable soils amongst the better soils. In most cases, farming units will have a mix of soil types across classification categories. Land designated as not suitable (dot pattern) are subject to high water tables, poor drainage, or erosion. Historically, the poorly drained soils in each category have been tiled or artifically drained to enhance productivity. The Township does have land resources. suitable for agricultural production; primarily field crops <corn, wheat, oats and hay) and dairy farming. Physical production needs to be placed in an economic context. Good management might be costly and impractical given the current returns to production. In the future, economic conditions may improve making the agricultural enterprises in the Township important to the overall economy of the area. Recreation The kind of soil is an important factor in determining the type and location of recreation facilities. Many soils have severe limitations, primarily drainage problems, for use as playgrounds, campsites, picnic areas and hiking trails. The most desirable soils need to be level or gently sloping and possess good drainage and a low water table. In the case of trails for hiking cross-country skiing and horse back riding, slopes can be of steeper contour which often enhances interest. Generally, suitable soils can sustain heavy foot and vehicular traffic. T~king the soil rating for each type of recrea~ion activity, a composite rating system for all uses was developed. Three categories comprise the system: slight limitations, moderate limitations, and severe limitations. These categories are displayed on Map 2. The Township has large areas of land that are highly suitabl• for a variety of recreation purposes. Because of the variability of the soils, onsite investigat·ion is required before considering any recreation development. A site with severe limitations, if it has characteristics that make it desirable for recreation development, can be developed through improved management (economic investment) and proper planning. Wetlands State legislation governing wetland areas is specific as to what development is permitted on these lands. All water bodies greater than~ acres come under the provisions of this legislation. Adjacent land areas and lands suitable for wetlands can also be included for protection. On Hap 3 lands well suited for wetlands have been ·i dentified. These areas include lakes, streams, I �--- I 10. I I I I I I I I 1- 1 I I I I I I drainage basins for these bodies of water, and low lying land with a high water table. Building Site Development and Sanitary Facilities Community development and accompanying public utilities are 9uited to certain types of soils. Soils with good drainage, permeability, stability, slope, and erosion are important soil characteristics. For 9eptic tanks, high water tables hinder the proper function of filter fields. Likewise, poor permeability, the rate at which water moves downward through the soil, can lead to septic tank failure. Failure can lead to unsanitary conditions, as raw sewage enters surface and subsurface water sources. In the construction of homes and businesses (up to three stories) the ability of the soil to support foundations is important. Soils with few limitations provide good foundations. Structures built upon poor soils can sustain damage to foundations that can result in abandonment. Several groups of soils has been established based on their limitations for development. Soils with limitations for septic tanks have been colored black on Map 4. Soils with moderate limitions have been lighly shaded while soils suitable for septic tanks have keyed with a dot pattern. A letter code has been utilized to designate good suitability ·<G>, fair suitability <Fl, and poor suitability <Pl for support of foundations and surface development. The Township does have isolated areas that are highly suitable for all types of development. Some limitations will have to be overcome to utilize most of the land area for development. In carefully examining Map 4, certain areas can be identified where the soil is highly suitable for one condition ~ut very poor for the other. For this reason, each potential development site must be individually investigated. Because of increasing concern over ground water pollution and contamination of lakes, public attention has focused on water quality improvement. Careful attention needs to be given to subsurface soil characteristics to insure that septic tank absorption fields can properly handle sewage. If there appear to be problems, con- sideration needs to be given to alternative waste disposal syste•s. Summary The Township s natural resource base has the potential to provide a variety of services. A review of Maps 1 to 4 reveals that agriculture, recreation and development are in competition for much o+ the same land. The southeast portion o+ the Township serves as a good example. Similarly, the wetland areas are not suited for other uses with the possible exception of agriculture if the lands are properly drained. Potential conflicts exist between competing uses for land throughout the Township. 7 �- I ( I I I I I AGRICULTURAL INFORMATION for Livingston County I I I I I I I I I I Compiled by Duane Girbach Livingston County F..xtension Director ~dchigan State University Cooperative Extension Service �I I ,· ., •.· 11. ~ THE LIVINGSTON COUNTY FARMER Af3 A PRODUCER 1· I I I Farms comprise 38 percent of the Livingston County land area. A total of Major crops are corn, hay, wheat, soybeans, fruits and vegetables. Dairy farming is the major livestock enterprise. The wealth created by local agriculture is made up from the following products sold. 884 production units, both large and small, ocqupy the rural areas. Dairy products Grain Cattle Other livestock Vegetables, fruit and other crops $11.5 million II 7.6 II 6.2 II 2.0 II 5. 7 Market value of agricultural products $33.0 million I I I I I I I I··- .,. I THE LIVINGSTON COUNTY FARMER AS A CONSUMER Farmers purchase a wide variety of inputs that are essential to the production process. Livingston County farmers annually purchase the following items at a cost of: Feed for livestock Interest paid on borrowed funds Fertilizer and agricultural chemicals Livestock purchased Hired and contract labor Energy and petroleum products Seeds and plants $4.2 million II 3.5 II 3.4 II 3.3 3.0 "II 2.9 II 1.0 · THE LIVINGSTON COUNTY FARMER AS AN EMPLOYER Local farmers spend 3 million dollards annually for hired and contract labor employing in excess of 300 workers. Self employment is provided for another 884 people who are farm operators. While the local farm community may directly employ a limited work force, we use inputs and provide the raw product for thousands of agricultural related Jobs. FOOD: AN ESSENTIAL RESOURCE Food is a bargain. The productivity of the farmer permits Americans to buy rood for less of their disposable income today than ever before. When food takes less of your budget, more of your money can be used for clothing, housing, automobiles, medical care and recreation. Despite recent rises in food prices, family income buys more food today than ever before. This is a result of a more efficient agriculture and because consumer incomes have risen faster than food prices. 4/85 �I I I I I ( ... ---..... I, I I I. I I I I I I I I -12. Agriculture ~ The conversion of agricultural land to non-agricultural uses has proceeded rapidly until the late 1970's. This conversion was most rapid in the eastern portion of the county. Conversion of Agricultural Lands, 1950-82 Year Number of Farms Size of Average Farm (Acres) Total Farm Acreage Percentage of Tota 1 Acreage (coo HT!) 1944 2~228 133 296,129 81 1954 1,823 143 260,572 ·72 1964 1,335 160 213,237 58 1974 790 178 140,645 39 1978 792 172 136,212 37 1982 884 156 137,918 38 The average farm size has not changed much as indicated above. The average farm size is somewhat misleading, however, as recent data would indicate increased numbers of small farms and large farms with a decline in the number of medium size farms. . . Livingston County Farm Size, 1978 and 1982 1978 Percent 1982 Percent 1 to 49 acres 236 30 357 40 50 to 179 acres 326 41 316 36 180 to 499 acres 175 22 139 16 500 acres or more 55 7 72 8 792.. B84 �I I I I I I / ,•····•, I I I I I I I I I I I 1----- 1 13. Market Value of Agricultural Products Sold The agricultural work force is important to the county because it generates export goods bringing wealth into the county from outside areas rather than just circulating wealth within the county as is the case with many retail and service establishments. The sources of our agricultural income are: 198L.__ 1978 Crops $ 3,812,000 s 7,569,000 1,034,000 944,000 Nursery and greenhouse 800,000 528,000 Fruits 452,000 505,000 4,147,000 3,774,000 $10,245,000 (43%) $13,320,000 (40%) $ 7,936,000 Sll, 465,000 4,379,000 6,230,000 Hogs and pigs 905,000 960,000 Sheep, lambs and wool 127,000 119,000 89,000 89,000 309,000 785,000 $13,745,000 (57~) $19,649,000 (60%) Total Market Value $23,990,000 $32,968,900 Value of products sold directly to individuals $ Grains Hay and seeds Other crops, vegetables, fa res t, sad , etc. Total Lives tock Dairy products Cattle and calves Poultry and poultry products Other livestock products Total 272,000 112 S 481,000 149 �I I I I I I ' I I I I I I I I I I I I-.. I 14. CroQ and Livestock Data Com and soybean acreage has increased while small grains have ,.. · · ~- ' Hay acreage has declined. ,- .- CROP 1945 AC RE AGE 1978 1982 Corn 33,447 39,212 45,569 Wheat 15,943 5,507 6,784 Oats 22,795 5,061 4,758 397 2,348 4,351 41,157 28,342 24,601 Soybeans Hay ER HEAD 1982 1945 0 F 1978 Cattle and calves 27,958 20,524 23,961 Milk cows 16,282 6,751 7,229 8,417 7,830 6,315 29,399 2,898 3,279 150,524 12,518 8,197 N U M8 LIVESTOCK Hogs and pigs Sheep and lambs Chickens �I I I I I I -~·-..., I I 15. Fann Operators The majority of Livingston County farms are individually or family owned and operated. The average operator age has remained fairly constant but there is an increased ntinber of farm operators under age 35 and over age 65. The number of female farm operators has increased. A majority of the fann operators work off the farm. Type of Organization 1978 1982 Individual or family 705 778 Partnership 70 82 Family corporation 11 17 Other corporation 3 5 Others, estates, trusts, etc. 3 2 · 1978 1982 I I- Tenure of Operator I Full owner 477 553 acres 52,985 52,171 Part owner 269 291 owned acres 36,880 35,331 rented acres 37,627 43,047 46 41 8,720 7,379 Days Worked Off the Fann 1978 1982 None 312 324 Less than 100 days 54 82 More than 100 days 426 478 I I I I I I I·· t Tenants acres �I 16. I I I I I Age of 02erator Under 35 35 to 64 65 and over Average age Female Fann 02erators I 1982 80 601 111 50.9 109 613 162 50.4 29 54 790 881 3 Oeera tors b,l Race White Black and other races I I I I I I I I I I I I 1978 2 FARMS WITH SALES OF $10,000 OR MORE 1978 1982 313 320 101,195 323 105,781 331 24 24 89 108 117 71 Fanns - number Land in Farms - acres Average size of fann Fanns by size 1-49 acres 50-179 acres 180-499 acres 500 acres or more 146 54 Market value of agricultural products $ 9,177,000 Crops Livestock Total 13,188,000 $22,365,000 $12,327 ,000 18,926,000 $31,253,000 Market value of agricultural products Farms with sales over $10,000 Fanns with sales under $10,000 93% (313) 95% (320) �! I 17. .~-... I· I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1---. I HOUSING PROFILE Using data collected as part of the special housing census for the SMSA and building permit records for the last five years, a profile of the housing situation can be developed. Some interesting characteristics of homeowners in Conway and Cohoctah Townships are revealed in the census information. Ninety-one (91> percent of the homes are owner occuppied which is one of the highest rates for any area within the County. Nearly half, 48%, of the householders have moved into their homes since 1975. As will be shown below, the housing stock is relatively new which reflects a changing community; long term residents are upgrading their homes and new homeowners are moving into the Township. This section will present additional information on the age of the housing stock and its value. Housing Stock At the time of the 1980 census, the two townships had a total housing stock of 1252 units. While 42% of these homes were constructed prior to 1931, 301 units, or 24%, were built between 1975 and 1979. According to building records for the period 1980 to 1985, an additional 48 units have been built in Cohoctah Township. This information is presented in Table 6. Of the housing units counted in the census, only 16 trailers were reported as year-around housing units. In a field survey of the Township, 135 trailers were counted. This large discrepancy can be attributed, in part, to the poor response of trailer owners to the census questions. Also an important factor in the large increase are the restrictions neighboring townships have placed on trailers which has caused trailers to move into Cohoctah Township. Other housing characteristics included in the census include: average number of rocas 6, nearly 100% with complete kitchens, approximately 50% with complete baths, 19 units obtained water from a public or private company, and only 41 residents did net have telephones. In summary, the housing stock continues to improve as new units are built. Nearly all the units enjoy modern facilities and services. The major water source is wells and the disposal of sewage is through septic tanks. Housing Value In 1970, the median value of a home was units were valued over $2~,000 while 14 below S5,000 <Table 7>. Slightly under <215 total> were valued between $10,000 $14,100. Only 28 of the re~idents were valued at 44% of the units surveyed and s20,ooo. By 1980, the value of the housing units had increased significantly. The 1980 sample included 555 homes of. which 29 were valued over sao,ooo. Nearly two-thirds of the homes were �I 18.· l I. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I-:· I valued at between $40,000 and $80,000. Only S units were valued under s10,ooo. To make a comparison with 1970 values, the 1980 values were discounted to account for inflation over the decade <1970 served as the base year>. The deflated price ranges are included in Table 7. In 1980, approximately 161 homes were valued at more than S30,000 while only 12 <estimated) w•re of that value in 1970. By 1980 there were fewer homes under the value of s10,ooo. The median housing price in deflated dollars was S23,302, an increase of S9,202 or 63% (6.3% annually). The average value of the homes constructed since 1980 in Cohoctah Township are listed in Table 8. These figures have not been adjusted for inflation. The average value, not including land, has ranged from 941,000 to $76,000. The lowest yearly averages were observed in 1983 and 1984 during the State's economic depression. Housing values in 198~ have jumped back to the pre-depression values reported for 1980 and 1981. �! I I I I I I• I I I- I I I I I I I I I 19. TABLE 6. YEAR NUMBER OF HOUSING UNITS AND YEARS CONSTRUCTED FOR COHOCTAH AND CONWAY TOWNSHIPS (pre-1930 to 1979> AND COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP (1980-1985). NUMBER OF UNITS PERCENT TOTAL 1980-8~ 48 197~-79 301 24 1970-74 182 15 1960-69 109 9 1950-59 67 5 1940-49 72 6 521 42 pre-1930 Percentages total mare than a 100~ due to rounding. �------------------! I' I I I 20. r~• • ~ .... ,, I I I I I I I I I I . TABLE 7. HOUSING VALUES OF 1970 AND 1980, AS REPORTED IN THE U.S. CENSUS (deflated values included). VALUE NUHBER 1970 • <5000 NUHBER 1980 VALUE DEFLATED <1970) 14 < 2358 5000 - 7499 18 2359 - 3537 7500 - 9999 27 3538 - 4718 10000 - 14999 56 7 4719 - 7075 15000 - 19999 38 26 7076 - 9433 20000 - 24999 34 23 9434 - 11792 26 11793 - 14150 51 14151 - 16509 37 16510 - 18867 40000 - 49999 108 18868 - 23584 50000 - 59999 111 23585 - 28301 60000 - 79999 132 28302 - 37735 80000 - 99999 24 37736 - 47169 25000 - 29999 24 30000 - 34999 35000 - 39999 4 > 47170 > 100,000 MEDIAN 914,100 S49,400 (923,302) �-------------------! I ,, I I 1· I I I I I I I I I I I 1.- -- 1 TABLE 8. HOUSING VALUES FOR UNITS CONSTRUCTED IN COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP SINCE 1980 AVERAGE VALUE YEAR NUMBER 1980 8 S67,073 1981 7 S70,S58 1982 10 S:57,987 1983 7 S41, 462 1984 7 548,050 1983 9 970,467 Value is for structure only. 21. �! I- ~·... I 22. ,.·· I I I I I I I I I I I I I I -- - SPECIFIC LAND USES and STRUCTURAL USE TYPES* Section Numbers Dwelling Units Trailers Cottages Churches t-bbile Horne Park Gravel Pits Ct her l 10 2 2 39 (l duplex) l l 2 businesses 3 15 4 13 l 2 l business 5 22 6 16 7 9 8 16 9 25 10 2 l track l 29 (1 dup- l lex) 7 businesses 11 38 3 12 6 l 13 4 14 20 15 26 16 9 17 ll ( l dup- l lex) 18 18 19 9 20 17 l l l track l Post Office l *These data supplement the r.Bpped Data recorded on Maps l_, 2, 3, 4, & 5. �! 23. I 1- 1 I I I I I -I I I I I I I --- - Section Numbers Dwelling Units Trailers 21 42 23 ll 24 14 25 l 26 13 27 12 28 25 29 19 30 15 31 34 32 24 33 16 34 13 2 35 52 (l duplex) 3 36 53 Cottages Churches Mobile Home Park Gravel Pits Other l Cemetery Cemetery 2 l l 52 l Wig.ram, 2 Adm.in. bldgs. l l track l 1 Church 4 businesses ...LPost Office TOTALS 703 21 52 5 l OAK GROVE STATE GAME ABEA IN SECTIONS 12 1 13 1 24, 25 a.nd 36. 5 24 �I I .- 1 I I I I I ~ . I I I I 1- 24. GENERAL TAX INFORMATION The County Assessor has provided tax information summaries for 1966, 1976 and 1986. Between 1966 and 1976, the real assessed value cf the Township increased 825~. After accounting for inflation (1970 ~ 100), the adjusted percentage is 427~In real terms this increase in assessed value totals over S9 million. By 1986 the real assessed value had increased another 145~ or 30~ in deflated dollars. In 1986 the total real assessed value stood at nearly 925.5 million. Over the two decades, the Township's total assessed value <real plus personnel) has remained at approximately 2.4% of the total county assessed value. In 1986 residential assessed value comprised 62% of the total real assessed value. Agricultural properties accounted for an additional 36%. The remaining 2% was nearly equally split between the one industrial parcel and one commercial parcel. Tax data is reported in Tables 9 and 10. TABLE 9. GENERAL TAX INFORMATION FOR COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP REAL ASSESSED VALUE YEAR 1966 1976 9 1,124,800 (Sl,345,454) Sl0,406,160 CS7,098,336J 1986 925,477,175 (99,197,536) % CHANGE TOTAL ASSESSED <REAL + PERS.> ~ COUNTY TOTAL S 1,336,700 2.4 912.353.600 2.5 925,477,175 2.3 825 (427) 145 (30) Numbers in parentheses are de+lated values. TABLE 10. 198·C· ~SSESSED VALUE BY LAND USE USE NUMBER c+ PARCELS REAL ASSESSED VALUE ~ TOTAL AGRICULTURE 332 99,199,681 36 RESIDENTIAL 902 915,588,944 62 COMMERCIAL 1 9307,700 1 INDUSTRIAL 1 9380,850 1 I· I .. 1 �I I 25.• /' I· I I I I I CURRENT LAND USE Current land uses were estimated from the 1982 plat beck for Cohoctah Township and verified by air photographs and field checks. The estimated acreage assigned to each special use is listed in Table 10A, Appropriate uses nave demarcated on Maps 2 "'""J 3. TABLE lOA,CURRENT LAND USES BY OWNERSHIP FOR COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP OWNERSHIP Residential Church Property Agricultural Open Space Small Tracts:Developed Cohoctah Village I·· - ' I 'It TOTAL Rural: Private TOTAL I I I I I I I ACREAGE 750 85 8,500 ( app. > 13,180 <app.) 22,505 93 424 2 69 < 1 Consumers Power 662 3 State of Michigan 656 3 Cemetary TOTAL 10 < 1 24,326 Percentages add to mere than 100~ due to rounding. Approxi•ately 937. o+ the Township's land is in considered rural and is being used for residences, agriculture, and open space. Land in residential use was estimated by the assumption that each residential unit occuppied approximately one acre. The remaining acreage in the parc•l was assigned to either agriculture or open space whichever was appropriate. Only 6~ o+ the land is in public or semi-public ownership. Private land ownership is an important element, then, in land use decisions within the Township. Sorting the parcels by size pro~ides some helpful insights into the implied intentions of owners. Nearly 33~ of the rural acreage is in parcels under 40 acres; only 16~ of the land is in parcels over 160 acres. This land division pattern suggests that �I 26. I f I I I I I I I· I I I I I I I~ I rural residences on small lots is the dominate and expected land use. There exist few opportunities for expanding agriculture or developing other land uses which require large tracts of land. Various parcel size characteristics are provided in T~le 11. Small parcels also represent the largest percentage of total parcels. Interestingly, only about ~0% of the parcels under 20 acres have been developed. This suggests there are number of parcels that can be developed for homesites without any further subdividing of parcels larger than 40 acres. The land divisions a!ready exist to accommodate expected growth over the next five years. Land used for production farming is spread throughout the Township. The highest concentration of agricultural land is in the northwest sections <7, 8, 9, 17, 18 and 19>, north of Cohoctah road <sections 1, 2, 3 and 4), and in the middle sections 22 and 23. Open space can be found adjacent to rivers and creeks. In the southern half of the Township, woodlots are common. Large tracts of forested land can be found south of Sabin Lake and adjacent to the state game area. Rural residences are scattered throughout the Township; but, primarily in the southern third of the Township along roads with access to commercial areas to the south. Two examples are Rodgers and Chase Lake roads where many small parcels are located along the roadway. Reference the heavy parcellation of sections 21, 26, 28, 31, 32, 33, 34, 3~ and 36. Small tracts have been platted at Mill Pond, Cohoctah and several other scattered areas. In most cases, the small tracts are located adjacent to well-paved access roads. �,. .. ---- - - - - - - .. - .. - - - - -----~.- ... -~; \ ' . ,' TABLE 11 SIZES Al~D CHARACTERISTICS OF PARCELS Cohoctah Township With Buildine % DeveloEed % Total Acres J J Parcel Size Acres Humber of Parcels Leas than 5 646 194 124 64 3 26 30 5-10 1613 170 86 51 1 23 21 10-20 1558 104 50 48 1 14 12 20-40 3699 114 64 56 16 16 15 40-80 5994 92 59 64 27 13 14 80-160 4917 - 42 21 50 22 6 5 160-250 2375 12 9 75 11 2 2 More than 250 1702 5 3 60 8 less 1 less l 22504 733 416 57 TOTAL Total Parcels Total Homes 33% ot acreage in parcels less than 40 acres 48J ot acreage in parcels 40 to 160 16J ot acreage in parcels more than 160 I\) ~ . ����. _I_ v . -: . l - ,• -~-- 1/ ' ...-~--~ I _J :I .. . I I. I~. - -----. • • • DRAIN - ~ .- • I .. -.- ._...,. _) ( .. ,~ I I ·. s ~ ..t 0• . i I ·,o,._, • , 6 ') • .., !"= ' > ,=== I I I I . I . I .•,c:: __ _,.,,-- I I __ _ ��I . - I I I I I .. .I !.. I --=--: --,,{ .. . Ii . -1 j 8 ' ·- 1 / ,,,..-- - - - -_. ---· -- i_,.--· .-- . . "'\, .._,_ . It · I. ';t . ��... ·' .J Q .... :( •. cc: ':: \.., �/: \}i \/ .s.,:. I; ,_ I i I \ ,., ,,, - • ·,,\lJ.. l I"' \ I . --::._ ' i( '-- . '~ t;::--- +I~ : �9 I I .9;,, 87J, I f - .I I I es, �------------------------.1 I I I I I I I I I I I I ,- 1··---·· 38. Master Plan tor Iand Use tor COHOCTAH TOWiiSHIP Livingston County Michigan A land use plan designed to establish categorical areas which group compatible land uses together tor planning, zoning and development purposes tor the purpose ot establishing a basis tor planning and developing public utilities and other improvements. prepared tor the: Planning Commission Cohoctah Township Livingston County, Michigan by: Robert B. Hotaling and Associates Professional Community Planners August 18, 1986 �I I 39. Development Standards for !and Use Categories (Refer to 1-ap No. lA and lB) I I An an&l.ysis ot existing patterns, recent rends and projected categorical types of land uses lead to the land use policy conclusions portrayed on Maps No. lA and l.B, "Master Plan tor Land Use Policy." The categorical types ot land uses are: l. 2. Agricultural Areas Resource Conservation Areas Shiawassee River Conservation and Sprague Creek Conservation Areas Settlement Areas Residential Areas - IDv Density Open Space Area Commercial. Area Industrial Area 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Within the above categorical. areas and the purpose behind each, the following generalized land uses are recommended tor inclusion in the present and future development ot them: -----· f•; 1-·· - ' Agricultural Areas A. Purpose: The purpose ot this land use category is to provide for the compatible arrangement and development ot parcels ot land tor residential building purposes in a pastoral, agricultural~ woodland or open land setting, which will remain unserved by public water distribution and wastewater dispoS&l. systems in the foreseeable tuture, but which are suitable tor large lot residential purposes, which can accommodate heilthtul on-site water supply and wastewater disposal, but which reserves and conserves that land which is most adaptable tor present and tuture agricultural., woodland, natural. resource and other extensive land uses • B. Pl.anned land uses and general. conditions: '· . - r l··--· I l. All present principal agricultural operations and their accessory uses including home occupations on at least twenty (20) acres of land. 2• .Agribusinesses that serve the present agricultural operations either as a principal use or a home occupation on at least ten (lO) acres ot land. 3. Nont&n, single family residences and their accessory uses, including home occupations on at least one (l) acre ot land area or 200 feet wide, or as large a land area or width as is necessary to accoDU110date on-site septic tanks and wells. 4. Special uses and their accessory uses, including natural resource extraction and use, public and privat e utility and communication's �4 o. facilities, public and private institutions tor human care, religion, education, recreation, and other human social purposes on at least twenty (20) acres ot land. 5. Planned Unit Developments ot at least twenty (20) acres in area. 6. P· /. On-site septic tanks and wells, it they meet County health and and sanitation standards. ✓ D k.: L ;_..,.._L ;.__, ~ Resource Gena t •i•aa and Development rand Uses A. Purpose: The purpose ot this land use area is to provide tor the arrangement ot land uses that are compatible with the conservation, preservation and non-intensive development ot large tracts of land presently having a most desirable natural environment that should not be intensively disturbed, except minimally, tor natural habitat tor vildlite, native flora, natural water features, including extensive wetlands and high water table soils, and other extensive land uses vhich retain the natural _character ot' the area. Single family homes on exceptionally large lots will be provided tor it the spacing ot such homes is great enough to adequately separate them from each other and the lot or parcel upon which they are located can adequately handle on-site septic tanks and veils. This area rill remain unserved by public sever and water. 1· · - ' ' B. Planned land uses and general conditions: l. All present agricultural operations and their accessory uses, including home occupations and their accessory uses, on at least twenty (20) acres ot land. 2. Nontarm, single family residences and their accessory uses, including home occupations, on at least ten (l0) acres and 6oo teet vide or as large a land area an width as·is necessary to accommodate on-site septic tanks and wells. 3. Special uses and their accessory uses, including natural resource extraction and use, public and private utility and communication's tacilities, public and private preservation and conser,ation areas' tor plants, animals, archeology-, nature study and other uses not requiring buildings and structures tor overnight human occupancy. 4. On-site septic tanks and veils, it they meet County heal th and sanitation standards. r I I �I I .. , ....... -41. ·, (j) .I?.!. < f_,,<...~ _..r ~a ±see River Conservation aA4 ere It COrliul .s•i.on Areal SJ!Adll A. I I I I I Purpose: The purpose of this ~ a is to retain as much as possible the natural character of the S1:ii~"e River .a.nd Sp:agae Suck through the entire Township by preserving the water and natural vegetation along its banks to thee~~~~ possible, so that1any . developments in this area cannot b ~ from the river water. and · r~)those developments which are located in the area relate to the use and enjoyment ot the river. B. Planned land uses and general conditions: 1. River end areek._access areas and facilities to be located at points along the river Mi ereek where public roads provide access to the river's &ft& H eei1 1 s water over lands adjacent to both the road and the river's ar1:a ••nl, 1,o- edge. 2. River alM::=a;;paek related facilities to be bull t along the rivers vffi'::e:nreits which will improve land and water related wildlife; fishing, nature study, canoeing and boat rowing, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, tent and open air camping, recreational uses, agriculture, forest tree farming, Christmas tree farms, tree nurseries and wood harvesting. All structural, use and· activity areas which change the natural character of the landscape shall be located tar enough back from the water's edge so as to maintain as natural a landscape as is possible when viewed from~ ri ver0 ~ t·· .Ql'll~E. C. I I I I I·•. ,,.• I -.. . 3. River and. e~ook and nonriver -8:ftd nc11:ieek related single family residences. 4. Special and conditional uses. 5. Planned unit developments. General development specifications: 1. All principal river and. ereek access area and facility uses are to be located on parcels having an area of at least ten (10) acres. 2. All river ~ e e i r related lineal path, trail and walking facilities located along the river,~reek shall parallel the river anli= ereek within an area located no less than twenty-five (25) teet and no more than 100 teet from the river's ~n:d r•ree:'d i water edge. 3. All river and a•eak ~elated lot, parcel or rectangular area land uses located in t h~ e ~ OP ~ 21:it.__areas beyond at least 100 feet tran the- river's a.cd a: eel:r..'.a water edge shall have an area of land of at l e a s t ~ , 1, 0-) acres. (_z.v �-- I 42. I- I Separate single family residences and their accessory uses, including heme occupations and home businesses, not related to any principal river o ~ k related use, are to be located on an area ot at least two (2) acres or land and have lot widths ot at leaat 200 teet. 5. Setbacks tor all structures trom all roads sha.U. be at least those specitied in the Master Plan tor Roads and Highwa,ys., 6. Lots and parcels shall be sutticiently large enough to accommodate County Health Department approved septic tanks and wells vith the septic tank drain tield having a reserve ot at least one (l) additional tuture alternate drain tield location. ,. ,. /' -3"'&Dli& . ~ Planned unit development ot any combination ot~princial. and accessory uses planned tor these areas it located on an area ot at least torty (40) acres. ( 7. a. Conditional and special. uses and their accessory uses as yet to be determined trom the list ot specitic uses, which will be a part ot the preparation ot the Zoning Ordinance, with the inclusion ot at least the following: a) b) c) d) Utility tacilities Communication tacilities Health care tacilities Education, recreation, - social and religious organization tacilities ------ IV. Settlement Areas A. Purpose: The purpose ot these areas, including the Settlements or Oak Grove, Cohoctah, Cohoctah Center and Nazarene Campground, is to encourage these areas, which are historically important to the Township. to preserve the integrity and cultural. heritage ot each ot them. In order to carry out this purpose it is necessary to limit the uses in these areas to those which vere located within them in the past or those vhich exist at the present time and in keeping with the styles ot architecture and landscaping existing• typical and amenable to the era during which these tour (4) settlements were deTeloped. I I I I 4. B. Planned land uses and general conditions: l. All existing uses. 2. All uses which can be established existed historically in the area. 3. All uses which can be established. existed in similar areas historically and would be amenable to the "purpose" ot preserving these Settlements. �... I I .,,. ........ r I ·. V. I I I I I I I I I I I I I I 1-· I Residential Areas - Low Density A. Purpose: The purpose ot establ.ishing these areas in the Township is to provide tor the initial introduction ot "suburban" residential areas with its related commwiity facilities in adJacent areas to serve them. Also, the purpose of this land use category is to proride tor single tami.ly housing neighborhoods tree from other uses, except those which are (l) normally accessory and (2) compatible, supportive and convenient to the res~dentsl living within such a land use area. The size of lots and parcels should be planned to be ot such area and width so that they can sustain healthful on-site water supply and wastewater disposal, or provide publ.ic or common water supply and/or wastewater disposal systems on an area project basis. B. Planned land uses and general conditions: l. Single tamily homes and their accessory uses, including home occupations, on at least one (l) acre ot land area 200 feet wide, or as large a land area or width as is necessary to accommodate on-site septic tanks and wells, or on lots ot at least 15,000 square feet in area and l00 teet wide providing either public or commcn water supply and/or wastewater disposal systems on an area project basis. 2. Special uses and their accessoey uses, including public and private organizations, education, recreation and other facilities and areas serving only the immediately surrounding residential area. VI. 3. On-site septic tanks and wells, i:t they meet County health and sanitation standards, or public or common water supply and wastewater disposal systems. 4. Planned thit Developments consisting ot the land uses planned tor this land use area. Open Space Areu A. Purpose: The purpose ot an Open Space Area is to assure the preservation ot critically located areas in an area which is developing for urban or suburban land use purposes. B. Planned land uses and general conditions: l. Public recreation areas. 2. Private recreation areas held in perpetuity as a part ot a project. 3. Other public open space uses. �44. - _ VII. Commercial Areas A. Purpose: The purpose tor establishing this area in the Township is to provide tor the initial introduction of planned commercial facilities designed to provde the local people with ottice, retail, wholesal.e and other types of goods ·and serTice establishments. B. Planned l&nd. uses: C. l. Otticea proTiding protessfon&l, personal, technical and mechanical services. 2. Retail businesses 3. Wholesale establishments 4. Mechanical service businesses Conditions: l. Small (generally under 10,000 square teet ot tloor area per business) retail and ottice establishments and their accessory uses, ottering goods or products tor sale to meet the daily needs ot the public located on an average ot about 20,000 sq.tt. ot land area per business, at a ratio ot at least tour (4) square teet ot land area to every one (l) square toot of total principal. and accessory building and structure area of ground coTerage. It is planned to serve them with public or common sever and water systems, including tire hydrants.. Otherwise, it on-site septic tanks and wells are to be used, the buildings and structures are planned to be located on at least one-halt(½) acre ot land area 100 teet wide or as large a lot area and width necessary to acc0Jlllll0date them. 2. These commercial land uses are planned to serve only the immediately- ad.Jacent and surrounding trading area. They are planned to be located at intersections (4-way-, it possible) in order to proTide the maxilllWll accessibility tor the trading area. It is planned that they be spaced about one (l) mile apart and h&Te an area ot at least tive (5) acres ot land area. _ 3. On-site septic tanks and wells, it they meet County health and sanitation standards, or public or common water supply- and wastewater disposal systems. 4. Special uses and their accessor., uses, including public and private organizations, education, recreation and other facilities and areas serving only the immediately surrounding trading area, comercial uses, and their clientele. 5. Planned. unit developments consisting ot the land uses pl&m1ed tor this land use area. �VIII. Industrial Areas A. Purl)Ose: The purpose tor establishing this area in the Township is to provide tor the initial introduction of planned industrial facilities designed to provide local people with manufacturing employment and is turther designed to plan tor the encouragement ot capital investments to improve ·the local economy and t&X base. It is the turther intent ot this land use category to provide tor the development ot sites ot industrial plants in which the manufacture ot goods in the form ot finished or semi-finished products or the asaemb~, c:oapounding, or treatment of product parts or ingredients, in order to create finished or semi-finished goods tor sale to other industrial manufacturers, or to bulk or wholesale commercial purchasers. It is the turther intent of this land use category to permit only those industrial manufacturing uses having use, performance or activity characteristics which em.it a minimum amount ot discernible noise, vibration, smoke, dust, dirt, glare, toxic materials, offensive odors, gases, electromagnetic radiation, or any other physically adverse effect to the extent that they are abno:rm&lly discernible beyond the lot lines ot the parcel or site upon which the industrial manufacturing activity is located. B. Planned land uses and conditions: l. Light industrial uanutacturing and heavy commercir.l types of land use activities are planned tor this area. This includes open land uses and uses that are conducted vi.thin buildings and structures, and located on parcels of land of at least five (5) acres and having a width ot about 300 teet or as large a lot area and width necessary to accommodate them. 2. Light industrial land uses are planned to be in locations that have direct access to the regional highway systems, preferably the limited access highways, and rail and other forms of regional transportation; so that they can be convenient to the regional labor pool, as well as regional wholesale markets or other regioD&lly located industries vi.th which they integrate their manufacturing and distribution ot manufactured goods. These land uses are pl.anned to be located on year-round heavy duty truck routes, and of:t-tront roads which are limited by seasonal restrictions. 3. On-site septic tanks, it they meet County health and sanitation standards, or public or comaon water supply and wastewater disposal systems. 4. Special uses and their accessory uses, including public and private organization, education and recreation and other facilities and areas serving only the ilmaediately surrounding industrial and heavy co111J11ercial uses and their clientele. 5. Planned unit developments consist i ng ot the uses planned tor this land use area. �__ ·b- . MASTER. PLAN CCHOCTA-1-\ 1'0Wl-.1Sµ,..1P LIV/N~SiON CCr.J~T'-l" AocusT N\.lCl-HC~N �~.:..,. .J ,. -✓-:-: ~ltl:il-l!l:I _D _. .. ... • j .?'3J .-----:-u,i _,... .! I ='~-,::, : 8$7, - ---:----:-:-::: �47. I I I I I I I t·, Master Plan tor Roads and Highways for Cohoctah Township A Plan tor the functional ditrerentiation ot roads, and highways, and establishing the standards ror their ruture development, including policies tor oft-street parking and oft-street loading and unloading. Prepared tor the I Planning Commission Cohoctah Township Livingston County, Michigan By: Robert B. Hotaling and Associates Professional Community Planners August 18 , 198 6 �--- f_ dard ~onsolidated Statistical Area, Standard Metropolitan ,tafistical Areas, Counties, and Selected Places 2 !IO" e 3 1 , er- e ae• 10 as• 11 13 12 48. ,... I~ 15 e3• 1e 11 92• 1a I\ KEY 49• OA•t.ANO CO.lNfY ' ......__.._. ,o-.,.. ,..,...... ,'11.....,_. . ..._ ........ ··•' n-~-. . 8 , ,_ • • ~ COUNT• .,,__........................ , n,.,.,e,.,.,_.... ,.__ ,, ....•-......,_ .... , ',...,_ .,,··-- 10-....r:..,. ··- IMCOMI COUNf• C ,_ ,. a.,,.;.,... 1r.,..... , ......... . _,...___ It•--••• IJl_ftNt,._. , •"'r. ... ~ ,c.a-.. ~ ........... \ 0 e M1SOU1 1a1 G ',~. --, 0. \ ........... ,,,.J . •s• ,· 1-1 M.CO- ~ ~. I ,,.,. __ LEGEND Standard conaolldaled stallstlcll .,. . (SCSAI St111dard m1tropolll111 sllt11tlcll • rH (SMSA) P!• ca of 100.000 ......tll lw.lSM•H I NO.CO or more 1n1110111n11 Place of 50.000 10 100.000 1n11a111111111 • Placa of 25.000 10 50,000 lnllalllllflll Q SMSA central Clly of , _ 111111 25,000 lnlleoilMII I . ..,OIIO State ca111taf underlined I All pollllcll lloundarl• .,. .. of JlftUIIY 1, IIIO -- SCALE 0 I •o 20 l ... 1 .1 . ,n 0 I , • , I 90 110 100 1<11_,.,. ..I - - L . .- .1 40 M IIO I I L K !OIi ,' M,...,, '-:'1 "'"' \ ' / N-.. · I 3 ~~- . ·- - -- • 5 ae• 1 - e 1 SMfA S -, ~ - , - I 9 ae• •2• _.,_,. M.AP ~ ;~-- On1u1umnn1 ne r.nmmnff':n 2 ..... IINTON / HAIIOI uo.7 . C.0\-lO~TA~ TOWNSHIP IN 10 STANO-.~P M£.'TeOPtl.lTAN ITA Tl Sil t'AL At eAS cl,,.C fN.SUS ft£ LA TIO '4 -ro t:ol,r;!\C AN ..,..0 ·,11 ( S. M. !;. A .S. �... ~-......-•~.,..--.:----r-----"....,r'll&';.-r---r---I z -Ck• ....,.,...._ ,.. fPOSTUt ;· !? CY••• z I •••., •·••••o•••CN .J:-I U,ICNtU.,'-•••• ;'r-, / Ww,-,A(.,./"""rl ,,_.._. • .l..,_ 49. Wlt. • 1" 191.A•Nf'IC&.O Mt\,1,, OSC:OOA •••• --j-...,;-..L.---1--_;•:.;•p•::,•_:•::;•::H::•~•T°"---,----l----l--_;T~•••• cu, , I aw.._ - H N&ST&lt - 1 CLADWi:•tco. evT••• No•••• ! ---r ! ...,...,. " "''-U~~·-•1..,P•- AR~:llrilOPPATT ...,..,.,._ ...... DCCP ••••• 0 l ••••• 0 T ..... - ,u•••• --•-•• T•••••• O••• a Pen Saeil•• ........ 1..1••····· -0 :J..--...-1---,-J.-="'f.1.:,--\ 0 ....... c, •••• u L•••••••• B MAP No, Re.GtO~AL MAP OF MAJO~ 4[CErf I-HG UWA1S AMO COUNTlf1, '10WN S~IPS" CITlcS' • \I I LL A. ~ £! S 104 I. II t.A.. 1"1h4 "T'I) �49A. .. , SHIAWASSEE ,.,' .. .----...:~ I I II Ill mm ROADS 1,tilW.0\11.>IOAD 1:.tAOfOANO OUINfO IIOAO \Oil SUltfAUO IC.AO C l .. 'I EL Q l C,l ,lolllAI IOAO IUUMtNOUS ~UIIAC[O IOA!' ,.v~o tOAD OIV IC"fO Ht C IIWA'I' OIVIOfO HI G ~#.t. V W'Wl flON!A.<.,f IOAO ANO 11s r All&. ROAD SYSTEM DESIGNATION .." IL".: INCS~ I.OOP 11J~ 1, ,u :, •oun l :./11 NUi ~f UI AIRPORTS ,.c,1.,nu MlllTAIY flfLD {~Mt: 4VAILAILE 1 Al,•!.)lf. \: •.1Ml'\ITf f ACILl'lfS 1(.0lriiC,MftCIAl Cl MUNl(.l'AL) AlUltLO, UMllt:O ,.-::1.1nn At~• lJ- .... n1~.; 0 1 \"'111 11! ..CLU CI/ : :;. ,11YA!f A: r1 l(LO\ • • • • 0 U.1UOA0 1now tOAO IAIUOAO fl.,NNII. HIGHWA', BR IDGES - •OCH l'VHCIGIIOII H•1;"'<lfAY ,:. &AUi \ :PAtAIIC, ~t DRAINAGE l 6Alt0'1111 \ lll.W NIOI \ flt.AM 10\' U 2:.0 'T ,) NAVIGATION ••u ~Ettt TOLL ftlrY )AMS DAM WIIH t<J• U 0.t.MW I IH()U f t(JAQ !OUNOARIE~ l-1 U tO~L IO U · /O,Arf ~u, rc IO Ur •OAW I COUNl't' 1ou,10An ~r..-11. TO #N ) Ht, IOUNOAIY ._.G f(SSIO N AL ,ll,\ . l,1, 110 ; ~Hit IOUNOta, .... .,l,lp,,.f CITY ANO Vll~GE ·.r•11c.un•1. cnuNrv \ U.• •,,..lt<OL-ouu:o CO,..,,...,ttlllU :N(Ol,01A1r:, c,r, Ol ll'IU•.AG( ~ • 0 -=.t. -::-p COIIOCTAC,I MAP co. GENESEE �•··• • • • • •---~• • ,• • 50 • -~...,'..\ ( • / Purposes ot Roads and Highways are as follows: l. Provide access to land tor development • 2. Provide as convenient and sate 1110vement or circulation ot both present and tuture vehicular trattic in, out and within the Township in accordance with future land use plans • 3. Provide, in - conJunction with land use planning, tor the proper type ot road or highway which will f'Unctionally handle the type and volume ot trattic generated by existing and planned land uses. 4. Provide tor vehicular trattic travelling throug the To'\ffiship • 5. Provide tor vehicular trattic destined for the To'Wilship from outside the Township boundaries • 6. Provide tor frontage access roads in high density land use areas located along present and tuture maJor trattic arteries in the Township. 7. Provide tor spacing ot vehicular access points between present and tuture major trattic arteries and frontage access roads • 8. Provide tor establishing oft-street parking and oft-street loading and unloading policy • Present Road and Highway System The present road and highway system has been developed primarily from the "need to build" or improve roads and highways by the Township, County Road Commission, the State Department ot Transportation and private developers. No comprehensive plan tor roads and highways which relates to future planned and zoned areas has been developed tor any long range extended period into the future • Present roads are generally being unitormly treated as to or right-ot-vay width and setbacks. Future planning tor roads should be established tor the purposes ot (l) reserving future right-ot-vays where none now exist, (2) providing tor widening road right-ot-vays by establishing adequate setbacks now so as tor future widening as the need arises. standards and highw.ys needed road of existing to provide �51. / -.-:'\ • •• • •I • • • •-,· II • ~ " Proposed Road and Highway Plan (Mt.pa No.land 2 attached) Based upon both the long range land use plan and the zoning district map the following functional types or roads and highways are proposed. (See Maps No.land 2): l. Regional arterials 2. Local arterial.a 3. Connecting arterials 4. Collector roads 5. Minor roads �i W 11 W • • -✓• • . l • • • a • a . \. : ' Planning Standardti tor the Functional Types ot Roads and Highvays Cohoctah Tovnship Livingston County I Michigan Punctional Type ot Road/Hvy. (See )okps No. ·1 • 2) l. Regional Arterials (none located within Cohoctah Township) 2. I.Deal Arterials 3. 4. Planned R.o.w. vidth (teet) 200 1 -300 1 Building Setbacks* 00 1 Planning Comments These arterials are planned to be either limited access (I-96) or nonlimited access (M-59) 1 but opposing lanes should be separated by a median or boulevard. Generally these roads and highways will have 4 lanes 1 carry an a.d.t. ot 20 1 000+ at speeds of 55 m.p.h.* · 120 1 50-60• These roads generally connect with roads vhich have a through traffic tunction as well as connecting to Connecting Arterials and Collector Roads. Generally these roads may ultimately have 4 lanes 1 carry an a.d.t. of 5 1 000 • at speeds ot 45 m.p.h. Connecting Arterials 90 1 50-60• These roads generally provide tor major connections between through trattic types ot arterials. Generally these roads may ultimately have 2-4 lanes, and carry an a.d.t. ot 2,000+ at speeds ot 45 m.p.h. Collector Roads 90 1 50 1 These roads generally provide tor connecting ot minor roads to each collector road which in turn provides access to the more major arterial road and higbvay system. Generally these roads may for the most part have 2 lanes and possibly 4 lanes vhen a great number of minor roads connect to them over extended distancet1 1 and carry an a.d.t. of 500 to 2 1 000 at speeds of 35 m.p.h. a number •trom planned tuture right-of-way lines. a.d.t.: 24-hour average daily traffic volume as determined by the methods established by the Michigan Department of Transportation and the Livingston County Road Commission. . VI I\) �,a ~- ' ~• • • • J 5. Minor Roads (Public and Private) 66 1 ,. w -- • • • • · •'.•,/, • • 25 1 -35 1 in high density areas 50 1 in lov density rural and suburban areas . These roads provide direct access to a relatively small area where traffic terminates tor reaidential, commercial, industrial, public or semi-public purposes. Generally these roads will have 2 lanes and carry an a.d.t. of under 200 at speeds of 25 m.p.h. Special lane widths tor turning movements and thickness ot pavements tor load carrying capacity will have to be engineered tor co1111Dercial and industrial minor access roads. 6. Special Roads a) Natural Beauty Roads 66• 100 1 These roads only exist if so designated by the County Road Co111111ission or roads requested by the Township to be so designated by the County Road Commission. The 100 toot setback is to provide tor the preservation ot the natural vegetation between the road pavement and , the 100 toot required set~ack. V1 w �-a,a WW 111 ,..• 7. Frontage Access Roads (Public and Private 4o• •••II• - • -·\ 52' tor 45 degree angle parking and 60• tor 90 degree angle parking it located in front ot principal buildings and structures or a minimum ot 60• in 1Lddition to the 4 o• required tor the frontage acceau. road in those inst1Lnces where no parking ia planned to be located in the required front yard. /' These roads located adjacent and parallel to arterial roads provide direct access to abutting properties from spaced intersecting roads or driveways which provide access from arterial roads and highways. Spacing ot intersecting roads and driveways shall be at least 750 1 and no more than 1500 1 apart along an arterial road or highway from centerline to centerline. Frontage access roads shall be required in all high intensity or density use areas found in multiple family housing, co1DJ11ercial and industrial zoning districts. V1 ~ �55. Ott-Street Parking Policy No on-street parking shall be permitted, except along the edge~ ot minor streets. Ott-street parking shall be required for all land uses located along and having access to all roads -and highways in accordance vi.th the requirements ot the Zoning Ordinance. Ott-street parking areas providing tive (5) or more spaces shall be(l) graded and drained so as to prevent surface puddling or impounding, (2) hard surface paved, including all access roads and driveways leading to thl!Jll trom a road or highway and (3) lighted tor night visibility with the source of lighting shielded trom being visible beyond th~ property lines upon which they are located. Parking spaces shall not be located in required tront yard setbacks, but rather shall be located in tront ot buildings behind the required setback line or in the side or rear yards. Ott-Street Loading and Unloading Policy "I ·( '·. I • 'I • All loading and unloading areas for freight trom any truck or other motorized vehicles shall be required to be located on a lot or parcel upon which a commercial or industrial use is located. No on-street loading or unloading ot treight is permitted in any commercial or industrial zoning district. Generally the minimum parking space tor tractor truck loading and unloading is ten (lO) teet wide by 80 teet long exclusive ot connecting driveways and turning 1110vement areas. Loading and unloading parking spaces shall not be located in tront, but rather shall be located in the side or rear yards ot buildings. �I I I I I I I I I I I _, "" -/ 56. TABLE NO. 1'2. Trattic Volume Trends on Mil.jar Highways which Atfect Cohoctah Township - Year US 16/I-96 and Fowlerville Bd. M-59 and Grand River Rd. M-59 and Oak Grove Rd. U.S. 23 at Favassett ( Clide Rd• ) 1958 8,869 1,700 3,100 4,700 1962 9,700 l,900 N.A. ll,000 1967 14,800 2,300 N.A. 14,000 1975 20,800 3,800 N.A. 19,019 1983 21,400 8,200 4,600 21,700 12,531 6,500 1,500 17,000 501 260 60 680 Traffic Growth 1958-1983 Annual Pate 1958-1983 \_ Because I-96 and U.S. 23 are the maJor access routes to and through Livingston County, what happens on them ill terms ot Trattic Volume increases directly influences the potential developments in adJacent Townships, Cities, Villages and Settlements. Cohoctah Township is only 4-4½ miles . frail I-96 and about 8 miles trom u. s. 23. These distances are measured traa interchanges with I-96 and U.S. 23 and those County Roads that lead directly trm them to Cohoctah Township. At the present time, the moat direct access from the nearest and 1110st influential area in Cohoctah Township ccaes trail the City ot Hovell-Hovell Township area via Oak Grove Road. It 1• anticipated that, because ot the growth north troa I-96 through the City ot Hovell and northward through Howell Township, the Oak Grove Road corridor will provide the initial m&Jor urban influences upon Cohoctah Township. This route also provides the 1110st direct route trom the Township to maJor regional arterial highways and places ot employment shopping and other actiTitiea. The above Table No. ll and the rapid growth it represents· is. consistent vitu those ot population, housing and employment growth in Livingston County, particularly in the Brighton to Hartland portion ot the U.S. 23 corridor and the Brighton to Howell portion ot the I-96 corridor. �57. " ' ' 'I I 1I I \ I The more remote location ot Cohoctah Township, as compared with Brighton, Howell, Handy and Hartland Townships, has its desirable attractions because ot its remoteness tor certain ty-pes ot agricultural, residential., industrial, commercial, recreatioD&l and other uses desiring more open space or ·natural resource orientations. The historical measure ot the limits ot the commuter was a: 25 --minute timedistance tactor. With car pooling and greatly improved highways and roads the tactor has been increased to over 40 minutes. Thus a commuter range ti-om Cohoctah Township ot between 25-35 miles now takes in all or southeastern Livingston County and a portion ot Wastenav and Cllkland Counties. Cohoctah Township is now well within the range ot the urban commuter looking for increasingly more remote rural/suburban areas tor the amenities which they contribute to tamil.y living and enJoyment. One of the maJor factors ot growth intluence in Livingston County is the seemingly unending and acceleration ot out-migration of families from the Detroit Area. Population migration out of Detroit alone bas increased trom about 15,500 per year between 1950 and 1960 to 35,000 per year between 1970 and 1980. These out-migrations are following the interstate and limited access highway corridors, and all evidence points to this continuing. The annual percentage rate ot growth on I-96 between 1958 and 1983 was 5.7% and on u. s. 23 was 14. 5%. Both ot these percentages are within or above the normally used 5% to 10% annual rate ot trattic growth on such facilities when proJecting tuture ·growth ot trattic. On the basis ot this past experience the proJected trattic growth in -both the I-96 and U.S. 23 corridors will be signiticant. ot this trattic will be representative of nev development in adJacent Townships, cities, Villages and Settlements, and Cohoctah Township will continue to get its share of new growth as a rsult. Some �.... ' ij - Bl\ 0 . oo· co.} R. 4 E. u 2 0 L .. 11 'l. s I 1PM ~ 0 V, ..... 4 _. <{ -:-:- <1 . , z I'f ~"-R a: /} N t- \\\\\1••··· ~ ir·76~./ - tl!ONl,l! .., l v+. • ,h a: 1- RD. oo ~w ci (l) 2· ~ GENESEE ::i r' .... :;:;: .1:v_ · ,. ::::: RD a: --.!{ -n r. 3 MAPLE - :, 0 ~I .. t'~~~~ :,~·~CENTER ; i ~f- . 17 AX -· e. .c.,~\ , . L o. - ,./ .. ! - J\W!l\ 13 @ ~- ~NAPP 18 ••••• \ r: /t .lJI ;:ii::::: · rll -~ I ~,, JJ ·16 I 25 36 l:, 8 -- . ?O 12 .. ... ... -. U:::d, · 7 I -" 26 H ff ~ 1~ I ~,,,+I~ 29~1~~8 ~ 18 23 ENGE~ .,i. GROVE = AIRPORT 22 ::::::~:::::\.. COHOCTAH 14 0 12 30 w g ~~r2ac7-.4~~-I I CHASE a 31 3 ~~ ,~ 7 ; 6 3 . 5 •,'· @) ,:·. 7 ·: ., 7 . . 1,9 11 ~ ..J ..J <{ RD. 01116 8 . 12~ .. ,. •CURDY 13 17 2 <1 a: u RO . BROPHY ci 21 BOWEN a: '· 20 G· N\ r~.9 \l £ '/ l- a: 32 <1 I :,l a: ::::i • •M �---=------ ----------------1111111 61. ' Plan Report Master tor Public or Common Water Suppl;y Wastewater Disposal. Storm Drainage COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP Livingston County, Michigan • • "• " " " prepared by the: Planning Commission Cohoctah Township with the assistance ot: Tovuship Board Members and: Robert B. Hotaling and Aasociates Towship Planning and Zoning Consult&nts August 18, 1986 / �-~---------------~62. Water Supply and Wastewater Treatment and Storm Drainage Systems '\ Past . and Present Systems Cohoctah Township has always depended upon on-site water supply (wells) and septic tank with drain tield systems tor its water supply and wastewater treatment tacilities. The one exception is the Nazarene Campground Settlement which operates its ow common water supply and wastewater disposal systems tor the entire campground. Storm drainage has been primarily through the use ot the existing natural drai.nage system and the use ot agricultural tile drains tor crop purposes. The latter are not usetul tor any subsequent urban development purpose except possibly open land uses tor recreation, etc. With the large areas ot surtace water teatures, tloodlands and high water tables, much ot Cohoctah Township will continue to develop primarily on the aeptic tank and well basis, but it will ot necessity limit future intensive growth except in thos areas where on-site septic tanks with drain tield will properly tunction. This will mean that only low density residential and small commercial, industrial and public and institutional developments will be attracted to those areas in the Township. Although no areas in the Township presently indicate the possibility ot public sanitary- sever with sewage treatment facilities, public water supply and piped storm drain systems, it would be advisable to plan tor the orderly concentration ot residential, commercial or industrial development so that a sutticient density and tax base will make it possible to economically begin to build such public systems. Such an area is proposed in the Cak Grove Settlement area in the southeastern corner ot the Township. Another method tor starting public systems is to provide tor large scale developments through planned unit developments, commercial centers, industrial parks, etc. and have them established in the Township with the proviso that they initially establish either common or public systems to which other developments can hook up to and thus provide the basis tor ultimately getting into a Township public sever and water program. Ml.p No.U. "Surtace Drainage and Gravity Flow is included in this report so that the Township can be advised .on the natural surface gravity flow ot water in relation to topography in the Township. Ot particular significance is the pattern ct drai.nage basins which form separate gravity tlov area when considering sanitar., severs and storm drainage systems in the future. It is ditticul.t and costly to engineer and build sanitary- sever and storm drainage systems, which generally tor economic reasons require gravity tlow systems, when crossing ridge lines between drainage basins because ot the high cost ot pumping stations, siphons, force •ins and other similar devices. To a limited entent these latter are sometimes merited tor use, but onl.y when they are the last resort to get a particularly attractive development which can absorb their higher costs in the private tinancing programs. But, keeping in mind that the Township at some time in the tuture more than likely, will take over the ovuership, maintenance, management and operational financing ot them. �It Cohoctah Township expects to and wants to increase the value ot tbe Township's real estate and be more attractive to orderly growth in the future, it vill be necessary to plan and engineer public sever and water systems, including tire hydrants. The latter directly attects fire insurance rates and the tormer directly attects property values due to cost ot investing in them. However, a.tter the i.Jlvestment is made a higher quality and value ot development vill generally occur. Over the years &head, the Township can greatly benetit troa such public systema, but geeting over the problem ot. the initial investment ia 1110st ditticult. �/ -· ; :,. - • .,,.. -1 !"•• I • • . ... . ..: .J: :" ,.. . ,I - _ _ .1:... _ _ _ _ _ • ·- I &.\.~~, K~ y MAJ Oft L6CAl A~reRtAL5 MtNOR. Le>c~L AeTe21Au. MA'? NO, MASTER 11 ~ PLAN CO 1-JN ECT I >JG A2. T~R! AtS -,J - ~ o e 6) e & • e oe ~Q't' OEHGN.l"fF-0 CDLL€lTOl2.. R..OAOt M11-Jae. eoADs. ~UlUR.f ijE'N !<CAO$ c.e:. HOCiAl-! L\V,NG~T'Ot-.l ,ow N ~tt-lP cOtJM:N• M\CHlGAW �i.,:; • ·· ~· ' ~-~:<' . · . ~ :_·-,___ -~-; :' ~,;...; ~. ('-,.-, = ·= ....:.:c:_y..,.,.I , ' ~~-:';::.\' ... i ii,-- I - ·1 - . I ., -· - ~i.. ,~,~~~ "0 ; • • ) • . _:_j _ -/ ----- . -. . l i'C" L ~- ·".1 .' . (i �. ~ ! ./'.:'2 .... ~ • ,. ~.de..> ;. ' ~ - 11 , -- .I" • L: - '4t-l ... : - ,- .-.-· "7:'" ,. -~ a'--:i:,I, -.:.: -::::• --- . . l 0 -~ c/"~O _•• •~ ) ~~·• -· ~ M ...-·... ,._ : '- - - I ~- () • (y,.. .. .· / ' ,., J ,,- .... '-----~r-·----;"?; r.. • :,•.--= - ::z ::: , •· '~ ~/. .... -. : "" ... MAP \\lo. J2. !YLASTER PLAN Fo IL SURfAC£ ORAINAGf !Gt~VITY~ Coli -..:a..---ro OCTA-l-f TClWI\J. S\+1P L l \J ( N t; 5 N CO U NT' Y �-- ~- - !J . ,. ! I I. 1 '·==-~~~.•.- E_LJ.,Jf!:.---=··===R,_QA0,::' ~;·· •. • • ;:..1 -. -: . . .... -·· . • • Q 8 ....__.,,.""""- <9"' , 1.. o ·-- L. ··- 7 7 ....... ..... _,, \ 8 -'-. 8 I I . 11----~.: r : I' . I ::., . I~. ..... •.:.·t _Cohoctah ,1 871 GANN~:- :. , ·===~=R~.o~·,.=·o~ ,,,, 10-.::. ___ __,,,,,,., _ :':) -· I .\ f- . ,. ' . ' • _ _ _~:_ g~; ,r----,--:=::=::~-:..-..__ _ _ _-4-'-~~. . • I ·:-- ~ ' - - - - - -(-=-=...;:..- . I· ! . I . -· ! . ' . If . .. I -, • o J . 'O J :, . • •I J ' ;; ,, ~ ; · I : _, �66 Future ?rocedurP.s and Strategy for Carrying Out the I.and Use Master Flan Report A report prepared to guide the future development of COHOCTAH TOWNSHIP Livingston County Michigan prepared for the: Planning Commission Cohoctah Towship by: Robert B. Hotaling and Associates Professional Community Planners August 18, 1986 �INTRODUCTION Cohoctah Township is dependent upon its Planning Commission, Township Board, and citizens for the suc_c ess of any plans prepared for the future development of the Township. The Planning Commission with the assistance of Robert :a. Hotaling and Associates, Planning Consultants, were retained to study pertinent issues in an effort to determine the most appropriate and effective coordinated solutions to land use and related problems. Under the Michigan Planning and Zoning Statutes, the Planning Commission is required to prepare and adopt a Mister Iand Use Plan for the future development of the Township, and then use the Land Use Plan as a basis for revising and amending the present Township Zoning Ordinance and planning for public improvements. Within the Township numerous day-to-day decisions, many with longer range impacts, must be addressed. It is important therefore that the Township have an overall coordinated "Plan" to provide the basic guidelines for directing this decisionmaking process. This "Plan" is the Comprehensive ?<kster ?lan of which the Land Use Plan is the basic part to all other parts ot it. It is intended, then, that the Cohoctah Township Land Use Plan will provide Township, School, County, Regional, State and Federal officials a broad framework of reference for making their future land use arid publc works capital improvement decisions. ?rivate developers, investors, realtors, business~en and others seeking to develop private land will also be provided with this helpful plan in assisting them in their development decisions. Any requests for future zoning changes should only be made in compliance with the Master Plan. The Township's public and private interests and their common good expressed in terms of improving the environment, the quality of living and the real estate market in the Township can only result from following and using the Land Use Plan effectively in all land development and zoning decisions. The Planning Commission shall continually strive for Community Support of the Plan The formulation o.f the Master Iand Use Plan is the basic essential step in an effort to create a well-balanced, attractive, convenient, desirable Township environment for all residents, businesses, institutions and other users of land in the Township. If this goal is to be realized, there must be communityvide knowledge, understanding, and support for the ?la.n, including the cit iz !!Os, Township Planning Commission, Township Board, Zoning Boa.rd of Appeals and other governmental officials at the Township, School District, County, Regional, State and Federal levels of government. Cohoctah Township will be taking steps toward this end by involving citizens' groups in the planning process through soliciting their views in workshop and informational meetings to be conducted by the ?lanning Commission. Continued public support and involvement are essential to insure the success of the planning program in the Township. The Plan Must be Flexible - Predicting the Future is Uncertain The Iand Use Plan is not a Plan that can be implemented immediately, but rather one that gives positive direction to the future physical development of the Township. Therefore while the Plan indicates the tYJ?e and character of land uses for various loc~tions in the Township, until actual development occurs, the possibility for future change exists. The generalized land use areas included in the Plan are a "look ahead" to the future. They are intended to be a guide in th~ preparation of the Zoning Map and Text initially and changes �68 '\ and amendments to it in accord with the general direction indica.ted on the Land Use Plan or as it may be changed periodically in the future. The Master Land Use Plan is at least a 20-30 Year Program The Land Use Pla.n portrays all of the land uses to be included in the Township's comprehensive development potentials for approximately the next 20 to 30 years from 1986 to the year 2006-2016. This Plan, however, should be reviewed annually for possible indications of a change in land use planning direi:tiou, and about every 5-10 years the Plan should be revised and updated, and extended for the next 20-30 years into the future. Planning is a constant process designed to accommodate change. The Plan ~ust Be Comprehensive The Land Use Plan must give adequate consideration to the interrelationships which exist between and among all major private and public land use categories, if it is to serve its function as an important decision-making tool. This is particularly true in respect to zoning and the equipping of land uses with the necessary and costly public utilities, facilities and other services. The Land Use Plan is the onl.y instrument that gives overall comprehensive direction to all aspects ot development now and in the fUture. Therefore, it is uasic to all land use decisions; public utility, facility and other service programs, as well as zoning, the platting of land, etc. It becomes the basis for architectural and engineering studies for all private developments and public improvements. The Master Land Use Plan sets the policy for conductiug existing development with that of all future changes and additions in the pattern as it emerges in the ruture. Changes and Trends in Development Patterns of the Region will Influence the Plan Cohoctah Township is an integral part of rapidly growing 3.Ud changing Livingston County, thereto re, the Land Use Plan must acknowledge the Township's place geographically and developmentally in the region. Recognition of the regional influences upon Cohoctah Township's Land Use Plan will make it more realistic and reasonable in terms of guiding the future pattern and types of laud uses in the Township. Change has always been the nature of the development in the Township; it is continuing and will do so in the future, aud regional or outside-of-the-Township, as well as those within, cause this change to happen continually. Change cannot be stopped, but it can be directred through the Plan so as to have a more harmonious and orderly effect upon all developments in the Township. The Plan Must Be Flexible as Well as Changed Occasionally The Plan will periodically require revisions to reflect any significant changes in local, regional, state, or national conditions which will more than likely occur but which cannot be foreseen at this time. For example, within the past memo~-tilled years several major developments which have caused major influenc~s upon local land development have been established. Most significant among these are: (l) the initiation and expansion ot the interstate highway and other freeway systems; (2) the introduction of commercial shopping c:nters and specialty areas, (3) the relocation of employment centers from the o4der, obsolete and �69 \ • • blighted central cities and the creation of new ones in the new and everexpanding suburbs; (4) expansion in housing preferences from a predominantly single-family home to also include apartments, townshouses, condominiums, and mobile homes; (5) the concern with conserving our valuable 'natural environment and resources, water features, agr_icultural and open space lands; and (6) the concern for conserving fuels used for producing energy for economic as well as resource conservation needs. All of these will have significant impacts upon future land use decisions, plans, zoning ordinances and the provision of public improvements. It is, of c_o urse, impossible to predict the kinds of changes which may occur over the years ahead, but the Plan can aim at the future by giving development a direction that makes the most sense to follow with future changes modifying that direction as required. Therefore, the Land Use Plan will be modified as conditions chan13e. The Job of the Planning Commission is to assure the Township that the planning will continue to be done to the extent possible, since P.A. 160 of 1959 legally requires it to carry out this responsibility, and under Michigan Statues no other agency or official has this major land use policy determination responsibility. The Plan Must Be Updated Periodically An annual review of the Plan should be made to keep a.breast of minor or major changes. However, a comprehensive review of the Plan should be undertaken approximately every five to ten years depending upon the intensity of the character of the change in order to allow an up-to-date analysis of the changing conditions and trends. Should changes in the Land Use Plan be indicated, then major changes in the zoning ordinance, platting and public works programs -would follow. The Land Use Plan should also be reviewed and amended to reflect any changes in community development goals and policies as determined by the· Planning Commission. The Cohoctah Township Iand Use Plan, therefore, as presented herein, depicts the generalized development pattern for the Township during the next 20-30 year period (1986 to 2006-2016). The Plan provides the necessary guidelines for making decisions concerning changes in zoning, subdivision regulations, and public works capital improvements. It should be noted that the Land Use Plan is a generalized document, while the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map, Platting Regulations and Public Works Capital Improvement Program are the more specific basic legal tools for implementing the general . goals and intent ot the Land Use Plan. The Land Use Plan, is then, the fundamental or basic element in the total planning process, a process which includes the tallowing: 1. Having the Planning Commission form the tocus for the organization and structure that will be necessary to carry out the Planning Process procedure ly. 2. Gather information and analyze it on a continual basis in a comprehensive manner in terms of population, economic,·natural resource and environment and land use development change. �10. • • " 3. Prepare and keep up-to-date a comprehensive lwfa.ster Llt.nd Use Plan which gives direction to the orderly coordination of public and private land use developments for residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, riverways, and open space ·, public and semipublic developments and the public and private utilities, facilities, and other services needed to equip or .serve such land use developments and activities • 4. Prepare, adopt, use and enforce the necessaz,r zoning ordinance ~ subdivision regulations, capital improvement programs and other legal, economic, informational tools which will encourage and require implementation of the comprehensive l>Bster Land Use Plan • 5. Continue and enhance the plaMing process so as to constantly be in a position to meet changing conditions. The Township can be successful in achieving its planned development goals if each of the above five ( 5) elements in the planning process 1:1.re earnestly pursued and gain political and popular support, and is implemented by a.11 concerned with public and private developments through (1) following the plan, (2) conforming to the Zoning Ordinance requirements, (3) r~quiring lot splits and subdivision plats be done in accordance with subdivision regulations and (4) supporting the financing of public improvements when they are needed for efficiency and economy of coordinating private development with public improvements. All of the public will sooner or later help pay for the successes as well as the failures in the carrying out of the planning process. Taxsupported public employees are needed to manage, operate and maintain the Township. Private developers need to be reminded that it will cost them more to do business in the Township due to poor planning. These costs are passed on to the subsequent consumers of their developments. These consumers become the taxpayers that will have to pay the higher price for all aspects of development later, because ignoring planning and ignoring plans that result from planning will result in higher costs for everybody in the Township. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wyckoff Planning and Zoning Collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Planning & Zoning Center (Lansing, Mich.) (Organization) Wyckoff, Mark A. Description An account of the resource Municipal master plans and zoning ordinances from across the state of Michigan, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2020s. The bulk of the collection was compiled by urban planner Mark Wyckoff over the course of his career as the founder and principal planner of the Planning and Zoning Center in Lansing, Michigan. Some additions have been made to the collection by municipalities since it was transferred to Grand Valley State University. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960/2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Subject The topic of the resource Michigan Comprehensive plan publications Master plan reports Zoning--Michigan Zoning--Maps Maps Land use--planning Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-240 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Cohoctah-Twp_Land-Use-Master-Plan-Report_1987 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Township Board and Planning Commission, Cohoctah Township, Livingston County, Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1987-11 Title A name given to the resource Land Use Master Plan Report for Cohoctah County Description An account of the resource The Land Use Master Plan Report for Cohoctah County was prepared by the Township Board and Planning Commission with the assistance of Robert B. Hotaling, Jeanne B. Hotaling, and Philip D. Gardner in November 1987. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Robert B. Hotaling (consultant) Jeanne B. Hotaling (consultant) Philip D. Gardner (consultant) Subject The topic of the resource Master plan reports Cohoctah Township (Mich.) Livingston County (Mich.) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/a5cf2e9133281c0c91e0d8436e84e654.pdf 8e9ebcafff6f84f679ca743ac4d8b9a7 PDF Text Text 1 Grand Valley State University Special Collections Kent County Oral History collections, RHC-23 C. C. Travis Edited and indexed by Don Bryant, 2010 – bryant@wellswooster.com Interviewed on November 12, 1971 Tape #36 (29:32) Biographical Information Charles Clinton Travis was born 5 February 1891 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He was the son of James M. Travis and Marcia E. Dunton. James was born in Virginia about October, 1845 and died in Grand Rapids in November, 1925. Marcia was born in Wisconsin about 4 February 1854, the daughter of William Dunton and Diana R. Wright. C. C. Travis was married to Rosell Thomasma in Grand Rapids on 5 June 1924. He died 21 November 1977 in Grand Rapids. His wife Rose was born about 1898 in Michigan and died 2 November 1972. C. C. and Rose are both buried in Woodlawn Cemetery. __________ Interviewer: This interview with C.C. Travis was recorded November twelfth, nineteen seventyone. C. C. Travis: Here, just a minute, may, let me, I wrote some of this down. Charles Clinton Travis, nobody knows me as Clinton. Everyone knows me as C.C. Charles… Known as C.C. Travis, born February fifth eighteen ninety-one. Home was the corner of Ottawa and Michigan. We had an artesian well in the basement overflowed down, so down Michigan or, that was an open stream Michigan right down to the river. Imagine what that was at that time. Then… Interviewer: It was actually open stream that flowed right down the hill? C. C. Travis: Yes, that was before the, then they had cobblestone and then they finally put a rail up there cobblestone, so the horses could have a footing to get up the hill, you see. Michigan was a steep hill. And with cobblestone, then finally put the horse carts on the, tracks in there, by then there was, they had the tracks which made better wheeling for the horses. Interviewer: What, what did they do with the, if that stream was flowing openly down the hill, what did they eventually do with that, where did that stream go? C. C. Travis: I don’t know, I don’t know. Our, I never actually saw an open stream down Michigan except in a hard rain or anything like that. But there was a drainage from our well, from the basement there that, that evidently did have a little trickle down, down probably the curb of the street or something like that there. Because they had to cobblestone. Ottawa’s was a cedar block pavement and the hill was a cobblestone pavement so the horses could get a better footing. And they had trouble when a flood came in there, the darn cedar blocks floated out, �2 floated out on top of Ottawa Street. They had to do a lot of extra paving there. Because that, didn’t work, that was too slippery, for the hill. But the cobblestone, that was a kind of noisy as hell, you can imagine, every once in a while the horses get tired or they run away, not a runaway, but a loose wagon would come down, clackety, clackety and on, down Michigan, and now that’s a long thing. The darn things would sometimes run right through to the river. And there was, then on the cobblestone, road it’s, the stones are only about that big, see? Interviewer: Yes. C. C. Travis: So that a…. Interviewer: Well, that flood you were talking about did that, the Grand River used to flood pretty frequently? C. C. Travis: Oh yes, periodically. Interviewer: And the water would come up as far up on the hill as….. C. C. Travis : No, it wouldn’t come up our, as far as we are but, dad had artisan springs, Dad had water in the basement of his store, on Canal Street and, I’ve seen several floods of Canal Street there which was Monroe Avenue, lower Monroe. But it never came up much farther than that. Interviewer: I see, what kind of a store was it, that your father operated? C. C. Travis: Well, dad came and, you would call it an antique shop but was a second hand store. He bought and sold everything, anything. And he had quite a reputation; he had three stores, three floors and a basement. You can imagine that, I think there probably more families here in, ‘cause they have some of their fine mahogany and antiques in Dad’s store many years ago. Blodgetts, and I don’t want to mention any names, but the, people that liked real antique furniture in, he had a little Dutchman there in the store that knew all the immigrants that came in. The first thing they wanted to do is get Golden Oak furniture and so they’d trade their mahogany and their walnut and their fine antiques, there wasn’t, there weren’t. Dad didn’t feel that he was doing them any justice with it but they got exactly what they wanted. They wanted Golden Oak. Interviewer: What is Golden Oak exactly? C. C. Travis: Golden Oak is just exactly what it is. It’s oak, oak furniture with a finish like this. [Knocking on table] And that was… Interviewer: Yes, I’ve seen a lot of this… C. C. Travis: …and carved, the, it was, a lot of it was very beautifully carved, because they had a lot of hand carvers, machine carving wasn’t known then. And everything was hand carved and it was really beautifully decorated and beautifully carved, but oak was, they weren’t importing a lot of mahogany, they did some. But that was called the Golden Oak Age and everybody had �3 beautiful golden oak. And the people that came over, a lot of the people brought their furniture, fine mahogany and walnut furniture from abroad and would, would want to trade it in for golden oak. And so Dad had three stores, a basement and bought a circus one time, he gave all the animals, alligators and bears and everything to the Soldier’s Home. And, but the furniture was beautiful furniture. Interviewer: What, what did the Soldier’s Home do with, do with the animals? C. C. Travis: Oh, they had a cage out there, they caged, that was our Sunday, that was when they had, finally had streetcars out there and we’d go out and see the bears and the raccoons and some of the animals that Dad had contributed to the Soldier’s Home. And it’s, he had trained bear down in the basement of the store. Interviewer: A trained bear? C. C. Travis: well, maybe a tame bear. And he gave it to the Soldier’s Home finally. Interviewer: Well, where did he keep the bear down in the basement for? C. C. Travis: It was for curiosity. Interviewer: Bring people into the store? C. C. Travis: The bear was a good friend of his. Tame bear. They’re funny, you know. A tame bear is, is really quite something, I guess. I used to go down and play with him. Interviewer: I’ve never seen one before. C. C. Travis: Well, they’d have a good collar on them, don’t you know and, but it was, it was so tame that, when you go out to Soldier’s Home why the bear seemed to know Dad I mean, he would come and pet him, and so I, as I say it was, it was a pretty well named, Everything on Earth. That was the, that was his slogan and my sister made a very nice, I wish I had one of the letterheads, a letterhead, ‘Everything on Earth Jim Travis'. And he’d buy a tent, you could buy, well is a, as your city grows, at that time when you stop to think of it, pre-Civil War and after Civil War, we had quite an influx of, of, very wealthy people come to Michigan. Your lumber industries and all that brought a lot of wealth to it. And, they brought some of their fine furniture out here, too. And they wanted to trade it, why or they got stuck with something, why dad would buy anything. And he would trade. Interviewer: Where, where did you, grow up as a child? Where was your family home located? C. C. Travis: Michigan and Ottawa. Interviewer: Did your father build that house there or was it, had…. C. C. Travis: No, his aunt was, one of his relatives built it. �4 Interviewer: When did they finally tear that, were there other houses in that area, too? C. C. Travis: Yes, all, right in the back was a, I think it was a relative of Dad’s. And then there was a shoemaker that was on Ottawa Street. It was next to us there. Then Dad, after the Civil War, and this, all of this after the Civil War, he started the store on, at that time Canal Street. And, he’d buy anything and sell it; he did a tremendous business in tools. Gee, some of the people would bring, over they’d have tools and stuff like that once in a while need money, they’d sell their tools and furniture and as I say he probably sold more antiques to the houses in Grand Rapids here, the Blodgetts and early families. Interviewer: This, when did the house on Michigan and Ottawa come down? C. C. Travis: When the brewery… Interviewer: When was that? C. C. Travis: Brewery took it over. Oh, was quite a few years ago. Interviewer: That… was that, what eventually became Fox Deluxe Brewery? C. C. Travis: Yes, yes that was the original brewery. That was Grand Rapids, I think it was Grand Rapids Brewery but we were right next door and Dad’s very good friends, friends of the gang. And, but it’s, they were, the brewery was formed there due to the spring. Due to the fine water they had. Brewery depends on good water. Interviewer: Yes. C. C. Travis: And, so that, and then we had, we had an actual artesian well in the, in the basement, got pretty wet there sometimes, too. But that was part of the thing, his, his relative, Aunt somebody, I can’t remember the name, but, built the house on, on, at that time it was Ottawa and Bridge and then Bridge was changed to Michigan. Interviewer: You have some brothers, or some sisters that you, did you have some brothers, too? C. C. Travis: I didn’t have any brothers, no, but I had, three sisters. Now, Calla, the older one, her, her dancing school started when she was in high school and lived on, Michigan and Ottawa. And she had taken dancing lessons and she was the only one that knew the, knew the range of, of social dancing and acting dancing and she had quite a school there. Original Travis School of Dancing was on Michigan and Ottawa. And then she had it, came to, out here on, I think the next one was on Madison and then a school here and she went to, she had a, she had a, school in, out in Lansing and Kalamazoo, Muskegon and sometimes she went to Detroit. Interviewer: So she, she had like a regular chain of dancing schools? �5 C. C. Travis: Yes. Very successful, Calla Travis, whenever think of Calla Travis, why they think of her dancing. Interviewer: Yes, was that a pretty important activity for the young people in those days… C. C. Travis: Yes. Interviewer…social dancing? C. C. Travis : Yes, it was and more people learned the, learned the social graces, she was quite, very exact and there wasn’t any fooling or anything like that and the parents well we are glad to have, you have our kids for a couple of hours and, and really teach them something we can’t teach them. Which are manners, I mean the dancing is, well she took over the Saint Cecelia, she kept the Saint Cecelia here busy pretty near five days a week. And she had the school there Saturday, two or three times. And then she took over the, all, whatever her, her studio was where the art institute is now. Interviewer: Was it in that… C. C. Travis: A little old stone building…[Truman H. Lyon house at 220 E. Fulton] Interviewer: Oh, the one next door. C. C. Travis: Well, she had, that was the original stone buildings there. And she has that as her studio for years. And which was a very interesting place. Interviewer: Well, that little stone building down there, that, would that where, have been close to all the residential areas of the city? I mean… C. C. Travis: Oh yes, there were residential, there was residences all, that, that was quite a resident area. Interviewer: Down along Jefferson and … C. C. Travis: Jefferson and Fountain Street, some of those very fine old homes along Fountain and Fulton. That was a very good area. We came out, well then, then it went, then it went south and we had one house, I don’t remember that, down here but, we bought here a few years ago. And these houses out here are built like the rock of Gibraltar, The, the timber that you see up in the attic here is, two-by-fours are really two-by-fours. It’s quite amazing the stuff that they built them with. Interviewer: Who built this house? C. C. Travis: I think the, I think the early people, [Martin] Dregges built it; lumberman must have built because the, the stuff in the attic there is beautiful pine. And… �6 Interviewer: You have it divided into apartments now. C. C. Travis: We have six apartments here. You can see the height of the ceiling; you don’t build a house like this anymore. Interviewer: How high is that ceiling? C. C. Travis: Well, I think it’s a good twelve, I think it’s a good twelve feet; twelve or thirteen feet. It had, it has a fireplace in the basement, has a fireplace on the second floor and next door apartment here on the other side. And we have six apartments here now. Interviewer: Was it divided into apartments when you bought the house. C. C. Travis: Yes, we did some of it but, the Dregges, the Dregges, owned it for awhile, the lumberman. And, but they didn’t build it, I’ve got a, I got some of the story out; I’m going to get it because it was built quite a long time ago and, beautifully built. Interviewer: Yes, what, where did you go to school when you were growing up? Did your family, how long was it that you lived down there on Michigan and Ottawa? C. C. Travis: I was, I went to kindergarten at Michigan and Ottawa and through, I didn’t go through the first, then we moved, on out, let’s see where did we move? Well, we moved out here and I don’t think I was there, then I went to Madison school for a while, yes, we had, we had, yes we did, we had, we bought the Dregges place. Did you know the Dregges in the lumber business? And it wasn’t, it wasn’t this house I don’t think, but the whole house was finished in beautiful sycamore and oak, from Michigan woods. And, I went to, I went to kindergarten at the Madison, or LaGrave Street School over there, had kindergarten, I went to kindergarten there and I think I had the first grade at Madison. And what else? Interviewer: Where did you go to high school, up to…? C. C. Travis: Central. Interviewer: Central? C. C. Travis: Central High, yes. Interviewer: Did you go to college after high school? C. C. Travis: What? Interviewer: Went right into business? C. C. Travis: No, no, I went, I was very fortunate. I had early experience in furniture designing. I worked, I was very interested in furniture, and I had, I got a job as an apprentice in designing with Arthur Teal who was one of the fine designers when he, he designed Stickley and several of �7 the other big factories here. And, I must have about five or six or seven years of furniture design and making rods and doing copies. I never actually had a furniture account of my own, but I worked with, with artists like Art Teal, who was a wonderful man. We had the Stickley account. And I worked with another one where we Berkey, some of Berkey and Gays work. And… Interviewer: What did you, after you finished your apprenticeship? C. C. Travis: Well, I was, I then went into, studied architecture and I had an apprenticeship with Pierre Lindhout in an architect, and then through that, we had quite a few houses to work out and I got interested in interior work and, I worked with Arthur Teal who was a furniture designer and a decorator. And, well I had my experience in decorating through him. Interviewer: This company that you mentioned before Applegate-Travis. C. C. Travis : Well Travis-Applegate Company then, I left, I left there and, had a opportunity through our experience with many of the furniture companies and I was offered a job of purchasing agent and I went from there to, I was head purchasing agent for Robert Irwin Company. Which is one of the fine ones, because I had experience in lumber and veneers and stuff that made good furniture. And I was purchasing agent there for about five years, at Robert Irwin Company. Interviewer: Well, then you spent a… C. C. Travis: Robert Irwin Company had, had Grand Rapids Furniture Company, the Robert Irwin Company, the Royal Furniture Company and the Macey Company, and there was a time there when I was a lumber and veneer buyer for all of them. And that was a good million dollar business, I mean we had quite a little responsibility to keep those plants in tune with their different specifications of lumber and veneer and plywood and, and so I had a very wonderful training in that. And then when an opportunity came to go out and think about doing your own business, George Applegate, who was with one of the other companies, and I hooked up together and formed the Travis-Applegate Company. Interviewer: What kind of business was that? C. C. Travis: Paneling, lumber, plywood and veneer. Interviewer: Well, then you spent, you spent all of your working life in or involved with the furniture business. C. C. Travis: That’s right…. Interviewer: What, can you tell me a little about how big the furniture business was at one time? And how important it was to the community? �8 C. C. Travis: Oh, it was very important, I mean, our companies were with, well one of our big companies of course, when I left the Robert Irwin Company and Phoenix [Furniture], I was on very good terms with Mr. Irwin and the gang there because I was purchasing agent there. I’d had experience as purchasing agent and that’s one, that’s really is a training because you have to meet a lot of people, you have to know your materials, and my specialty was lumber and veneer. So that I was well equipped as a salesman for that product. And we had some very good accounts. Interviewer: What was it that, well, kind of ended the furniture business here in the city, I mean it’s still producing furniture but, it’s certainly not the furniture capital of the world, anymore. C. C. Travis: Well, I think it was the inroad of the southern plants mechanizing, Grand Rapids, I think was, I don’t want to be quoted in that, but I think Grand Rapids was a little slow in taking up complete mechanization, in machinery. Although that’s a machine made piece right…is against the, the craftsmanship that Grand Rapids had become known for. We had some very wonderful carvers here, one of these, I’m I remember over a Robert Irwin Company when I was purchasing there, there they had a tremendous staff of very wonderful carvers. And some of the fine, Royal, Royal was the top line at that time. Royal Furniture Company was of Mr. Irwin. And you got to hand it to him, he has the, he had the, well I bought, he had the Royal, was the top, and the Phoenix, The Grand Rapids Furniture Company and Macey Company all fell in line of the with the Irwin, of the Irwin factories. Interviewer: Well, did they, I’m just conjecturing here but, if I mean Grand Rapids for some reason which I’ve never been able to determine, did attract a large number of Dutch people and a lot of these people that would come over and were craftsmen… C. C. Travis: That’s right. Interviewer: …would work in the furniture companies. C. C. Travis: That’s right Interviewer: Now were they a… C. C. Travis: They were good woodworkers and carvers. Interviewer: Where, what, what kind of wages, would they have made in those days? C. C. Travis : I don’t have too much idea, I don’t think it was too much I don’t, I don’t think that, I think they were paid a good, a good scale because they, they made a good living and they brought their family, they certainly had large families. And, not only that but their large families and, and they made darn good citizens. They didn’t have to go out and knock somebody over the head to get an income or bring them down they were, they were honest workers and they, I think, I don’t think they, I don’t think the scale of a woodworker was equal to some of the scales of that �9 later developed in the automotive field. I think the woodworking was, but it was, it was a pretty good scale and, and good craftsmanship, they were paid, the carvers in Grand Rapids were paid, very well for the, for their artistry. Interviewer: Did the automobile business have any effect on the furniture industry? C. C. Travis: Oh, yes, had a lot. I think, it raised the price of labor and, it was, can’t you can’t, can’t blame certain period, where there’s quite an exodus of talent from Grand Rapids into the automobile, because they had to have, they had, for a design of a new automobile. That thing would be blocked up with wood. And the carvers and the craftsmanship of a rod maker and a pattern maker was , was way up that was one, that was the highest, one of the highest scales, paid scales in the furniture, in the woodworking industry. Why sometimes the pattern maker who could, who could carve and shape the, because an automobile doesn’t have very many square corners in it you know. Interviewer: Yes. C. C. Travis: And that whole car is made first out of wood, with a pattern. So the pattern makers of, who, of the skill of the pattern makers in the furniture industry were taken up, very rapidly in the automotive. Interviewer: Yes, Someone, I think it was Mr. Siegel Judd, the attorney was telling me that, he felt that the automobile business also had an effect on the insurance, or on the furniture industry, in that they, paid, a higher wage than was offered in the furniture factories, and it attracted a lot of the young men that would have nor, in days before the automobile would have followed their father’s footsteps, learned the trade and, taken up the same trade as their father but they were drawn away from that, into the automobile business by the five dollars a day wage. C. C. Travis: That’s right, I think that’s true. On the other hand, you can say that, that influence wouldn’t be too bad on the success of any community to have a means of, of establishing a higher rate. I thought, I never, I never accused anybody of paying anybody too much. I think the, the furniture industry was something that had to meet that competition. Because a rod maker and a pattern maker in furniture is maybe they didn’t get the money that a pattern man made in the automotive but just due to that demand for that, stuff they, they had to pay them. Interviewer: Yes, C. C. Travis: And that’s, that was pretty, that was pretty steep competition because you can’t tell, you can’t furniture outside, well, for piano, piano work was probably the top piece of wood furniture in the whole field because that, that bent work in the, work on a piano there is really something. And a man who could get a job in a, in a piano factory was, felt himself pretty lucky. On the other hand, the fine furniture of the old Royal Furniture Company and, and some of these fancy carvers were very well paid. They were really artists. But it was a demand, just like any �10 business. The, the demand and the scarcity of labor or the fullness of labor was, set the pace. But the furniture man, the furniture management, I don’t think the furniture management ever saw, or ever took the initial step to make furniture a high paying industry in labor. Interviewer: Yes. C. C. Travis: In any, in any work it’s a supply and demand that worked it, but, some of the fine carvers and the fine artists in the furniture today were doing very well. And that was a trade that was very desirable. Interviewer: Why do you think that, a furniture industry here in Grand Rapids was slower to mechanize then southern factories? C. C. Travis: I don’t know; I don’t know the answer to that. I think it was, personally, I think it was, a man that has a factory and is going along with hand-made stuff, a lathe or a carver, they have, they have all, you’ve got automatic carving now that weren’t heard of outside of pattern. The pattern maker was the top man in the factory. You could make that pattern, make a machine to duplicate that carve or turning was an automated thing. Very, very little hand turning, so that the man that made the pattern did a good job and the man that just pushed a button and pushed it out, why, that was a second rate job. You know it, it’s a demand and, just like anything else, the demand for talent, or the demand for anything else, when there’s a scarcity of good talent why somebody’s going to come in there and a do a little more on it. Don’t you think so? I mean that’s, that’s my experience with the thing. And you’ve seen it in the furniture industry. Interviewer: Yes. INDEX A J Applegate, George · 7, 8 Judd, Siegel · 9 B L Blodgett Family · 2, 4 Lindhout, Pierre · 7 C M Central High School · 6, 7 Macey Company · 7, 8 D Dregges Family · 6 �11 R Soldier’s Home · 3 Robert Irwin Company · 7, 8 Royal Furniture Company · 7, 8, 10 T S Travis, Calla (Sister) · 4, 5 Travis, James M. (Father) · 2, 3, 4 Travis-Applegate Company · 7, 8 Saint Cecelia Music Society · 5 � https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/bad21758a619c08edb12edf45e27ae34.mp3 74cf11e2e2f0816696517dafbddbdad4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Grand Rapids Oral Histories Subject The topic of the resource Heritage Hill (Grand Rapids, Mich.) Local histories Memoirs Michigan--History Oral histories (document genre) Description An account of the resource Taped and transcribed interviews conducted in the early 1970s primarily of the children and grandchildren of many of the founders of Grand Rapids, Michigan; many of whom were residents of the Heritage Hill neighborhood. Interviews were collected to develop a significant collection of oral resources that would supplement other primary and secondary local history materials. Initially funded as a private project, Grand Valley State College (now University) assumed responsibility for continuing the project until 1977. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Various Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/452">Grand Rapids oral history collection (RHC-23)</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf; audio/mp3 Language A language of the resource eng Type The nature or genre of the resource Text; Sound Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-23 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1971 - 1977 Sound A resource primarily intended to be heard. Examples include a music playback file format, an audio compact disc, and recorded speech or sounds. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-23_36Travis Title A name given to the resource Travis, C.C. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Travis, C.C. Description An account of the resource Mr. Travis was born on February 5, 1891. His father owned an antique and furniture store on Canal Street (now Monroe). Mr. Travis went to Central High School, but did not attend college. He was later a purchasing agent for Applegate Furniture Company. Mr. Travis died on November 22, 1977. Subject The topic of the resource Michigan--History Local histories Memoirs Oral histories (document genre) Grand Rapids (Mich.) Personal narratives Heritage Hill (Grand Rapids, Mich.) Grand Valley State University Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Sound Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf audio/mp3 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Grand Rapids oral history collection (RHC-23) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1971 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/5b1d9c213c0332d160266e5a8a69547f.pdf 7efe8186fd6b805d7f647e229b3b1bf2 PDF Text Text /{ cl0 0-~'-' l '1/ /~ IS'o Holocaust nightmare remains for three honored heroes By TODD TREMLIN There is no oompcnsat ion monetary or otherwise - that could make up for the fear and horror experienced by those condemned to German death camps during World War 11, or those who risked their lives hiding themselves ind others from the wrath of the Third Reich and its SSmcn. But last Wednesday, Grand VaUey State University recognized the courage of Grand Rapids residents David Mandel, and Pieter and Adriana Tennaat with Doctor of Humane Letters degrees at a highly emotional public ceremony in the Kirk:hof Center. But while the awards are sweet, the three insist that their stories and the truths about the Holocaust and German atrocities is the most effective revenge. THE TERMAATS Pieter and Adriana Tennaat were leaders of the Dutch underground resistance movement during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. They printed underground ~ewslellers, forged ration and identificlnion cards, and found hiding places for hundreds of Jews, allied forces pilots who had been shot down behind enemy lines, and Dutch men who fled the Nazi's forced labor camps. The Termaats had been married only a year and had an infant son in 1940 when the Nazis invadl!d the Netherlands. Their memories are vivid. The sight of refugees streaming off the trains in their small village north of Amsterdam to escape the advance of German troops is clear in Adriana's mind. ..This was a very difficult time in our lives, when everything seemed , without a future," Pieter said. The refugees were Pieter TermHt (lelt), his wile Adriane; and David M1nd1l, received honorary Doctor of Humane Letters d1grNs trom Grand Valley Stile University 11 an emotional ceremony lasl Wednesday. The recipienls are survivors - or helped other survive - the Holocaust. taken in by Dutch fami- were part of . the Dutch 1i es, and soon the resistance. In the spring of 1944, Termaats had a family of an informant told the eight living with them. That was their in- Gestapo, the Secret Nazi troduction to the war that police, that Pict.er was would envelop the entire part of the resistance. world, and leave it reeling Luckily, resistance leadcrs five years later. For the karned of thc betrayal in Termaats, it was five time 10 gel Pi.:tc:r mto years of constant fear of hide.ling. being caught, along with Nothing in their liv.:s thousands of others who pu:parl!J the Termaah for the hmrihk: expcricm:e of the Na1.1 oa:upa11on nothing prepared them for the circumstances i1110 which they had been thrw,1. They lived day 10 day, and will never forget the horror of that time. ..The Jews had been concentrated in a11 Amsterdam ghello, and forced to wear the Star of David,"said Pieter. He said that at the beginning of the occupation there were J 50,000 Jews in the Neth.:rlands. At the end in 1945, only IO percelll remamcd. Tiu: rest had been killed by the Nazis. In I986, Yad V,,shem, the Holocaust Martyrs and Heroes Remembranc.: Authority of lsrad, awarded lhc Terrnm11s the Mal.ii of the R1ghu:ous Gentile - thal coulllry's high.:st a"'ard - for 1h.:1r Pliilse ill HEROES, P191 16 �60 ?."3. 19? r. todd .r:- 1.:.n c/o -ivanco . Jear r. _ro'1.iri , r s. ier~ st and~ w nt to xprass our thnnk ~ for yll l!' e;__,r sit t ve \ ,.~ ll:~c r.r.qt ,., "'?' of the -~c~~ber 7, 19{2 ;c~v¢c~t~~ •. t0 :ro'l ·, r') L ~,.. l i i·A to .-:x t an:'l cur 1-:cst wishes for vour c.gr •,j :-- � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Adriana B. and Peter N. Termaat collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Termaat, Adriana B. (Schuurman) Termaat, Peter N. Description An account of the resource Collection contains genealogical, personal, and family papers and photographs documenting the lives and interests of Adriana and Peter Termaat. The bulk of the materials are related to family history and genealogical research carried out by the Termaats, including research notes and materials about places in the Netherlands that were significant to the Termaat and Schuurman families, such as the city of Alkmaar. Other materials in the collection are related to the Termaats' experiences on the eve of and during the Second World War, especially the German occupation of the Netherlands and the Termaats' participation in organized resistance to the Nazis. Also included are materials that document the family's post-war life in the United States, including their public efforts to recognize, commemorate, and honor people and events significant to World War II. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1869 - 2012 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/719">Adriana B. and Peter N. Termaat collection, RHC-144</a> Subject The topic of the resource Netherlands Netherlands--History--German occupation, 1940-1945 World War, 1939-1945 World War, 1939-1945 -- Underground movements -- Netherlands Dutch Dutch Americans Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-144 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Text Image Type The nature or genre of the resource application/pdf image/jpeg Language A language of the resource eng nl Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-144_Termaat_NWS_1988-12-13-Advance-Convocation-report Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tremlin, Todd Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1988-12-13 Title A name given to the resource Holocaust nightmare remains for three honored heroes Description An account of the resource Photocopied newspaper clipping about Pieter and Adriana Termaat lecturing at Grand Valley State University. Subject The topic of the resource Dutch Americans Holocaust, Jewish (1939-1945) -- Europe World War, 1939-1945 -- Jews -- Rescue Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/719">Adriana B. and Peter N. Termaat collection (RHC-144)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/26aede41999fa21ed73d4210e8ac5066.pdf 1d42bd507117cfdbc1914dac3ed7eb8f PDF Text Text - ~ FROM TH Plann;n E ~IBRARY OF TRI-COMMUNITY Prepared By The Tri-Community Area Joint Planning Committee g&zon;ngC, nter,/, �' JOINT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CI1Y OF SAUGATUCK, SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP, AND VILLAGE OF DOUGLAS Prepared by the Tri-Community Area Joint Planning Committee in cooperation with: ,/ Coastal Zone Management Program Land and Water Management Division Department of Natural Resources and with the assistance of: Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. 302 S. Waverly Road Lansing, MI 4891 7 (51 7) 886-0555 November 1989 This document was prepared in part throughfmancial assistance provided by the Olftce of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration authorized by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. �The following individuals participated in the preparation of this plan: • JOINT PLANNING COMMITTEE Debra Quade, Linda Kinnamon, Mike Esposito, Margaret Sanford, Teny Burns, Carole Schreckengust. and Frank Pluta. VILLAGE OF DOUGLAS Planning Commission Kendal Showers, Erwin Kasten, Kathy Johnson, Debra Quade, Cheryl Giller, John Haas. Bill Schroeder, Betty Mokma, Philip Walter, and William Campion•. Village Council Mike "Esposito, Embrit Giles, Debra Quade, Kendal Showers, Dean Johnson, George Baker, Pat Shanahan, Joe Brady, William Campion•, and Jane Mayer*. CITY OF SAUGATUCK Planning Commission Cynthia McKean. Ernest Evangelista. Robert Lord, Dan Wilson, Don Wobith, Lloyd Hartman. Richard Crawford. Robert Berger, and Elsie Christenson. City Council Robert Berger. Mark Bekken, David Mocini, James Christenson•. Sue Kurrasch, Richard Crawford. Margaret Sanford. and Linda Kinnaman. • City Manager Laverne Serne SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP Planning Commission Andy Jager. Frank Pluta. Gene Olsen, Herb Klemm•, Teny Locatls, Rex Felker, Robert Miller, and Jean Vanderberg. Township Board Teny Burns, Carole Schreckengust, Patricia Birkholz. Frank Pluta, Mary Lou Novak, and Tom Murdoch*. [• no longer serving] PLANNING & ZONING CENTER, INC. Sta.ff of Planning & .ZOning Center, Inc. wlw assisted with the preparation of this plan are: Mark A Wyckoff (President). Kristine M. Williams (Community Planner). Timothy J. McCauley (Community Planner/Geographic Information System Specialist), William Bogle (Graphic Artist), Carolyn Freebury (Office Manager). and John Warbach (Environmental Planner). " ; �Table of Contents .1. LIS4' OF FIGURES LIST OF MAPS LIST OF TABLES INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................. i Chapter 1 GOALS. OBJECTIVES & POLICIES: IBE AREAWIDE POLICY PIAN ..................................................................... 1-l Chapter2 DEMOGRAPHICS......................................................................................... 2-1 Chapter 3 IBE ECONOMY............................................................................................ 3-1 Chapter 4 NA'TIJRAL RESOURCES AND IBE ENVIRONMENr. ......... .. ... .. .. .. .. .. ... ...... ..... 4-1 Chapter tJ EXISTING IAND COVER AND USE............................................................... 5-1 Chapter 6 PUBLIC FACILIDES AND SERVICES ............................................................ 6-1 Chapter 7 RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE ................................................................. 7-1 Chapter 8 WA1'ERFRONr.............................................................................................. 8-1 Chapter9 GROWIH AND DEVELOPMENr TRENDS..................................................... 9-1 Chapter 10 Fllfl.JRE IAND USE.................................................................................... 10-1 Chapter 11 INTERGOVERNMENrAL COOPERATION ..................................................... 11-1 Chapter 12 STRA1'EGIES FOR IMPLEMENrATION ......................................................... 12-1 APPENDIX A References APPENDIXB Demographic, Economic and Housing Data APPENDIXC Public Opinion Survey Responses APPENDIXD Soil Types - Tri-Community Area �Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan LIST OF FIGURES TITLE Nill'.aBER 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2 .15 2.6 2.7 2.8 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.15 3.6 3.7 3.8 4.1 8.1 9.1 9.2 9.3 Age Cohorts (1960 & 1980) - Area Age Cohorts (1980) - Village of Douglas Age Cohorts (1980) -Allegan County Age Cohorts (1980) - City of Saugatuck Age Cohorts (1980) - Saugatuck Township Educational Background in 1980 - Persons 25 and Over, Tri-Community Area Saugatuck Public School Enrollments Grades K-12 Saugatuck Public School Enrollments Elementary and High Schools Employment By Sector in 1980 -Tri-Community Area and Allegan County Average Annual Employment - Tri-Community Area Monthly Employment - Tri-Commnity Area, 1988 Tourism Related Employment. 1988 -Allegan County Real Property SEV. 1988 - City of Saugatuck Real Property SEV. 1988 - Saugatuck Township and Village of Douglas Annual Real Property SEV - Tri-Community Area (1980-1987) Percent In Poverty By Age - Tri-Community Area (1980) Kalamazoo River Basin Linkage Plan Subdivision Trends - Changes From 1954-1984 Retiree Migration Trends Population Trend - Saugatuck Township - - - - -- --- ------ - PAGE 2-1 2-2 2-2 2-2 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-4 3-2 3-4 3-4 3-4 3-5 3-5 3-6 3-7 4-2 8-7 9-2 9-2 9-3 ~ �Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan LIST OF MAPS NUMBER 2.1 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.!S 4.6 4.7 4. 7a 4.8 4.9 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 4.14 4.l!S 5.1 !S.2 IS.3 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.IS 6.6 7 .1 7 .2 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.5a 10.1 10.2 TITLE PAGE School District (note: all maps are found at the end of each Chapter) Topography Watercourses Floodplains Wetlands Basement Limitations Septic Limitations Septic Limitations On-Site Wastewater Limitations Most Suitable Soils Hydric Soils Prime Farmlands Groundwater Vulnerability Water Wells High Risk Erosion Areas Critical Dune Areas Woodlands Land Use/Cover Existing Land Use By Parcel PA 116 and Unique Farmlands Water System Sewer System Gas Mains Street Classifications Act 51 Roads Public Facilities Outdoor Recreation Sites Bike Paths Watersheds No-Wake Areas Saugatuck Harbor Marinas Street Ends/Parks Street Ends/Parks Future Land Use Entry Points �Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan LIST OF TABLES NUMBER 2.1 2.2 2.3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 4.1 4.2 5.1 5.2 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 6.6 6.7 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 9.1 9.2 9.3 TITLE Population (1950-1980) Educational Status - Persons 25 and Over School Enrollments - Saugatuck School District Impact of Travel On Allegan County, 1986 Major Employers Employment By Industry - 1980 Employment By Occupation - 1980 Average Annual Unemployment Rate Per Capita Income, Allegan County Income and Poverty Characteristics Tri-Community Area Summary of Relevant Climate Conditions Land Cover Codes for Protected Wetlands Existing Land Use State Historic Sites Non-Park Public Facilities and Public Property Inventory Projected Saugatuck Township Wastewater Flows County Drains Existing Traffic Counts Tons Generated per Day By Land Use Solid Waste Composition Per Capita Waste Generated Summer Recreation Programs Inventory of Outdoor Recreation Parkland Inventory Proposed Recreation Projects - Tri-Community Area Planned Acquisitions/Improvements to Parks and Open Spaces Recreation Needs In The Tri-Community Area 1988 Public Opinion Survey Kalamazoo River Exceedance Flows (1929-1985) Kalamazoo River Water Quality NPDES Permits Issured In The Tri-Commun1ty Area Lake Michigan Lake Levels Rate of Population Change Projected Population - 1970-1980 Trend Projected Number of Households PAGE 2-1 2-3 2-4 3-1 3-1 3-2 3-3 3-6 3-7 3-7 4-1 4-3 5-1 5-2 6-2 6-4 6-5 6-6 6-8 6-9 6-9 7-1 7-2 7-4 7-6 ~ 7-7 7-7 8-2 8-3 8-5 8-5 9-1 9-3 9-3 ~ �9.4 9.5 9.6 9.7 9.8 12.1 Percentage of Population By Density Type New Households By Density Type Future Residential Land Needs Available Acreage By Land Use Type Population 2010 - Build-Out Scenario Under Zoning In Effect Recreation Facilities - Minimum Size ~ 9-4 9-4 9-4 9-4 9-4 12-4 �l INTRODUCTION OVERVIEW The purpose of this Plan is to provide a policy and decision making guide regarding all future land and infrastructure development within the trt-community area. Within the Plan. key planning issues are identified: a clear set of goals and policies are outlined: future land uses are described and mapped: and specific implementation measures are recommended. All future land uses and policies presented in this Plan were developed based on a blending of the natural capability of the land to sustain certain types of development: the important natural functions played by unique land and water resources in the area: the relative future need for residential, commercial, and industrial uses: the existing land use distribution: and the desires of local residents and public officials as expressed through direct interviews a public opinion survey. town meetings, and public hearings. This Plan was prepared by the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc.. under the direction of a Joint Planning Committee with three representatives each from the City of Saugatuck, the Village of Douglas and Saugatuck Township. Financial support was provided by the Michigan Dept. of Natural Resources. Coastal Zone Management Program. This Plan represents a compilation of the most significant aspects of the individual comprehensive plans for the participating communities, with the addition of special emphasis on interjurisdictional issues (especially see Chapters 8 and 11). There are three critical components to using this plan as a decision making guide. First, are the goals, objectives and policies in Chapter 1. Second, is the future land use map and associated descriptive information presented in Chapter 10. Third, is the supporting documentation found in Chapters 2-9. Although this Plan states specific land use development policy and proposes specific land use arrangements. it has no regulatory power. It is prepared as a foundation for and depends primarily on the individual zoning ordinances (and other local tools) of the tri-communities for its implementation. This Plan is intended as support for the achievement of the following public objectives, among others: • to conserve and protect property values by preventing incompatible uses from locating adjacent to each other: • to protect and preserve the natural resources, unique character, and environmental quality of the area: • to maintain and enhance the employment and tax base of the area; • to promote an orderly development process by which public officials and citizens are given an opportunity to monitor change and review proposed development: and • to provide information from which to gain a better understanding of the area, its interdependencies and Interrelationships and upon which to base future land use and public investment decisions. This Plan is unique in that it was conceived of and prepared with the full and equal participation of representatives of Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township. More importantly, each of the individual community comprehensive plans were prepared In light of the issues. problems and opportunities that the three communities face together, rather than being done in isolation as is more frequently the norm. While a Joint Planning Committee oversaw the production of this plan, the individual planning commissions and legislative bodies of the three communities were directly involved in the preparation of those plans. Chapter 11 proposes that the Joint Planning Committee be continued and that this Plan be updated at a minimum of every five to ten years. The contents of this Plan and the three individual plans draw directly from planning documents previously adopted by the individual jurisdictions. There has been no effort made to explicitly footnote when material has been used. Instead it is intended that the contents of those documents continue to carry forward where they were found to be helpful in addressing the current and projected issues facing the tri-community area. In particular. the Village of Douglas Land Use Plan of 1986 and the Phase I 1979 planning report of the (then) Village of Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan --- - - -- --- --- - �u Saugatuck were frequently relied upon in drafting portions of all three plans. A number of engineering and technical documents prepared by outside consultants over the past decade have also been relied upon. They are referenced in Appendix A SPATIAL LOCATION The maps on the following page show the location of Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township on the shores of Lake Michigan. This location along I-196 makes them easily accessible to travelers from across North America. The shoreline along the Kalamazoo River, Lake Kalamazoo. and Lake Michigan and the beautiful sand dunes and wide beaches make this a tourist mecca and an attractive place for retirement. The trade area for commercial businesses in the three communities is quite small. Local residents tend to only do daily and weekly shopping locally as Holland. Grand Rapids, and Kalamazoo are nearby for wider selections of consumer goods. Three school districts seive the area but the largest number of students within the planning area attend the Saugatuck School District. KEY FACTORS GUIDING TIDS PLAN Three considerations played prominent roles in fashioning the contents of this plan. These are based on widely held public opinions. past and present investment by public and private entities and a growing recognition among citizens of the interdependence of the three communities. First, the three communities function as a single economic. and social unit. Many people live in one of the three communities and work in another of the three. Most people live in one and shop with some frequency in another. School children, by in large, attend the same schools. Local cultural, conservancy and retiree activities are Jointly supported by residents of all three communities. Several public seIVices are Jointly proVided including the Interurban bus seIVice. sewer and water (at least between Douglas and Saugatuck) and fire protection. The Kalamazoo River and Lake Kalamazoo connect all three communities, as do the local road network. Sometimes it seems, only the three units of government are separate. Yet despite these interrelationships, each community maintains a strong separate identity among many citizens of the three entities. Even many neighborhoods have strong separate identities (e.g. the hill, the lakeshore, Silver Lake, etc.). This provides an important richness and depth to the area, but it can also be politically diVisive . Second, tourism is the primary engine driving the local economy. Despite several industrial employers that proVide important diversity to the area's economy. it is the dollars brought in by tourists and seasonal residents that fuel most of the local wages and local purchasing. The environmental splendor and wide range of actMties open to tourists are the primary attraction. But no less significant is the small town character of the area. This character, often described as "cute" or "quaint" by tourists. is highly favored by tourists and deeply cherished by local citizens. As a result, any intensive or poorly planned alterations to the natural enVironment, or homogenization of the character of the indiVidual communities is likely to have a potentially negative effect on both tourists and residents. This Plan proposes keeping the scale and intensity of such future changes low and proposes a variety of mitigation techniques to prevent adverse impacts on the environment or on the character of the area from these kinds of changes. Third, a balance of future land uses is necessary to enhance the stability of the community during poor economic times and to broaden the population base. Presently there is a significant lack of housing in the area that is affordable for families with children. That. in concert with a decline in children generally (and an increase in the elderly) has severely impacted the Saugatuck School District. If all future land use decisions were made based exclusively on m1n.imal alteration of the natural environment or maintenance of the existing community character. then over time, the community would become more vulnerable to economic downturn. which usually hits tourist communities very hard. Thus, a balance must be sought between what otherwise become competing goals (economic development and environmental protection/ community character). This will present a serious challenge in the future. The pressure will be great to "sell the farm" for developments which promise new Jobs/tax base. And while these are important, the long term impact of such proposals (in a particular location) could be very negative and not worth the tradeoff. All such decisions need to be made primarily based on long term considerations, rather than short term ones. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �w Kent County Ottawa County GRaplds Allegan County Van Buren County Barry County Gmazoo Kalamazoo County TRI-COMMUNITY Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �... iv MAPS Except as otherwise noted, all the full page ma ps presented in this Plan were produced using C-Map software. This is a PC based comp uter program initiated by William Enslin, Manager of the Center for Remote Sensing at Mi.chigru;i State University. All the data on the maps was digitized either by Tim McCauley of the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. or was downloaded from the Michigan Resource Inventory Program (MRIP) database maintained on the State's mainframe computer system by the Department of Natural Resources. Several advantages are realized bycomputertzing this data. Typically, geographic information is only available on paper maps at widely varying scales. which makes it difficult to compare data sets for planning purposes. With CMap·, all of the maps can be viewed and printed at any scale via a variety of different media (color plotter, laser or ink jet printer, or dot matrix printer). Information can also be combined (or overlaid) so that composite maps can be created and compared in a fraction of the time and expense normally required to obtain the same results. Another major advantage of computer mapping is the ability to update maps continuously, so that an up-to-date map is always available. There are three different base maps that have been used in mapping this information: 1) a base map prepared by the DNR which was digitized from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) topographic map series for the area; 2) a lot line map created by digitizing the lots of record used for assessing purposes in the three communities: and 3) a soils base map derived from the SCS Allegan County Soil Survey. None of these base maps are exactly identical as they originate from different sources. All of the land cover and use based information and topography is keyed to the DNR/USGS base map. All of the soils related data is keyed to the soils base (which was interpreted and mapped by the SCS from nonrectified aerial photos, so there is some distortion at the edges of each photo frame). The existing land use, sewer and water line maps are keyed to the lot line base map. A transparent copy of the DNR/USGS base map and the lot line base map follow. These can be overlaid on any of the maps in this Plan, but the "fit" will be best when overlaying information that it was used as the base for. Please note that the extent of the Kalamazoo River on each base is noticeably different and is related to the water levels at the time the inventory or sutvey was conducted. We have "corrected" the DNR/USGS base map to include Silver Lake, which is merely shown as a wetland (not an open water body) on USGS maps. A transparency can easily be made by photocopying any of these maps in order to overlay several levels of information. Using CMap on a color monitor, up to ten levels of information can be overlaid on the screen at once, including "zooming" in on any area first (e.g. as would be desirable when examining a specific parcel). While the accuracy of all of this data is very satisfactory for land use planning purposes (especially when contrasted with traditional techniques). none of it is sufficiently detailed to be absolutely reliable at the parcel level. As a result, detailed site analyses of soils. topography. drainage, etc. are still necessary anytime specific site designs are being prepared. All computerized data is on file locally and accessible via C-Map for local use and updating. Contact the zoning administrator or clerk for further information. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �V ~~~~ s-, :1..\~ 4,..,,,, ""'· ...__,, "' . ,,..., ·- ) I I r INTHAVL --,~<., 0 '- " 27 28 _,, -- ta7'nf -~ l, •vs' 26 - 25 ':.. Iii i \ ) , <:, ~ > " ~ -----~ ~ ~ \ " Ii 33 ""':, 34 •" ' t 0 35 36 i T3N,R 16W ~ Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan "-- �I vi Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �1-1 Chapter 1 GOALS, OBJECTIVES, & POLICIES: • THE AREAWIDE POLICY PLAN G oals, objectives, and policies are the foundation of a comprehensive plan. They address the key problems and opportunities of a community and help establish a direction and strategies for future community development and growth. Goals establish general direction, objectives represent tasks to be pursued, and policies are decision guides. The goals, objectives. and policies embodied in this plan were prepared through an extensive process of leadership surveys, public opinion surveys, meetings with local officials, and areawide town meetings. The first step in this process was a survey of area leaders- including members of each planning commission, elected ofllcials, prominent members of the private sector, and other citizens identified in the individual surveys. Leaders were asked their views on the major problems and opportunities facing their jurisdiction and the trt-community area. and the results were tabulated and presented to each local government. These results served as the basis for initiating a public opinion survey. Citizen views on areawide planning issues were obtained through public opinion surveys mailed to every property owner in the tri-community area and distributed in each rental complex. Survey questions were prepared for each jurisdiction through consultations with the joint planning committee and each individual planning commission. Dr. Brent Steel, Oakland University, conducted and tabulated the survey. The response rate of 51 % in Saugatuck, 47% in Douglas, and 38% in Saugatuck Township was very high considering the length (about 1 hour completion time) and type of survey and thus responses represent the majority view in each community. Most respondents were homeowners in their mid-fifties, registered to vote, who are long-term residents and plan to live in the area for ten or more years. Survey results are shown in Appendix A. Results of the citizen opinion survey and leadership survey were used to identify issues for discussion at the first town meeting. This meeting was a "futurtng.. session where partici- pants were asked to imagine how they would like their community to be in the year 2000. Participants were separated into groups and asked to prepare of list of "prouds.. and "sorries" in their community, and things from the past which they would like to preserve. The lists were compared and then all engaged in an imaging exercise where groups were established according to topic area and were asked to imagine that element of their community in the year 2000. This futurtng process identified key issues and community elements which were pulled together to form a vision and direction for the tri-community area in the year 2000. A draft policy plan. with defined goals and objectives, was then prepared based on this futurtng process and the survey results. The draft was refined through a series of meetings with area officials and then presented to area citizens in a second town meeting. Citizen comments were reviewed by ofllcials from each community and incorporated into the policy plan. Following completion of the draft policy plan, data and trends in the trt-community area were analyzed. This analysis supported the direction of the policy plan and was first evaluated by the joint planning committee and individual planning commissions. and then by area citizens at the third town meeting. Next. key elements of the plan and proposed strategies to carry it out were first reviewed by the Joint planning committee, and then by area citizens at the fourth and final town meeting. Thus, the broad based input of area ofllcials, leaders. and citizens, plus detailed analysis of local trends and land use characteristics have formed the goals, objectives, and policies that comprise the policy portion of this comprehensive plan. These Joint goals and policies will serve as a guide for land use and infrastructure decisions in Saugatuck Township, the City of Saugatuck, and the Village of Douglas. With time. some elements may need to be changed, others added, and still others removed from the list. Before amendatory action is taken, however, the impact of the proposed changes should Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �I 1-2 be considered comprehensively in relation to the entire plan. These Joint goals and policies are premised on a pledge by Saugatuck Township, the City of Saugatuck and the Village of Douglas to mutually cooperate in guiding future development to advance a common vision. It is intended that they be consulted when considering future land use decisions that affect the interests of more than one J urtsdictlon. COMMUNITY' CHARACTER Goal: Presexve the established character of neighborhoods within each jurisdiction. Policy: Encourage architectural and site design that complements, rather than detracts from existing development on neighboring parcels. growth patterns and for consistency with the goals. objectives, and policies of this plan. Policy: Consider the impact of land use planning and wning changes on the other Jurisdiction(s), and discuss proposed changes with the affectedjurisdictlon(s) prior to making such changes. A common procedure for such communication shall be established and followed . LAND USE & COMMUNl'IY FACILITIES Goal: Promote the balanced, efficient, and economical use of land in a manner which minimJzes land use conflicts within and across municipal borders, and provides for a wide range of land uses in appropriate locations to meet the diverse needs of area residents. Policy: Encourage the presexvatlon and restoration of historically significant structures. Policy: Insure compatible land use planning and wning across municipal borders and minimize land use conflicts by separating incompatible uses and requiring buffers where necessary. Polley: Presexve the character of the area by encouraging land uses and densities/intensities of development which are consistent with and complement the character, economic base, and image of the area. Policy: Discourage sprawl and scattered development through planned expansion of roads and public utilities and through wning regulations which limit intensive development to areas where adequate public services are available. Policy: Manage the trees lining streets in the City and Village to provide a continuous green canopy and plant trees along Blue Star Highway and maintain them along other roads in the Township. Policy: Provide for necessary community facilities (e.g. schools, garages, fire halls, etc.) consistent with adopted land use plans and capital improvement programs. GROWl'H MANAGEMENT Goal: Guide development in a manner which is orderly, consistent with the planned expansion of public services and facilities, and strives to presexve the scenic beauty, foster the wise use of natural resources, protect enVironmentally sensitive areas. and enhance the special character of each community. Policy: Encourage development in locations which are consistent with the capacity of existing and planned public services and facilities, and are cost effective in relation to service extensions. Policy: Review all plans by other public entitles for expansion and improvement of existing road and street networks for impacts on Policy: Encourage approaches to site design which take natural features of the property. such as soils, topography, hydrology, and natural vegetation. into account and which use the land most effectively and efficiently by maximizing open space, preserving scenic vistas, conserving energy, and pursuing any other public policies identified in this plan. Policy: Advise developers during site plan review to contact the State Archaeologist, Bureau of History (517-373-6358) to determine if the project may affect a known archaeological site. .AGRICULTURE Goal: Maintain a variety of agricultural operations and promote the presexvatlon of existing farms and farmland through coordinated Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �1-3 planning and development regulations public incentives, and educational strategies. Policy: Discourage the conversion of prime agricultural land ,t o other uses. Policy: Discourage spot development of non-agricultural activities in agricultural areas to preseive the economic viability offarming and maintain the rural character of the area. In particular, residential development lining county roads in agricultural areas, that is unrelated to agricultural activities, shall not be permitted. Objective: Encourage farmers on lands well suited to agriculture to enroll their property in the Michigan Farmland Preseivation Act, Act 116 PA of 1974, as amended. Objective: Encourage the expansion of specialty farms and related activities which enhance the tourism and recreation potential of the area (e.g "you pick". farmers markets, farm tours, etc.). Objective: Promote agriculture through a variety of activities (such as farm tours. lectures, farm week. etc.) which educate residents about the importance of agriculture to the area. Policy: Discourage the establishment of high density livestock and poultry operations as inconsistent with the agricultural and resort character of the tri-community area. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Goal: Strengthen and expand upon the area's economic base through strategies which attract new businesses, strengthen existing businesses. and enhance the tourism potential of the area. Policy: Promote better communication and cooperation between the public and private sector. COMMERCIAL Goal: Encourage the development of commercial land uses in appropriate locations which seive the current and future needs of residents and tourists, are of a character consistent with community design guidelines, and which promote public safety through prevention of traffic hazards and other threats to public health, safety. and general welfare. Policy: Encourage new commercial development to locate adjacent to existing commercial areas. Policy: Encourage the design and location of neighborhood commercial centers in a manner which complements and does not conflict with adjoining residential areas. Policy: Discourage unsafe and unsightly strip commercial development through design and landscaping requirements such as berms, planting, and shared access when possible. Policy: Avoid separate parking lots for each business where feasible and encourage centrally placed lots which seive several businesses. Policy: Encourage continued concentration of tourist oriented businesses in Saugatuck, general commercial businesses in Douglas, and highway service activities at the highway interchanges. Relocation of existing general business activities along Blue Star Highway should be discouraged. · INDUSTRIAL Policy: Identify potential sites for industrial development and alternative means of financing necessary public improvements and marketing of the sites (i.e. tax increment financing, special assessments, state grants and loans, etc.) Goal: Increase the amount of non-polluting light industry in the area without damaging the environment, spoiling the scenic beauty of the area, or overburdening local roads, utilities, or other public services. Policy: Support efforts to foster tourism by preseIVing the scenic beauty of the environment, expanding recreation opportunities. improving tourist attractions, and preparing promotional materials which highlight the attractions of each community. Policy: Encourage new industries to locate contiguous to existing industrial areas and in locations with existing or planned sewer, water, electric, and solid waste disposal services to minimJze service costs and negative impacts on other land uses. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �I 1-4 Policy: Identify appropriate locations for small industrial parks which conform to the design guidelines contained in this plan. individual community plans. and local zoning regulations. Policy: Implement site plan requirements for light industries which are designed to incor- · porate generous amounts of open space. attractive landscaping, and buffering from adjacent non-industrial uses. Policy: Require the separation of industrial sites from residential areas through buffers made up of any combination of parking, commercial or office uses, parks. parkways. open space, or farmland. HOUSING/RESIDENTIAL Goal: Encourage a variety of residential types in a wide range of prices which are consistent with the needs of a changing population and compatible with the character of existing residences in the vicinity. Policy: Explore alternative measures to reduce housing costs and make home ownership more affordable, such as zoning regulations and other programs which are designed to reduce the cost of constructing new housing. Policy: Allow only quiet. low traffic, low intensity home occupations in residential areas to preserve the stability of existing neighborhoods. Policy: Provide street lights and sidewalks in residential areas where there is a demon- strated need and according to the ability of residents to finance such improvements. SPECIAL ENVIRONMENTS & OPEN SPACE Goal: Protect special environments and open spaces. including but not limited to sand dunes, wetlands, and critical wildlife habitat. from the harmful effects of incompatible development activity by limiting the type and intensity of land development in those areas. Policy: Identify development limitations on special environments through a tiered classification system which classifies these environments based on their value to the ecosystem, unique attributes, the presence of endangered plant and wildlife species. and other characteristics deemed significant. Policy: Devise regulations for land development in special environments which permit development in a manner consistent with identified protection objectives and which complement state and federal regulations for special environments. Policy: Require development projects deemed appropriate in and adjacent to special environments to mitigate any negative impacts on such environments. Policy: Encourage acquisition of special environments of significant public value by public agencies or nonprofit conservancy organizations for the purposes of preservation. WATERFRONI' Goal: Protect and enhance the natural aesthetic values and recreation potential of all waterfront areas for the enjoyment of area citizens. Policy: Promote the preservation of open space and natural areas, as well as limited, carefully planned development along the Kalamazoo River. Kalamazoo Lake. Silver Lake. Goshorn Lake. and Lake Michigan and connecting streams. creeks, and drainageways to protect and enhance the scenic beauty of these waterfront areas. Policy: Some waterfront lands may be developed to meet residential and commercial needs, enhance local tax base, and contribute to paying for local public selVice costs associated with their use and development. consistent with environmental protection policies in this plan, where such development would contribute to local quality of life. Policy: Maximize public access. both physically and visually. by acquiring prime waterfront open space whenever feasible. Policy: Acquire scenic easements wherever public values dictate the maintenance of visual access to the waterfront and the property is not available for purchase. Policy: Limit the height and intensity of new development along waterfront areas to preserve Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �1-5 visual access and the natural beauty of the waterfront for the broader public. Policy: Explore the conversion of street ends which abut waterbodies for use as safe public access to the water for fishing, viewing, and launching of small water crafts. Policy: Maintain a natural greenbelt along the Kalamazoo River and its tributaries. Policy: Retain, maintain, and improve all existing publicly owned parks so that they continue to meet the diverse recreation needs of area citizens and tourists. TRANSPORTATION Goal: Maintain a safe, effective, and efficient road and street network and improve roads and streets to promote growth in a way that is consistent with land use goals, objectives and policies. RECREATION Goal: Enhance the well-being of area residents by providing a variety of opportunities for relaxation. rest, activity, and education through a well balanced system of private and public park and recreational facilities and activities located to serve identified needs of the area. Objective: Identify and explore opportunities to cooperate with other Jurisdictions and agencies, including Allegan County and the Department of Natural Resources Recreation Division, on recreation projects which would benefit area residents and strengthen the tourism industry. Objective: Examine the feasibility of, and establish if feasible. a Jointly owned and operated community center to serve residents of all ages in all three communities. Objective: Examine the feasibility of expanding low cost opportunities for public beach and campground facilities for area citizens with boat launching sites, bike paths, cross-country ski trails, and docks for shore fishing. Objective: Develop a system of cross-country ski trails together with the Village of Douglas, the City of Saugatuck, and other Jurisdictions/ agencies if possible, through the use of local funds, grants and loans. and capital improvement programming. Policy: Implement traffic controls and design features that will increase the efficiency and safety of major arterials, including but not limited to: traffic signals, deceleration lanes, limiting driveways. mintmum standards for driveway spacing. uniform sign regulations. shared or alternate access, left and right tum lanes. and speed limit adjustments. Goal: Encourage a wide variety of transportation means, such as walking. biking, and public transportation, to meet the diverse needs of area residents. Policy: Promote pedestrian and bike travel through a coordinated network of bikepaths, trails, and sidewalks. Objective: Develop an areawide bikepath through local funds, grants and loans. and capital improvement programming. Policy: Promote regularly scheduled, affordable, and dependable public transportation to increase the mobility and quality of life of those who depend on public transportation. Objective: Encourage expansion of the interurban system consistent with municipal means to finance the increased service and an identified public need. Objective: Investigate developing a Joint public marina and launch facility where federal and state funding is available to assist with financing such a venture. WATER AND SEWER Policy: Encourage local government participation in activities designed to enhance the area's seasonal festivals. Policy: Provide a reliable supply of safe, clean. and good-tasting drinking water. Goal: Insure a safe and adequate water supply for the area which is efficiently provided and cost effective. Policy: Minimize the potential for groundwater contamination through planning and zon- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �1 1-6 ing which is consistent with the capacity and limitations of the land and available seIVices. Objective: Prepare and implement a plan for the carefully timed provision of sewer and water seIVice in the area consistent with the development goals and objectives of this plan. Policy: Devise alternative mechanisms for financing sewer and water expansions which are financially sound and equitable. Objective: Investigate refashioning the Kalamazoo Lake Sewer and Water Authority into an independent authority. in order to insure that the needs of area citizen's for quality utility seIVices are met. Policy: Promote a joint agreement between the City of Saugatuck, Village of Douglas, and Saugatuck Township to include full participation by each in the Kalamazoo Lake Sewer & Water Authority. Policy: Insure that the expansion of sewer and water seIVice into an area is consistent with the planned intensity of land use for that area, scheduled when affordable, and implemented when necessary to meet an identified need in the area rather than on a speculative basis. POLICE, FIRE, &: EMERGENCY SERVICES Goal: Provide police, fire, and emergency seIVices consistent with a public need and the ability to finance improvements for each of the three jurisdictions. Policy: Consolidate police. fire, and emergency seIVices across the three communities where possible to eliminate overlap in seIVice and expenditures and improve seIVice delivery. Objective: Evaluate the feasibility of 24 hour medical seIVice which serves all three jurisdictions to be provided by a public or private entity. SOCIAL SERVICES Goal: Those social seIVices which are efficient to provide at the local level should be provided to meet the needs of area residents. Objective: Explore the possibility of establishing support programs for older adults through the use of volunteers for assistance with household chores, personal care, and home repair to help them remain independent, shorten hospital stays. and lower health care costs. Policy: Support efforts to establish community day care center(s) to provide quality and affordable day care to working parents. WASTE MANAGEMENT Goal: Insure the safe, effective. and efficient disposal of solid waste and other toxic substances. Policy: Encourage the reduction of solid waste through recycling, composting, and waste-to-energy projects. Policy: Manage disposal of solid waste and location of solid waste facilities in accordance with the Allegan County Solid Waste Management Plan prepared under PA 641 of 1978. Objective: Adopt regulations for on-site storage and transportation of hazardous waste which require: • Secondary containment for on-site storage of hazardous waste: • No transfer of hazardous waste over open ground or water: • Arrangements for inspection of, and monitoring underground storage tanks; • Existing underground storage tanks must provide spill protection around the fill pipe by 1988 in accordance with 1988 EPA standards; • All existing underground storage tanks must install leak detection systems within 5 years in accordance with 1988 EPA standards. Objective: Encourage the development and use of biodegradable containers. ENERGY Goal: Promote site design and building which is energy efficient and encourage energy conseivatlon through good land use planning and wise public building management. Objective: Prepare energy guidelines or standards which address landscaping, solar access. solar energy systems, sidewalks, subdivi- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �1-7 sion layout, proximity to goods and services, etc .. and encourage or implement these through zoning and subdMsion regulations. Policy: Requb"e developers to provide sidewalks in appropriate locations through subdivision regulations. Policy: Encourage higher density residential development near areas with shopping and services to limit the number and length of trips generated from that development. Objective: Establish an educational program (i.e. "Energy Awareness Week") in cooperation with the local school system. Objective: Encourage the use of plumbing facilities and appliances which conseIVe water. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �2-1 Chapter2 DEMOGRAPHICS POPULATION SIZE The population of the trt-community area has nearly doubled since 1950, reaching an estimated 3,900 people in 1986 according to U.S. Census population estimates. This represents an 83% increase over the 1950 population, and a 26% increase since 1970 (see Table 2.1). SEASONAL POPULATION The population of the each community in the trt-community area swells during the summer when seasonal residents and tourists return. In 1980, census estimates show that 21 % (442) of the trt-community area's total housing units were vacant, seasonal, and migratory. Eighty-one percent of these seasonal/vacant units were detached single family homes or cottages. The vacant, seasonal, and migratory units made up 14% of the Township's housing stock: 26% of the City's housing stock: and 23% of the Village's housing stock. An engineering study prepared by Fishbeck, Thompson. Carr & Huber for the Kalamazoo Lake Sewer & Water Authority (KLSWA) estimates that the total tri-community area population is comprised of one-third seasonal residents and two-thirds permanent residents and that the weekend daytime population during the summer is about 2,500 persons. Although sewer and water demand typically grows with population, the study found that demand for sewer and water in the tri-community area increased about 30% between 19801986, whereas population increased by an average of 20016. This reflects the impact of the seasonal and tourist population on local services. FIGURE 2.1 AGE COHORTS (1960 & 1980) AREA§ ...,960 p 17 E R C E N T ts -,- t3 11 i 7 3.J..__~~~----.------r---,---.-----, 0-14 r.-t4 15-:!4 2r.-34 35-..i '45-64 ~ 6S. AGE GROUP HOUSEHOLDS AND AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZE Until recently, the average household size in the United States has continued to shrink, due to an aging population, higher divorce rates, postponed marriages. and lower birth rates. In keeping with state and national trends, the average household size in the tri-community area declined, going from 2.98 in 1960 to 2.39 in 1980. Smaller household size means a greater number of households. If the average household size in 1960 held true today, there would be about 300 fewer individual households in the area. TABLE 2.1 POPULATION ( 1950-1980) COMMUNITY Saugatuck Saugatuck Township Douglas AREAWIDE 1950 770 845 447 2,062 1960 927 1,133 602 2,662 1970 1980 CHANGE 1,022 1,254 813 3,089 1,079 1,753 948 3,780 40% 107% 112% 83% Source: U.S. Census Bureau Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �I 2-2 FIGURE 2.2 FIGURE 2.3 AGE COHORTS (1980) AGE COHORTS (1980) VILLAGE OF DOUGLAS ALLEGAN COUNTY :I!) 17 1a p E R C E N T 1a ,. 12 10 8 6 0-4 s-1• 1s-.2• 25-ll 3S-4<i ~ 4s-54 AGE GROUP p E R 15 C E N T 11 13 ; - 0-4 s-1• 25-ll 3S-4<i ~ 4s-5l gs. AGE GROUP FIGURE 2.5 FIGURE 2.4 AGE COHORTS (1980) AGE COHORTS (1980) CITY OF SAUGATUCK SAUGATUCK TWP. 18 :I!) 18 p E R p 14 16 12 E R C 12 14 c 10 E E N T 1s-.2• N T a 6 S-14 15-,24 25-ll 3S-4<i •s-5' ~ 6s. 10 a a 4-+--~-~-~~-~--~ 0-4 S-14 AGE GROUP 15-,24 :!S-34 ~ 4s-54 SS-64 6s. AGE GROUP The number of households is an excellent gauge of the demand for land and services. As household size decreases, the additional households create further demand for land, housing, transportation, and public utllitles. Although household size has declined substantially over the past few decades, national trends suggest that it w111 soon cease its decline. Nationwide the average household size has reached a plateau and state demographers predict that Michigan will follow suit. Variations in average household size by Jurisdiction for 1980 are as follows: Saugatuck Township, 2.69; Village of Douglas, 2.44; and City of Saugatuck, 2.0. The City of Saugatuck's smaller household size is indicative of a higher proportion of "empty nesters" and retirees. AGE DISTRIBUTION A comparison of age cohorts in the trt-community area between 1960 and 1980 reveals a large drop in the proportion of young children, with a corresponding increase in the childbearing cohort (20 to 30 year olds) and 45-54 year olds. The proportion of retirees to the total pop- ulation, however, has remained constant (see Figure 2.1). This is out of keeping with statewide trends and suggests that the area has experienced high in-migration of retirees through time. Retirees are attracted by the area's special resort quality, small town character, and scenic beauty. Figures 2.2 through 2.5 provide a more detailed picture of the age cohort distribution of each community. A cohort graph for Allegan County is included for comparison. In accordance with countywide trends, each community has a small cohort of infants and toddlers. The cohort distribution of the V1llage of Douglas most closely resembles that of the County, although the Village has a much lower proportion of children aged 5-14. The most striking characteristic of the Township is its large cohort of 45-54 year olds. The cohort of senior citizens is high in each community, but this is most striking in the City, where seniors comprise 20% of the population, while children 5-14 comprise only goA,, The City's second highest cohort is 25 to 34 year olds. In regional terms, Saugatuck Township comprises 39% of the area's senior population; the City of Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �2-3 FIGURE 2.6 EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND IN 1980 PERSONS 25 AND OVER, TRI-COMMUNITY AREA 40 [ill TOWNSHIP 35 • 30 p E 25 R C 20 N 15 E CITY ~ VILLAGE T 10 5 0 ELEMENTARY 1-3 YRS H.S. 4 YRS H.S. 1-3 YRS COLL. 4 YRS COLL. Saugatuck comprtses 37% (despite Its small size): and the Village of Douglas, 24%. reveals the educational status of persons 25 years old and over by jurisdiction in 1980. EDUCATION SCHOOL ENROLLMENTS The tri-community area has a well educated citizenry. An analysis of those aged 25 and older in 1980 reveals that 36.2% have completed 1 or more years of college (see Figure 2.6). When comparing jurisdictions, the number of college educated residents is even higher in the City at 43.6%. The corresponding number in the Village is 35.9% and in the Township, 31.3%. Table 2.2 Three public school districts-Fennville Public School District, the Saugatuck Public School District, and the Hamilton Public School District- serve the tri-community area (see Map 2.1). The Hamilton School District includes only a small area of the northeast comer of the Township. The Fennville School District covers the southern half of the Township, and the Saugatuck Public School District covers the TABLE 2.2 EDUCATION.AL STATUS PERSONS 25 YEARS OLD AND OVER Elementary 1-3 years HS 4years HS 1-3 years College 4+ years College SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP 185 199 373 157 188 SAUGATUCK CITY 57 97 276 137 196 DOUGLAS 73 84 213 123 84 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan AREA 315 380 862 417 468 �L , 2-4 central portion of the Township, plus Douglas and Saugatuck. Thus, the Saugatuck Public School District serves the majority of the area's households. School enrollment data for Saugatuck High School and Douglas Elementary, the two schools which comprise the Saugatuck Public School system, illustrate the impact of areawide demographic trends on the local school system. Between 1973 and 1989, enrollments in the Saugatuck Public School system, grades K-12, have declined by 34% (see Figure 2. 7). When divided into elementary and high school enrollments, however, the data reveal a 17% increase in elementary school enrollments since the 1983-84 school year, and a 28% decrease in high school enrollments over the same period (see Figure 2.8) . School enrollment data appears in Table 2.3. Future elementary and high school enrollments were projected by the Saugatuck Public School system. These projections, illustrated tn Figure 2.8, show an upturn in high school enrollments in 1991 with a continued climb tn elementary school enrollments. Total projected 1994 enrollments, however, are still 23% less than 1973-74 levels. FIGURE 2.7 TABLE 2.3 SCHOOL ENROLLMENTS SAUGATUCK PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICT SAUGATUCK PUBLIC SCHOOL ENROLLMENTS GRADESK-12 YEAR K-6 7- 12 TOTAL 79-80 80-81 81-82 82-83 83-84 84-85 85-86 86-87 87-88 88-89 326 307 306 252 232 259 250 275 299 296 329 322 299 290 303 296 277 265 246 215 655 629 605 542 535 555 527 540 545 511 E 750 N R 0 L L M E N T 700 650 550 500 -t---r--T""""r-r--,r--,~---r--r--.--Y---r-~.,......., 7~74 75-76 77-78 79-80 81-82 83-84 8S-a6 87-88 YEAR FIGURE 2.8 SAUGATUCK PUBLIC SCHOOL ENROLLMENTS ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOLS 360 340 E N R 0 L L M E N T 320 300 280 PROJECTIONS 260 240 220 '·•,,•,,,,,,,,,.,,,,, / ''·············•···' 200 180 79-80 I 81-82 83-84 85-86 87-88 89-90 91-92 93-94 YEAR Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �2-5 FtmJRE TRENDS If local demographic trends follow those projected for the county as they have in the past. then the overall p:r;oportion of retirees in the area will expand much faster than that of school age children. The Michigan Department of Management and Budget projects that Allegan County's school age population will grow only 3% by the year 2000, while senior citizens will increase by 30%. The area's small cohort of infants and children, large cohort of middle aged to elderly, and high rate ofretiree in-migration suggest this will be equally true in the trt-cornmunity area. These figures reveal the need to plan for the needs of an aging community. as well as initiate efforts to attract families with children into the area. The large cohort of individuals in their childbearing years in the Township and Village should result in a natural increase in young children. but because couples are having fewer children, school enrollments will probably expand only slightly. The Saugatuck Public School system is not likely to meet its potential capacity for enrollments unless a sequence of events or actions attracts new families with young children into the area. 1\vo key factors will be the availability of affordable housing and nearby employment opportunities. In the meantime, schools must use space and resources efflciently as they experience tighter budgets and small enrollments. Many of the demographic characteristics shown here have been analyzed based on 1980 census information. These trends should be updated when the 1990 census information is available. See Appendix B for more demographic information from the 1980 census. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �N A H OL MAP2.1 PUBLIC SCHOOL DISTRICTS II Saugatuck ~ Fennville D Hamilton DATA SOURCE: Respective School Districts Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml August 1989 SA I , DOU .-- �3-1 Chapter3 THE ECONOMY Oval Beach: downtown Saugatuck: sand dunes: large wetlands abounding with wildlife; orchards and specialty farms; and a scenic location on Lake Michigan encompassing Silver, Goshorn, Kalamazoo and Oxbow lakes, and the Kalamawo River. The area also has a reputation as a cultural center which serves as an artists' retreat. The Ox Bow Art Workshop and the Red Barn theater add to the area's cultural ambience. Although it is located in Laketown Township, the Saugatuck Dunes State Park serves as another tourist attraction to the trt-community area. The Park offers no camping and thus many visitors stay in the trt-community area. Visitor counts from the Michigan Department of Resources, Parks Division, reveal that the park has increased in popularity since the 70's. Visitor counts performed by the Parks Division show that 47,463 people visited Saugatuck Dunes State Park in FY 1988- a 300% increase in park ECONOMIC BASE Tourism Tourism fuels the economy of the trt-community area, with associated boating, restaurant, lodging, and strong retail sectors. Of the three jurisdictions, the City of Saugatuck relies most heavily on tourism. Although the City of Saugatuck is seen as the resort center of the area, the entire area benefits from and contributes to the tourist trade. The Village of Douglas has boating and lodging facilities which capitalize on tourism, but its commercial sector is primarily oriented towards local clientele. The Township has a small commercial sector which compliments that of the Village, but it is primarily seasonal residential and rural, with a large agricultural area to the south. The area's resort flair is defined by: historic buildings- including quaint bed and breakfast inns; the many festivals; outstanding boating; TABLE 3.1 IMPACT OF TRAVEL ON ALLEGAN COUNTY, 1986 TOT.TRAVEL TRAVEL EXPENDinJRES GENER. PAYROLL $42,413,000 $/Jobs % of State Total .56% % change 29.52% 1983-86 TRAVEL GENER. EMPLOYMENT STA1ETAX RECEIPTS LOCALTAX RECEIPTS 869jobs .62% 18.39% $2,191,000 .71% 27.98% $363,000 .49% 32.48% $7,689,000 .49% 37.87% Source: U.S. Travel Data Center, "The Economic Impact of Tnvel on Michigan Counde ■ . • TABLE 3.2 MAJOR EMPLOYERS PRODUCT/SERVICE Hansen Machine Haworth Harbors Health Facility Enterprise Hinge Douglas Marine Tafts Supermarket Paramount Tool Co .• Inc. Rich Products EMPLOYEES Metal Stampings Office Furniture Nursing Home Manufacturing Marina Supermarket Machinery Pies Source: Allegan County Promotional Alliance Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan 43 238 78 12 21 32 24 85 �L_ I 3-2 FIGURE 3.1 EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR IN 1980 TRI-COMMUNITY AREA AND ALLEGAN COUNTY PUBLIC fil] CITY ■ VILLAGE ~ TOWNSHIF @ COUNTY SERVICES FIN/INS/REAL EST RETAIL WHOLESALE TRANS/COMM/UTIL MANUFACTURING CONSTRUCTION AGRICULTURE 10 5 0 15 20 25 30 35 40 PERCENT attendance since 1979, when it attracted only 11, 714 visitors. How much money does travel and tourism generate in the trt-cornmunity area? Although current travel and tourism statistics are not available for the trt-cornmunity area, studies conducted for Allegan County reveal the tremendous impact of travel and tourism on local economies in the County. This is especially true for Saugatuck-Douglas-the major resort center in the County. A study prepared for the Michigan 'Travel Bureau by the U.S. 'Travel Data Center in 1986 found that travellers spent $42.4 million in Allegan County in 1986, generating $7.7 million for payroll, 869 Jobs, $2.1 million in state tax receipts, and $363,000 in local tax receipts. This ranks Allegan County 33rd out of Michigan's 83 counties in travel and tourism revenues. Selected data from this study is reproduced in Table 3.1. TABLE 3.3 EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY - 1980 TOI'AL Agriculture Construction Manufacturing TCU* Wholesale 'Ira.de Retail Trade FIRE•• Services Public Admin. CfIY VILI.AGE 547 9 30 156 25 13 146 21 125 22 433 16 27 169 10 7 67 15 96 26 TOWNSHIP 689 37 75 274 17 20 106 39 107 14 • Transportation, Communicatiion, Utillitles •• Finance, Insurance, Real Estate Source:1980 U.S. Census of Population, General Social and Economic Characteristics. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan AREA 1,669 62 132 599 52 40 319 75 328 62 COUNIY 34,025 2,041 2,009 13,033 1,407 1,398 5,017 1,126 7,105 889 �3-3 TABLE 3.4 EMPLOYMENT BY OCCUPATION - 1980 TITTAL Manag. &Admin Prof. Technical Sales Clerical Service Farm. Fishing Crafts & Repair Machine Operators Laborers, Mat. Moving CTIY VILLAGE TOWNSHIP AREA COUN1Y 547 77 87 63 70 72 13 433 34 62 24 45 73 13 70 90 685 43 74 83 74 73 43 144 120 31 1,665 154 223 170 189 231 126 34,025 2,315 3,319 2,696 4,189 4,300 1,885 5,447 6,129 3,745 66 60 39 22 210 270 92 Source: 1980 U.S. Census of Population. General Social and Economic Characteristics. Mam.ifacturing Manufacturing is central to the year-round stability of the area's economy. Although there are few manufacturing firms, they provide a high percentage of area jobs. Major area employers are listed in Table 3.2. Agriculture Agriculture is another strong component of the area's economic base. No data exists on farm earnings at the Township level, but Michigan Department of Agriculture statistics on Allegan County reveal the importance of fanning to the county's economic base. Between 1980 and 1986, agricultural net income nearly doubled, going from 12. 8 million, to over 24 million. Farm investments went from 92 thousand per farm 1n 1974 to 236 thousand in 1982. The market value of products sold by Allegan County farmers in 1987 totaled over $120 million and Allegan County farmers supported local business and industry by purchasing over $103 million of supplies and services. Fruit fanning is a rapidly growing agricultural enterprise in the County. Allegan County ranks within the top five producers of blueberries, peaches. grapes. pears. nectarines, potatoes, cauliflower, milk cows, and hogs and pigs. Between 1982 and 1986, the number of fruit farms increased 86%. Based on increases in overall acreage, growth in the fruit sector appears to be strongest for peaches, dwarf apples. and blueberries. The Township contains a large amount of prime farmland (see Map 4.10). There are a number of fruit farms growing peaches, apples. cherries. and some blueberries. Corn. wheat. and soybeans are other major cash crops. Some farms also have livestock- primarily hogs and dairy cattle. Nurseries are a strong agrt-business in the area. Rich Products, a major employer in the area, is another category of agrt-business, which was attracted to the region because of its many fruit farms. The future of agrt-industry is bright in light of Michigan Department of Commerce efforts to promote and expand food processing industries in the state. EMPLOYMENT Table 3.3 breaks down employment by economic sector for the trt-communtty area and the County in 1980. This information is illustrated in Figure 3.1. Manufacturing employs the most people in each of the three communities. Yet employment in other sectors varies. Employment by occupation in 1980 appears in Table 3.4. Information from these tables ts summarized by jurisdiction below. City of Saugatuck Twenty-nine percent are employed in manufacturing, but retail employment is also very high in the City of Saugatuck (27%). revealing the dominant nature ofretail actMty in the City, as compared to the region (15%) and County (15%). The service sector employs the third largest number of Saugatuck's labor force (23%), followed by transportation/communication/utilities (5%). and construction (5%). The highest proportion of workers in Saugatuck are professional/technical workers. followed by managerial and administrative, service, and clerical workers. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �3-4 FIGURE 3.3 FIGURE 3.2 MONTHLY EMPLOYMENT TRI-COMMUNITY AREA, 1988 AVERAGE ANNUAL EMPLOYMENT 2700 TRI-COMMUNITY AREA 2.8 T H 0 u s A N 2650 2.6 E M 2600 p 2.4 2.2 L 2.0 1.8 2500 M 2450 D 1.4 s E N 1.2 T 1982 1984 1986 1988 2400 2350 1.0..------....---"T""""---r----, 1980 2550 0 y 1990 2300 YEAR J F M A M J J A s 0 N D MONTH Village of Douglas Thirty-nine percent of the Village of Douglas' labor force is employed in manufacturing. Yet unlike the City, the service sector dominates the retail sector. Services employ 22% of Village workers, with only 15% in the retail sector. Construction (6%) and the public sector (6%) are the fourth largest employers of village residents, and agriculture (4%) is fifth. The highest proportion of workers in Douglas are machine operators, followed by service workers, crafts and repair workers, and professional/technical workers. Saugatuck Township Forty percent of Township residents are employed in the manufacturing sector. with the next largest proportion employed in the retail (15%) and service sectors (16%). Construction is fourth, employing 11 % of Township workers- a much larger proportion than in the region and County. Financial/insurance/real estate services is fifth at 6%. Although nearly all of the region's farming occurs in the Township, 1980 employment by sector shows that the proportion FIGURE 3.4 TOURISM RELATED EMPLOYMENT, 1988 ALLEGAN COUNTY 1.2 E 1.0 MT 0.8 Lo 0.6 p H ou y ! 0.4 MN 0.2 E D s N 0.0 T Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �3-5 FIGURE 3.5 FIGURE 3.6 REAL PROPERTY SEV (1988) REAL PROPERTY SEV (1988) SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP & VILLAGE OF DOUGLAS .CITY OF SAUGATUCK RESIDENTIAL 65% RESIDENTIAL 76% INDUSTRIAL 2% DEVELOPMENTAL 1% ,_.._.._. AGRICULTURAL 5% INDUSTRIAL 2% of the labor force employed in agriculture (5%) is low compared to the amount of agricultural activity, and only slightly higher than the Village of Douglas. Many farmers have alternative sources of income outside of farming, causing the census to count them in another employment sector. The Township has the highest proportion of crafts and repair personnel in the region, representing employment generated by Broward Marine, Inc.- a major builder of luxury boats. Machine operators are second. and sales workers are third. The proportion of professional/technical and service workers is also high. Average Annual Employment and Unemployment Unemployment has declined dramatically with Michigan's economic growth of the late 80's. Table 3.5 reveals average annual unemployment rates in the area since the last statewide recession. The tri-community area has a slightly higher rate of unemployment than Allegan County, although since 1986 the unemployment rate has dipped below that of the state revealing local or regional economic growth. Average annual employment in the tri-community area bottomed out in 1986. This reflected the loss of American Twisting, which employed about 20 people, and the burning of Broward Marine (about 100 employees) and Brighton Metal (about 10 employees). Yet in 1987, areawide employment jumped dramatically. During that year Broward Marine reopened its doors: Rich Products, Harbor Health Facilities, Paramount Tools and other area busi- nesses increased employment: a number of small businesses and two restaurants opened; and perhaps most significantly, Haworth Corporation expanded adding two new <;J.epartments. Contributing to this was the state and regional economic boom, and corresponding increases in construction and spending. Figure 3.2 illustrates this trend. Seasonal Employment Local employment increases each summer as tourists flood into the tri-community area. Figure 3.3 reveals the impact of tourism on employment in the tri-community area during the summer months. The high number ofjobs created during the summer months are primarily unskilled jobs in the service/retail sector, especially eating and drinking establishments and various other recreation-oriented uses. Figure 3. 4 reveals the explosion in summer employment for tourismrelated industries in Allegan County. This increase creates a high demand for teenage employees. Tri-community area businesses note the difficulty of filling these Jobs, and the need to import seasonal labor. This is yet another impact of the demographic make-up of the area (i.e. the low number of teenage children). New industry and affordable housing in the area could attract families with children who, in tum, could staff area businesses during peak summer months. TAX BASE Residential uses make up the bulk of the area's tax base. Commercial uses provide 33% . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �3-6 of the City's real property SEV, while it provides a much smaller proportion of the (real) property tax base for the Township and Village of Douglas. Agriculture is the next highest SEV category, providing a 1988 SEV of $2,661 ,790 (see Figures 3 .5 & 3.6). Figure 3 .7 illustrates changes in annual real property SEV between 1980 and 1987 for the tri-community area. The sharp drop in SEV for the Township between 1984 and 1985 was caused by the incorporation of Saugatuck as a City and its subsequent removal from the Township's tax base. SEVs are also shown for the Township minus the Village(s) . The figure shows that each jurisdiction has experienced tax base growt h since 1980. The City of Saugatuck has shown strong tax base growth and a Jump in its tax base between 1983-84 after it incorporated. More complete information on annual Sev's and 1988 breakdowns can be found in Appendix B. INCOME Between 1979 and 1985, census estimates show a dramatic rise in per capita income in the Village of Douglas- an increase of 4 7 .4%- mak- TABLE 3.5 AVERAGE ANNUAL UNEMPLOYMENT RATE County lli-Community 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 15.2 14.7 10.8 11.3 6.5 5.8 5.2 14.8 14.3 10.5 10.9 7 .3 5 .6 5.1 TRI -COMMUNITY AREA (1980-87) 60 M 40 = - ELI 0 N 7.6 per capita income in Allegan County. Saugatuck Township rose from 7th to 6th place with a 40.4% increase in per capita income. The City of Saugatuck occupies a strong second place with a 39.9% increase, although it has given up first place to Laketown Township. Table 3.6 shows this comparison. (Per capita income in 1979 was $7,688 for the state and $6,744 for the county; in 1985 it was $10,902 for the state and $9,346 for the county.) 70 v 9 .9 8 .8 8 .2 ing it one of the top ten communities in terms of ANNUAL REAL PROPERTY SEV 50 15.5 14.2 11.2 Source: MESC, Bun:au of Rcscan:h & Statistics, Field Analysts Unit FIGURE 3.7 S~ State s 30 Saugatuck Douglas r:zz:z:z:z:>I Township* - Township** 20 10._f:;~~::::::::--,----.----. 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 YEAR * not including Village(s) ** including Douglas through 1987 and Saugatuck through 1984. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �3-7 Table 3. 7 reveals selected income and poverty characteristics by jurisdiction in the trtcommunity area. Although the per capita income in the area has been consistently higher than that of the c;ounty. the median household income is lower. The median household income is the point at which 50% of the households earn more and 5()(% earn less. This figure is more representative of local trends as it is less easily distorted by a few high income wage earners. Poverty data correspond with median household income. As median income goes up, the proportion of those in poverty goes down. Despite its rapid growth in per capita income, the Village of Douglas has the lowest median household income and the highest percentage of poor in the region. Figure 3.8 reveals the proportion of those in poverty by age in 1979. The poverty level used by the 1980 census in recording this data was an annual income of $3,778 for those under 65, and $3,689 for those 65 and over. It reveals that a high proportion of the poor are elderly. especially in the Township. FIGURE 3.8 . . PERCENT IN POVERTY BY AGE TRI-COMMUNITY AREA (1980) mi TOWNSHIP 70 p E A C E N T ,. ■ CITY ~ VILLAGE •• ,. " LESS TtWII 5S ... §6.51 AGE TABLE 3.6 PER CAPITA INCOME ($), ALLEGAN COUNTY (TOP TEN) 1985 1979 Saugatuck Laketown Township Holland Gunplain Township Otsego Township Plainwell Saugatuck Township Allegan Township Leighton Township Fillmore Township Laketown Township Saugatuck Holland Gunplain Township Otsego Township Saugatuck Township Douglas Fillmore Township Plainwell Leighton Township 9031 8332 8125 8074 7437 7396 7286 7170 7051 7015 13,013 12,631 11,608 10,947 10,239 10,228 10,150 10,120 9,886 9,539 Source: 1985 Per Capital Income Estimates, U.S. Census Bureau TABLE 3.7 INCOME &: POVERTY CHARACTERISTICS TRI-COMMUNITY AREA ( 1980) Median HH income % in poverty Income 200% of poverty TOWNSHIP CITY VILIAGE COUN'IY 16,412 7 . 1% 74% 15,182 8.6% 75% 14,963 11.3% 73% 17,906 level & above Source: 1980 Census of Population Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan 8 .00.IO 71% �4-1 Chapter4 NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT CLIMA1E Weather conditions affect the community's economic base. Variations in average conditions, especially during the summer months, can cause fluctuations in tourism and outdoor recreation activities, upon which the local economy is dependent. Prevailing winds determine lakeshore and sand dune erosion patterns. which impose limitations on development along the Lake Michigan shore. Below. in Table 4. 1, is relevant climatic information for the area. These conditions generally do not pose limitations on the area's growth except along the Lake Michigan shore, where natural forces can cause rapid and extensive erosion of beaches and sand dunes. The climate is also considered favorable for growing certain fruits, such as apples and blueberries. GEOLOGY The tri-community area is located on the southwestern flank of the Michigan Basin, which is a bedrock feature centered in the middle of the Lower Peninsula. The sandstone and shale bedrock is overlain by glacial deposits from 50 to 400 feet thick. There are no outcroppings of the bedrock and the proximity of the bedrock to the surface of the ground does not impose limitations for normal excavating or construction. Glacial deposits consist primarily of sandy lakebed deposits located between two major physiographic formations: the Lake Bor- der Moraine, which is adjacent to Lake Michigan, and the Valparaiso Moraine, which extends through the center of the county, from north to south. Oil and gas drilling in the area occurred mostly during the period from late l 930's to the early l 950's. At present. there are no producing wells in the tri-community area. TOPOGRAPHY Most of the tri-cornmunity area is relatively flat, but local variations in elevation of up to 150 feet exist in some places between uplands and the floodplain of the Kalamazoo River. There are also considerable local differences in elevation in the extreme northwest portions of the Township in the sand dunes between the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan. The highest point in this area is Mt. Baldhead, which rises 310 feet above Lake Michigan. Areas of abrupt local variations in elevation appear as dark areas on the topographic map (Map 4.1). Steep slopes present impressive scenery and pose increased maintenance and construction costs as well as safety risks. This is especially true with unstable landforms such as sand dunes. Generally, slopes exceeding 7% should not be developed intensively. while slopes of more than 12% should not be developed at all because of erosion and storm water runoff problems. TABLE 4.1 SUMMARY OF RELEVANT CLIMATE CONDITIONS CLIMATE VARIABLES AVERAGE CONDITION Coldest Months (January-February) Hotest Month (July) Annual Average Temperature Average Rainfall Average Growing Season Average Annual Snowfall Elevation Above Sealevel Prevailing Winds 23.3° F - 25.1° F 71.5° F 48.3° F 35.7 inches 153 days 79.7 inches 590 feet Westerly Source: USDA Soll Survey, Allegan County Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan EXTREME CONDITION -11° F - -35° F 96° F - 106° F �4-2 nGURE4.l FLOODPLAINS Areas adjacent to creeks, streams and rivers are susceptible to periodic flooding that can cause extensive damage to buildings and can pose a substantial threat to public health and safety. The U.S. Anny Corps of Engineers has mapped the boundaries of the 100 year floodplain in the tri-community area. Those boundaries are denoted by the shaded areas on Map 4.3 and is the area that would be inundated during an Intermediate Regional Flood. The Federal Flood Insurance Program has established guidelines for use and development of floodplain areas. Those regulations indicate that development in floodplains should be restricted to open space, recreational or agricultural uses. Installation of public utilities and permanent construction for residential. commercial or industrial uses should not occur in floodplain areas. KALAMAZOO RIVER BASIN Cl) ~ Ill ..J WE11ANDS Lake Erie DRAINAGE Most of the trt-community area lies within the Kalamazoo River Basin. which begins near Jackson and extends westward into the trt-community area (see Figure 4 .1). The extreme southwestern portion of the Township drains directly into Lake Michigan. All of the watercourses within the area drain into the Kalamazoo River. which flows westward through the middle of the Township and into Lake Michigan. Tannery Creek, Peach Orchard Creek, Silver Creek and Goshorn Creek are all short-run streams that flow into the Kalamazoo River. A network of County drains facilitates the removal of runoff from flat areas with poorly drained soils in the southern half of the Township. The sand and clay bluffs along Lake Michigan in Section 20 are being eroded by groundwater which flows through the sandy topsoil and onto the less permeable clay layer. The water flows out the side of the bluff, undennining the sandy upper layer. A County drain has been proposed which would be placed parallel to the bluff and collect runoff for discharge at one point into Lake Michigan. Most other areas of the Township drain fairly well. espec1ally Saugatuck and Douglas. All watercourses, including county drains, are found on Map 4.2. There are many wetlands in the trt-community area. Most are contiguous to or hydrologically connected to Lake Michigan, rivers, streams. or creeks. Wetlands arc valuable in storing floodwaters. recharging groundwater. and removing sediment and other pollutants. They are also habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. including a large rookery of Great Blue Herons along the Kalamazoo River. Because wetlands are a valuable natural resource, they are protected by Public Act 203 of 1979. PA 203 requires that permits be acquired from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (D NR) prior to altering or filling a regulated wetland. The Wetland Protection Act defines wetlands as "land characterized. by the presence of water at a .frequency and duration sufficient to support and that w1d.er normal ctrcumstances does support wetland vegetation or aquatic life and ts commonly referred to as a bog. swamp. or marsh and ts contiguous to the Great Lakes, an tnland lake or pond. or a river or stream." Regulated wetlands include all wetland areas greater than 5 acres or those contiguous to waterways. Wetlands which are hydrologically connected (Le. via groundwater) to waterways are also regulated. ActMtles exempted from the provisions of the Act include farming, grazing of animals, farm or stock ponds. lumbering, maintenance of existing nonconforming structures, maintenance or improvement of ex- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �4-3 TABLE 4.2 LAND COVER CODES FOR PROTECTED WETLANDS IN TRI-COMMUNITY AREA CODE DESCRIPTION 31 32 412 414 421 429 611 612 621 622 Herbaceous Rangeland• Shrub Rangeland* Upland Hardwoods Lowland Hardwoods Upland Conifers Lowland Conifers Wooded Swanps Shrub Swamps Marshland Meadow Mud Flats Source: Michigan DNR Land Cover/Use Classlftcation System • Wetlands are sometimes, but not always associated with these land cover types. !sting roads and streets within existing rightsof-way, maintenance or operation of pipelines less than six inches in diameter, and maintenance or operation of electrtc transmission and distribution power lines. Permits will not be issued if a feasible or prudent alternative to developing a wetland exists in such areas. An inventory of wetlands based on the DNR's land use\cover inventory are illustrated on Map 4.4 . Table 4.2 shows the land use \cover codes pertaining to regulated wetlands in the area. Herbaceous and shrub rangelands may not actually meet the statutory definition of wetland. so on site inspections will be necessary to establish whether a wetland indeed exists in such areas. Areas of hydric soils in the south-central part of the Township would be classified as wetlands if they were not in agricultural use and served by county drains. SOILS A modern soil survey was completed for Allegan County by the USDA Soil Conservation Service in March. 1987. The soil types present in the tri-community area shown on the map and table in Appendix D. Each soil type has unique characteristics which pose opportunities for some uses and limitations for others. The most important characteristics making the soil suitable or unsuitable for development are 11mitations on dwellings with basements. l1mitations on septic tank absorption fields. and suitability for farming. Soil limitations have been classified into three categories. which are described below. • Slight: Relatively free of limitations or limitations are easily overcome. • Moderate: Limitations need to be considered. but can be overcome with good management and careful design. • Severe: Limitations are severe enough to make use questionable. Large areas of soils in the Township have severe limitations on residential and urban development. The degree of soil l1mitations reflects the hardship and expense of developing the land. Fortunately, most of the soils which are not suited for residential development are also considered prime farmland soils by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Basement Umitations Limitations for dwellings with basements are shown on Map 4.5. Some soils impose severe l1mitations on basements because of excessive wetness. low strength. excessive slope. or shrink-swell potential. These areas are found primarily in the northeast corner and in the southern half of the Township. Septic Limitations Soils in most of the tri-community area impose severe l1mitations on septic tank absorption fields for a wide variety of reasons. The permeability of soils in the area ranges from very poorly drained to excessively drained. There are only a few small areas which are neither poorly nor excessively drained, do not have a high water table, and are therefore well suited for septic tank absorption fields. These areas are located in the southeast corner of the Township and in the southwestern portion of Douglas. Most of the tri-community area that is likely to experience future growth has moderate to severe l1mitations for on-site septic systems. Map 4.6 shows the septic l1mitations for the area. This map suggests the need for municipal sewers to accommodate new development in many areas. The degree of soil l1mitations reflects the hardship and expense of developing that land for a particular use. Those soils classified as "severe" have varying degrees of development potential based on the nature of the limitation. Map 4.7 provides this more detailed analysis of severe 11mitations on septic tank absorption fields. The "severe" soils have been categorized as follows: Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �4-4 A Sandy, moderate to rapid permeability B. Rapid permeability, wetness and high water table C. Wet, ponding, heavier (clay) soils, slow permeability D. Very wet soils, organics, wetlands, floodplains, unable to support septic fields. Soils in categories B and D are not able to support septic fields because of extreme wetness. Soils in category A are classified as "severe" by the Soil Consetvation Service, however the Allegan County Health Department considers them to have only moderate limitations for septic systems. They can be made suitable for development by increasing the distance between the septic system and the water table. Soils with moderate and slight limitations also appear on Map 4. 7. Soils that are most suitable for development. with respect to basement and septic limitations, are shown in Map 4.8. Some areas of the tri-community area have been designated by the Allegan County Health Department as unsuitable for new development without sewers. Among these areas are the Felkers Subdivision in Douglas, Blue Star Highway from Douglas south to the freeway exit, 129th Street south of Douglas, and along Old Allegan Road in Section 10 east of Saugatuck. Permits for commercial and single family uses have been denied in all of these areas due to on-site soil conditions. The Health Department has also outlined areas with particularly severe limitations for septic fields. These are in Sections 3 and 4 of the Township and the Goshorn Lake area, which have a highly permeable soils and a high water table, and large portions of the southern half of the Township, which have heavy clay soils. Health Department officials do not recommend further development of these areas without sewers. Standards for Septic Systems The Allegan County Health Department has established certain standards for septic systems. These standards apply somewhat different site characteristics when determining the degree of limitations for septic systems, compared to the Soil Conservation Service approach, which focuses on soil types and slope. Below is a review of these standards by development type. Single Family Residential Before a permit is considered, there must be four feet of dry soils between the bottom of the septic system and the water table. In addition, there must be one foot between the existing ground surface and the seasonal water table, and two feet between the existing ground surface and the clay. Special permits will be considered only if the site size is at least two acres and the septic system is put on top of four feet of sand. Residential sites that fail to meet those requirements, such as the small lots in Felkers Subdivision, will not be issued septic system permits. All Other Residential, Plus Commercial These fall under State guidelines of two feet between the existing ground surface and the water table and four feet of dry soil between the bottom of the septic system and the water table. No special permits are issued for these uses. Most of the land along the entire length of Blue Star Highway does not meet these State standards and has been denied commercial permits (refer to Map 4. 7a). Public sewers will be necessary. Hydric Soils Hydric soils are another limitation on development. They are very poorly drained, saturate easily and retain large quantities of water. If artificially drained, they are often suitable for farmland use. Map 4.9 shows where these soils are. In the tri-community area, most of the hydric soils are found near watercourses and correspond to present or former wetlands. There is a large area of hydrtc soils in the southwest portion of the Township which is currently being farmed. Residential, commercial and industrial development in areas containing hydric soils should be discouraged. Prime Farmland Prime farmland soil types have been identified by the Soil Consetvation Service as those best suited for food production: they require minimal soil enhancement measures such as irrigation and fertilizer. There is a very large area of prime farmland soils in the south central portion of the Township. These areas contribute significantly to the area's economic base. The loss of prime farmland to other uses results in farming on marginal lands, which are more erodible and less productive. Soils in prime farmland categories that have frequent flooding or seasonal high water table, such as those in the southern half of Saugatuck Township, qual- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �4-5 1fy as prime farmland because those limitations have been overcome by drainage. Unique farmlands are based on certain soil types as well as other factors, such as landscape position (proxiinity to water supply, orientation to sunlight, slope. etc.). moisture supply and present management practices. Prime farmland soils and unique farmlands are shown on Map 4.10. Unique farmland and lands enrolled in the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116 of 1974) are depicted on Map 5.3. GROUNDWATER Groundwater is an unseen resource and is therefore particularly vulnerable to mismanagement and contamination. Prior to the 1980's, little was known about groundwater contamination in Michigan, and some startling facts have recently been revealed. The leading causes of groundwater contamination in Michigan are from small businesses and agriculture. More than 50% of all contamination comes from small businesses that use organic solvents, such as benzene, toluene and xylene, and heavy metals, such as lead, chromium. and zinc. The origin of the problem stems from careless storage and handling of hazardous substances. On paved surfaces where hazardous materials are stored, substances can seep through or flow off the edge of the pavement. Materials can get into floor drains which discharge to soils, wetlands or watercourses. At present, groundwater is the only tapped source of potable water for the City of Saugatuck, the Village of Douglas and Saugatuck Township. The glacial drift aquifers in the area are especially vulnerable to contamination because of rapid permeability and high water table. In a local example, Douglas' municipal water supply has been contaminated by volatile organic compounds (VOC's). supposedly by an industrial site within the Village. Some areas without municipal sewer and water service are in danger of groundwater contamination due to septic systems, intensive development and a high water table. In the Goshorn Lake area, household wells are susceptible to contamination from septic systems due to intensive development and a high water table. The Allegan County Health Department recommends provision of public water and sewer to households in that area. Protection of groundwater resources is problematic because of difficulties in locating aquifers. Well depth records indicate the relative location of groundwater at particular points. According to well logs from Michigan Groundwater Survey (MGS) data, well depths range from 29 ft. in the north central area to 360 ft. in the extreme southwest comer of the Township. Soils most vulnerable to groundwater contamination are found on Map 4.11. Well locations are indicated by small triangles on Map 4.12. SPECIAL FEATURES Lake Michigan Shoreline and Beaches The entire shoreline, from M-89 to the sand dunes, is flanked by single family homes overlooking sand and clay bluffs. The Lake Michigan shoreline in Saugatuck Township is very susceptible to wind and water erosion during storms and high lake levels due to resultant wave action. The current closing of Lakeshore Drive due to bluff erosion is a graphic example of the power of wave action. These natural processes pose hazards to public health and safety. The Shorelands Protection Act of 1970 was enacted to identify areas where hazards exist by designating them and by passage of measures to minimize losses resulting from natural forces of erosion. High risk erosion areas are defined as areas of the shore along which bluffiine recession has proceeded at a long term average of 1 foot or more per year. The entire Lake Michigan shoreline in the trt-community area has been designated as a high risk erosion area, with some portions eroding at a rate of 1. 7 feet per year. Within the designated area, shown on Map 4.13, alteration of the soil, natural drainage, vegetation. fish or wildlife habitat. and any placement of permanent structures, requires a DNR review and permit, unless the local unit of government has an approved high risk erosion area ordinance. Saugatuck Township has such an ordinance. while Douglas and Saugatuck do not. Sand Dunes The sand dunes along Lake Michigan 1n the northwest corner of the Township represent a unique and fragile phystographic formation and ecosystem that is very susceptible to wind and water erosion, and destruction due to careless use or development. The dune area which is in Saugatuck Township and the City of Saugatuck has been identified by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a critical dune area, subject to protection under the Michigan Sand Dune Protection and Management Act, PA Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �4-6 222 of 1976. The designated critical dune area is shown in the shaded region of Map 4.14. Recent legislation (PA 147 & 148 of 1989) provides for additional protection of critical dune areas. Under these Acts, all proposed commercial or industrial uses, multifamily uses of more than 3 acres. and any use which the local planning commission or the DNR determines would damage or destroy features of archaeological or historical significance must be approved by the State. Single family residential development is to be regulated at the local level. The law prohibits surface drilling operations that explore for or produce hydrocarbons or natural brine as well as mining activities (except in the case of permit renewals). The legislation also imposes certain standards on construction and site design in critical dune areas. Site design and construction standards for sand dunes should be enhanced at the local level to prevent further deterioration of this fragile environment. Areas needing special attention in such standards are vegetation, drainage and erosion protection. WOODLANDS The wooded areas of the trt-community area are a mixture of hardwoods and conifers. Large areas of upland hardwoods are found in the sand dune areas, along Lake Michigan, and in the northeast quarter of the Township. A large area oflowland conifers exists in the southeastern portion of the Township east ofl-196. Other smaller patches of upland and lowland hardwoods and conifers are scattered throughout the area, as shown on Map 4.15. Mature trees represent a valuable resource in maintaining the aesthetic character of the area, not to mention their overall importance to wildlife and the natural environment. In particular, the wooded sand dunes along the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, and those buffering adjacent uses from I-196, are especially important. They should be managed to insure their long term existence. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �N A 0 4,000 Scale 1" ~- 8,000 ~ ! .) ;<~~:J::fJ~/~ tl .:.:;·:·.· = 9060 ft !. J 1• ~ -::::____..,, ~- ··___:. ,, ·,, :.r::~-~~?Sv :~:-,·-:;\~:-.: ~;;:::::·:::/~·'(:\[; ... 11 MAP 4.1 TOPOGRAPHY Tri-Community Contour interval is ten feet Darker lines are 50 foot contours August 1989 DATA SOURCE: USGS Quadrangle Maps Planning & Zoning Cenler Inc, Lansing, Ml �+ ... N A 0 4,000 Scale 1" 8,000 = 9060 ft ~ ! - 25 i 28 : L.~. - r : 33 MAP4.2 WATERCOURSES [2] Lakes, rivers and streams □ Drains and intermittent streams August 1989 DATA SOURCE: MDNA Tri-Community Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �+ N A _J_ I 0 4,000 8,000 .. I 12,000 ft 13nto AVE , Scale 1" = 9060 ft ; ..... • 12. TM •vC. 25 • 27 33 35 T3N,R16W 11- 89 MAP 4.3 FLOODPLAINS ■ 100 Year Flood Area ~ 500 Year Flood Area August 1989 DATA SOURCE:MDNR Tri-Community Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft MAP 4.4 WETLANDS Jill II II Lowland Hardwood Lowland Conifer Wooded Swamp August 1989 II • ■ DATA SOURCE: MDNR Tri-Community Shrub Swamp m Marshland Meadow & Mud Flats Herbaceous Rangeland Shrub Rangeland Planning & Zoning Cenll8r Inc, Lanling, Ml �N A 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft MAP 4.5 BASEMENT LIMITATIONS ■ II Severe llIIIl] Moderate Wetland Soils cm ~ Slight ~ Sand Dunes . August 1989 Tri-Community Excavated ' DATA SOURCE : USDA Soil Survey, Allegan County: Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �N A ,..____ 0 4,000 Scale 1" 8,000 = 9060 ft MAP4.6 SEPTIC LIMITATIONS ■ II Severe mm Moderate ~ Wetland Soils Lill. Slight ~ Sand Dunes August 1989 Tri-Comm unity Excavated DATA SOURCE: USDA Soil Survey, Allegan County : "' ,, Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �N A 0 4,000 Scale 1" 8,000 12,000 ft = 9060 ft MAP4.7 SEPTIC LIMITATIONS e ~ Sandy, moderate to rapid permeability f6lj ~ Rapid permeability, wetness j11~1~jSlight Limitations II.II Wet, ponding, heavier ■ Excavated =: of highwater table 118& clay soils,slow permeability August 1989 fmm Moderate Limitations DATA SOURCE : USDA Soil Survey, Alleg. Cnty Hitt, Dept Tri-Community Sand Dunes Wetland Soils Very wet soils, organics, wetlands, floodplains Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �''I I I I I I I b i r-~ i' ' ./ 1 If I I I I I I I : == I -I ! -------- I - ---. -✓ - ----- / l 20 • .25 .. , 3' ~ - r-nL.i&Clllll ~---- ..:m~lllUA MAP 4.7 A Tri-Community ONSITE WASTEWATER TREATMENT LIMITATIONS l"lG. NO. 2 KAI ............. -..... -·-·- �N _, A 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 ft Scale 1" = 9060 ft - .- -- - ,. ---::;,-- ... :_../ ,l - ~- MAP 4.8 MOST SUITABLE SOILS 1111 Soils Most Suitable For Development ■ Excavated Areas August 1989 DATA SOURCE : USDA Soil Survey, Allegan County Tri-Community Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft MAP 4.9 HYDRIC SOILS ffll Hydric Soils ~ Wetland Soils August 1989 DATA SOURCE : USDA Soil Survey, Allegan County Tri-Community Planning & Zoning Cenlel' Inc, Lan1lng, Ml �N A ,-.-0 4,000 Scale 1" 8,000 = 9060 ft MAP 4.10 PRIME FARMLANDS 1111 Tri-Community Prime Farmlands August 1989 DATA SOURCE: USDA Soil Survey, Allegan County Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �N A r----• 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft MAP 4.11 GROUNDWATER VULNERABILITY Tri-Community II Areas most susceptible to contamination ■ Excavated Areas ~ Wetland Soils August 1989 DATA SOURCE : USDA Soils Surwy & Alleg. Hlth Dept. Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �N A 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft 0 A ! .. ... ! t :zeT t-t AVE. MAP4.12 WATERWELLS Tri-Community Well Location August 1989 DATA SOURCE :MI Groundwater Survey Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A .,: • ,..____ . •·: 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 ft Scale 1" = 9060 ft 0 ..: iN • " ' ' MAP 4.13 HIGH RISK EROSION AREAS Accretion Area . Tri-Community Numbers indicate accretion/recession rate in feet per year Recession Area August 1989 DATA SOURCE : MONA Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A % . 0 . ,..___ 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 ft Scale 1" = 9060 ft iN • '•'.> ·-- ··-..... t2aTt-t A.VIL t1 0 ...... ... 0 .,: • i • .......... N C, MAP 4.14 CRITICAL DUNE AREAS Tri-Community Critical Dune Areas August 198Q DATA SOURCE: MDNR Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �N A 0 4,000 Scale 1" 8,000 = 9060 ft Tri-Community MAP4.15 WOODLANDS II II f;Tiill a Lowland Hardwood Upland Conifer Upland Hardwood Wooded Swamp Lowland Conifer Shrub Swamp August 1989 DATA SOURCE : MONA Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �!S-1 Chapters EXISTING LAND COVER AND USE LAND USE/COVER DATA SOURCES Land cover and use refers to an inventory of existing vegetation, natural features, and land use over the entire trt-community area. This data was obtained in computertzed form from the Michigan Resource Inventory System (MIRIS) database. which is maintained by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) . The data came from photo interpretations of aerial infrared photos by trained interpreters at the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission. The DNR will update this data every 5 years. Land cover and use categories included in the data are explained on the legend to Map 5.1. The wetlands and woodlands maps in Chapter 4 were also derived from this data. MIRIS data was supplemented by a thorough land use inventory of the tri-community area conducted in the summer of 1988. The inventory was based on ownership parcels and conducted both on foot, in urbanized areas of Saugatuck and Douglas, and through a "windshield survey" of outlying areas. The extsting use of every parcel was recorded and evaluated in combination with low-level aerial imagery available from the Allegan County Equalization Department and the MIRIS land cover/use map to prepare the existing (parcel-based) land use map (see Map 5.2). The following description is based on these maps and data sources and the USDA Soil Survey of Allegan County. Land use by category for the entire trt-community area is shown in Table 5.1. This information was derived from the aforementioned data sources and areas were calculated using CMAP computer mapping software. The predominant land use in the tri-community area ls agricultural, followed by single family residential. Vacant land comprises forty four percent of the total land area (street ROW's excluded). AGRICULTIJRAL The size of farms in Saugatuck Township ranges from over 300 acres to under 10 acres, with the average size being from 120-140 acres. Agricultural land in the Township is used pri- marily for crops and orchards, with some livestock. Prime Farmlands Prime farmland is generally concentrated in the south central part of the Township. Prime farmland is of major importance in meeting the nation's short and long term needs for food. Prime farmlands have been identified by the U.S.DA. Soil Conservation Service so that local governments can encourage and facilitate the wise use of valuable farmlands. Prime farmland ls that which ls best suited to food, feed , forage and oilseed crops. The soil qualities, growing season and moisture supply are those needed to economically produce a sustained high yield of crops. Prime farmlands are shown on Map 4. 10. TABLE '5.1 EXISTING LAND USE 1AND USE ACRES % 1LAMSROW- Residential single-family multi-family mobile home Commercial Industrial Institutional Agricultural Parks Golf Courses Boat Storage & Service Kalamazoo River Wetland Streets & Roads Vacant Commerctal/Residentlal TOTAL 1708 61 43 196 92 317 3938 311 240 70 9 .91% 0 .35 0 .25 1.14 0.53 1.84 22.84 1.80 1.39 0.41 1017 5.90 1602 7637 6.6 9.29 44.30 QJM 17239 100% • % of total land area minus street ROWs Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �5-2 Unique Farmlands Lakeshore Area Unique fannland is land other than prime fannland for the production of specific highvalue food crops. such as vegetables, and tree, vine and beny fruits. Although these areas are not prime fannland, their unique quality and value to the local economy merit special consideration in land use decisions. They are shown on Map 5.3 with PA 116 lands described in the next section. The Lake Michigan shore is fronted by many large single family homes along Lakeshore Drive for five miles from M-89 to the City of Saugatuck. This area is characterized by scenic vistas of the lake and the bluffs. Large trees line the road and many homes are on wooded lots. Lot sizes average from 5-8 acres and many of the lots are very long and narrow. Kalamazoo River Michigan Farmland Preservation Act The Michigan Fannland Preservation Act of 1974 (PA 116) allows landowners to enter into a voluntary agreement with the State whereby the land will remain in agricultural use for at least ten years. In return. the landowner is entitled to certain tax benefits. The program has been effective in helping to ensure that suitable lands are retained for farming. There are over 1100 acres of PA 116 lands in the Township, most of them in the southern half. Most of the prime farmlands in the Township are not suitable for development because of soil limitations. However, there are some fannlands that are suitable for development. Alternatives to conversion of agricultural land should be considered when land use decisions are made. RESIDENTIAL Residential areas in the tri-community area vary widely in character between the rural areas of the Township and the urbanized areas of Saugatuck and Douglas. The majority of residential development in the Township is scattered along county roads and along the Lake Michigan Shore. Most resort-residential development in all three communities is located along the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan. Single family structures are the predominant residential type. The "hill" in Saugatuck and the neighborhood surrounding the Village Center in Douglas are other distinct residential areas. Most multiple family structures are concentrated in Saugatuck and Douglas. with only one such development in the Township (Section 3). There are four mobile home parks in the tri-community area: two in the Village of Douglas and two in the southern half of the Township. Some distinct residential areas existing within the three communities are described further below. Much of the area surrounding the Kalamazoo River east of Douglas is a wetland, unsuitable for residential use. The area is also wooded and is habitat to many birds and other wildlife. In some places. homes overlook the Kalamazoo River and Silver Lake (a shallow bayou connected to the Kalamazoo River). The character of the Kalamazoo River area is widely different from other residential areas of the township in that there are no farms or commercial/industrial development- aside from a marina in Section 23. Lot sizes in this area vary widely. Lots on the north side of Silver Lake tend to be very long and narrow and could pose land development problems if permitted to be subdivided any further. Rural Areas The rural areas of the Township are the southern agricultural, northeast, and riverfront - dunes areas. The southern agricultural area consists offarms. orchards. and a growing number of single family homes on large lots (10+ acres). Typically. these homes are located along the county roads at the perimeter of the sections. In addition to scattered development on large lots. there are several subdivisions. These are developments with 30 or less lots averaging approximately one acre each in size. The northeast area is a mix of woodlands and farms. with some steep slopes. Residences are mostly on large lots (40+ acres). with some on small lots within the large lots. Residences in the riverfront - dunes area north of Saugatuck are mostly on small lots fronting the Kalamazoo River. Most of that area is unspoiled wetland, dunes and beaches. Douglas Approximately 25 blocks of long-established neighborhoods surround the center of the Village of Douglas. These consist primarily of older homes with some homes less than 30 years old scattered throughout. Elsewhere in the Vil- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �lage. residential development is concentrated along Lakeshore Drive and along Campbell Road, 130th. Avenue, and Water Street. Saugatuck A majority of the homes in the downtown area are old and large, with some over 100 years old. These houses are increasingly expensive to maintain and to heat in the winter and are being adapted for profitable commercial use or for bed and breakfast establishments. Condominiums line the shore of Kalamazoo Lake along Lake St. and block a scenic view of the lake. Most of the City's year-round residents live above the steep ridge ("the hill") which separates the waterfront area from the rest of the City. Small cottages on very small lots line the west shore of Kalamazoo Lake along Park St. COMMERCIAL The major commercial areas in the trt-community area are in the northern part of the Township along Blue Star Highway. downtown Saugatuck, the Douglas village center, and in Douglas along Blue Star Highway. Blue Star Highway The commercial areas along Blue Star Highway represent an early form of scattered commercial strip development. Commercial strips are a haphazard form of development and often have inconsistent setbacks, an excessive number of driveways, excessive signs, poorly controlled ingress and egress, and are poorly designed with respect to the natural environment. These characteristics make the strip unattractive, environmentally incompatible, and potentially dangerous. The negative effects of commercial strip development can be mitigated by consolidation of driveways and parking facilities, grouping of stores into "mini malls", and site design standards which require that natural features be positively incorporated into new developments. as well as m1nim1zing "asphalt landscaping". Siting new development back from the highway would be a major improvement. Sixty five percent of the people responding to the 1988 Public Opinion Survey indicated that they did not want to see future strip commercial development in the future. Commercial uses along Blue Star Highway include restaurants, gas stations. boat service, motels, junkyards, a campground, small offices and a mixture of small retail establishments. Blue Star Highway from 130th. Avenue south to M-89 has a rural character with a combination of wooded areas. open land, scattered residential development, and a "you pick" bluebeny farm. Some highway oriented commercial uses are clustered around the interchanges with I196. Downtown Saugatuck Commercial uses in downtown Saugatuck are primarily oriented to tourists and seasonal residents. Many of the businesses occupy large. older residential structures. Others occupy the old and historic buildings lining Butler Street. This business district has few parking spaces due to the compact arrangement of the area's original design and heavy pedestrian traffic. Parking is a seasonal problem and a permanent solution has not yet been formulated. Businesses include bed and breakfasts, small and large restaurants. clothing, art galleries and numerous specialty shops, with boat service and marina facilities located along the waterfront. This commercial district ~as a unique historic character worth preseIVing and further enhancing and represents a great asset to the tri-community area as well as to the region and the state. Douglas Village Center This small retail area consists of restaurants, public and private offices and specialty shops and is used mostly by local residents. Uses include the Post Office, Village Hall, party stores, restaurants, beauty salon, police department. insurance, real estate and legal services, antique shops and the public library. Parking is located along both sides of Center St. and is adequate to meet current needs. There are several vacant lots and buildings in this area which could be used for new retail development. INDUSTRIAL Industrial development is limited in the tri-community area. Less than 1% of the total land area is devoted to industrial uses. Office furniture manufacturing and food processing are the two major industrial types in the area. There are also several small machine shops, and a luxury boat building establishment located near the mouth of the Kalamazoo River. A major deterrent to new industries locating in the area is lack of adequately sited land served with good public facilities (sewer and water). The trt-community area is located 150 miles from Detroit. 180 miles from Chicago and 36 miles from Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �5-4 Grand Rapids along a major interstate highway. There is also a railroad within five miles. This is an advantageous location for small scale, light industrial development. IDSTORIC & ARCHAEOLOGICAL PEA1URES The tri-community area is rich in history and many historic and archaeologi.cal sites can be found throughout the area. Singapore. Michigan's most famous ·ghost town" and once a thriving lumber town, lies buried at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River. A plaque commemorating its existence stands in front of the Saugatuck City Hall. Historic and archaeological sites are designated by the Michigan Bureau of History. Historic Buildings and Sites The Michigan State Register of Historic Sites was established in 1955 to provide official recognition for historic resources in Michigan. Designated historic sites have unique historic, architectural, archaeological, engineering, or cultural significance. There are numerous State historic sites throughout the trt-community area. which are listed on Table 5.2. Old Allegan Road in Saugatuck Township is currently pending official designation as a State Historic Site. State historic site designation does not include any financial or tax benefits, nor does it impose any restrictions upon the owner of the property. Historic Districts The City of Saugatuck has also taken local steps to preserve its historic character. PA 169 of 1970 permits the legislative body of a local government to regulate the construction. demolition and modification of all structures within a designated historic district. The City of Saugatuck has established an historic district within the oldest part of the city. Within this district, construction. demolition and modification of structures must comply with requirements set forth in the zoning ordinance. Historic districts provide a means for the community to protect its historic resources from development pressures. Archaeological Sites Archaeological sites are of particular scientific value to the fields of anthropology, ecology and biology, and may have historic or ethnic significance as well. There are 120 archaeological sites scattered throughout the trt-community area, mostly related to Ottawa and Potawatomi cultures. Their exact locations have not been disclosed by the Bureau of History to protect them from exploitation. One of these sites, the Hacklander Site, located in Section 23, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has components representing Middle and Late Woodland periods. Recipients of Federal assistance must ensure that their projects avoid damage or destruction of significant historical and archaeological resources. The Mich- TABLE 5.3 STATE HISTORIC SITES DESCRIPTION SaUJ1atuck: All Saints Episcopal Church Singapore (Village Hall) LOCATION 252 Grand St. Marker on Village Hall on Butler St. Clipson Brewery Ice House - 900 Lake St. Twin Gables Hotel (Singapore Counby Inn is commonname) Horace D. Moore House 888 Holland St. Warner P. Sutton House 736 Pleasant fBeachwood Manor) St. Fred Thompson-Willliam 633 Pleasant Sorinl!er House St. Doutlas Dutcher Loda:e #193 Hall Asa Goodrich House Sarah Kirby House Sawratuck Townshl1> Shiver's Inn (historic name). Oxbow Inn (COIIllllon name) Hacklander Site (National Historic Site) 86 Center St. 112 Center St. 294 W. Center St. Built in 1860's, originally used as a resort during lurnbertng era. In 1910 Art Institute ci Chicago used it for summer art school Section 23 Source: Michigan Bureau of History Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan r �5-5 tgan Bureau of History reviews these projects to assess their impact on archaeological sites. The Bureau of History also recommend that those proposing development projects in Saugatuck Township contact the State Archaeologist to determlne if the project may affect a known archaeological site. This is particularly critical given the existence of Indian Burial sites in the area. If an important archaeological site will be affected. archaeologists will negotiate a voluntary agreement to preserve those artifacts. Th Bureau of History serves in an advisory capacity and has no legal authority to restrict development rights. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �Tri-Community MAP .5.1 LAND USE/COVER WATER URBAN . Lill ...... .,. .... """" ....... ...... ■ ••• ••• ... ~ 113 Slngle Family 115 Mobile Home 124 Neighborhood Business 126 Other Institutional 193 Outdoor Recreation FARMLAND □ ~ ~ ~ illlili RANGELAND II II WETLAND 611 Wooded Swamps 612 Shrub Swamps 621 Marshland Meadow 622 Mud Flats BEACH 21 Cropland 22 Orchards 52 Lakes ~ ~ 72 Beach At Riverbank 73 Dunes 31 Herbaceous Rangeland 32 Shrub Rangeland WOODLAND ~ 412} 414}Broadleaf II 421} 429}Conifers August 1989 DATA SOURCE: MDNR Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �Tri-Community LAND USE/COVER N A 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft �Tri-Community MAP 5.2 EXISTING LAND USE ■ Single Family Residential - Agricultural - Orchard - mm Mulltiple Family Residential m~,, fiJ B Residential/Commercial ,,.,.,. Recreational Junkyard ■ Commercial ji!!! i!f' J!n;111 IT] Industrial ffillill Institutional II Vacant Boat Storage/Marina : : ] Wetland = D Water Agricultural August 1989 SOURCE : PZC Land Use Survey Planning & Zoning Center, Inc, Lansing , Ml �N A Tri-Community EXISTING LAND USE ... ~ 0 ~ 4,000 8,000 12,000 ft Scale 1" = 9060 ft Pl -. "" 1' ~I -J ~: I ..._ -J -- -,, ,ljlti t b I _II • I' t... �N A .,.._...,. 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 It Scale 1" = 9060 ft PA 116LANDS& 5 3 MAP · UNIQUE FARMLANDS ■ PA 116 Lands Tri-Community m Unique Farmlands August 1989 DATA SOURCE: MONR Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �6-1 Chapter6 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES NON-PARK PUBUC FACil.JTIES A listing of all non-park public facilities in the tri-community area is found on Table 6. 1. This includes police and fire stations, municipal government offices, vacant lands and other public facilities. All are shown on Map 6. 6. UTILITIES Sewer and Water The Saugatuck-Douglas area sewer and water systems are managed by the Kalamazoo Lake Sewer and Water Authority, which is responsible for operation and maintenance and provides water production and wastewater treatment. Each community is responsible for providing and financing their own infrastructure. The KLSWA performs the construction work or contracts it out. The service areas for the sewer and water systems, shown on maps 6.1 and 6.2, extend only for very short distances into Saugatuck Township. The Township did not participate in initial construction of the water or sewer systems because of the disproportionate financial impacts on the few property owners who would have been served. In effect, the Township is not served by public sewer and water. This severely limits the growth potential for areas outside of Saugatuck and Douglas. due to the fact that the soils are not suitable for multi-family or commercial septic systems, and in many areas even residential development ts not appropriate except at very low density. If this continues, development in the tri-community area may be brought to a standstill because of a lack of developable land. Numerous engineering studies have been conducted which discuss various alternatives for improvement of utilities. These include using Lake Michigan for the municipal water supply and extending public utilities into the Township. Proposals must take into consideration the permanent population, seasonal population, number of daily visitors, and future industrial flow. Peak periods for public utilities in the tri-community area are more pronounced than in typical communities due to the relatively high seasonal and daily visitor populations. The costs of developing an independent utility system for Saugatuck Township are not considered feasible. The absence in all three jurisdictions of capital improvements plans for financing the needed improvements further complicates the matter. The recent decision by the Township to join the KLSWA is a step towards the obvious regional solution of the Township connecting to the existing Douglas and Saugatuck system. Water System The reliability of the water system depends on water supply sufficient to meet peak demands, storage capacity to provide fire flows for sufficient duration, adequate water pressure and distribution system loops. The existing system is deficient with respect to meeting peak demands. The water is not treated, except for chlorination and iron sequestering. Parts of the current water system date back to 1907 in Saugatuck, and to 1914 in Douglas. In addition, the water mains are old, small and substandard, leaks are a problem on older service lines, and there may be some unmetered taps. Growth is restricted in areas not serviced by the system and is limited overall at present because of insufficient pumping capacity. The existing water system also has many dead end lines. which are susceptible to water discoloration and development of tastes and odors due to stagnation. The best arrangement for water mainS is the gridiron system, where all primary and secondary feeders are looped and interconnected, and the small distribution mainS tie to each loop to form a complete grid. If an adequate number of valves are inserted, only a small 1 block area will be affected in the event of a break. A primary feeder from the Saugatuck wells to the system's primary 12" feeder loop has been installed, and all of the primary 12" feeder loop has been completed, including two river crossings. In 1984 and 1985. a one million gallon above ground storage tank was constructed, which allowed Saugatuck and Douglas to meet normal and fire protection demands. If Saugatuck Township is included in the system, the storage tank is adequate for fire protection Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-2 TABLE6.l (NON-PARK) PUBLIC PROPERTY & PUBLIC FACILITIES INVENTORY NAME LOCATION SAUG. TWP. 36Center Township St., Douglas Hall Saugatuck Riverside Cemete Douglas Cemetery Douglas North annex cemete SAUGA1t!CK City Hall Maintenance bldg. Sand & salt storage Pump House #1 Pump House #2 Mt. Baldhead Park Butler St. comfort statoin Park St. comfort statlon Water St. comfort statlon Beach storage bldg. DOUGIAS Vacant lot 135th & Blue Star USE SIZE• 56'xl20' Twp offices, interurban of- (45'x64') flees. Douglas police. 2 rental apartments 1350'x730' Burial CONDITION VALUE Below average $175,000$200,000 Average 130th southside 130th northside Burial 690'x440' Average Burial 330'x530' Average 102 Butler City offices. council chambers Public works $475,000 Built 1882, remodeled 1989 Built 1985 $275,000 Built 1985 $25,000 3338WashingtonRd. 3338WashingtonRd. Maple St. Water Maple St. Water Built 1973 $80,000 Park St. Residence $94,000 Butler & Main Restrooms Remodeled 1978 Built 1988 Mt. Baldhead Restrooms Fair $6,400 Wicks Park Restrooms Fair $13,000 Oval Beach Storage, restrooms, concessison Poor $4,000 Dry $35,000 Corner Gravel storFeny&Cen- age ter $65,000 28,CXX> sq. ft. (1/2 acre+) Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan $97,000 �6-3 TABLE 6.1 (continued) (NON-PARK) PUBLIC PROPERTY&: PUBLIC FACil.ITIES INVENTORY LOCATION NAME USE Mixer & Cen- Library Library (Saugatuck- ter Sts. Douglas) Office, fire Spring & Fire barn Center Sts. barn SIZE• CONDITION Good 4327 sq.ft. (1 lot-8400 sq.ft.) Good 2560 sq.ft. (1/4 acre10,000 sq.ft.) 2432 sq.ft. Poor (1 3/4 acres80,000 sq.ft.) DPWbarn Water& Center Sts. Barn (launch ramp curently closed) Two DPWbarn Well housing combined Good bldgS=360 sq.ft. (land includes DPWbarn) None 66 sq.ft. wide Varied pumphouses &pumps 1/2 vacant street ends on K. River &Lake • Land Gerber. South, Fermont, Randolph, S encer =acres or square feet (Building VALUE $96,000 $100,000 Land is valuable, river frontage & walk be converted to park and/or marina $26,000 =square feet) for the near future, but additional capacity is needed if seIVice were extended to the southern portions of the Township. Recent chemical contamination of the Douglas municipal water supply has led to an overburdening of the City of Saugatuck water system, which is presently serving the entire network and is working at full capacity; 24 hours per day during peak months. This has led to restrictions on non-essential uses such as lawn sprinkling, car and boat washing, and has reduced the minimum resetve needed for fire protection (600,000 gallons) down to 2/3 of the needed amount. A moratorium has been inlposed on new development other than one or two family dwellings. The pumping capacity of both wells has dropped due to depletion (drawdown) of groundwater. Communications from the Michigan Department of Public Health have demanded that substantlal progress be made towards a solution to the water supply problem in the near future. The Health Department has also questioned the usefulness and reliability of both Douglas wells because well # 1, which is out of use, is contaminated, and well #2, which is used for emergency purposes only, may become contaminated through further use. As a result, alternatives for addiUonal water sources are currently under review, with Lake Michigan and the City of Holland water system being considered the most viable options. Engineering studies have indicated a cost of nearly $4. 5 million for construction of a Lake Michigan water treatment facility which would provide a clean and abundant source of water. A large seIVice area, formed by including large portions of Saugatuck Township, would reduce the per capita cost burden on users. This facility would be capable of pumping 3 million gallons per day, which could setve the needs of all three communities well into the future. This, combined with a desire to retain local control over the water system. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-4 makes using Lake Michigan water the favored alternative. Sewer System Wastewater treatment is provided at a treatment plant located in Saugatuck Township north of the Kalamazoo River. The facility was constructed by the City of Saugatuck and the Village of Douglas in 1980. The treatment system provides biological and clarification processes for the reduction of BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) and suspended solids, including chemical precipitation for the reduction of phosphorus from fertilizers and detergents. The plant has two aerated lagoons and was designed for incremental addition of lagoons to accommodate increased wastewater flow. The facility was designed for heavier BOD loading than other facilities its size, in order to accommodate a pie factory and thus may not need more capacity of that type for many years. The discharge is to the Kalamazoo River on the north side of Saugatuck. In 1957, many of the storm sewers in the City of Saugatuck were converted to sanitary sewers. This system was expanded in 1979 with PVC pipe, and some improvements were made to the old system. The sewer system in Douglas was built entirely since 1978. The two jurisdictions merged their facilities in the late 1970's to form the KLSWA. There has been some infiltration into the system from groundwater due to bad manholes, pipe, and roof drains. The impacts of this infiltration were most pronounced when Lake Michigan water levels were high. The capacity of the sewer system is sufficient to meet the needs of Saugatuck and Douglas until approximately 2008. The capacity of the wastewater treatment facility would have to rerated to 1.2 MGD for the Township to use the system until 2008. Thirty year projections for TABLE6.2 PROJECTED SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP WASTEWATER FLOWS AVERAGE DAY - MGD PERIOD Immediate 10-year 20-year 30-year NORlli 0.07 0.28 0.43 0.65 sot.rm 0.05 0.19 0.31 0.53 TOTAL 0.13 0.47 0.74 1.18 wastewater treatment for Saugatuck Township include extending service to the south lakeshore residential area and the area of the Township northeast ofl-196. They are shown in Table 6.2. The treatment facility was designed for a twenty year planning period through 1998, based on a population tributary of 7,695 and a wastewater flow of 0. 75 million gallons per day (MGD) . The treatment facility is rated at 0 .8 million gallons per day by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). The facility was designed for a peak flow of 2 MGD. The present average flow is 0.4 MGD. A larger flow can be accommodated by increasing hours of operation, provided that the lagoons can treat the sewage well enough. An engineering study in 1987 determined that August (maximum day was Aug. 14) ts the month of peak flow for wastewater, with 0.598 MGD. Based on the study, the treatment facility operated at 75% of flow capacity, 55% of BOD capacity, and 300A> of suspended solids capacity. Existing effiuent quality and treatment efficiency was found to be excellent. Increasing the rated capacity of the facility to 1.2 MGD with two aerated lagoons would accommodate all three jurisdictions through 2008 and possibly beyond. Pursuing this option would require detailed preparation of data accompanied by a formal request to the DNR from the KLSWA. Further capacity could be obtained by adding another aerated lagoon, estimated to cost $900,(X)() in 1987. The two basic alternatives for expanding the wastewater collection system in the Township are pressure sewers and gravity sewers. Pressure sewers are generally used where topography or spacing between services prohibit the use of gravity sewers or where high water table and difficult soil conditions prevail, such as in the tri-community area. These systems have lower construction costs and higher maintenance and operation costs than gravity sewers. Gravity sewers are the most common in use due to their minimal operation and maintenance expense. However, the cost of initial construction can be substantial for small communities, especially if construction costs are further aggravated by difficult topography and soil conditions. In addition, it is rare that an entire community can be served by gravity sewers. The existing system 1n Saugatuck and Douglas is a gravity system, with local areas of pressure. Source: Saugatuck Township Area Utility Service Study, Maren 1988. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-15 Storm Sewers There are very few mapped stonnwater drains in the tri-community area. Drainage has not been a significant problem in most developed areas bec~use of sandy, high permeability soils and lack of large paved areas. There are suspected to be some stormwater drains, individual residential and business gutters flowing Into the sanitary sewer system which need to be removed. Efforts are currently underway to improve stormwater drainage. County Drains County Drains are found throughout the tri-community area, but mostly in the southern portion of the Township. A network of drains in Sections 27, 28, 34, 35 and 36 facilitates the removal of water from an area of poorly drained soils which is used as farmland. Toe Allegan County Drain Commission recently added four new drains along the Lake Michigan shore in Sections 20 and 29. These drains are needed to stabilize sand and clay bluffs along Lake MichTABLE 6.3 COUNTY DRAINS DRAIN NAME Silver Creek Drain Ash Drain Mead Drain Golf Drain Falconer Drain Barr Drain Terrill Drain Rose Drain Rose Marsh Drain Wadsworth Drain Ruplow Drain Nuckelbine Drain Hudson Drain Kerr Drain Herring Drain Jager Crane Drain Warnock Drain Lakeshore # 1 Lakeshore #2 Lakeshore #3 Section 20 interceptor LOCATION Sections 2. 11 Section 12 Section 12 Section 3, Saugatuck Section 10 Section 10 Section 35 Section36 Section36 Section 27 Section 27 Section 27 Section 33, 34 Section 29 Section 20, 21 Section 20, Douglas Section 20. Douglas Section 20, 29 Section 29 Section 20, Douglas Section 20 igan, which are being eroded by groundwater. Other County drains in the area are located in the northeast corner of the Township, east of Saugatuck and south of Douglas. County drain names and locations are shown on Table 6.3. Gas, Electric and Telephone There are no major gas or oil pipelines in the tri-community area. Gas service is provided by Michigan Gas Utilities Company and approximate locations of gas mains are shown on Map 6.3. There is one major 760 kilovolt electric transmission line which crosses the extreme southeast corner of the Township. Electricity in the tri-community area is provided by Consumers Power Company. Telephone service is provided by General Telephone and Electric Co. (GTE). TRANSPORTATION Transportation facilities within the trt-communtty area include streets and roads and a public transportation system (Interurban). Toe trt-community area is served by a major Interstate highway (I-196) and by a State highway (M-89). Blue Star Highway, part of the Great Lakes Circle Tour, is the other major highway serving the area. Toe nearest railroad is the Chesapeake and Ohio RR, which runs north and south one mile east of the Township boundary. Kent County International Airport is within 50 miles and is served by 3 major airlines. with 126 flights per day. Toe area is also served by Greyhound Bus Lines. Transportation facilities are important in stimulating growth for the tricornrnunity area and its location is an asset for attracting further economic and industrial development. Streets and Roads Streets and roads are classified according to the amount of traffic they carry and the nature of the traffic. Four common categories are local streets. collectors, local arterials, and regional arterials. Local streets typically provide access to residences, with speeds from 20 to 25 mph (Mason St.). Collectors connect local streets to arterials and speeds average 25-35 mph. (Center St.). Local arterials facilitate larger volumes of traffic which originates and terminates within the trt-communtty area, with a trip length of ten miles or less and an average speed of 35-45 mph. (Blue Star Hwy.). Regional arterials are typically used for high speed through traffic, and access to the roadway is usually Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-6 TABLE 6.4 EXISTING TRAFFIC COUNTS VOWME DATE LOCATION 4L3L78 Blue Star & 64th 130th E &Wof Blue Star Blue Star& 129th 1959 & 1968 (same count) July 1987 (2 c:Ufferent days) 1969 5,319 368 10,575 8,256 336 Old Allegan, east of Blue Star 130th & 70th, east 285 1982 of I.akeshore Dr. 7,018 North 135th at July 1987 Blue Star (northbound) 129th at Blue 6,192 July 1987 Star (northbound) 10,861 October 1985 Center at Blue Star limited (1-196). Locations of collectors, local arterials and regional arterials are shown in Map 6.4. Each class of street has an important function in maintaining the efficient flow of traffic and it is essential that adequate transportation facilities exist or can be efficiently provided. Some up-to-date traffic counts for Blue Star Highway are available. A recent count for Blue Star Highway at two intersections in the Township only considers northbound traffic, missing traffic entering Saugatuck from exit 41 onl-196. Other existing traffic counts for area roads are inadequate for planning purposes. Accurate and up-to-date traffic counts are needed in order to make some decisions pertaining to priorities for road improvements, monitoring of flows, evaluating impacts of proposed new development, and projecting future traffic conditions. Table 6.4 shows what very limited information is presently available from the County Road Commission. PA 51 of 1951 provides for the classification of all public roads, streets and highways for the purpose of managing the motor vehicle highway fund. The classifications which pertain to the tri-community area are "County-Wide Primary Road" and "County-Wide Local Road" in Saugatuck Township, and "Major Streets" and "Local Streets" in Saugatuck and Douglas. These roadways are shown in Map 6. 5. Funding is provided to cities and villages for street maintenance and construction based on the number of miles of streets by class, within each commu- nity. Roads in the Township are managed by the Allegan County Road Commission, which also receives PA 51 funds based on the mileage of roads in each class under its Jurisdiction. Lakeshore Drive Lakeshore Drive provides a scenic link between areas along the Lake Michigan coast. High water levels on the Great Lakes, combined with storms, resulted in powerful wave action which undermined sand and clay bluffs along the shore, causing them to collapse. Because of its close proximity to these bluffs, the road has washed out in two places, one in section 20 which is impassable, and one south of Douglas which has only one lane passable. School buses are not allowed to travel on some segments of the road because of poor and unsafe conditions. The Allegan County Road Commission allocated $260,000 to test the effects of concrete for accretion technology along the shoreline. The erosion barrier was installed in two locations and is having a minimal effect on the shoreline. Cost estimates for rebuilding Lakeshore Drive are at approximately $3.8 million (1988). This would involve relocation of portions of the road and implementation of erosion control measures. Blue Star Highway Blue Star Highway serves as a local arterial. Numerous problems inhibit it from performing that function effectively. Access to commercial and industrial establishments along arterial roads should be controlled by curbing. At present, there is virtually no controlled access in these areas on Blue Star Highway, and wide driveways and open shoulders lead to an elevated risk of accidents. There are no designated pedestrian traffic areas or bike paths. causing pedestrians to use the shoulder, unsafely. Widely varying speed limits between the Kalamazoo River bridge and the exit from 1-196 at the northern boundary of the Township make it difficult for motorists to travel the road without violating the speed limit. The roadway needs to have more than two lanes, especially if future development is to occur. The Township has paved the shoulders, and these are often mistaken for actual lanes, which poses a safety hazard. The possibility of creating a boulevard along Blue Star Highway was discussed at town meetings. Variations of this concept could improve appearance, safety and traffic control. There is no cooperative maintenance arrangement among the three jurisdic- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-7 tions for Blue Star Highway and the County Road Commission, yet the roadway needs repairs and resurfacing. Very little useable traffic count information is available, making it difllcult to assess where needs are greateM so that improvements can be prioritized. Traffic may be higher in some segments than in others, indicating which speed limits and whether other traffic control measures are necessary. The intersection with Lake Street in Saugatuck is hazardous in poor weather conditions and visibility or signaling should be improved. The entrances into the tri-community area from Blue Star Highway do not present visitors with positive first impressions. This is especially true if entering the area from the north, through section 3 of the Township. Over 6()0A, of people responding to the public opinion survey noted that the appearance of the highway needed improvement. Interurban The Interurban is the area's public transportation system and is funded in part by a 1 mill assessment. The service was started in May 1980 as a two year experimental project and was initially funded at lOOo/o by the State. Following the experimental period. some of the cost burden was borne by the tri-communities through a the 1 mill assessment. The system has four buses and in 1988 there were approximately 37,000 riders. A new maintenance facility in Douglas, to be completed in the spring of 1990, is being constructed at a cost of $211,000 entirely with state and federal funds. It is possible that the Interurban could be used to shuttle people to Saugatuck from remote parking facilitates and ease the parking burden there. The Interurban is governed by a board consisting of members from all three communtties. POUCE, FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES Police Police protection for the tri-communtty area is provided by the Allegan County Sheriff Department and the Michigan State Police, and by local departments in Saugatuck and Douglas. The State Police maintains the Saugatuck Team post north of the Township on 138th. Avenue in Laketown Township. The facility has one lieutenant, one sergeant, seven troopers and eight patrol cars. The Allegan County Sheriff Department operates a satell1te post in Fennville which serves the area. The State Police and the Sheriff respond upon request to calls in all three Jurisdictions. The Township also has a constable who performs bar checks and serves zoning violations. The Village of Douglas maintains its own police department, which is housed adjacent to the Saugatuck Township hall on Spring Street. The department has one patrol car and three full time police officers. There are also three officers on reserve. The police department plans to have two patrol cars by the summer of 1990. The City of Saugatuck maintains its own police department, which is housed in the City Hall at 102 Butler Street. The department has two patrol cars and two full time police officers. including the Police Chief. There are also five part-time police officers. Extra demand for services occurs during the summer. particularly during festivals and holidays. Fire Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township are included in the Saugatuck Fire District. This district is managed by a five member Fire Authority. Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township each appoint one person to the board. These three then appoint two other people from the area at large, subject to approval by the three communities involved. The Saugatuck Fire District has 35 volunteer personnel, including the fire chief. There are two fl.re stations, one located in downtown Douglas (47 W. Center) and another in Saugatuck Township near the intersection of Blue Star Highway and 134th Avenue. The latter is a new building designed to house six vehicles, offices and a meeting room with 9,600 square feet. It is located adjacent to the existing Maple Street facility. The Fire District maintains eight vehicles and one vessel: • 1975 Chevy Pumper • 1981 International Pumper • 1968 International Pumper • 1959 Ford Pumper • 1949 Seagrave Aerial • 1977 GMC Step Van • 1985 FWD Tanker • 1985 Karavan Trailer • Boston Whaler boat with pump Emergency Services Ambulance services are provided by the Fennville Fire District and by Mercy Hospital in Grand Rapids, dispatched from Holland. The Saugatuck Fire District maintains a first re- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-8 sponder unit with 11 volunteers because of the distance from ambulance services. The first responder unit appears to average about 10 calls per month. SCHOOLS Three school districts serve the tri-community area; Saugatuck. Fennville, and Hamilton school districts. (See Map 2.1). Approximately half of Saugatuck Township, and all of Douglas and Saugatuck, are served by the Saugatuck district, with the southern portion of the Township being served mostly by the Fennville district and the extreme northeast portion of the Township served by the Hamilton district. The Saugatuck school system operates two facilities. Douglas Elementary School accommodates grades K through 6, and Saugatuck High School accommodates grades 7 through 12. Enrollment is approximately 550 students and has declined by 34% since 1973. The Fennville system has an elementary school (K-6) and a high school (7 12), with an enrollment of approximately 1600 students. Enrollments in the Fennville system are stable and range from 1550 to 1650 students per year, with less than 25% of the students coming from Saugatuck Township. The Hamilton district operates four elementary schools (K-6) and one high school (7-12). Enrollment is near capacity, with 1900 students. The district has been experiencing a 4-5% annual increase in enrollments in recent years. The school districts serving the area, especially the Saugatuck district, appear to have some capacity for accommodating increases in the school age population. Furthermore, the part of the trt-community area served by the Saugatuck school district is that which is most suitable for new growth. TABLE6.5 TONS GENERATED PER DAY BYLAND USE SOURCE QUAN111Y (PER DAY) Residential Commercial Industrial Other Not Collected -0.5 NETTOTAL 11.3 6.5 2.8 1.8 0.7 Source: Allegan County Solid Waste Plan SOLID WMm DISPOSAL PA 641 of 1978 requires that every county prepare both a short term (5 year) and long term (20 years) solid waste management plan. The plan must be approved by the County Planning Committee, the County Board of Commissioners and by at least 2/3 of the municipalities in the county. The Allegan County Solid Waste Plan dates from 1983 and covers a twenty year planning period. It is presently being updated. The County generates about 220 tons per day of solid waste and has to rely on landfills outside of Allegan County. Solid waste removal in the tri-community area is handled entirely by private haulers. The waste stream from the County, and thus from the area, is expected to increase due to population and tourist increases brought about by the area's shoreline, natural attractions, and proximity to Grand Rapids. The Saugatuck area is defined in the Solid Waste Plan and encompasses Saugatuck Township, Saugatuck and Douglas, as well as small portions of the adjoining communities. The Saugatuck area currently generates 11.3 tons of solid waste per day. In some outlying rural areas, 5-100/4 of the residential waste generated is disposed of or recycled on site. In urban areas, approximately 5% of residential waste is being recycled or scattered by indMdual efforts. The contributors to the solid waste stream by land use are shown in Table 6.5. Table 6.6 shows the results of a study conducted by the Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG) in the early 1980's. The study involved counties with both urban and rural characteristics, much like the tri-community area. Solid waste generated has been broken down into specific categories. The numbers probably do not match the actual breakdown of solid waste components in the trt-community area, but give a rough estimate of the components. Per capita waste generated from various land uses is shown in Table 6. 7. The Allegan County Solid Waste Plan projects that solid waste output for the Saugatuck area will increase by 32% by 2000 to 14.95 tons per day due to projected population increase. The goals and objectives of the plan focus on reducing the waste stream through separation and recycling, using private haulers for waste collection, recovering energy from the solid waste stream and providing the public with opportunities to develop solutions for solid waste disposal problems. A recycling center is Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �6-9 TABLE 6.6 SOLID WASTE COMPOSITION 1YPE POTSW • Percentage(%) 44.8 9.2 3.5 4.1 4.2 11.5 2.2 3.0 82.5 Combustible Wastes ' Paper Plastics Wood Yard Wastes Textiles Food Wastes Rubber Misc. Organics TOTALS Noncombustible Wastes Glass Ferrous Aluminum Other nonFerrous Misc. Inorganics TOTALS 5.3 6.6 0.8 0.5 4.3 17.5 • Proportion of Total Solid Waste Source: Allegan County Solid Waste Plan munity area are concerned, State regulations prohibit operation of a new landfill on: • Land considered by the DNR to be a State recognized unique wildlife habitat. •Landin the 100 year floodplain. • Prime agricultural lands. • A DNR designated and officially mapped wetland. • So close to an historic or archaeological site that it can be reasonably expected to produce unduly disturbing or blighting influence with permanent negative effect. • In a developed area where the density of adjacent houses or water wells could be reasonably expected to produce undue potential for groundwater contamination. Due to the presence of many wetlands in the area (Map 4.4), many prime agricultural lands (Map 4.10). numerous archaeological sites. land in the 100 year floodplain (Map 4 .3). critical dune areas (Map 4.13). and areas susceptible to groundwater contamination (Map 4 .11). not much is left for potential landfill sites. Furthermore, most of those sites which may be environmentally suitable for landfills have already been developed. Thus it is not likely that a landfill will be located in the area. TABLE 6.7 PER CAPITA WASTE GENERATED USE Residential Commercial Industrial Average Overall QPE • (LBS. PER DAY) 2.9 5.75 10.6 4.7 • Quantity Per Employee Source: Allegan County Solid Waste Plan currently in operation on Blue Star Highway adjacent to I-196 and exit 41. The center is partially funded by Saugatuck. Douglas and Saugatuck Township and ls very well used. Allegan County Resource Recovery maintains the facility, which collects newspapers, plastics, glass, aluminum and brown paper bags. Pickup of metal appliances and tires is also possible by contacting the center. The recycling center was started in 1984. The Saugatuck Township Landfill (public). located in Sections 10 and 11, was closed in 1984. As far as new landfills within the tri-com- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �N A ,..____ 0 ,4,000 8,000 12,000 It Scale 1" • 9060 ft MAP6.1 WATERSVSTEM I# IWater Mains ■ ~ Tri-Community Reservoir Proposed Water Intake & Treatment area Io;e Q'0 I Existing Well Locations August 1989 DATA SOURCE: Williams & Works , Inc. Grand Rapids Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �--------------- - N ---------- -........04...0 Ct--•/ A I ----- ---) I I I MAP 6.2 SEWER SYSTEM Tri-Community I~ISewer Lines 1,1 Discharge Line August 1989 DATA SOURCE: Williams & Works , Inc. Grand Rapids Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 ft Scale 1" = 9060 ft MAP 6.3 GAS MAINS Tri-Community I/ IGas Mains August 1989 SOURCE:Michigan Gas Utilities Company Planning & Zoning Center Inc., Lansing.Ml �N A MAP 6.4 STREET CLASSIFICATIONS 1,1 ~ [;:J Regional Arterials Tri-Community I/ I Local Streets Local Arterials Collectors August 1989 DATA SOURCE : PZC Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A ,. ____ 0 4,000 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft Tri-Community MAP6.5 ACT 51 ROADS [Z] County Local Road ~ County Primary Road [Z] State Trunkline August 1989 I.• 1Major Streets I/I Local Roads DATA SOURCE: Michigan Department Of Transportation Planning & Zoning Centor Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A 0 4,000 8 ,000 12.000 ft ..· Scale 1" = 9060 ft ····-, t 20 '~\ \ .a 29 21S : : ~ ' 27 25 ' l : : .......... . . ···: 34\ ,. .. ..-·····....•,., ,. T1N.•11W t. , ,i r.. ·· ) MAP 6.6 PUBLIC FACILITIES ' 35 35 ' .... :'' -····· SAUGATUCK TWP. 1,1-89 Tri-Community 1)2 Pumphouses 2)Vacant block 3)1/2 Vacant Street 4 & S)Vacant Lot 6)Library 7)Fire Dist. 1 & Fire Barn 8)DPW Barn 9)Saugatuck Township Hall 10)Saug. Riverside Cemetry 11)Douglas Cemetry 12)Douglas North Cemetry 13)Saug. Town. Fire District No.2 14)Saugatuck City Hall 1S)Public Restrooms 16)Saugatuck High School 17)Waterwell August 1989 Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �7-1 Chapter7 RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE P arks, recreation, and open space are essential to the quality of life of area residents, and are an important component of the local tourist economy. They enhance property values, as well as physical and psychological well-being. Parks and open space define the character of each area community, create the scenic abnosphere which stimulates tourism, and provide the basis for popular local leisure activities. Recreation needs are regional in nature and plans must view local recreational offerings as part of a regional recreational system. Local governments, schools, private entrepreneurs, the County, and the State each have a central role in serving local and regional recreational needs. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE The City of Saugatuck's parks are maintained by the City through its Department of Public Works. Park planning is done by a committee of three City Council members, who are overseen by the City Manager and the full Council. Douglas parks are maintained by the Village's Department of Public Works under the Village Council's Parks and Buildings Committee, which reports to the Village Council. The Township formed a Township Park and Recreation Commission in November 1970, which is an independent governmental entity charged with provision of parks and recreational programs to area citizens. The Commission has six elected members, and is staffed by a parttime maintenance person. Representatives from both Douglas and the Township may be elected to sit on the Commission. The Connnission completed the Saugatuck - Douglas Area Parks and Recreation Plan in February of 1985 and updates the plan periodically. Revision of the plan is currently underway. Allegan County prepares and periodically updates a countywide parks and recreation plan. County parks are administered by a tenmember County Parks and Recreation Commission whose members include the Chairs of the County Road Connnission, the County Planning Commission, the County Drain connnissioner, two County Commissioners, and five members appointed by the County Board of Commissioners. The Connnission meets on the first Monday of each month. It sometimes provides financial assistance for local recreational efforts which advance the County Recreation Plan. AREAWIDE RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Recreation can be separated into four main categories: physical, social, cognitive, and environmentally related recreation. The former category focuses on sports and various physical actMties. Social recreation looks at social interaction. Cognitive recreation deals with cultural, educational, creative, and aesthetic activities. Environmentally related recreation requires the natural environment as the setting or focus for actMty. Each of these categories in some way relates to the others. Physical Recreation Intramural athletics are popular for children and young adults in the area and are offered through the summer recreation program. Activities include softball, baseball, rocket football, volleyball, bowling and others (see Table 7.1). The elementary school has a newly expanded playground and Kid's Stuff Park. Playgrounds are also found at River Bluff, TABLE 7.1 SUMMER RECREATION PROGRAMS ACTIVTIY T-ball for kids Little League Pony League Slow-pitch softball Fast pitch softball (girls) Semi-competitive softball (boys) Rocket football Swimming:beginner,advanced beginner, tntennediate. swimmer, basic rescue & advanced lifesaving Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan 1989 PARTICIPANTS 40 46 19 10-18 27 15-20 57 66 �7-2 TABLE 7.2 INVENTORY OF OUTDOOR RECREATION . .!: ' ..... ., . :., .... ........ i ~. .., ..... ..,., ...... - ...."" -., ~ i ..,._ ~i~Q !] .......... . ,':; ;;: ...!; ] ....... ' i ~~ 3 !.: Il 8~ _,__.;: C: u Location Size (acrea) .. ., ,:i.-. - u.1>~ ! C -"., ~ I. River Bluff 27 X X 2,Sundovn .4 X X 3.Amalanchicr 0 ...: X 4 • ~ 1.4 5.H. Beerv Field 1.2 X X 20 X X X X X X - X X IJ.Coolt Park 14.Soear St. Launch 2.5 X X X X X X X X X X 16. Oval Beach 36 X X X X X l 7. Tallmage \foods 60* X )(. X X X X X. X 20. High School X . X X X X 2l. St. Peter's 23. West Wind KOA X X X X 22. 63rd St. Launch .,C X X 51 154 X • x· 15.Ht. Baldhead 8.6 X ft X X - 19. Elementarv Sch. X X .s 18. Old "Airoor't" X :=l X .5 - t. X X X - 12. Ioli llow Park ~ ~ ~ ~ X X X 7. Union St. Launch I I .Wicks Park ~ X X !I.center St. Laund IQ.Village Souare t 00 C X 4.Douglaa Beach 6.Schultz Park 0 ~ X ~ 12 X X X 24. Blue Star lliway Roadside Park X X X X X X X 25. Riverside Park Sundown, Schultz, and Beery Parks and the Douglas Village Square. Aerobic fitness classes are offered at the High school. Walking, hiking, biking, boating, golfing, swimm1I1g, and cross country skiing are also popular, and enjoyed by a wide range of age groups. Social Recreation A variety oflocal clubs and actMties provide social recreation for people of all ages. Festivals, community education programs, and intramural sports provide an opportunity to socialize. Senior citizens actMties are organized through the New Day Senior Citizens Club of Douglas, the High School, the Masonic Hall, and various area clubs. Cognitive Recreation The trt-community area is rich In cognitive recreational pursuits. Festivals, art workshops. local theater, historic districts. an archaeological site, summer day camp. and community education programs provide cultural, educational, and aesthetic enjoyment. The Saugatuck Women's Club, Rubenstein Music Club, the Oxbow, Douglas Garden Club, and the Douglas Art Club are among the local clubs which organize cultural activities. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �7-3 Environmentally Related Recreation Area lakes. the Kalamazoo River, and state and local parks provide area citizens with unique outdoor recreation opportunities. They provide a location for a variety of outdoor activities including b6ating. fishing, swimming, nature study. camping, hiking, cross country skiing, and nature walks . These areas also serve the cognitive needs of area citizens and tourists by their scenic beauty and relaxing affect. In fact, the most valued attribute of area water bodies and open space to area citizens, as identified in the 1988 Public Opinion Survey. is not physical recreation. but the scenic view they provide. RECREATION INVENTORY area. Those recommended for Saugatuck are shown below in order of priority: • Park Streets from Campbell to Perryman. • Oval Beach road. Those recommended for Douglas are shown below in order of priority: • Center Street from Tara to Lake Shore Drive. • Ferry Street from Center to Campbell Road. • Lake Shore Drive from Campbell Road to the Village limits. A path on Blue Star Highway from the bridge to Center Street, which was the Village's first priority, has already been completed. Those bike paths recommended in order of priority for Saugatuck Township are: • Lake Shore Drive from 130th Avenue to M-89. Map 7 .1 identifies parks and recreational facilities in the tri-community area. Table 7.2 contains an inventory of outdoor recreation facilities in the tri-community area. There are also two eighteen hole and one nine hole golf courses in the area. This is much higher than typical for such a small population (the standard is 1 golf course per 50,000 people). and reflects the impact of tourism on local recreational facilities. A discussion of the size. condition. and planned improvements for selected area parks is shown in Table 7.3. Table 7.4 includes a schedule of planned park and open space acquisitions and improvements. Proposed recreation projects contained in the Saugatuck - Douglas Recreation Plan are listed in Table 7.5. RECREATIONAL NEEDS AND USAGE The 1988 Public Opinion Survey highlighted those recreational facilities which residents feel are inadequate in the trt-community area. Table 7.6 lists these by Jurisdiction. Non-Motorized Trails and Bike Paths Residents placed highest priority on additional bike paths, cross country skiing routes. and hildng trails. These needs are currently served by non-motorized trails in the Oval Beach/Mt. Baldhead area. The 1985 Saugatuck - Douglas Parks and Recreation Plan, identified bicycle trails as a high priority and prepared a schedule of capital improvements to achieve this objective. These improvements have not been implemented to date. In 1984, the Saugatuck Township Park and Recreation Commission developed a list of recommended bike paths in the trt-community • Holland Streets from Saugatuck to the Y. • Old Allegan Road from Blue Star Highway to 60th St. • Blue Star Highway from 129th Ave. to M89. The regional bike path system would connect with Saugatuck's chain link ferry to afford bicyclists east/west access. This connection runs down Holland Street and across Francis Street to the waterfront and will be seIVed by inner city streets. without the need for additional right of way. At this juncture, bicyclists may ride the chain link ferry to Saugatuck's eastern border. Once on Saugatuck's eastern side, bicyclists could follow Saugatuck's proposed bike path system down through Douglas and south out of the Township. Bike path right of way would also extend north to Goshorn Lake along Washington Road. thereby connecting with Laketown Township. Another future extension could extend the system east along Old Allegan Road into Manlius Township. This is a scenic route. although somewhat hilly. Bicyclists wishing to pass through Saugatuck and on south through Douglas would need additional right of way from Lake Street to the bridge, thereby connecting with the Douglas bike path network. Douglas in tum would extend its bike path south on Blue Star Highway to connect with the Township system. Map 7 .2 shows this proposed regional bike path network. Waterfront Open Space A suIVey of waterfront usage revealed that the most popular waterfront activity is viewing. The second most popular use varied by waterbody. Swimming was the prtmruy use of Lake Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �7-4 TABLE 7.3 PARKLAND INVENTORY PLANNED IMPROVEMENTS 1YPE/YEAR LOCATION USES SIZE CONDITION Center & Main Sts. baseball, playground, picnic pressbox & wash- None room poor. otherwise good Douglas Beach Lakeshore Dr. public beach & picnic Schultz softball, picnic, 130th & Kalamazoo River playground. launch rame Union St. at Kal. launch ramp, River eicnic area pressbox-220 sq.ft., dugouts350 sq.ft., land52,000 sq.ft. l acre beach-36,400 sq.ft. nearly l acre, bathhouse280 .ft. pavtllion-1326 sq.ft., land- 20 NAME OF PARK Dou las Beery Field Union St. Launch RamE Fair None Good Acquisition/'89 Good None newly installed entxy road & pienic area. New dock & picn1c shelter Very poor pad for dumpster/'00, new~; needs new bollards & fence re- fence work/ 1989, bollards/ 1989-90 3 acres Poor additional docking. public restrooms, gazebo 2.5 acres Good 1/2 acre approx. Good acres 66'xl20' Saug_. Twl!_. River Bluff Ka1 River above hiking, picnic, 27 acres boaters stop, nature study, swing1ng & sandbox I-196 brtdge; access from Old AlleganRd. picnics, watch66'xl50' ing lakes & sunsets, scenic turnout 30'x200' picnics, resting for travelers Sundown Lake MI Bluff at 126th Ave. Blue Star Blue Star Hwy. south of Skyline Restaurant Center St. Park Eastern end of canoe launching, Center at picnics, scenic Kalamazoo River viewing Saugatuck Village Square Butler & Main Streets tenni.9 courts, more flowers/'89, toilet Improvements/ 1990-92 new fence; needs landscaping/ 1989-199'2 drinking foontatn. playground. benches, restrooms Wicks Park Willow Park Cook Park Boat Ramp Waterfront between Main & Mary Streets Waterfront at Butler & Lucy Waterfront on Water Street Spear Street streetend bandstand, boardwalk, benches, fishtng, restrooms viewing area, benches picnic tables 132 ft Good 132 ft. Good boat launch 66 ft. Good ~ .../ Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �7-5 TABLE 7 .3 (continued) PARKLAND INVENTORY PLANNED NAME OF PARK Mt. Baldhead Park Oval Beach Park Tallmadge Woods •LOCATION Park Street Lake Michigan IMPROVEMEN1S USES SIZE picnic shelter, ta- 51 acres bles, restrooms, hiking trails, parking, stairway to observation deck on top of dune, two observation decks on river beach house, con- 36 acres cession stand, parking, picnic area. BBQ grills, viewing deck. stairs to beach, observation deck. nature trails current use re100 acres stricted Michigan. powerboating for Lake Kalamazoo and Silver Lake (which also is popular for fishing). and nature study was the most popular for Kalamazoo River due to its large connecting wetlands and wide array of wildlife- including a large population of Great Blue Herons which have established a rookery in the area. In accordance with usage, the overwhelming majority of residents in each Jurisdiction cited preservation of existing waterfront open space and increased access to the waterfront as their highest waterfront need. Acquisition of land and provision of access to Lake Michigan was given highest priority for the waterfront. Open space along Lake Kalamazoo and the Kalamazoo Riverwere also given high priority by the majority of respondents. although the response was higher in the Village (64-6goAJ) and Township (62%) than in the City of Saugatuck (48-50%). A large number of respondents also called for additional boat launching facilities. Parks Respondents were asked how frequently they used various local parks and the overwhelming majority responded "never". Oval Beach 1s used most frequently of the area parks by residents of each jurisdiction, and is used most heavily by City residents. Douglas Beach is also frequently used. Wicks, Schultz, and CONDITION 1YPE/YEAR Good Good new concession stand & restrooms/ 1990 Good Beery park are more frequently used by City and Village residents. than those in the Township. It is important to note that survey responses reflect the usage characteristics of older adults. The average age of survey respondents was 54 to 56 years old. As the age of respondents increases, park usage tends to decrease- especially for parks which specialize in active sports. This reveals the need to orient recreation plans to the recreational needs of older adults. Thus, bike paths, waterfront open space/access. hiking trails, and cross country ski trails should probably receive precedence in future recreation enhancement projects, over more active park facilities like ball diamonds. Senior Citizens Center Senior citizens in the area have been lobbying for a senior citizens center to serve the social and recreational needs of the area's elderly population. The survey results reflect some support for a senior center. Fifty-three percent of Township respondents and 45% of Village respondents felt that a senior center deserved high priority. However. only 25% of City residents called for a senior center-surprising, given the high proportion of seniors in the City's resident population. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �7-6 TABLE 7.4 PROPOSED RECREATION PROJECTS TRI-COMMUNITY AREA PROPOSED PROJECT VERY HIGH PRIORITY WCATION Willow Park preseivation and improvement Acquire extensive land areas New dug outs - football field Renovation of playground equipment Convert weight room to storage & coach's offices Remodel Wicks Park restrooms Acquire land to access to Oxbow Lagoon Downtown Saugatuck on the river Lake Michigan Shoreline Saugatuck High School Douglas Elementary School Saugatuck High School On river in Saugatuck North of Oval Beach Park HIGH PRIORITY Acquire and improve land for marina and park Boat launching facility Develop bicycle trails Purchase park parcel on hill Acquire additional land for River Bluff Park Construct additional public restrooms Clear and develop Moore's Creek Rehabilitate tennis courts Update Village Square Park Expand and improve Howard Schultz Park Riverside Park equipment & improvements Douglas riverfront near bridge City of Saugatuck Entire area In Saugatuck Adjacent to River Bluff in Township Downtown Saugatuck Near Amalanchier Park in Saugatuck Township Village Square Park - Saugatuck Village Square Park - Saugatuck Village of Douglas Village of Douglas MEDIUM Expand underground sprinkling system Acquire land and develop tot lots Develop archery range Beach House rehabilitation Acquire land for neighborhood park Construct concession stand Village Square Park - Saugatuck All areas River Bluff Park - Township Saugatuck Oval Beach Campbell Road area- Saugatuck & Douglas Saugatuck High School Athletic Field LOW Teen Recreation Center Install lighting for tennis courts Develop non-motorized trail Lighting for tennis courts Construct additional locker rooms Downtown Saugatuck Schultz Park Schultz Park Village Square Park - Saugatuck Saugatuck High School Source: Saugatuck - Douglas Area Parks and Recreation Plan, Feb. 1985. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �7-7 RECREATION AND LOCAL SPENDING In terms of priorities for spending current tax dollars, 42-48% of respondents in the tricommunity area felt that parks and recreation are a high priority. Waterfront improvement was rated high by Clty and Village respondents. Senior programs were given low local spending priority in all three communities. despite the high average age of respondents. Although they would like to have them, most respondents would not support a community recreation center, a senior center. or a community pool if it meant an increase in general property taxes . TABLE 7.!S PLANNED ACQUISITIONS/IMPROVEMENTS TO PARKS AND OPEN SPACES NAME Esther McSlc property USE LOCATION Public open East side space Union st. Kal. Lake. North of Blue Star (Douglas) Ruth McNa- Land locked 132,000 Park Old Saugatuck Airport ACQUISmON COST($) 185,000 IMPROVEMEIVI' FINANCING DNR Land Trust Dty NA NA Dty 65,000 NA sq.ft. (vacant) mara property end of Schultz Vacant Lot SIZE CONDITION 124,000 sq.ft. Marshy (portion under water) vacant Parle (Douglas) Blue Star & land 18,000 Future park Main St. sq.ft.; nearly (Douglas) 1/2 acres SE 1/4 SecCurrently for154 acres tlon 2 estiy manage(Saugatuck) ment. possible future recreation TABLE7.6 RECREATION NEEDS IN THE TRI-COMMUNITY AREA 1988 PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY Cl1Y VILLAGE TOWNSHIP Bike paths (68%) Hiking trails (62%) Cross-country ski trails (62%) Lake MI open space (61 %) Lake Kal. open space (500/4) Kai. River open space (49%) Boat launching ramps (45%) Lake MI open space (70%) Lake Kal. open space (69%) Lake MI open space (67%) Bike paths (64%) Lake Kal. open space (62%) Kai. River open space (62%) Cross-country ski trails (60%) Boat launching ramps (59%) Senior Center (53%) Bike paths (67%) Kai. River open space (64%) Parks (50%) Boat launching ramps (46%) Senior Center (45%) Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �+ N A 0 4.000 8,000 12,000 It Scale 1" = 9060 ft 0 28 - I" • 27 I i !••........ r· . .·' ! ..."········- _ ta•TM AVC , ~ "' " ...:~-. . ~ - . ·li:i····· !I > a r 33 •• , ◄ .• ..-·•4 .... % ··· ... ~... l,.~•" J 35 ~ ..... . 36 '' , .. :' M-89 SAUGATUCK TWP. MAP7.1 OUTDOOR RECREATION SITES Tri-Community 1) - 25) See Chapter 7, Table 7.2 26) West Shore Golf Course 27) Clearbook Golf Course 28) Mi-Ro Golfcourse 29) Center Street August 1989 DATA SOURCE :Saug. - Doug. Parks & Rec. Plan, 1985 Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A ,....,.._. 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 ft Scale 1" = 9060 ft MAP7.2 PROPOSED BIKE PATHS Tri-Community I• •j Bike Paths [!] Chain Link Ferry August 1989 DATA SOURCE: Saugatuck Township Park and Recreation Commission Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing , Ml �8-1 Chapters WATERFRONT augatuck was the first settlement in Allegan S County. Its natural protected harbor along the Kalamazoo River and proximity to Lake Michigan gave it a ready means of water transport- essential to the commerce of the day. Throughout its history, land use activities along the Lake Michigan shoreline and the riverfront have continued to dominate the economic life of the tri-community area. Lumbeiing, boat building, basket making, fruit transport. and even large Great Lakes passenger boats have, at different times, relied upon the River connection. Tourists have always been attracted to the area, but tourism is now the number one economic activity. Today's waterfront activities are dominated by tourist and pleasure craft needs, especially sailboats, powerboats, charter fishing boats and other tourist boats. Consequently, how the waterfront is used will be of crucial importance to the future of the tri-community area. The primary issues concerning proper future use of the waterfront involve competition between economic development and environmental protection. Waterfront lands represent the highest value lands in the tri-community area, and local officials are therefore concerned about the potential tax base associated with use of waterfront lands. In order to finance the service needs of local residents, the tri-communities must balance taxable and nontaxable land uses. This presents a dilemma. Although waterfront lands have high revenue generating potential, a major attraction of both the Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo River waterfronts is their scenic, natural shorelines composed of forested sand dunes and large wetland areas. Should these natural areas be greatly damaged or destroyed through inappropriate development. then the "goose that laid the golden egg" will be dead. It is essential that the natural beauty of the waterfront be maintained along the Lake Michigan shoreline, the Kalamazoo River from the channel to Saugatuck, and from the Blue Star Highway bridge inland. Limited additional development along the waterfront on Lake Kalamazoo and the Douglas side of the bayou east of Blue Star Highway may be both desirable and necessary. However, such development must be undertaken carefully to maintain the delicate balance between economic development and environmental protection. It is both necessary and possible to manage the waterfront for a variety of purposes. Yet it is always dlfficult to manage for multiple uses. Some individuals value land management to retain the necessary habitat for birds, fish and wildlife. Others feel it should be managed to maximize surface water use, or for intensive waterfront dependent actMties like ship building or power generation. Based on some of the technical data presented below, existing use information, citizen opinions. and the goals and objectives presented at the beginning of this Plan, the waterfront in the tri-community area can, and should, be managed to accommodate a wide range of land uses and activities. This Plan seeks to define a balance between competing uses. It places protection of the natural environment as first and foremost in making future land use decisions along the Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo River waterfronts. The ultimate goal is to minimize disruption of the natural environment so that new development is in harmony with the environment, rather than in conflict with it. Some destruction of the limited remaining wetland areas along Lake Kalamazoo is only justified where the public benefits of particular projects are very great (e.g. a public marina or additional public access to the waterfront). watersheds of the Kalamazoo River Basin The Kalamazoo River extends from south of Homer in Hillsdale and Jackson Counties to its outlet at Lake Michigan in Saugatuck Township (see Figure 4 .1). With the exception of lands adjoining Lake Michigan (which drain directly into the Lake) and a small area in the southeast comer of Saugatuck Township, all land in the tri-community area is part of the Kalamazoo River Basin. Eight small watershed areas lie within the tri-community area and discharge into Lake Michigan via the Kalamazoo River (see Map 8.1). These include Goshorn, Peach Orchard, Tan- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �I 8-2 nery. Silver and "Cemetery" Creeks, as well as the Morrison Bayou at the eastern end of the Kalamazoo River as it enters the Township. Most of Douglas and Saugatuck also drain separately into the Kalamazoo River and Lake Kalamazoo. Slopes in the area are generally less than 10 percent though locally they may be in excess of 20 percent. Runoff erosion is taking place in the highlands, contributing sediment to backswamp areas and Lake Michigan. Monthly (exceedance) flows for the Kalamazoo River, based on a 1649 square mile drainage area near Fennville (#0410B500, T2n, Rl4W, NE 1/4 Sec 5), were averaged from measurements taken between 1929 to 1985 by the Hydrologic Engineering Section. Land and Water Management Division. MDNR Estimates based on these measurements were then prepared for the larger drainage area of 2060 square miles at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River (T3N, Rl6W. Sec 4, Saugatuck Township). Ninety-five percent and fifty percent exceedance flows are shown in Table 8. 1. These are flows exceeded 95% or 500.A> of the time. The lowest 95% exceedance flow in Fennville (nearly drought level) was measured during August at 410 cfs, and is estimated to be 520 cfs at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River. The 50% exceedance flow in Fennville ranged from a low of 860 cfs during the summer months to 2010 cfs TABLES.I KALAMAZOO RIVER EXCEEDANCE FLOWS (1929-85) MONTHLY AVERAGE CUBIC FT /SECOND FENNVIILE January February March April May June July August September October November December RIVERMOllm 50% 95% 50% 95% 1350 1400 1950 2010 1600 1250 970 860 860 980 1210 1300 710 790 1010 1040 830 630 480 410 480 520 650 750 1690 1750 2430 2510 2000 1560 1210 1070 1070 1220 1510 1620 890 990 1260 1300 1040 790 600 520 600 650 810 940 Source: Hyclrolo~c En~cerlntSection, Land and Water Resources DMs on, Mic gan Department of Natural Resources. during April. Corresponding estimates for the mouth of the Kalamazoo River ranged from 1070 cfs during the summer months to 2510 cfs during April. The 100 year discharge is estimated at 15,400 cfs at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River. and 12,500 cfs at the Fennville gage. PRIMARY ECOSYSTEMS The tri-community area has three basic ecosystems, two of which parallel the waterfront. The first ecosystem is comprised of hardwoods holding the sand dunes in place along the Lake Michigan shoreline. These woodlots are inhabited by small game such as fox squirrels, rabbits. raccoons, deer, wild turkey, and opossums. This ecosystem is comprised of fauna common to most of Michigan, but its balance is easily upset by the disruption of its shallow organic soils. Any ground cover that is damaged or removed should be quickly replaced with cover that will hold and prevent sand from blowing or rapid wind erosion may occur. Michigan's most famous ghost town, Singapore, once a thriving lumber town, lies beneath these shifting sands near the mouth of the channel. The second ecosystem is the marsh-wetland ecosystem that covers the area along the Kalamazoo River, Silver Lake and Goshorn Lake, and the connecting tributaries. This area is covered with marsh grasses, low shrubs, poplar trees, spruces. some white pine, and other softwoods. The cover is inhabited by common Michigan marsh dwellers such as frogs. turtles, ducks, blackbirds, and snakes. The marsh ecosystem is also populated by muskrat, mink, mallard duck, black duck. teal, wood duck, blue heron, Canadian geese, and mute swans. Golden eagle and osprey used to frequent the area. The marsh ecosystem is very sensitive to changes in water quality and disruption of vegetation. Great care must be taken to limit siltation and disruption to vegetation when working in this ecosystem. The third ecosystem covers the rest of the Township and is predominantly agricultural/forest with birds and wildlife common to this dominant ecosystem in Michigan. The entire Saugatuck/Douglas area is designated as an area of particular concern by the DNR Areas of particular concern are those having scarce resources, unusual scenic beauty, unusual economic value, recreational attractions, or some combination of the above. They are only located in coastal areas. Altering the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �8-3 environment in an area of "particular concern" could have a significant impact on the quality of coastal and Great Lakes waters. WA'IER QUAUTY The Kalamazoo River watershed includes many types of land uses and the River flows through several large developed urban areas including Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. When it reaches the trl-community area, the quality of this water is not good. Despite the water quality problem, the River from about one-half mile downstream from the Hacklander Public Access Site (in Section 23). has been designated as a "wild-scenic river" under Michigan's Natural River Act, Public Act 231 of 1970. Land use restrictions have been imposed to retain its natural character within 300 feet of the River's edge. The basic water management goal is the elimination of the pollution threat to surface and groundwater resources. The Kalamazoo River is designated by the DNR to be protected for recreation (partial body contact), intolerant fish (warm water species), industrial water supply, agricultural and commercial uses. Downstream from the Kalamazoo Lake, the river is protected for cold water anadromus fish species (trout and salmon) . Kalamazoo Lake and Goshorn Lake are designated to be protected for recreation (total body contact), and intolerant fish (warm water species). These water management objectives are nearly ten years old, but there have been no concerted efforts to update them and cany them out. A push to revise the objectives is underway statewide, but it could be years before any action plans are carried out for the Kalamazoo River. 1988 Public Opinion Survey results reveal that citizens in the trt-community area feel that the water quality of the Kalamazoo River and Lake is poor tovexy poor (580/4-700/4), Lake Michigan is rated fair to good (31-50%), and most respondents familiar with the water quality of Silver Lake felt that it was fair. The majority of respondents who are familiar with these water bodies, feel that the water quality of Lake Michigan and Silver Lake has deteriorated slightly in recent years, and Kalamazoo River and Kalamazoo Lake has deteriorated slightly to greatly. Most respondents who reside in Saugatuck, however, felt that the ,water quality has stayed about the same. Basic water quality data on the River appears in Table 8.2 for selected months in 1978, TABLE 8.2 KALAMAZOO RIVER WATER QUALITY FECAL COUFORM PER lOOML PHOSPHOROUS TOTAL ORIHO MG/L MG/L Nl1ROGEN SEDIMENIS N02 N03 MG/L MG/L TONS/DAY HEAVY METALS LEAD MERCURY MG/L MG/L Fennville 1/27/88 5/18/88 7/28/88 9/21/88 Saugatuck 3/19/86 6/25/86 9/11/86 Saugatuck. 1/10/78 5/1/78 7/20/78 9/11/78 28 96 .05 .04 .08 .07 .01 <.01 <.01 .02 1.4 0 .5 0 .67 0 .64 5 26 17 39 29 102 30 202 200 200 .08 .11 .14 .02 .02 .01 1.6 0.88 0 .39 21 13 21 161 102 103 .07 . 12 . 12 . 15 NR 1.7 0.34 0 .54 0.00 9 20 15 28 27 123 26 72 120 69 NR NR NR <5 <.l <5 <. 1 <5 <.l <5 <.l 20 10 <.5 <.5 .5 NR = Not Reported Source: USGS Water Resource Data For Michigan, Water Resources Dtvision, U.S. Geologic Survey. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �8-4 1986. and 1988. The sampling point was moved from Saugatuck to Fennville in 1987. This data reveals an increase in sedimentation and a decline in heavy metals. It also shows an increase in fecal coliform (intestinal bacteria) levels to 200/ 100 ml at the former testing site in Saugatuck- the maximum level permitted under rule 62 of the MDNR Water Resources Commission General Rules of 1986. Phosphorous and certain nitrogen levels have not changed appreciably in the past ten years. The Kalamazoo River between Calkins Dam and Lake Michigan has been designated an Area of Concern in the 1988 Michigan Nonpoint Source Management Plan (MNSMP). due to contamination of fish from PCB's. The primary source of contamination was identified as PCB contaminated sediments upstream in the Kalamazoo River and Portage Creek. These sediments continue to erode. resuspend, and dissolve PCB's into the water column where they are transported downstream. Due to the presence of PCB's, advisories are in effect for consumption of fish caught in the Kalamazoo River or Lake Michigan. The advisory warns against any consumption of carp, suckers, catfish, and largemouth bass taken from the Kalamazoo River downstream from the Morrow Pond Dam to Lake Michigan and Portage Creek downstream from Monarch Millpond. Limited consumption of other species (no more than one meal per week) is considered safe for all except nursing mothers. pregnant women, women who intend to have children. and children age 15 and under. In Lake Michigan limited consumption of Lake Trout 20-23", Coho Salmon over 26", Chinook Salmon 21-32", and Brown Trout up to 23" is considered safe for all except nursing mothers. pregnant women, women who intend to have children. and children age 15 and under. Individuals should not consume carp, catfish, or Lake Trout, Brown Trout. or Chinook which fall outside of the acceptable size for limited consumption. To address the PCB problem, the MNSMP has devised a Remedial Action Plan with the goal of reducing human exposure to acceptable levels (1: 100,000) and thus reducing fish tissue concentration to a maximum .05 mg/kg and reducing water column levels to .02 ng/1. Actions taken to address the problem include: strict controls on direct discharges of PCB's; a feasibility study of remedial alternatives: funding through State Act 307 to take remedial action at three sites: and legal action and negotiations with private parties at two other sites (see MNSMP, November 7, 1988, p. 328). Efforts initiated in the '70's to identify and require extensive treatment of pollutants prior to their dumping into the River will continue to slowly improve the quality of the water. As the nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen are removed from wastewater entering the River. less new plant life will be stimulated and more oxygen will be available for fish. One of these efforts is the Michigan Water Resources Commission Act, which requires all discharges into the water to have discharge permits. In addition. the Federal Water Pollution Control Act established the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program. Under these laws, any public or private facility which will emit any point-source discharge into the water must first receive a NPDES discharge permit. The permit program sets forth limitations and monitoring requirements to protect water quality and meet treatment standards, and establishes strong enforcement actions for violations. The Surface Water Quality Division, MDNR, administers NPDES permits. NPDES permits issued in the tri-community area are shown on Table 8.3. However, sedimentation and nonpoint sources of pollution will remain a problem. In contrast to pipes that discharge directly into a waterbody, nonpoint sources of pollution include those pollutants that do not originate from a single point- such as fertilizer and pesticide runoff from farmers fields and petroleum based pollutants that wash off parking lots and roadways. The most obvious pollutants are the physical litter and debris that are carelessly dumped into the River or Lake and which typically wash up along the shore. Michigan's 1988 Nonpoint Pollution Assessment Report concluded that 99% of Michigan's watersheds have at least one waterbodywith a non-point source pollution problem. In-place contamination and atmospheric deposition were listed as the primary non-point sources of pollution for the Kalamazoo River. Stronger efforts to improve water quality will have a positive affect on tourism. recreation, and future growth and development of the tricommunity area. All sources of pollution affect water quality, and hence the utility of the water resource. While the tri-community area must rely on outside agencies to enforce pollution control laws upstream, some efforts can be undertaken by Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township to improve water quality Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan 10 �8-5 TABLE 8.3 NPDES PERMITS ISSUED IN THE TRI-COMMUNITY AREA PERMIT RECIPIENT ADDRESS Culllgan • Kal. Lake Water & Sewer Authorttv Kalarnaroo Lake Groundwater Purge 201 Culver St.. Saugatuck 340 Culver St., Saugatuck 6449 Old Allegan Rd .. Saugatuck 1\vp. DISCHARGE LOCATION processed wastewater treated municipal waste 900.CXX> gal/day purged groundwater. purgable halo- Ka1amazoo Lake EXPIRATION DA'IE 1991 via storm sewers Ka1amazoo River 1990 outfall 001 Kalamazoo River 1993 outfall 001 carbons Rich Products 350 Culver St.. Saugatuck 12,CXX> gal/day Kalamazoo River non-contact cool- via storm sewer ing water & cooling tower blowdown 1990 Source: MDNR Surface Water Quality Division TABLE 8.4 LAKE MICHIGAN LAKE LEVELS YEAR LOWEST EL FEETAS.L. MONTI-I HIGHEST EL FEETA.S.L. MONTI-I 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 578.00 578.12 578.31 578.92 578.51 578.17 578.85 579.02 579.57 580.36 578.96 578.10 February March February December February March February February February February December December 578.57 579.01 580.02 579.77 579.43 579.02 580.08 580.23 580.84 581.62 580.65 579.04 July October April July July April July July June October January May DIFFERENCE DIFFERENCE ' IN FEET IN INCHES .57 .89 1.75 .85 .92 .85 1.25 1.21 1.27 1.26 1.69 .94 6.84 10.68 20.52 10.20 11.04 10.20 15.00 14.52 15.24 15.12 20.28 11.28 Source: The Mlchlfan Riparian, May 1989 and prevent further pollution within the tricommunity area. These w1ll be discussed further later in this Chapter. LAKE LEVELS The natural level of the Great Lakes goes through periodic changes that are based predominantly on rainfall and evaporation within the entire Great Lakes Basin. Since a century peak in 1986, Lake Michigan has steadily fallen to its current level of around 578 feet (see Table 8.4). The Kalamazoo River, Kalamazoo Lake and Lake Michigan are interconnected. Thus. water levels on the River and Lake Kalamazoo are largely dependent on Lake Michigan water levels. Consequently, land uses adjoining the waterfront should be based on the vagaries of fluctuating Lake Michigan water levels. This has not always been done as was evident by extensive shore erosion and flooding during the last high water period. When water levels are high •no-wake· zones. which are always in effect from the channel to Mason Street in Saugatuck. are extended Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �8-6 to cover all of the Kalamazoo Lake shoreline and parts of the River east of Blue Star Highway (see Map 8.2). When a "no-wake" speed is in effect. then all motor boats and vessels must limit speed to a slow no-wake speed when within 100 feet of: • rafts, except for ski Jumps and ski landing floats: • docks: • launching ramps: • swimmers: • anchored, moored or drifting boats; and • designated no-wake zones. This means a speed slow enough that the wake or wash of the boat creates a minimum disturbance. Owners and operators are responsible for damage caused by wakes. HARBOR Map 8.3 is the existing harbor map (June 1987) distributed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It depicts water depth for the shoreline along Lake Michigan, and the River through Kalamazoo Lake. Channel depth is maintained by periodic dredging to a depth of 13 feet to Main Street in Saugatuck. (Dredging at the mouth of the channel is to begin in July 1990 and be completed in the Fall of 1990.) The depth then drops to 20-2 7 feet for the next 500 feet. Between that point and Tower Marine, the water depth is about 7 feet. Most of the rest of Lake Kalamazoo varies between 1 and 4 feet in depth with not more than 2 feet being the most common. The Douglas shoreline, east of Blue Star Highway is only 1-2 feet in depth except for a small area running NW-SE from the center of the bridge and connecting to the Point Pleasant Yacht Club. This natural harbor is the principal attraction for nautical tourists which flock to the area during summer months when the marinas are used to capacity. Hundreds rent dockage by the season. Many live on their boats for weeks on end. The demand for dockage appears to be greater than the supply, despite the huge number of slips available (see Map 8.4). In 1976there were 8 marinas with approximately 800 slips. In 1989, there are 26 legally operating marinas with 966 slips. There are about half dozen marinas without current permits and these contain over 30 more slips. There are also a number of slips maintained by private residences for their own personal use. Marina permits are required for any commercial activity, so as few as two slips could require a marina permit if they are rented. Permits are issued for a three year period by the DNR On peak summer weekends the number of boats on the lake could be twice to thrice the normal level. This presents one of the most serious problems Jointly facing the tri-community area-how to deal with surface water use conflicts. The Lake has a total surface water area of 184 acres. Acreage available for recreational boating is dramatically reduced by the dockage which extends into the Lake hundreds of feet and by the shallow water at the edge to about 133 acres. Yet. on summer weekends the River is a constant highway of boats moving in and out of the Lake. Recreational sailing, fishing, swimming, sailboarding and water skiing are limited by all of the motorboat traffic. However, during the week, other water surface actMties can go on without much interference. MARINE SAFETY The Allegan County Sheriffs Department, Marine Safety DMsion, maintains strict control of the waterways. The Department has 8 marine officers. Normally, two officers patrol by boat, but three to four officers patrol during holidays and special events. Officers patrol in a 27 foot Boston Whaler with two 150 horsepower outboard motors. This boat is equipped for Lake Michigan rescue, and has a noise meter which monitors the 86 decibel noise limit. From Memorial Day to Labor Day officers put in 635 hours of patrol duty on Kalamazoo River and Kalamazoo Lake. One hundred and ten hours were spent patrolling Lake Michigan. Most patrols occur between Friday and Sunday, and about half of the Department's budget goes to patrolling the Saugatuck area. In the summer of 1989, 189 tickets were issued on Kalamazoo River and Kalamazoo Lake, 11 were issued on Lake Michigan, 276 warnings were issued, 10 complaints were received, and 6 boating accidents occurred. The Department also conducted 378 safety inspections. The most common violations are inadequate life preservers on board and lack of current registration. The Department notes that slow /no wake. and hazardous violations were down in the summer of 1989. The most common surface water use conflicts identified by the Sheriffs Department include sailboat and motorboat conflicts and complaints over the noise and attitude ofJet Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �8-7 skiers. Conflicts between sailboats and motorboats are most common on Saturday. waterfront. but there are few public access sites and, except for Shultz Park. these provide little space for transient parking. EXISTING LAND USE Existing land use 1s described in detail in Chapter 5. All lanli uses along the waterfront are oriented to the water. The bulk of the waterfront in the Township from the channel to the City is developed as single family residential. The City and Village waterfronts are predominantly residential and marina. The balance of the waterfront. which lies in the Township, is in a natural state with some areas ofresidential development (such as along Silver Lake). Many commercial establishments (mostly motels and restaurants) are also located here. Except for the Broward Boat Company near the channel, there are no industrial activities along the waterfront. A number of small parks are located along the CONFLICTS/PROBLEMS At an inteijur1sdictional meeting on water front issues on November 1986, five key issues were identified: • high water and its impacts • development and acquisition of public lands along the waterfront: • l1miting the intensity of shoreline development: • preserving the scenlc character of the shoreline environment retaining visual access to. of the • surface water use conflicts. Each of these remain important issues as shown in the 1988 Public Opinion Survey. FIGURE 8.1 LINKAGE PLAN pt R-2 R-1 A·2 ~(commercial) ~wetland AG. ,.' Source: Conaerve Oakland County'• Natural Resource•: A Manual for Planninc & Implementation, Department of Public Works, Oakland County, MI, September 1980. Trt-Communtty Comprehensive Plan �8-8 High Water When Great Lakes water levels are high. erosion along the Lake Michigan shoreline increases. The impacts of erosion are clear along Lakeshore Drive, where part of the road has been washed away. Many h igh value homes will be threatened by additional erosion in this area. Erosion along the River and Lake Kalamazoo also increases with higher Lake Michigan water levels. Many bulkheads and stmilar shore protection devices were installed to minimize the effects of the most recent high water level. Raising some of the land and struct ures would be necessary if lake levels remained high for lengthy periods. On the positive side. the south shore of Lake Kalamazoo becomes more attractive to marina development when water levels are high since it is very shallow in this area. Likewise, when water levels are below average. some existing dockage Is unusable. Fluctuating lake levels are part of a natural system. The costs and impllcatlons of trying to artificially manage the entire Great Lakes Basin to maintain even Lake levels Is not known. but waterfront land use decisions in the tri-community area should be made based on the assumption that Lake Michigan water levels cannot be artificially maintained. Acquisition and Development of Public Lands Along the Waterfront Two types of public lands are needed along the waterfront. One is parkland/ open space and the other is a public marina. Existing open space along the waterfront should be preserved (see Map 8.5). Several street ends provide needed relief from structures along the shoreline. These public open spaces are generally well managed. and efforts should be initiated to ensure that they are not lost. Existing parks along the shoreline should also be linked together. and wtth other inland parks, by pedestrian and bicycle paths whenever the opportunity arises (see Figure 8.1). The lack of parkland along the Lake Michigan shoreline is most acute for Township residents. and somewhat less severe for Village residents. Outside of purchasing and developing new land for parks, the tri-communities should consider establishing a separate park and recreation authority responsible for maintaining all parks presently owned by the three communities. The benefit would be providing access to Oval Beach by Village and Township residents and spreading the fiscal responsibility for main- tenance across more taxpayers. This would also make it more feasible to acquire addltlonal park space as needed. Because residents of three Jurisdictions would benefit. grant requests would probably be more favorably reviewed. Public marina space Is also needed as there are only three public access sites along Lake Kalamazoo and the River presently. and two are too far inland for most daily boaters. The third Is a s treet end in Saugatuck and has no adjacent parking. Private marinas provide transient berthing opportunities, but there Is considerable demand for more. By having a facility to attract more transient boaters, the three communities would be gaining additional tourist income. The three most logical places for such a facility are: 1) immediately adjacent to the Blue Star Highway bridge in Douglas and extending to the existing launch facility adjacent to the Kewatln; 2) converting the Center Street maintenance facility in Douglas to a public marina; 3) at some distant time (or if the opportunity arose) by replacing the Rich Products office building in Saugatuck with a public marina and accompanying parking. Alternatively. if adjacent parking could be secured, the street end next to Gleason's in Saugatuck could be a good public access point. While the public opinion survey did not reflect overwhelming support for a public marina. there appears to be demand for such a facility from persons outside the tri-community area. Its long term economic benefits may well justify its cost. especially if state or federal funds could be secured to help pay for it. Limiting the Intensity of Development The primary future development of waterfront lands in the City will be redevelopment of existing parcels. In the Village it will focus on further development along the South Shore of Lake Kalamazoo. In both areas tt will be critical that new development Is neither so dense. nor so high as to block existing public views of the waterfront or further "wall" the Lake with structures. Recommendations to prevent this are included in Chapter 10. It will be critical that all three communities agree to a common approach to waterfront development, embody that in land use plans. and then implement those plans. To some extent. uniform densities, setbacks, and height regulations will be valuable. especially around Lake Kalamazoo. Additional development around Silver Lake needs to remain at a very low density in keeping Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �8-9 with the septic limitations of the land and the llmited recreational value of this shallow waterbody. The eastern end of the Kalamazoo River should likewise recetve little new development in keeping with lts Natural River designation. Retaining Visual Access, Aesthetics and the Character of the Area As has been emphasized throughout this Plan, the natural beauty of the waterfront has much to do wtth the attraction of the tri-community area . Local development regulations should be reviewed and revised 1f necessary. to insure that new development complements. rather than detracts from this natural beauty. Old vessels should not be pennitted to lie beached along the shoreline, because this also detracts from the beauty and character of the waterfront. Several Vistas have public values that deserve protection. These include the entry into and exit from Lake Michigan on the Kalamazoo River, the View from Mount Baldhead. the view of Kalamazoo Lake from both ends, and approaches to the Kalamazoo River Bridge. The public opinion survey strongly supports the provision of adcUtional open space along Lake Kalamazoo and the Kalamazoo River and demonstrates that the primary use of the area's water bocUes is viewing. Yet, recent development pressures have led to overbullcUng of condominiums along the waterfront. shutting off all public Viewing of the lake from existing rights-of-way. Any future development along the channel should be set back sufficiently to maintain the broad open views that are presented to boat travelers entering or leaving the Kalamazoo River. The View from the top of Mount Baldhead should be improved by careful selecttve pruning of dead or dying trees blocking good views of Saugatuck and Lake Kalamazoo. The curve going northbound on Blue Star Highway in Douglas Just before crossing the bridge ls the only good panorama of Kalamazoo Lake. A public turnoff, the acqulsttlon of a scenic easement. or the concentration of new development on the western portion of those undeveloped lands should be initiated to protect that important view. In adcUtion, the land adjacent to the west side of the bridge in Douglas should be selectively pruned to improve the View to travelers crossing the bridge (northbound) until a public marina could be established there. Surface Water Use CorifUcts Resolution of surface water use conflicts will require more planning and a unlform approach to regulation. Most important is establishing the carrying capacity of Lake Kalamazoo and the River to the channel mouth . Carrying capacity refers to the physical capacity and intrinsic suitability of lands (and water) to absorb and support various types of development (or use). Such an analysis ls typically performed by an inventory of existing surface water use during weekdays and peak weekends. Data is then examined in terms of the size of the waterbody and its capacity to assimilate various mixes of use. Such an analysis would probably reveal some, but not much excess capacity for new boat slips, because any number of boaters can access Kalamazoo Lake from Lake Michigan. Without an analysis of carrying capacity, the amount of new boat slip development and related surface water use conflicts are difficult to evaluate. Some time or suiface zoning could be established in conjunction with the DNR if desired. For example. water skiing, Jet skiing, fishing, sailing, etc, could be limited to particular parts of Lake Kalamazoo or Silver Lake or to particular times of the day. Another option could be a harbor patrol paid for by all three governmental units. More information is necessary to establish the need for regulation. If surface water use is regulated, each unit of government would need to agree to a common regulatory approach. Surface water use conflicts will grow more acute on Lake Kalamazoo 1f existing dockage is extended much further into the Lake. Such extensions should not be permitted as the surface area available for various recreational uses will be too drastically reduced. Existing no-wake zones should also be more rigorously enforced. RECOMMENDATIONS TO GUIDE nmJRE USE In seeking to balance economic development with environmental protection. the concept of carrying capacity should be a major consideration. If the carrying capacity ofland or water ls exceeded, then activities cannot be undertaken without unacceptable impacts on users, the environment. or both. Impacts can include increased trip times, decreased safety, pollution, loss of open space, and many other considerations. The key is prevention of overuse by limiting intensity of use on adjoining lands and regulating suiface water use. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �8-10 Environmental protection must be a leading principle in making future land use decisions along the waterfront. Environmentally sensitive areas such as sand dunes, wetlands, high rtsk erosion areas, floodplains, and key woodlands should be protected from unnecessary desbuction. Development should complement rather than destroy these areas and their values. By doing so the environmental quality of the air and water will be improved, wildlife habitat will be preserved, scenic values will be protected, and the character of the area will be maintained. Some new intensive shoreline development will be desirable and necessary, but the balance should not be disproportionately on the side of new tax base as it has been for the past decade. Opportunities to enhance the waterfront should be seized. Parks and open spaces should eventually be ltnked with other publlc places. Additional access to the waterfront should be acquired when available, and existing access via street ends and parks should not be lost through neglect or inaction. A new publlc martna should be constructed if resources are available and the cost could be spread among local citizens and other users (such as through grants or user fees) . Visual access from public thoroughfares and walkways should be maintained in all new waterfront development. Protection mechanisms, like the Natural River designation, should be recognized for the ancillary benefits they brtng to the community. A local "Friends of the River" organization could be instituted to annually adopt and clean up the shoreline to remove floating debris, other waste, and downed timber that become lodged there. A special effort to maintain the character of Lakeshore Drtve along the Lake Michigan shoreline should also be initiated. A comprehensive stormwater management plan and wetlands protection plan should be instituted as part of a broad water quallty protection program that is based on the small watersheds that feed the Kalamazoo River Basin. The Soil Conseivatlon Service should be asked to assist in preparing nonpoint pollution guidelines to help guide fa.nners in land management practices that help keep the River clean. spectjur1Sdiction boundaries. Their future quality and desirability depends on all governmental units through which they flow playing an active and supportive role in protecting and improving water quallty. To advance this goal, the Jointly appointed waterfront committee should be reinstituted or its responsibilities shifted to the Joint Planning Committee which helped fashion this Plan. NEED FOR JNTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION Each of these recommendations requires a strong degree of intergovernmental cooperation. Watercourses, like the environment, do not re- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �N A MAP8.1 WATERSHEDS Kalamazoo River Basin Boundary Tri-Community [2] Creeks & Drains Small Watershed Areas : 1) Douglas 2) Tannery Creek 3) Peach Orchard Creek 4) Kalamazoo/Morrison Bayou 5) Ash Drain 6) Silver Lake Creek 7) Goshorn Creek 8) "Cemetery" Creek 9) River Bluff-Indian Creek 10)Saugatuck August 1989 DATA SOUACE :Allegan County Drain Commission Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A ~ MAP8.2 NO-WAKE ■ Tri-Community No-Wake Area Additional No-wake Area During Periods Of High Water August 1989 DATA SOURCE : Tri-Community Waterfront Committee Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �06 l )0 J2 J7 Jo JJ 29 J4 J7 JO 21 J7 JO " Jl 21 ,. 2' Q 2• 27 ~ 21 2J JO 26 0 20 22 22 20 MICHIGAN Scale hlSJJOI ·- IOUNOINOI IN rcrr 1£ .... MAP 8.3 SAUGATUCK HARBOR �MAP 8.4 MARINAS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11 . 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. Tri-Community Ship & Shore Motel/Boatel (0) East Shore Harbor Club (64) Pointe Pleasant Yacht Club (14) Sergeant Marina (63) Tower Marina (322) Skippers Cove (12) Water Side Condo (12) Naughtins Marina (37) Saugatuck Yacht Club (16) Deep Harbor Deve , Inc. (46) South Side Marina (24) Casa Loma (11) Gleasons Marina (9) Saugatuck Yacht Co. (81) Walkers Landing (22) Windjammer Condo Association (12) Schippas Marina (10) Singapore Yacht Club (50) West Shore Marine Inc. (57) Bridges Of Saugatuck (8) Coral Gables (50)) V & L Properties ( 10) Back Bay Marina (12) Southside Marina (24) Total Number Of Permitted Marina Boat Slips In Area ......... 966 August 1989 DATA SOURCE:DNR Planning & Zoning Center, Inc, Lansing, Ml ��N A MAP 8.5 STREET ENDS/ PARKS G Street/Road Ends 0 Tri-Community Parks ~ Public Access 1) Oval Beach 2) Mount Baldhead 3) Chain Link Ferry 4) Douglas Beach August 1989 DATA SOURCE: Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �N A See Preceding Map For Information Regarding This Area Tri-Community MAP 8.5 A STREET ENDS/ PARKS ~ Street/Road Ends [ill Public Access August 1989 DATA SOURCE : 0 Parks 1) Shultz Park 2) River Bluff Park 3) Sundown Park Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �9-1 Chapter9 GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT TRENDS Growth and development trends reflect past settlement patterns in a community and provide a basis for estimating future development patterns. Growth rates are one aspect of change. These show which areas are growing at a faster rate. Residential construction permits show where most of this residential development is taking place and provide insight into residential preferences. Land subdivision trends show the rate at which small lots are created. Rapid land subdivision caives up agricultural land and other open spaces for residential use and thus permanently transforms the rural character of an area. Inefficient land subdivision takes large amounts of potentially developable land out of use as long "bowling alley" lots or "flag" lots are created. Population trends may be used to project future population, which 1s used to estimate future land use needs and settlement patterns in a community. And finally, a "build out" scenario may be created based upon the vacant or buildable sites in an area to get an idea what the area might look like if it were developed according to current zoning and use requirements. A more complete discussion of these issues 1s included below. GROWTH RATES During the past decade, the Township's population growth rate hit 40%, up from only 11 % between 1960 and 1970. The growth rate in the Village declined from 35% to 17% over the same period, and the City went from a 19% growth rate in the 60's to only 6% in the 70's (see Table 9.1). TABLE9.l RATE OF POPULATION CHANGE COMMUNITY Saugatuck Saugatuck Twp. Douglas AREAWIDE 1950-60 1960-70 1970-80 20% 10% 6% 34% 35% 29% 11% 35% 16% 40% 17% 22% The City's slower growth rate is due in part to a shrinking supply of vacant or developable land and in part to a higher proportion of seasonal residents and elderly in small households. The Township's large supply of land has translated into high growth rates. The Village continues to have a high rate of growth, and while this has declined from the higher growth rates experienced during the past two decades, it 1s increasing again in this decade. In terms of actual numbers, the areawide population nearly doubled between 1950 and 1980, when it reached a total of 3,780 people. The Township gained over half of these new residents. RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCflON Building permit data reveal 'development trends in each community since 1980. Most of Saugatuck's growth has taken place along the lakeshore in the form of multiple family condominiums. The City has seen the development of eight condominium projects containing 127 indMdual units since 1980. Single family residential building permits show that only 65 single family units were built in the City between 1970 and 1984 (after 1984 the census quit recording local construction data for Saugatuck). Development in the Township has followed an opposite path. Since 1970 about 280 single family homes have been constructed in the Township and only 8 multiple family units. This residential development has been focused in three areas: along Lakeshore Drive: in the area west of 1-96, north of 134th Street, and east of 64th Street: and around Silver Lake. The Village has also attracted multiple family housing development. ApprOXimately 46 single family homes and 73 units of multiple family housing have been constructed in the Village since 1980. with most construction occurring south of Center Street along Lakeshore Drive: in the northwest comer of the Township: and north of Westshore St. and east of Ferry St. Aside from new construction, the number of additions. extensions, and other improvements was high in each community. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �9-2 created an ·overflow" effect. If the rapid subdivision of rural land continues unchecked. it will threaten the viability of the Township's agricultural base and increases demand for public seIVices, especially sewer and water. Unfortunately, the areas involved and the lots created are so large that it will not be cost effective to provide any new public services in these areas for many years. FIGURE 9.1 SUBDIVISION TRENDS CHANGES FROM 195<4 TO 196,$ p E T R H C o E u N s A T N A D MIGRATION Migration Is a strong component of population growth throughout the County. Allegan County experienced net in-migration of 3.03% between 1983 and 1987-the eighteenth highest rate of in-migration in the state. Many of these 1mm1grants are retirees. Figure 9.2 reveals migration patterns of senior citizens in the region over the past three decades. It reveals an explosion of retiree migration into Allegan County since 1970. Between 1980 and 1985, the rate of retiree migration into the County continued to cllmb, reaching 2.17 compared to -0.26 for the state as a whole. G s E 70+ ~ 1&-311 10-15 s-; 2_. 1 OR LESS LOT SIZE (ACRES) LAND SUBDIVISION TRENDS Land subdMsion trends in the area are startling. Between 1954 and 1984. the number of lots in Saugatuck Township increased by nearly 60%, as large rural or agricultural parcels were caived into smaller lots. In 1954 the maJorityoflotswere 20 acres or more, while in 1984 most lots fell into the 1-4 acre category (see Figure 9 .1). Rapid subdivision of the Township ·s large rural parcels was stimulated by increasing demand for scenic rural living, along with the decreasing supply of land in the City which FIGURE 9.2 KENT OTTAWA' 54 501 • 1412 RETIREE MIGRATION TRENDS SOUTHWESTERN MICHIGAN 0 -767 -1148 . -713 -247 -457 I 150 AUEGAN. l■ A·RRY EATON -173 · -5 • -158 12 121 - _142 1040 · 132 · 804 I I I I l I Net Migration of The Population 65+ 1950-60 1960-70 1970-80 I · - · - - ..l_ - - . ...l_. ---- VAN BUREN i'ICALAMAZOO ,• +· $ ~~ -r I -13 234 1039 ~ . -447 ' -1651 1 t -1729 ,sr:- 36 -~--, CAis" • . 390 I 578 I -44s I 130 ss 109 I I I • 1 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan • I .LQ.UPH.. -33 580 I CALHOU_N -1196 -1131 -592 --,.- IR~-~~H -149 -12s -181 �9-3 POPULATION PROJECTIONS Future population for the tri-community area was projected based on the 1970 to 1980 population trend, rather than long term trends, due to the recent changes in the rate of population growth described above. A composite straight-line trend can be projected by applying logarithms to determine the ratio of change based on the 1970 to 1980 trend. Table 9.2 below illustrates these results: Thus if current trends continue, the area can expect about 1800 more people in 2010 than in 1980. Sixty-four percent of this growth is expected to occur in the Township, with 21 % in the Village, and 15% in the City. Due to the greater availability of land in the Village, it will eventually overtake the City in terms of overall population growth, as seen in Figure 9.3. PROJECTED LAND USE NEEDS: 2010 To determine the impact of this population growth on residential land use, future population is translated into new households. This is done by applying the average household size for each community to the projected population in 2010 and then subtracting 1980 households. The result is an estimated 739 new households in the tri-community area by 2010. These results are shown in Table 9.3. FIGURE 9.3 POPULATION TREND SAUGAlUCK TWP. p 0 p 3.0 2.5 Uo L u 2.0 A! 1.5 TN 1.0 I o 0 lWP.ONLY SAUGATUCK = T H C!Z!m3 DOUGlAS s 0.5 N 0.0 1G50 11180 11170 11180 111110 2000 2010 YEAR Future demand for land by these new households may be estimated by looking at land subdivision trends and current settlement patterns or zoned densities. While most residential development in the Township will fall into the low density category (2 units per acre), residential land in the Village is zoned predominantly for medium density residential development (4 to 5 units per acre). The City's development patterns are dense due to land scarcity, although zoned densities are roughly equivalent to those of the Village. If present trends continue, over half of the 739 new households will settle in low density TABLE 9.2 PROJECTED POPULATION 1970-1980 TREND COMMUNTIY Saugatuck Saugatuck Township Doul!]as AREAWIDE 1970 1,022 1,254 813 3,089 1980 1,079 1,753 948 3,780 1990 1,163 2,074 1.061 4,298 2000 1.254 2,454 1,187 4,895 2010 1,352 2,904 1.328 5,584 TABLE9.3 PROJECTED NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS COMMUNTIY Saugatuck Saugatuck Township Doumas AREAWIDE POP. 2010 1,352 2,904 1,328 5,584 HH SIZE 2.00 2.69 2.44 #HHs 676 1,080 544 2,300 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan 1980 HHs 537 633 391 1,561 NEWHHs 139 447 153 739 �9-4 TABLE9.5 NEW HOUSEHOLDS BY DENSITY TYPE TABLE9.4 PERCENTAGE OF POPULATION BY DENSITY TYPE COMMUNITY LOW Saugatuck Twp. 800/4 Saugatuck 400/4 Douglas 5% MEDIUM 100/4 400/4 700/4 HOUSEHOLDS MED. HIGH TOTAL HIGH 100/4 200/4 25% LOW COMMUNITY Saugatuck Douglas SaUS!atuck 1\vp. AREAWIDE 56 8 358 421 28 38 45 111 56 107 45 207 139 153 447 739 Totals are based on unrounded figures. TABLE9.6 FUTURE RESIDENTIAL LAND NEEDS COMMUNITY Saugatuck Douglas Saugatuck AREAWIDE LOW 24 4 205 234 TABLE 9.7 AVAILABLE ACREAGE BY LAND USE TYPE ACREAGE* MED. HIGH TOTAL 14 26 13 3 4 10 17 53 41 34 228 303 ACREAGE COMMUNITY COMM. Saugatuck Douglas Sat.1$tuck1\vp. TOTAL ACRES 3 33 155 191 IND. RES. 0 49 22 135 197 5,950 6,282 71 *times 1.25 (20% allowance for rights-of-way) Totals are based on unrounded figures. TABLE9.8 POPULATION 2010: BUILD OUT SCENARIO UNDER ZONING IN EFFECT COMMUNITY ADDITIONAL HOUSEHOLDS Saugatuck Douglas Saugatock1wp. AREAWIDE 330 1,139 16.413 17,882 AVERAGE HH SIZE 2.00 2.44 2.69 residential areas. translating into the conversion of 234 acres ofland. Fifty-three acres would be transformed into medium density residential use, and about 17 acres would be developed at higher densities as apartments of clustered units. Tables 9.4 to 9.6 show this projection of current trends. BUILD our SCENARIO The projections shown above are only estimates based on current trends. Yet any number of events could alter these trends. For example, provision of sewer and water service in to the Township could intensify the type. density, and rate of growth that occurs there. The location of a new industry in the Village could attract new families into the area. And Saugatuck's attraction as a center for tourism could continue to ADDITIONAL POPULATION 660 2,779 44.151 47,590 PRESENT POPULATION 1,079 948 1.753 3.780 TOTAL POPULATION 1,739 3,727 45.904 51,370 grow, fostering greater in-migration of retirees and others searching for an alternative lifestyle. If the area were developed to its full capacity, what would it look like?This exercise, called a "build out" scenario, provides an estimate of the buildable capacity of the City and Village under currently zoned densities, with a rough estimate for the Township. Acres were estimated based on vacant or developable land (not including existing agricultural areas) in each community by zoned use and density /minimum lot size. These results are shown in Table 9. 7. This information can be translated into a population estimate by first dividing the developable acres by the minimum lot size in that zoning district to determine the number of households which could occupy the parcel(s). This reveals the area capacity for about 17,882 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan 17'" �9-5 new households. The new households are then multiplied by the average household size for that community to derive a population estimate. Thus, under a build out scenario, the area could accommodate about 47,590 new residents. bringing ' the total tri-community area population to over 50,000 people (see Table 9.8). If land currently being farmed were added to these estimates, the total would be considerably higher. POUCY IMPLICATIONS If development were to proceed under existing zoning, as reflected in the build out scenario, then the tri-communtty area would gradually turn into a suburban enclave, complete with a long commercial strip from one end of Blue Star Highway to another. This is problematic in light of the 1988 Public Opinion Smvey which revealed the vast majority of respondents have the following preferences: • maintain the scenic, small town/rural character of the area; • no strip commercial development; • small commercial shopping centers off of major roads; • preserve open space along the waterfront; • protect the environment by prohibiting development of dunes and wetlands. These results suggest the need to reevaluate current zoning and regulatory policy. Policies to achieve the public's development objectives are included in Chapter l, and the Future Land Use Plan in Chapter 10. Regulatory tools, such as zoning, subdivision regulations, and site plan review will be amended to insure consistency with this plan and the comprehensive plan of each jurisdiction. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �10-1 Chapter 10 FUTURE LAND USE G ood land use planning is essential to the future quality of life of the tri-community area. Future land use arrangements are diflkult to predict and guide to achieve desired results. A future land use map and plan embodies local land use goals, objectives, and policies and provides one land use scenario which a community may use as a physical guide. Goals and policies, in tum, provide the policy guide for land use and development decisions. The future land use map accompanying this chapter is the composite offuture land use maps in the Saugatuck, Douglas, and Saugatuck Township Comprehensive Plans (see Map 10.1). It seeks to anticipate community land use needs for 20-30 years. These future land use arrangements are based on information in this plan and the individual community plans, with an emphasis on border issues. Proposed future land use is based on analysis of existing land use, impacts of area trends, projected future land uses needs if current trends continue, and the relationship of land use activities to the natural resource base. All proposals are intended to be consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies presented in Chapter 1 (which were created with substantial public input). Many factors could intervene that would require reevaluation of certain arrangements or the entire plan. For example, if a large mixed use development (e.g. 1000 single family units plus some commercial) were built or if a large single employer would enter the scene (e.g. an auto manufacturing facility) then land use arrangements in this plan must be reexamined. A few key planning and design principles were used to evaluate alternative land use arrangements. With slightly different trends and projections, application of the same principles could lead to different conclusions and different land use arrangements. However, these differences would be related to the amount of particular land uses more than their location or relative relationships to adjoining uses. Likewise. there are many areas in which alternative land use arrangements would be satisfactory providing they remained in keeping with these basic planning principles. Consequently, it iS crucial that this plan be regularly reviewed and updated at least once each five years to insure its continued relevance in planning for future land use needs. PLANNING AND DESIGN PRINCIPLES Future land use arrangements were determined based on compatibility with surrounding land uses, natural capacity of the land for particular uses, and necessary infrastructure improvements. These land use arrangements can and should be refined into timed and sequenced development areas, once some key deciSions concerning the proviSion of sewer and water services are made. The following planning and design principles are the technical foundation ' (or rationale) in support of the proposed land use arrangements graphically depicted on Map 10.1. Map 10.1 depicts generalized land use. which iS carrted out through mapping of zoning distrtcts. The planning principles listed above are implemented prtmarily through zoning regulations and applied during the site plan review process. These principles are consistent with the goals, objectives, and policies in Chapter 1 and should remain the basiS for reviewing any subsequent changes to the proposed Future Land Use Map. These planning principles are: • Protection of Public Health and Safety • Conservation of Natural Resources • Environmental Protection • Minimizing Public Service Costs • Efficiency and Convenience in Meeting Land Use Needs • Insuring Compatibility Between Land Uses (Nuisance Prevention) Often a land use decision based on one principle also advances another. For example, prevention of filling or construction on floodplains protects public health and safety, conserves natural resources, protects the environment, and minimizes public service costs (especially for relief efforts). It may also create a valuable buffer or open space between uses and hence help insure compatibility. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �10-2 Protection of Public Health and Sqfety Key situations in which this principle is applied include: • avoiding construction in areas which present natural hazards. In the trt-community area these include areas too close to the Lake Michigan shoreline at high risk from erosion from coastal wave action; floodplains; saturated soils and wetlands; soils not well suited for support of foundations or safe disposal of septic wastes; and steep slopes. • avoiding construction where an intensive land use activity is not adequately serviced by all weather public access; • avoiding construction in areas with soils contaminated by hazardous and/ or toxic waste. Conservation of Natural Resources Failure to consciously protect nonrenewable natural resources exposes a community to unbridled destruction of those resources which are the foundation for an area's character and quality of life. Conservation of natural resources usually focuses on: land, water, minerals, certain soils (such as prime farmland), wetlands, sand dunes, areas supporting an abundance and diversity of wildlife, and unique forested lands. Areas where the land and the water meet are the most important. Indiscriminate land subdivision frequently reduces the size or alters the shape of land, thereby compromising the resource value and production potential of those lands. This occurs frequently in prime agricultural areas and once lost, these lands may never be reclaimed for food production purposes. If widespread, such losses can dramatically alter the character of an area. These changes reflect lost opportunities- usually higher public service costs and gradual degradation of an area's tourism potential. Environmental Protection This principle aims at preventing pollution. impairment. or destruction of the environment. While there is considerable overlap with natural resource conservation issues, environmental protection measures focus primarily on air and water quality, and the impact of activities where the water meets the land. Environmental quality is best preserved by planning for appropriate land use activities in and near sensitive environmental areas, and managing development accordingly. Minimizing Public Service Costs Public service costs may be minimized by encouraging new land uses where existing infrastructure is not used to capacity and where expansion can be most economically supplied. This also results in compact settlement patterns, prevents sprawl, and if favored by taxpayers because it results in the lowest publlc service costs both for construction and maintenance. E.[fi.dency and Convenience in Meeting Land Use Needs To be efficient in meeting future land use needs communities must make better use of existing infrastructure and plan for infrastructure expansion in a manner which keeps the costs low and does not create huge areas where infrastructure will not be fully used for many years. It also means locating future land uses so that travel between actMty centers is minimized. For example: building schools, neighborhood commercial activities, day care facilities, fire and police protection, etc. near the residential areas they serve. This saves municipal costs on initial road construction and future maintenance. reduces everyone's gasoline expenditures, and conserves fossil fuel supplies for future use. Insuring Compatibility Between Land Uses A central objective of land use planning is to locate future land uses so that they are compatible with one another. This prevents future nuisance situations between adjacent land uses, such as loud sound, ground vibrations. dust. bright lights. restricted air flow, shadows, odors, traffic, and s1milar impacts. A few obvious examples of incompatible land uses include factories, drive-in establishments. or auto repair facilities adjacent to single family homes. With proper planning, land uses can be tiered to buffer impacts and orderly development can occur. Examples include: commercial service establishments on highway frontage with backlot wholesale, storage, or office uses abutting a residential area; or single family residential uses adjacent to park and recreation areas. DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION AREAS The future land use map for the tri-community area was prepared by first identifying conservation areas and then examining the suitability of remaining lands for various development purposes. Conservation areas fall into Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �10-3 two basic types: agricultural resources and other natural resources. Nonrenewable agricultural resources are limited to prime agricultural soils which are uniquely suited for crop production and require the least expenditure of energy and chemicals per acre of crop produced. Prime farmland may not be artificially created and is a rapidly diminishing natural resource. While Michigan has an abundance of farmland, prime farmland is in much shorter supply. Therefore, this plan recommends preservation of prime agricultural lands for agricultural production purposes. Other natural resource areas were used as the basis for establishing conservation areas. These include sand dunes, wetlands, floodplains, streams, creeks and drains. the Kalamazoo River, Lake Kalamazoo, and areas at high risk of erosion along Lake Michigan. These areas are proposed for very limited future development in keeping with their fragility and importance in buffering Lake Michigan storms, filtering and storing water during periods of flooding, draining stormwater from land, providing habitat for a wide range of plants and animals, and for their wide ranging open space values. Destroying these resources would destroy the essential qualities which continue to attract residents and tourists to the area. If conserved and wisely used, waterways and farms will become a natural greenbelt system that continues to enhance the area for years to come. Local zoning ordinances should be amended to include conservation practices. ENTRY POINTS There are four major entry points into the three communities. Each of these go through Saugatuck Township. They are: • from Lake Michigan on the Kalamazoo River • from I-196 at Blue Star Highway (north) near 136th Ave. • from I-196 at M-89 (south end) • from Fennville on M-89 In addition there are two entry points specific to Saugatuck and two to Douglas. These are: • from Blue Star Highway onto Washington Road/Holland St. • from Blue Star Highway at the Kalamazoo River bridge onto Lake Street (north end) • from Blue Star Highway at the Kalamazoo River bridge (south end) • from I-196 at Blue Star Highway (south end of Douglas Just south of 129th St.) At the present time, only the entry points flanking the Kalamazoo River Bridge on Blue Star Highway and the entry from Lake Michigan provide an aesthetic and inviting entry into the trt-community area. The entry along North Blue Star Highway is especially bad. Incompatible land uses, poorly maintained properties. buildings too close to the road. poorly marked ingress and egress to commercial establishments, poor road conditions. a proliferation of off-premises advertising signs, and an unattractive Saugatuck entry sign and intersection greet the newcomer or tourist. Less severe characteristics surround the southern entry to Douglas from 1-196. The remaining entry points don't leave a bad impression. they simply leave no impression at all. The public opinion surveys also reflected citizen concern about the appearance of properties along Blue Star Highway. The situation is further harmed by signs along I-196 which fail to inform southbound travelers at exit # 41 that they can access Douglas (only Saugatuck is mentioned) or along northbound 1-196 at exit# 36 which tell travelers that they can access Ganges. but not Saugatuck and Douglas. If left unresolved could have severe consequences for the area's competitiveness with other resort communities. First impressions are very important in the tourism industry. Attractive entryways help entice tourists into the community and leave a positive impression to encourage future visits. The entry points represent the community and should reflect those qualities which make the area special. Fortunately, these design problems are easily overcome, and with only minimum public investment. A special effort to develop alternatives for improving the entry points should be initiated. In addition, new land developments in these areas (or changes to existing ones) need to be carefully reviewed to insure that changes enhance (and do not further detract from) the positive image and character that should exist in these areas. RESIDENTIAL Residential use will continue to be the predominant developed land use 1n the tri-community area. The existing residential areas in Saugatuck and Douglas provide a rich and interesting mix of housing sizes, styles and ages. The challenge in the next twenty years will be maintaining the older housing stock and ensur- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �.. I 10-4 ing that the growing ranks of part-time residents and absentee owners does not result in housing deterioration. Equally important will be efforts to blend new development with the older character of existing land uses. Douglas has considerable potential for new housing development and has the greatest opportunity of the three jurisdictions to encourage the construction of affordable housing, due to available land that is suited for basement construction and the potential to extend sewer and water efficiently. If the Saugatuck School District is to survive with the same breadth of programming and quality it has today, then affordable housing oriented to families must be available . In terms of new construction, affordable housing typically means homes of about 1,000-1,200 square feet, on smaller than average lots, and priced at not more than $70,000. Some public incentives or "write-downs" are typically necessary to alter one of these basic elements. Some housing meeting this definition is being built on large lots in the rural parts of the Township, but not in any significant quantities. A unique opportunity exists for the area communities to take the initiative in providing affordable housing. If plans proceed to acquire the property commonly known as the Jager property, for a new water intake plant. part of the parcel could also be used for affordable housing. A design competition or specially hired site plan could be arranged to provide for affordable housing in this area. The site plan would be required to tier houses by size and type to blend with existing homes along Lake Shore Drive. The treatment plant could be buffered from the residential area and the land costs paid back through development. New residential construction in the Township should be encouraged on soils suitable for basements and with soils capable of safe septic disposal. The best locations for concentrations of such housing are north of Saugatuck and southwest of Douglas. No new residential subdivisions should be developed in the agricultural areas of the Township during the planning period. Within Saugatuck, there will be pressure to remove existing homes along the waterfront and replace with higher density condominiums. Condominium development that greatly diminishes the public view of the waterfront should not be permitted, especially along Lake St. Additionally, the height of new construction should not exceed 25 feet along the waterfront. It would be better to place the taller, higher density de- velopment back onto "the hill" and leave the shoreline open. COMMERCIAL There will be three primary commercial cen- ters within the tri-community area. Downtown Saugatuck will continue to serve as the major center for commercial tourist actMtles. This should be encouraged. The downtown area should not be permitted to expand outside the area presently zoned for downtown commercial use. Appropriate measures should be adopted to mitigate impacts of the city center on adjoining residential areas. The shopping area in Douglas along Blue Star and extending down to the freeway interchange should be encouraged to continue to (re)develop with a primary focus on local commercial services and a secondary focus on highway related uses near the interchange. This area needs curbs and gutters and right tum lanes. The buildings and parking on many properties are poorly designed, so any opportunity to improve design, safety, and function should be seized. Additional tourist-oriented businesses should be discouraged in this area, and instead redirected to downtown Saugatuck and the original Douglas Village Center. The present commercial zoning of Blue Star south of the Douglas interchange should be eliminated except for small areas representing existing commercial establishments at the freeway and M-89 interchanges. Land use analysiS reveals that this commercial land is far in excess of projected need within the planning period. It cannot be cost-effectively serviced with sewer and water, nor can it be adequately controlled with the existing zoning in place. It will, over time, only detract from more appropriate commercial areas in Saugatuck, Douglas and along north Blue Star Highway. and create an extended commercial strip. The area between Saugatuck. the North Blue Star Highway, and 1-196 freeway interchange, which is presently developed for a variety of land uses, should be encouraged to develop for highway service uses through more refined zoning regulations than are presently in place. No further warehousing, boat storage or repair, mini-storage, or similar land uses should be permitted along the frontage. Instead, motels, auto service centers, restaurants, and similar highway service establishments should be allowed. General business uses like shoe stores banks, hardware stores. etc., should encour~ Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �10-5 aged in the general business area in Douglas and not in interchange areas. Allowing general business establishments to spread results increase the number and length of trips for local residents, causes a corresponding waste of fossil fuels, and increases the potential for individual businesses to fail, since the "critical mass" of general business opportunities in a single location is not present. INDUSTRIAL Neither the Haworth facility in Douglas nor the Rich Products fruit processing facilities in Saugatuck represent the best use of those properties in the long run (which is commercial). However, they are well-maintained local companies which are major employers, and without a public effort to relocate those firms in comparable facilities elsewhere, the local comprehensive plans will continue to recogntze them. At the same time, the small industrial area along Blue Star in Douglas should continue to be developed for light industrial actMUes. If a large light industrial concern, or industrial office facility were to be interested in a location in the area, the land between 1-196 and 63rd St. at the northern freeway interchange should be considered. While there are some limitations to development of that land, it could probably be served with sewer and water efficiently. However, road improvements would be necessary to bring roads up to all weather standards. If a waterfront location were desired for use by a new industrial concern, it should be considered only if it can be efficiently provided with public services, there is no public loss of access to the waterfront, and the activity is waterfront dependent. Other scattered site locations should not be considered for new industrial actMty. Industrial parks are an excellent way to manage future industrial growth. Although they have broad, long-term public benefits (including lower service costs, fewer nuisance impacts, better design, and less environmental impact), industrial parks require a large short-term investment in land and public services. Therefore, it is crucial that studies be conducted to insure that the park could be competitive with others in the area. The Michigan Department of Commerce maintains an inventory of industrial parks through the Statewide Site Network. Only certified industrial parks will be included on this list, and thereby be able to effectively compete for new industries. To be certified, industrial parks must be at least 40 acres, a site plan for the park must be approved, soil borings must be conducted, infrastructure must be completed, utilities must be installed 300 feet into the park, and protective covenants must be established. AGRICULTURE Agriculture is a major contributor to the economy and rural character of the tri-community area. It provides a contrast with developed areas of Saugatuck and Douglas. The south central portion of the Township contains thousands of acres of prime agricultural soils, is characterized by extensive farming of those soils, and much of this land is enrolled in PA 116, the state Fannland and Open Space Protection program (see Map 4.10). The size of existing farms. the location of these lands away from the immediate path of development. the lack of existing or planned sewer and water services, the lack of need to convert prime farmland to nonagricultural use. and the broader public purpose of preserving prime fannland for present and future food production strongly argues in favor of retaining these lands in agricultural production for the entire planning period and beyond. Land divisions and development for nonagricultural purposes should not be permitted in this area. The adjoining lands on the east and to the north of the prime farmland soils (and south of the river) are also characterized by a large number offarms, although the average lot and farm sizes are smaller. Scattered residential development on large lots is also taking place. The soils are suitable for limited residential development. but agricultural uses should be the primary land use in these areas. No plans are underway to provide sewer and water to this area within the planning period and it would not be cost effective to do so. Consequently, development density should remain low. Another future agricultural use issue goes beyond where agricultural areas should be located and focuses on the character of the agricultural area and its relationship with the regional economy. Agriculture in the trt-community area has prospered primarily through cultivation of fruit, grain crops, hay and alfalfa. and in the case of nurseries, plants. These actMties take advantage of the area's prime soils. Efforts are also underway to attract tourists to the larger fruit farms to watch cider-making, eat freshly baked fruit products, and pick fruit- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �10-6 thus capitalizing on economic opportunities presented by the area's tourism industry. These issues raise concern overthe compatibility of high density livestock and poultry operations with the character of agricultural areas and the impact of the noxious odors on tourism- which is a central component of the region's economy. High density livestock operations also pose substantial health and safety questions. This is a strong consideration due to the nature of the soils in the agricultural areas and their proximity to extensive wetlands and water bodies. It is also relevant that groundwater is the sole source of potable water in the agricultural area. Based on these economic and environmental considerations, this planning area is not an appropriate location for high density livestock operations. WA1ERFRONT Most of the nonwetland shoreline in the City and Village have been developed. The balance is in private ownership. With the exception of the condominium properties and the large Rich Products office building on Lake Street, these parcels are developed at a scale and density that greatly contributes to the ambience and character of the area. Much of the City's downtown waterfront has an excellent system of interconnected public and private walkways providing shoreline access. This magnifies the attraction of Saugatuck as a tourist haven. But public boat access is more limited. and parking for car and boat trailers is scarce. Private marina space is also limited and expensive. Douglas has few public access sites, even though half of the Douglas waterfront is still undeveloped. Access has not been fully developed on public lands to take advantage of the recreational potential. For example, steps should be taken soon to preserve the lovely vista along Blue Star Highway near the bridge in Douglas for future generations. The public opinion survey reflected little support for additional marina development in the Village either by public or private parties. But over 800/4 of the respondents favored public acquisition of underdeveloped waterfront lands in Douglas. Thus, the waterfront areas in Saugatuck and Douglas should be maintained in present uses except where opportunities exist to acquire more public access sites. Additional marina development should be limited. especially on Lake Kalamazoo, due to congestion during summer weekends. Public waterfront properties in Douglas should be developed to enhance their recreational potential. The Kewatin stands as a symbol of the area's shipping history- a local historical landmark. It should not be allowed to fall into disrepair. If the Kewatin cannot be adequately maintained in the future, however, then it should be removed so it does not become a blight on the shoreline. Mooring of other large vessels along the Lake Kalamazoo shoreline should be prohibited, as this would block the limited public access to the waterfront. Areas along the north shore of the Kalamazoo River between Blue Star and 1-196 should remain in their present natural state. Public parcels along the west end of the south shore should be improved for additional recreational use. A limited number of new boat slips would also be appropriate. Additional marina development should not be allowed east ofl-196. nor should any other intensive shoreline development be allowed in this area within the planning period. New efforts should be initiated to undertake annual river cleanup campaigns. The Kalamazoo River is the principal natural resource and a scenic amenity, but it has been polluted by activities upstream. More efforts are needed upstream to improve water quality downstream. More local efforts should also be initiated to further enhance the recreational potential of Lake Kalamazoo and the Kalamazoo River. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �MAP 10.1 FUTURE LAND USE ~Agricultural rffiml llili1i Rural Residential Tri-Community ■ Highway Commercial rmm Institutional , ,, . ■ Low Density Residential ,,,,,,,. ,,,,,,,. ■ Medium Density Residential ~ Mixed Residential ■ City Center Commercial August1989 f~:H~: Conservation/Recreation Floodplain/Wetland HH Industrial D Water Planroing & Zoning Center, Inc, Lansing, Ml �Tri-Community N FUTURE LAND USE A 0 4,000 8,000 12,000 It Scale 1" = 9060 ft . ... ,~.,,,.,.,,~ .;v~w..r.1Vv·• ..., -~, · ~ -,..,..,...,._...,.,AJVVV\A/" �N ~ + . A 0 4,000 2 ~ 1 . 0 C :r 'i • 8,000 Scale 1" = 9060 ft 28 . ? I i ! • 27 L..___ _ 0 . t ' ◄ :r , ,: 35 ,, , ..: t'' , .... - MAP 10.2 MAJOR ENTRY POINTS ~ 11-19 55 . i 4 '' SAUGATUCK TWP. Tri-Community Entry Points August 1989 DATA SOURCE: Planning & Zoning Center Inc, Lansing, Ml �11-1 Chapter 11 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION T his plan synthesizes the key information that is found in each of the indMdual plans of Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township. In addition. it makes a special effort to present an analysis and recommendations concerning joint environmental and waterfront issues (see Chapter 8). However, none of the elements of this regional plan can be implemented without the cooperation and action of the individual jurisdictions within which the land affected by specific proposals or policies lay. Obviously, this presents significant potential for failure, especially in light of what could occur if there were only a single j urtsdiction. However, the reality is that three separate jurisdictions control land use in the trt-county area and this situation is not likely to change in the near future. As a result. it is recommended that the Joint Planning Committee (3 representatives from each community) established to guide the development of this plan be maintained as a coordinating and oversight body to insure that the proposals in this plan are implemented and that the actions of single entity contrary to this plan do not go unchallenged. If special committees, such as the Joint Waterfront Committee are also continued, they should be formally included in the arrangement, otheIWise, their functions should be absorbed by the Joint Planning Committee. The Joint Committee should meet at least quarterly or at the call of the chairperson and report its minutes promptly to the governing body of each member jurisdiction. As there is no formal mechanism for adoption of this regional plan (although Act 281 of 1945, the Regional Planning Act could be used for this purpose, but it would first require the formal creation of a regional planning commission) there is also none for its amendment. However, as long as it is formally accepted by the individual planning commissions and legislative bodies as consistent with the individual plans prepared as a part of this process. then at least from the start it will have some credibility. Its future credibility however. will depend on whether the subsequent actions of individual local governments are consistent with it. It could and should be modified as necessary. simply by the concurrence of proposed changes by each Planning Commission and governing body. In the end however, since the individual communities will carry the primary burden of implementation. it is important to review the basic tools they have to undertake the substantial tasks laid out in this plan. In addition to regulatory tools and facilities management tools. there are also a host of funding sources that may be available to assist with particular projects. It is almost always safe to say that joint proposals involving two or more jurisdictions have a greater chance of receMng funding in competitive grant situations than either of the communities alone. As a result, the trt-communities are encouraged to work together in their efforts to secure financial assistance to implement the proposals in this plan. Chapter 12 reviews the options that are known to be available. The completion of this areawide plan should be considered a milestone in the intergovernmental relations between Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township. However, it should also be viewed as only the end of phase one in an ongoing planning process. Constantly changing social and economic trends will require periodic updating or amendments to this plan. The interval at which these revisions should be made will largely be determined by the intensity and quantity of change within the tri-community area. Revisions to the future land use map should be made whenever it no longer serves as a useful guide and support for land use decision making. The same is true of the policies portion of the plan. A generally accepted practice is to undertake a thorough update at least once every 5 years. By itself this plan has no legal regulatory force but rather, serves as a foundation upon which regulatory measures are based. The two primary land use regulatory documents which are also the principal means of implementation of this plan, are the zoning ordinance and subdivision control regulations. These regulatory instruments are described in the next chapter. Ongoing efforts to consolidate additional public services such as police and possibly public works should be continued where mutually Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �11-2 beneficial. Likewise, efforts to fully include the Township as a partner in the Kalamazoo Lake Sewer and Water Authority should be aggressively pursued as should the conversion of the authority into a more independent authority. This would help to take it outside of political influence in day to day administration. Likewise, at some point, additional consideration should be given to consolidation of all governmental services into a single unit of government. A formal analysis of costs and benefits of consolidation may reveal the benefit of this alternative. See the additional thoughts in this regard in Chapter 12. This plan was created in the spirit of cooperation and mutual benefit. its Implementation depends upon more of the same- tenfold. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-1 Chapter 12 STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION PRIMARY IMPLEMENTATION TOOLS Relationship to Zoning All three communities have a zoning ordinance adopted pursuant to the Michigan zoning enabling acts. The intent of these ordinances is to regulate the use of land to provide for orderly growth and development and allow the integration of land uses without creating nuisances. The zoning ordinance defines land use districts and regulates height. bulk use, area of lot to be covered, and open space to be preserved within each district. Because the zoning ordinance should be based upon the analysis contained in the comprehensive plan, present zoning ordinances should be revised to reflect this plan's new goals, policies, and future land use proposals. In connection with the administration of the zoning ordinance, each community should continue to maintain a formal site plan review process. Through this process applicants, in order to obtain zoning approval, must submit plans which clearly indicate how their development proposals will change and affect both the parcel of land being developed as well as surrounding properties. It is recommended that all commercial and industrial development, as well as all subdivisions, multiple family housing, planned unit developments. and other development requiring more than five (5) parking spaces, undergo site plan review. Relationship To Plans/ZOning In Ac(jacent Jurisdictions The land use proposals in this plan were carefully prepared with an eye to ensuring compatibility with those of the adjoining communities, and in the case of Saugatuck Township, with adjoining townships. Equal care should be taken in the future to seek and receive comment on proposals that are on or near a border from an adjoining jurisdiction. Failure to do so will only insure future conflict over adjacent land uses, or the provision of new public services. Relationship to Subdivision Regulations Saugatuck Township should consider the adoption of subdivision regulations. The enabling legislation that permits the enactment of such regulations is Public Act 288 of 1967, also known as the Subdivision Control Act of 1967. This Act allows a community to set requirements and design standards for streets, blocks, lots, curbs, sidewalks, open spaces, easements, public utilities, and other associated subdivision improvements. With the implementation of a subdivision ordinance there would be added assurance that development would occur in an orderly manner. The Village of Douglas and City of Saugatuck should amend their subdivision and zoning regulations to prohibit the 'e stablishment of lots which would be unbuildable under existing state or local regulations (such as lots which are wholly within a protected wetland). This provision should also be included in Township regulations. Relationship to Capital Improvements In its basic form, a CIP is a complete list of all proposed public improvements planned for a 6 year period (the time span may vary), including costs, sources offunding, location, and priority. The CIP outlines the projects that will replace or improve existing facilities, or that will be necessary to serve current and projected land use development within a community. Advanced planning for public works through the use of a CIP assures more effective and economical capital expenditures, as well as the provision of public works in a timely manner. The use of capital improvements programming can be an effective tool for implementing the comprehensive plan by giving priority to those projects which have been identified in the Plan as being most important to the future development and well being of the community. None of the three communities currently has a formal capital improvement program, and all could benefit from one. Other important implementation measures and funding sources include the following: Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-2 Land Use & Irifrastructure Policies A strong effort will be necessary to coordi- nate future capital improvements decisions and land use policies with adjoining units of government. As a result, proposed policy changes should be circulated for comment early. Likewise, proposed capital improvement programs should be prepared with adequate time for review and comment by the adjoining jurisdictions. Community Participation And Education In order to gain the support, acceptance, and input of area residents for future planning, ongoing efforts should be continued to provide information to them, and involve them in the planning process. The importance of their role in that process should be emphasized. Public acceptance will make the implementation of plans much easier and public input makes plans better and more responsive to local needs. SPECIAL AREA & FINANCING TECHNIQUES Building and Property Maintenance Codes All three communities have adopted the BOCA (Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc.) as the basic building code to regulate construction methods and materials. The adoption and enforcement of a building code is important in maintaining safe. high quality housing and in minimizing deteriorating housing conditions which contribute to blight within neighborhoods. This should be continued. All three communities should consider adopting a basic property maintenance code to regulate blighting influences which result from failure to properly maintain property and structures. A standard code such as the BOCA Basic Housing - Property Maintenance Code or a locally developed code could be adopted. Community Development Block Grant Program The Community Development Block Grant program was authorized under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974. The Act had the effect of combining several federal categorical grants such as Urban Renewal and Model Cities into one. Grants under the program must principally benefit low and moderate income families. In Michigan there are two categories of eligible applicants: entitlement and non-entitlement. Entitlement communities. by meeting specific eligibility criteria, are given grant funds outright without having to compete for them. Non -entitlement applicants must compete for grant funds by applying through the Michigan Small Cities Community Development Block Grant Program. None of the three communities are entitlement communities. Therefore. all would have to apply through the Small Cities Program. Operation of the Michigan CDBG Program is the responsibility of the Michigan Department of Commerce with central program administration by the Department's Office of Federal Grant Management (OFGM) . The Department of Commerce has entered into an agreement with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) assigning administrative responsibilities for the housing component of the program. In the housing area, samples of grant eligible activities include: • Home Improvement Programs • Rental Rehabilitation Programs • Weathertzation and Energy Conservation • Home Repair for the Elderly • Public Improvement in conjunction with targeted housing activity (lim.ited to 25 percent of grant request) • Housing Related Services • Housing for the Homeless The maximum grant amount is $250,000. By applying and obtaining a Small Cities Block Grant, the trt-communitles could establish a housing rehabilitation program which would help preserve housing throughout the area. The CDBG program also has the following categories of assistance: • Base Industrial Loan program helps financially viable businesses needing financial assistance for growth, modernization, or expansion. Limit $750,000) . • Commercial Retail Loan program is for commercial, services, tourism. and other non-residential projects: and minority owned and retail projects in distressed communities. Limit $400,000. • Public Infrastructure Assistance program funds public improvements for the location and expansion of public infrastructures. Limit $750,000. • Downtown Development program provides financing to assist businesses in the redevelopment of the downtown area. Limit Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-3 $500,000 or $300,000 for infrastructure improvement. • Communities in 1ransition program funds community development actMtles, such as public ~wer and water systems. parks, bridges. roads. and comprehensive redevelopment planning. Limit $400,000. • Emergency Community Assistance program funds communities experiencing an imminent and urgent threat to public health, safety, or welfare which occurred within 90 days of application. Limit: $500,000. Downtown Development Authority Act 197 of 1975 Permits a city, village, or township to establish a nonprofit development corporation called a Downtown Development Authority (DDA) with broad powers, including those of taxation and bonding, to focus on revitalization and development within established "downtown" boundaries. The Act gives an authority broad powers with regard to the planning and development of the downtown district. It may engage in downtown planning, promote housing and public facility developments. and economic development projects. Operating revenues may be raised through public and private contributions or through properties the DDA may control. With the approval of the municipal governing body, an ad valorem tax may be levied on real and tangible personal property within the downtown district. Capital financing may be raised in a number of ways: • A ODA may issue revenue bonds. These, with municipality approval, may be secured by "the full faith and credit" of the municipality. • A DOA can request the municipality to borrow money and issue notes in anticipation of collected taxes. • A DDA. with municipality approval, may create a "tax increment financing plan" in which it devotes projected increases in future tax revenues from increased assessed valuation in the project area - "captured assessed value" - for repayment of debts incurred in making selected public improvements. Revenue bonds are issued in anticipation of future revenue. Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) Programs To help preserve Michigan's older existing housing, Public Act 130 was passed in 1977 to allow MSHDA to begin a home improvement loan program that offers reduced interest rates to eligible low and moderate income families. MSHDA has created the Home Improvement, Neighborhood Improvement and Community Home Improvement Programs (HIP/NIP/CHIP). To get a loan, residents should apply to one of the banks, savings and loans, or credit unions that take part in HIP/NIP/CHIP. Land and Water Conservation Fund The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grant program was authorized by Public Law 88-578, effective January 1, 1965. The purpose of the program is to provide federal funds for acquisition and development of facilities for outdoor recreation. The LWCF Program is administered jointly by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. All political subdivisions of the state, including school districts, are eligible to participate in the program. Eligible projects include: 1. Acquisition of land for outdoor recreation, including additions to existing parks, forest lands. or wildlife areas. 2. Development including, but not limited to such facilities as: picnic areas. beaches, boating access, fishing and hunting facilities, winter sports areas, playgrounds, ballfields, tennis courts, and trails. For development grants, the applicant must have title to the site in question. The minimum grant allowable is $10,000 and the maximum grant allowable is $250,000. For all grant proposals, the amount of the grant cannot exceed more than 50 percent of the total project cost. Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund The Kammer Recreational Land Trust Fund Act of 1976 (Public Act 204) was passed by the Michigan Legislature and signed by the Governor on July 23 1976. This Act created the Michigan Land Trust Fund. The program provided funds for public acquisition of recreational lands through the sale of oil, gas, and mineral leases and royalties from oil, gas, and mineral extractions on state lands. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-4 On November 6, 1984, Michigan residents cast their vote in favor of Proposal B. This constitutional amendment created the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRrF). Public Act 101 of 1985, which officially replaced the Michigan Land Trust Fund on October 1, 1985. MNRrF assists state and local governments (including school districts) in acquiring land or rights to land for recreational uses, protecting land because of its environmental .Importance or scenic beauty, and developing public recreational facilities. Any individual, group, organization, or unit of government may submit a land acquisition proposal. but only units of government may take title to and manage the land. Only units of government may submit development proposals. All proposals for local grants must include a local match of at least 25 percent of the total project cost. There is no minimum or maximum for acquisition projects: for development projects, the minimum funding request is $15,000, the maximum is $375,000. Costal zone Management Fund The Land & Water Management Division of the Department of Natural Resources offers grants for the purpose of planning, designing, and carrying out low-cost projects to improve Great Lakes shorelines and connecting waterways. The Recreation Bond The Recreation bond calls for money to be spent on DNR and local recreation facilities in four categories: Recreation Infrastructure: such as ballfields, tennis courts, beaches and other shoreline areas. boat launches, trails, picnic areas, historic structures, playgrounds, roads, parking, restrooms, etc., which are not less than 15 years old; Waterfront recreation: such as fishing piers, boardwalks, boat launches, marinas, amphitheaters, landscaping, and shoreline stabilization; Community recreation: playgrounds, sportsfields, community centers, senior centers, fishing sites, and trails for the handicapped: Tourism-enhancing recreation: including campgrounds, boating facilities, historical sites, recreational conversion of abandoned rights-ofway. and fishing access. In its statewide inventory of recreational facilities. the DNRhas identified Allegan County as deficient in a number of recreational facilities. Those relevant for the trt-community area include deficiencies in bicycle trails, fishing access, fishing piers, boat launches , campgrounds, nature areas, hildng trails, nature trails, cross country ski trails, picnic areas. and playgrounds. Allegan County communities with proposals for such projects will get funding priority over similar projects proposed in nondeficient counties. Table 12.1 includes the min.lmum number or size of selected recreation facilities to be considered toward bond funding. Grant requests may not exceed $750,000 and may not be less than $15,000. Applicants must match bond funds with 25% of the total project cost. not including other state grants or legislative appropriations. Bond money will only be allocated to projects on sites controlled by public agencies. In the tourism category. priorities are given to projects which: create new and innovative recreation-related tourism attractions: involve partnerships between the public and private sector: and projects for which feasibility studies have been conducted which demonstrate local, regional, and statewide economic benefits. (Applications and further information may be obtained from: DNR, Recreation Services TABLE 12.1 RECREATION FACILITIES &: THEIR MINIMUM NUMBER OR SIZE NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE MINIMUM POINTS RECREATION FACILI1Y MINIMUM SIZE Bicycle Trail Playground 1 mile 3 pcs. of play Sw.lmming Beach Boat Launch Campground Non-motorized Trail Cross-country Ski Hiking Nature Horse Fishing Access Fishing Piers Nature Area equipment 50 feet 5 parking spaces 10 campsites 1/2 mile 50 feet 1 10 acres NOTE: Points are not to be awarded separately for cross-country ski trails, nature trails, and hik1ng trails. These trails are to be considered as one facility. Source: DNR, Michigan'• 1987-88 Recreation Al!tlon Pro&ram Guidel>ook. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-5 Division, P.O. Box 30028, Lansing, MI 48909 (517) 335-3043.) Recreation Improvement Fund The Recreation Improvement Fund was created from State fuel tax revenue. About $750,000 per year is being targeted for development of non-motorized trails (hiking. bicycle, cross-country, and nature trails). No application forms or criteria have yet been prepared, but the Recreation Division is encouraging local governments to submit proposals based on local determination of need, location, and financing. Local Facility Development Grants These grants come from a number of funding sources and are available for planning, design, or development of local recreational facilities. The Village of Douglas received $11,000 through this program in FY 1987-88 for improvement of its boat launch site on Kalamazoo Lake. Land Acquisition Grants Land acquisition grants are available for projects ahned at open space preservation: park creation or expansion; acquisition of environmental resources such as sand dunes, woodlots, or wetland areas: waterfront access sites; and many other land acquisition projects intended for (passive or active) recreational purposes. Waterways Fund The Waterways Division of the Department of Natural Resources offers grants for the purpose of developing public boating facilities. The emphasis is on creating boat access sites and supporting facilities. Road Funds In 1987, three acts were passed to provide a new source of revenue for cities, villages.and county road commissions. The Transportation Economic Development Fund (Act 231 of 1987. as amended), the Road Construction and Improvement Act (Act 233 of 1987), and the Local Road Improvements and Operation Revenue Act (Act 237 of 1987, as amended). The acts will be ineffectforfiveyears, when theywillbe reviewed for continuation by the legislature. The Local Road Improvements and Operation Revenue Act authorizes county road commissions to impose a vehicle registration fee and use these funds for road improvements. This Act has had little utility, however, because the fee must be approved by a public vote. Michigan voters in 3 counties rejected proposed fees in the November 1988 election. Many counties chose not to even put it on the ballot, fearing the same result. The Road Construction and Improvement Act (Act 233) provides funding through the transportation economic development fund only to rural counties (less than 400,000 population) with a national lakeshore, national park, or in which 34% or more of the land is commercial forest land. Then a portion of the remaining funds are available for use for county, city, and village street improvements. The Transportation Economic Development Fund allocates money for the purposes ofbrtnging county roads to all season highway standards. This is important because heavy trucks can only travel regularly on all season roads. The Transportation Economic Development Act also offers counties, cities, and villages the opportunity to compete for additional funding on special projects with economic development objectives. This competitive grant is awarded by the State Highway Commission. Qualified project categories are listed below: (a) Economic development road projects in any of the following targeted industries: agriculture or food processing: tourism: forestry: high technology research: manufacturing: office centers solely occupied by the owner or not less than 50,000 square feet occupying more than 3 acres of land. (b) Projects that result in the addition of county roads or city or village streets to the state trunk line system. (c) Projects for reducing congestion on county primary and city major streets within urban counties. (d) Projects for development within rural counties on county rural primary roads or major streets within incorporated villages and cities with a population of less than 5,000. PUBLIC WORKS FINANCING In addition to using general fund monies, it is often necessary for a community to bond to raise sufficient funds for implementing substantial public improvements. Bonding offers a method of financing for improvements such as water and sewer lines, street construction, side- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-6 walks, and public parking facilities. Common municipal bond types include: 1. General Obligation Bonds - full faith and credit pledges, the principal amount borrowed plus interest must be repaid from general tax revenues. 2. Revenue Bonds - require that the principal amount borrowed plus interest be repaid through revenues produced from the public works project the bonds were used to finance (often a water or sewer system) . 3. Special Assessment Bonds - require that the principal amount borrowed plus interest be repaid through special assessments on the property owners m a special assessment district for whatever public purpose the property owners have agreed (by petition or voting) to be assessed. not in a Michigan Bell service area.) A pro-business exchange creates an atmosphere of cooperation which benefits both the business and the community. The role of a pro-business exchange is to assist existing businesses in finding solutions for their problems (i.e. inadequate parking, expansion or relocation needs. etc.) and help make new businesses feel welcome. The exchange would work with area businesses to determine their needs and appoint an ombudsman to inform new businesses of local services and contacts. Businesses are often not aware of the services available to them or who to contact for more information. A brochure could be prepared which identifies who to contact for information on zoning, construction, planning, utilities, and taxation. The brochure could also identify permit fees, tax and utility rates, and transportation, delivery, freight, health, and financial services available in the area. TAX INCENTIVES The state law permitting communities to provide property tax incentives for industrial development is Act 198, which allows a community to provide tax abatements as an incentive for industrial firms which want to renovate existing or build new facilities. ADDmONAL RECOMMENDATIONS Other Planning & Economic Development Assistance Each jurisdiction should maintain regular communication with the County Planning Commission, the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission, and the Allegan County Community Growth Alliance. These organizations should be encouraged to contmue their County and region-wide planning and economic development efforts and to share relevant materials with Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the Village of Douglas. Likewise a copy of this Plan should be forwarded to each of these agencies when adopted. Pro-Business Alliance One way to strengthen the tri-community area's economic development potential is to establish a pro-business exchange, either separately by jurisdiction, or Jointly across all three. The exchange could be modelled after the Michigan Bell Business Retention and Expansion Program. (The tri-community area is not eligible for participation in the Michigan Bell Business Retention and Expansion program because it is Revision Of Ordinances Each of the individual community plans prepared concurrently with this Joint plan include recommendations for changes to zoning. subdivision regulation and related local ordinances (and in the case of the Township, the adoption of same). If this is not done. then the legal support for future zoning decisions is undermined. Of course. the plan itself could also be changed so that there is greater consistency between the plan and zoning regulations, but it that is done. the supporting logic and data should also be included. Poverty The changing economy, higher health care costs, higher literacy and skills requirements for employees, and inflation have seriously hurt the nation's poor, including the elderly on fixed incomes. Social security benefits are the only retirement income for about two-thirds of all American retirees. and an estimated one million Michigan residents have no private or public health insurance. The poor are often overlooked in community development efforts, yet they are the group most in need of public assistance. In the tri-community area, 7.1% of Township residents. 8.6% of City residents, and 11.3% of Village residents were living below the poverty level in 1980. That's an annual income of less than $3,778 for those under 65, and $3,479 for those 65 and over. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-7 Each community should contJnue to monitor the number of people in poverty through the census counts and work with local churches and non-profit groups to assist them through food drives, temporary shelters, or other needed services. Establishing Specific Incremental Growth Areas Once a final decision on whether the Township will or will not become a full partner in the Kalamazoo Lake Water & Sewer Authority has been made, then it will be possible to determine if specific incremental sewer and water extensions can be made , and at what cost. That process could result in specific targeting of new growth areas and the modification of local zoning and capital improvements programs to reflect the phasing of growth in those areas. Collection ofTrqffic Count Data A more detailed analysis of street and road needs should be undertaken. However, doing so is limited by the lack of any systematic and recent traffic count information. The three jurisdictions would greatly benefit from Jointly purchasing the necessary equipment and undertaking specific traffic counts on a regular basis. The cost and training associated with this is minimal compared to the benefit. Blue Star Highway Corridor Study Blue Star Highway from the Kalamazoo River bridge north to the freeway exit has the potential to grow dramatically and haphazardly under existing zoning regulations. As a result it deseives a more thorough and careful analysis than has been possible to date. The same is true of Blue Star Highway as it passes through Douglas. A lot by lot analysis with an emphasis on traffic flow, ingress, egress, bicycle use, pedestrian access, parking, shared access, signs, land use, and the potential impact and appropriate timing for the extension of sewer and water should be initiated. The first and most important step will be the collection of data on traffic flow and traffic generation by road segment (see recommendations) . Downtown Saugatuck Downtown Saugatuck has a parking problem during the summer months. Low cost solutions have been difficult to find. However, discretionary tourist visits are likely being lost on peak days due to limited parking. Expert analysis is needed. Solutions should not include the establishment of above ground parking structures that significantly alter the character of the area. Public Open Space Acquisition Programs to acquire public open space should be initiated. One option is to create a local nonprofit land conseivancy. There are several very effective ones operating in Michigan. Priority should be given to building a trust fund for acquisition and mainten ance or tying into existing ones by the Nature Conservancy and similar organizations . Initial acquisitions should be the dune lands adjoining the channel. These lands should either be managed as a part of the City's holdings to the south and the State's to the north of the channel, or in common by all three jurisdictions, or by a conservancy trust. Considerable additional research and effort is needed. Kalamazoo Lake Sewer & Water Authority The Township should join as'a full member of the authority and then the authority should be modified so that it is a more independent operating authority and not under the control of the legislative bodies of the three jurisdictions. This would distance it from poUtical influences in day to day administration. Efforts are presently underway to evaluate the potential for doing so. One Jurisdiction The benefits of merging the three communities into one jurisdiction far outweigh the detriments if the long term future of the area is considered. However, past efforts to do so have been met with failure and the citizen opinion survey still reflects an evenly divided electorate. Yet, no systematic analysis of the issue considering all aspects (planning, development control, cost, revenues. taxes , economic development, short versus long term, impact on community character. etc.) have ever been performed . Such an analysis should be done to more clearly lay out and analyze the issues. It should be undertaken by the three communities together, but could also be done by an outside group, such as the business community or a taxpayers organization. Periodic Updating and Revisions As these additional studies are undertaken the plan should be updated to reflect the new Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �12-8 information. At a m1nimum the plan should be comprehensively reviewed and updated at least once every five years. Managing Growth and Change The key to successfully managing future growth and community change is integrating planning into day to day decision making and establishing a continuing planning process. The only way to get out of a reactionary mode (or crisis decision making) is by planning and insuring the tools available to meet a broad range of Issues are current and at hand. For that reason it will be especially important that the recommendations of this plan be implemented as the opportunity presents itself (or revised as circumstances dictate). Many new tools may be made available to local governments over the next few years to manage the growth and change process. It will be a challenge to trt-community area officials to pick from among the new tools, those that will provide greater choice over local destiny and quality of life. 1i"i-Community Comprehensive Plan �APPENDIX References A �REFERENCES Listed below are some of the key reports, studies, plans, and data sources which were used as references in the preparation of this plan. Other dat.a sources are referenced throughout the plan. DEMOGRAPHICS U.S. Census. Current Population Reports, East North Central 1986 Population and 1985 Per Capita Income Estimates for Counties and Incorporated Places. Series P-26, No. 86-ENC-SC (also referenced for economic data). U.S. Census of Population and Housing, 1980-Surnrnary Tape File 3A (microfiche) for Saugatuck. Saugatuck Township, the Village of Douglas. and Allegan County. HISTORY Joe Armstrong and John Pahl, River & Lake: A Seaqulcentennlal Hlatory OF Alletan County, Michigan, published by the 1835 Committee. 1985. MASTER PLANS Saugatuck Township General Development Plan, prepared for Saugatuck Township by Williams & Works, Inc .. 1975. Village of Douglas Land Use Plan, prepared by the Village of Douglas Planning Commission with the assistance of the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission, adopted November 19. 1986. Land Use-Village of Saugatuck, prepared by the Saugatuck Planning Commission with the assistance of the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission, 1979. NATURAL RESOURCES Michigan Resource Inventory System Database, Department of Natural Resources. Soll Survey of Allegan County, Michigan. United States Department of Agriculture. Soil Conservation Service, March 1987. OWNERSHIP Land Atlas and Plat Book, Allegan County, Michigan. Rockford Map Publishers. Inc .. 19871989. Saugatuck Township Plat Book, Township Treasurer's Office, Saugatuck, Township. RECREATION A Parks and Recreation Plan for Allegan County, Michigan, prepared for Allegan County by Williams & Works. Inc .. 1986. Saugatuck-Douglas Area Parks and Recreation Plan, prepared by the trt-community area Parks and Recreation Commission. with the assistance of the Saugatuck Public School District, February 1985. jr\ �SOLIDW.ASTE Allegan County Solid Waste Plan. prepared for the Allegan County Board of Comrnfssioners and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources by the Allegan County Planning Comrnfssion. PA 641 solid Waste Planning Committee, and the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission. September 1983'. ECONOMY Real and Personal Property SEV, 1980-88, Michigan Department of Treasury. State Tax Commission. The Economic Impact of Travel on Michigan Counties. prepared for the Michigan Travel Bureau by the U.S. Travel Data Center, July 1988. Travel and Tourism In Michigan: A Statistical Profile, First Edition, Research Monograph # 1. Michigan State University. Travel. Tourism and Recreation Resource Center. 1986. Michigan Employment Security Commission. Bureau of Research & Statistics. Detroit. Michigan. UTILITIES A Feasibtllty Study on the Uttllzatlon of a Single Ground Storage Reservoir, SaugatuckDouglas Water System. prepared for Kalamazoo Lake Sewer & Water Authority by Holland Engineering, Inc., January 18, 1983. Factllties Plan for Wastewater. prepared by Williams & Works, April 1976. Saugatuck Township Area Uttllty Service Study, prepared by Fishbeck, Thompson. Carr & Huber. Inc .. March 1988. Village of Douglas Water Supply Contamination Problem Evaluation and Recommendations, Wolverine Engineers & Surveyors, Inc .. July 1, 1987. Village of Saugatuck Streets and Public Utlllties Condition Report, May 1984. Waterworks Reliabtllty Study for Kalamazoo Lake Sewer and Water Authority, prepared by Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr. & Huber. Inc .• March 1987. ZONING City of Saugatuck Zoning Ordinance, as amended through October 1989. Saugatuck Township Zoning Ordinance, as amended through October 1989. Village of Douglas Zoning Ordinance, as amended through October 1989. �APPENDIX B Demographic, Economic, and Housing Data �~ --- A. DEMOGRAPHIC CHARACTERISTICS 1. Age Cohorts (Raw Data) Saugatuck Douglas Area Saug . Twp . County ----------------- - ------------------------------------------------------------13 15 21 3 11 30 47 6 17 18 15 19 13 24 14 50 106 92 101 136 59 under 1 1-2 3-4 5 6 7-9 10-13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22-24 25-29 30-34 35-44 45-54 55-59 60-61 62-64 65-74 75-84 85+ 23 11 17 19 6 36 59 14 15 23 18 14 16 22 18 60 84 72 106 82 48 17 30 85 49 4 21 27 138 57 26 61 52 94 46 46 86 212 67 55 73 67 37 80 80 53 188 297 330 349 483 215 46 132 333 210 47 25 26 56 24 29 20 106 47 23 32 34 4 51 34 21 78 107 166 142 265 108 8 75 110 104 17 1496 2560 2544 1289 1332 4274 5989 1522 1642 1758 1666 1392 1403 1402 1230 4267 6706 6503 9306 7820 3927 1172 1882 5151 2555 767 ...-.... ~ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------Source: U.S. Census of Population and Housing, 1980--Summary Tape File 3A, item 15. Detroit, MI, tel. 313-354-4654. 2. Age Cohorts (Aggregated and Percent Comparisons) Age Saugatuck Douglas Saug . Twp. Area County ------------------------------------------------------------------------------0-4 5-14 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ 49 97 170 198 101 136 107 221 (4.5) (9.0) (15.8) (18.4) (9 . 4) (12.6) (9.9) (20.5) 51 134 186 156 106 82 95 138 (5.4) (14 . 1) (19.6) (16 . 5) (11.2) (8.6) (10 . 0) (14.6) 107 226 277 273 142 265 191 231 (6 . 3) (13.2) (16.2) (15.9) (8.3) (15.5) (11.2) (13.5) 207 457 633 627 349 483 393 590 (5.5) (12.2) (16 . 9) (16.8) (9.3) (12.9) (10.5) (15.8) 6,600 14,406 14,760 13,209 9,306 7,820 6,981 8,473 (8.1) (17.7) (18.1) (16 . 2) (11.4) (9 . 6) (8.6) (10.4) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Source: (same as above, 1960 and 1980). ~ �- 3. Change in Age Cohorts from 1960-1980 Age 1960 M/F 1960 - Tri-Community Area 1980 M/F 1980 Change 1960-80 ------------------------------------------------------------------------------0-4 5-14 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ 121/140 274/249 133/146 129/139 170/166 142/147 115/163 196/232 261 523 279 268 336 289 278 428 (9.8) (19.6) (10.5) (10.1) (12.6) (10.9) (10.4) (16.1) 113/94 233/224 325/308 337/290 170/179 239/244 192/201 231/359 207 457 633 627 349 483 393 590 (5.5) (12.2) (16.9) (16. 8) (9.3) (12.9) (10.5) (15.8) -20.7% -12.6% 126.9% 134.0% 3.9% 67.1% 41.4% 37.9% ------------------------------------------------------------------------------Source: (same as above, 1960 and 1980). 4. Place of Birth Saugatuck Douglas Saug. Twp.* Area County ---------------------------------------------------------------------~--------- Michigan Another State Born Abroad Foreign Born 615 (56.9) 422 (39.1) 5 (0.4) 37 (3 .4) 577 (60.9) 320 (33.8) 2 (0.2) 49 (4.4) 990 (57.8) 598 (34.9) 124 (7. 2) 2182 (58.3) 1340 (35.8) 7 (0.2) 210 (5.6) 63,771 (78.2) 15,934 (19.5) 227 (0.3) 1,623 (2.0) * Some individuals not accounted for. Source: (same as above), item 33. 5. Place of Residence - 1975 (Persons 5 years old and over) Saugatuck Same House Same County Another County Another State Abroad 503 187 228 117 (48.6) (18.0) (22.0) (11.3) 423 156 198 103 8 Douglas Saug. Twp. (47.9) (17.6) (22.4) (11.6) (0.9) 984 (59.5) 144 ( 8. 7) 244 (14.7) 280 (16.9) Area County 1910 487 670 500 (53.4) (13.6) (18. 7) (14.0) 8 (0.2) 44,575 (59.3) 15,428 (20.5) 10,923 (14.5) 3,962 (5.2) 241 (0.3) Source: (same as above), item 34. 6. Household Characteristics Total HHs Ave. HH size 2 parent fam. Female HH head Saugatuck Douglas Saug. Twp. 537 2.00 219 41 391 2.44 222 31 633 2.69 411 28 Source: (same as above), items 10 and 20 County Area 1561 2.39 852 100 27,282 2.95 19,520 1,911 �7. Marital Status Saugatuck Douglas Saug Twp -------------------------------------------------------Single Married Separated Widowed Divorced 262 (28.1%) 325 (23.9%) 467 (50.1%) 849 (62.5%) 25 (2.7%) 28 (2.1%) 107 (11.5%) 75 (5.5%) 72 (7.7%) 82 (6.0%) 177 (23.2%) 449 (58.8%) 16 (2.1%) 66 (8.7%) 55 (7.2%) Source: (same as above), item 26. B. HOUSING STOCK 1. Structure Type Saugatuck Douglas Area Saug Twp. County -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total units Year Round Units 1 in Structure 2 in Structure 3 and 4 in Struct 5 or more Mobile Homes Vacant, Seasonal, & Migratory 1 in Structure 2 in Structure 3-4 in Structure 5 or more Mobile Home/Trailer 772 569 385 49 68 60 7 529 406 290 20 16 40 40 850 734 636 32 203 150 6 18 29 123 108 116 106 5 66 11 4 5 2,151 1,709 1,311 101 84 100 113 31,864 28,985 23,190 1,001 583 1,199 3,012 442 364 22 22 29 5 2,879 2,250 51 57 153 368 ~ Source: U.S. Census of Population and Housing, 1980--Summary Tape File 3A, item 102/103. Detroit, MI, tel. 313-354-4654 2. Year Structure Built - Year Round Units Saugatuck 1975-80 1970-74 1960-69 1950-59 1940-49 Pre 1940 36 (6.3) 19 (3.3) 51 (9.0) 73 (12.8) 56 (9.8) 334 ( 58. 7) Douglas 22 (5.5) 46 (11.3) 81 (19.9) 32 (7. 9) 36 (8.9) 189 (46.5) Source: (same as above), item 109. Saug Twp. 72 116 133 99 68 246 (9.8) (15.8) (18.1) (13.5) (9.3) (33.5) 130 181 265 204 160 769 Area County (7. 6) (10.6) (15.5) (11.9) (9.4) (45.0) 3568 (12.3) 4326 (14.9) 4458 (15.4) 3647 (12.6) 2507 (8.6) 10479 (36.2) �3. Occupancy Area Saugatuck Douglas Saug Twp. County • -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------Total Units 850 2,151 772 529 31,864 Owner occupied 531 (62.4) 1,136 (52.8) 22,271 (69.8) 334 (43.2) 271 (51.2) Renter occupied 117 (13.7) 439 (20.4) 205 (26.5) 117 (22.1) 4,961 (15.5) Source: (same as above), item 97. C. ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS 1. Type of Employment Saugatuck Private Wage/Salary 402 (73. 5) Federal Gov. 7 ( 1. 3) State Gov. 21 (3.8) Local Gov. 49 (9.0) Self Employed 68 (12.4) Unpaid Family Worke Douglas Saug Twp. Area County 333 (76. 9) 1 (0.2) 25 (5.8) 33 (7.6) 40 (9.2) 1 (0.2) 492 (71. 4) 11 ( 1. 6) 2 (0.3) 56 (8.1) 92 (13.4) 17 (2.5) 1227 (73.5) 19 ( 1.1) 67 (4.0) 138 (12.0) 200 (12.0) 18 (1.0) 26697 (78.5) 308 (0.9) 775 (2.3) 3022 (8.9) 2977 (8.7) 246 (0. 7) Twp/Douglas Area County 43,730,725 9,402,800 1,126,200 2,661,790 430,733 64,898,211 20,080,005 1,905,350 2,661,790 430,733 604,509,215 101,799, 772 50,272,956 153,232,546 3,251,687 ' Source: (same as above), item 67. 2. Real Property SEV - 1988 Saugatuck Residential Commercial Industrial Agricultural Developmental 21,167,486 10,677,205 779,150 N/C N/C County(%) 66.2 11. l 5.5 16.8 0.4 Source: Michigan Department of Treasury, State Tax Commission, 1988. Lansing, MI, tel. 517-373-1091. 3. Total Annual Real Property SEV - 1980-88 Year Saugatuck Douglas 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 13,709,600 15,682,000 18,314,033 20,855,000 25,831,436 27,382,650 29,737,980 32,727,560 10,560,200 11,723,580 13,341,647 15,101,800 16,848,894 18,756,700 20,321,283 21,957,626 Saug Twp.* Saug. Twp.** 18,482,350 21,042,164 23,287,428 25,691,300 27,155,345 28,922,650 30,023,509 32,464,745 42,752,150 48,447,744 54,943,108 61,648,100 69,835,675 47,679,350 50,344,792 54,422,371 Area 42,752,150 48,447,744 54,943,108 61,648,100 69,835,675 75,062,000 80,082,772 87,149,931 * not including Villages. ** including Saugatuck and Douglas through 1984 and Douglas only after 1984. Source: Michigan Department of Treasury, State Tax Commission, 1988. Lansing, MI, tel. 517-373-1091 �4. Annual Average Employment -Tri-Community Area Year Ave. Emp. 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1 , 491 1,527 1,555 1,613 1,695 1 , 656 1,175 2,461 2,550 2,700 Source: Michigan Employment Security Commission, Field Analysis Unit. Detroit , Michigan , tel. 313-876-5427. 5. Persons in Poverty by Age Saugatuck Less than 55 55-59 60-64 65+ 67 3 Douglas Saug Twp. Area County 77 83 227 5181 281 206 1127 9 8 6 8 15 24 39 78 Source: U.S. Census of Population and Housing, 1980--Summary Tape File 3A, item 93 . Detroit, MI, tel. 313-354-4654. �APPENDIX C Public Opinion Survey Responses �SURVEY RESPONSES Saugatuck Twp., Village of Douglas and City of Saugatuck September 1988 Survey (numbers in italics are all%) RESPONDENT CHARACTERISTICS Reg. voters: Lived here 10+ yrs: Plan to live here 10+ yrs: Live here 12 months: Own homes: Rent: Own/manage business: College grad or prof degree: Average age: Sex-Male: Sex-female: Employed: Employed in city or village: Retired: RESPONSE RATE City: Village: Township: City 85.4 62.6 69.6 60.8 94.0 3.4 11. 7 66.3 54.32 63.3 36.1 67.3 51.5 38.3 Village 87.6 55.7 75.0 73.5 78.4 17.1 21. 3 40.6 55.06 62.5 37.5 61. 4 64.5 38.0 Townshi:g 95.2 54.0 72.0 81. 0 92.0 27.5 16.7 46. 2 56.77 68 32 55.8 16.5 ( 34. 0 in Twp) 38.3 sent 726, received 372 + 11 renters = 51. 2% sent 550, received 257 + 30 renters = 46.7% sent 98 6, received 372 + 22 renters = 37.7% COMMUNITY VALUES Reasons for living in your community: Over 50% res:gonses City Small town atmosphere/ 85.4 Twp Rural Country atmos. Quiet Town 70.3 94.3 Friendly people Attractive beautiful surr. 94.0 Good place to raise kids 57.8 Trad. values 75.9 Freedom to be self Low crime 91. 0 64.0 Good schools Low taxes 78.3 Close to larger cities Avail. of good housing 53.9 Family in area Water based recreation 66.4 Not industrialized Convenient shopping HOW HAS COMMUNITY CHANGED? City Village Better: 32.8 24.6 Same: 43.2 56.6 Worse: 24.0 18.9 Village 84.6 87.9 86.9 85.7 57.3 57.1 79.0 90.3 61. 7 65.4 59.9 62.2 52.2 61. 2 53.6 50.6 Townshi:g 21.5 58.1 20.4 Townshi:g 87.70 90.7 70.0 82.6 69.8 58.8 73.2 82.8 59.4 73.9 50.8 58.9 57.9 �Community as is: City Sm Vlg 67.5 Village Sm Vlg 93.7 Township Rural Twp 72.4 As would lik~ it to be: Sm Vlg 65.3 Sm Vlg 76.8 Rural Twp 63.2 Sm Vlg 37.9 Sub 15.2 bdrm 23.1 City 23.9 Holl Sub 48.4 Rural Twp 19.9 bdrm 26.0 Small City 5.7 As you think it will be: Sm city 39.4 Holl sub 21.8 Sm vlg 19.7 OVERALL VIEW How would you rate area on following things: Location, general appearance, churches, recreation - tended to be highest in all 3 communities. Jobs, entertainment, medical care, shopping, social services and taxes tended to be lowest in all 3 communities. rt COMMUNITY PROBLEMS How important do you feel each of these is to future of the 3 communities Over 50% City Village Townshi2 New job opportunities 52.5 Lack of hospital or after hrs 55.2 70.0 56.9 Parking downtown Saugatuck 67.2 65.8 69.5 Erosion along Lakeshore Dr. 74.1 61. 7 81. 0 Teens with nothing to do 69.5 56.8 Drugs 59.6 57.9 Alcohol 68.2 65.6 Contamin. of drinking water 77.4 Reduct in lk & riv water qual. 57.0.8 74.22. 61. 0 Destruction of wetlands 53.9 57.4 Destruction of sand dunes 57.8 Inadequate water supply local planning 53.4 Inadequate SHOPPING AND SERVICES Except for clothing & furniture (go elsewhere for more choice) people tend to shop in the Saugatuck area or near Holland. People pursue the following shops/goods/and services in the Saugatuck area: baking goods, banking, beautician, barbers, day care, dry cleaners, family restaurants, flower shops, groceries, hardware, laundromats, lumber, and pharmacies. People go to Holland for these shops/goods/services: auto/truck sales and services, furniture, clothing, dept. stores, fast food, lawn and garden supplies, movies, and sporting goods. Many shop for clothing and furniture elsewhere for more choice. " �COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT Village 72.8 46.7 50.8 50.6 50.2 42.1 Yes, sm . shopping ctrs . off major rds. No, strip commercial No large shopping center Not in downtown Saugatuck Not in downtown Douglas Not in scattered commercial areas City 47 . 5 67.6 48.9 53.9 51. 0 45.9 Location along Blue Star Highway City 59.4 North 69.8 South @ freeway interchg 60.6 Village 65.7 70.8 65 . 0 Twp 54.6 64.7 48.2 62.7 38.5 45.7 Township 74.1 65.2 52.1 BLUE STAR HIGHWAY With regard to Blue Star Highway, high priority (>50%) was accorded the following improvements: Township City Village Better lighting 51. 8 Uniform sign controls 52.3 50 . 3 Add a center turn lane 50.8 Improve appearance 76.8 66.8 61. 3 Better lane striping 62.3 51. 2 59.8 Resurfacing 65.3 66.3 73 . 5 Uniform speed limi 45 mph 57.1 56.6 60.0 Bike path 69.9 59.1 54.3 Fast food restaurants 50.7 50.0 50.5 More trees 61.2 Improve traffic flow & safety 59. 7 SAUGATUCK DOWNTOWN PRIORITIES Flowers & landscaping Historic Preservation More Parking Waterfront Park City Residents Only >50% 55.1 64.6 70.5 52.7 Is ther e a parking problem other than between Memorial Day and Labor Day? No - 72 . 2% (Saug . only) Options for providing pking downtown : Agreement to demolish old public works building Disagree buying additional property Disagree leaving problem to merchants Narrow agreement about creating a partnership between city & bus . Agree Disagree Unsure 50 . 6 47.5 25.6 32.6 38 . 4 61.5 16 . 8 14.1 12.9 38.8 32 . 6 28.6 �DOUGLAS COMMERCIAL New neighborhood Commercial in Douglas - where? Along East Center St. in Douglas - 54.0% Priorities for Douglas Downtown (>50%) Dressing up storefronts 60.5 Flowers & landscaping 61.3 Historic Preservation 62.3 More Resid. oriented business 68.0 Waterfront park 61.1 INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT More favor than oppose more industrial development in the area, but a significant number in the Township are uncertain. City Village Township 52.3 43.4 49.1 Favor 33.8 44.9 Oppose 27.6 Uncertain 9.9 11.6 23.4 RESIDENTIAL (over 30%) Needed now Apartments Detached SF homes $50-70,000 Low income housing Not needed Waterfront Condos Mobile homes Senior housing Low income housing Country Estates City 37.1 52.6 Village 52.4 60.6 39.8 90.4 81. 4 71. 4 58.8 Ifil2. 37.4 49.2 37.7 89.5 58.3 38.1 48.9 38.7 DENSITY City - 43.6% favor lowering min. sq. ftg. (now 1040) of housing (21.4 uncertain) to make it more affordable while 34.9% opposed. City - New housing should be at a density: lower than along the Lake Kalamazoo waterfront - 55.0%; the same as on the hill - 50.5%; or downtown - 53.1% Village - Lowering minimum square footage (now 1000) req. in Village 48.4% -Disagree 11.7% - Uncertain 39.9% - Agree Village - Housing Density Lower than along Lake Kalamazoo in Saugatuck - 65.3 Same as on hill in Sauguatuck - 65.2 Lower than downtown Saugatuck 62.3 �RECREATION Additional facilities Lakefront open space (MI): (#1) Vlg lkfrt open space (Kal Lake): (#3) Vlg rvrfrt open space (Kal River): Bike paths: Cross country skiing: Hiking trails City 60.7 49.7 48.6 68.0 61. 5 Village 69.6 69.1 65.1 66.5 43.8 Twp 67.0 61. 9 61. 8 64.4 59.8 62.4 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION No new development in: forested sand dunes open sand dunes wetlands & swamps inland wetlands & swamps 81. 0 84.4 73.1 70.6 Village Township 76.7 78.6 72.0 87.4 82.8 72.6 71. 6 62. 3 WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT The primary use of K. River, Kal Lake, Lake MI Viewing: City-77-79%, Vlg-70-83%, Twp-44-65% Silver Lake much lower - 18-24% Next highest use varied by water body: Kalamazoo River - Nature Study Kalamazoo Lake - Power Boating Lake Michigan - Swimming Silver Lake - Power boating and fishing WATER QUALITY City 61-64% Kazoo River & Lake - poor/very poor: Lake Michigan - good/very good: 50% 40-48% Silver Lake - most "didn't know": Village 66-70% 33.5% ~ 58-64% 31.8% Most feel the water quality of these water bodies has deteriorated slightly, although most City residents feel it has stayed the same. When rating the adequacy of waterfront facilities, the only ones (>50%) felt overwhelmingly adequate were condos, boat slips, marinas. Inadequate facilities (>50%): Boat launching on Lake MI: Vlg-50.0, Twp-63.7 Boat mooring sites: City-53.1 Campgrounds: City-51.7, Twp-54.7 PUBLIC MARINA Should each community actively cooperate in the construction of an areawide public marina? - more disagree than agree, but a significant number are uncertain. Agree Uncertain Disagree City 40.6 11. 9 47.4 Village 42.4 23.4 34.2 Township 40.0 12.6 47.4 �rt LAKE MICHIGAN BEACH Whether the Village & Township should actively seek to find alternatives for low cost access by Village & Township residents to additional Lake MI beach facilities - more agree than disagree especially in Twp. Agree Uncertain Disagree 28.5 Village 49.8 21. 7 67.5 Township 13.4 19.0 Undeveloped waterfront lands in Douglas should be acquired for open space by 80.9% OTHER LAND USE QUESTIONS 76.8% of Saug. respondents favor summertime festivals as being "good for the area. " The following Home Occupations were favored by >50% in residentially zoned areas. City Village Township Bed & Breakfasts 67.3 65.9 Music Lessons 84.9 76.5 75.6 Dance lessons 76.7 66.0 68.7 Accounting 72.1 67.0 66.4 Typing 71. 2 69.7 60.4 Dressmaking 78.3 71.2 67.6 Township residents were split on whether pole barns should be allowed in residential districts with 35.1% opposing, 30.5% uncertain, and 34.4% favoring. PUBLIC SERVICES Those rated good to excellent by more than 50% City Village Fire protection 71. 0 64.5 First responder 69.7 64.3 Interurban 73.8 75.4 Library 65.2 69.8 Park maintenance 55.7 52.7 Police protection 53.2 69.7 Schools K-6 65.7 63.3 Schools 7-12 59.4 58.0 Schools Comm Ed 60.8 51. 3 62.4 Sewer service 53.5 62.4 Snow removal 61. 3 Vlg. playground equip 57.9 Twp cemeteries State Police (Twp) - -- - - = Township 67.4 66.4 71. 4 51. 3 53.9 62.4 81. 8 �Those rated poor to very poor by more than 50%. City Village 65.6 Land use planning 64.9 Parking downtown (Saug) 74.0 Property assessment 68.2 Street resurfacing 62.1 Animal control High priorities for spending tax dollars Village City 72.7 82.9 Preventing crime 58.9 Enforcing Ord. 86.8 91. 8 Fire protection 74.2 72.9 Ambulance service 86.1 83.4 Water supply Sewer service 83.9 66.8 78.7 71. 3 Street repair 55.4 Improving City appearance Planning for future 79. 7 65.7 Waterfront improvement 56. 2 54.5 Interurban bus. serv. 56.6 Economic Development 56.1 Road resurfacing Township 56.3 55.7 Township 88.1 81. 0 61. 0 72.2 Frequency of Service Use The City/Village/Township hall, and Oval beach, are most frequently used. The parks in the area, the interurban bus service, and the recycling center are infrequently used. If it meant an increase in general property taxes, the only service receiving more than 35% support were: City Village Township better water (quality) 48.8 59.9 41. 8 24 hour medical service 46.4 fire protection 35.5 ambulance service 36.0 better street maintenance 37.3 PAYING FOR SEWER/WATER IN TOWNSHIP In Township, support for paying for - public water & sewer service for wells and treatment facilities was by general property taxes 41.2% (23.2 uncertain); - for individual street/road lines was evenly split by general prop. taxes (26.7), spec assess (22.3), separate fee (26.0) and uncertain (24.9) - connections should be paid by a separate fee (48.4) uncertain (24.6) �POSITION ON GOVERNMENT SERVICES & PROPERTY TAXES The statement closest to respondent position on government services and property taxes Village City Townshi2 It would be ,nice to have better services, but not if it means 58.4 43.7 an increase in property taxes 63.0 Local gov't tries to do too much, it should do less & lower property taxes 15.0 16.9 30.2 COUNCILS & BOARDS More respondents had attended City Council or P.C. meetings in Saugatuck and the Village than in the Township: C - 52.5 38.1% V - 44.6 37.6 T - 27.4 18.3 with more people visiting the Board of Review than the Township Board (25. 4 Responsiveness of local Boards/Commissions is listed below: Not Very Respon. Very Res2on. C V T C V ' T City Coun/Vlg/Twp Bd 29.1 48.8 27.6 50.0 22.4 32.7 P.C. 31. 0 41.0 27.2 44.7 25.6 29.2 ZBA 23.6 19.1 24.8 39.3 29.8 28.9 Bd of Review 13.0 59.0 24.9 49.8 12.8 36.8 School Board 39.9 21.1 32.3 21.5 37.3 16.6 Fire District 57.4 21.0 42.7 3.5 56.9 4.4 Interurban 37.8 16.7 33.0 22.5 53.7 23.9 Water & Sewer Auth. 31. 6 30.0 19.7 33.5 46.6 18.6 Twp Park & Rec. Comm. 14.2 24.3 40.1 18.2 More satisfaction with responsiveness in the Village than in either City or Twp. CONSOLIDATION Should each community adopt a policy of consolidating services with other governmental units? City Village Township Yes 58.0 68.2 62.5 No 7.5 11.7 10.3 27.2 Uncertain 34.5 20.1 �Those responding Yes above: City 52.2 Sewer 54.0 Water 37.1 Stormwater 50.1 Police 44.4 Streets & Rds 41. 8 Pks & Summer Rec 44.1 Planning 44.9 Zoning Bldg permits 30.5 City Manager 28.5 Munic Vehicle Maint 36.8 Village 53.0 54.7 34.1 47.4 44.6 44.6 38.3 32.8 28.2 24.0 51.2 Township 45.7 44.2 26.9 43.1 35.3 35.5 35.3 29.4 21. 6 27.9 27.4 Should the City of Saugatuck, Village of Douglas and Twp.of Saugatuck consolidate into a single unit of government? City Village Township Yes 52.8 47.5 49.4 No 47.2 52.5 50.6 �APPENDIX D Soil Types - Tri-Community Area Ii �SOIL TYPES · TRI-COMMUNITY AREA SOILTYPE AND SLOPE SOIL NUMBER LIMITATIONS FOR SEPI'ICTANK ABSORPTION FIELDS LIMITATIONS FOR DWELLINGS WITH BASEMENTS CATEGORY A- SANDY, RAPID PERMEABILITY, LOW WATER TABLE Chelsea loamy fine sand, 0-6% Chelsea loamy fine sand, 6-12% Chelsea loamy fine sand, 12-18% Chelsea loamy fine sand, 18-30% Oakville fine sand, 0-6% Oakville fine sand, 6-18% Oakville fine sand, 18-45% Oakville fine sand, loamy substratum, 0-6% Urban land- Oakville complex, 0-6% 44B 44C 44D 44E l0B lOC l0E 53B 72B SE4 SE4 SEl, SE4 SEl, SE4 SE4 SE4 SEl, SE4 SE3, SE5, SE4 SL SL MDl SEl SEl SL MDl SEl SL SE4 CATEGORY B - SANDY, RAPID PERMEABILITY, mGH WATER TABLE Brady sandy loam, 0-3% Covert sand, 0-4% Matherton loam, 0-3% Metea loamy fine sand, 1-6% Metea loamy fine sand, 6-12% Morocco fine sand, 0-3% Morocco-Newton complex, 0-3% Pipestone sand, 0-4% Thetford loamy fine sand, 0-4% Tedrow fine sand,0-4% 19A 57A 22A 27B 27C 70A 15B 26A 51A 49A SE3 SE3, SE4 SE3, SE4 SE4, SE5 SE4, SE5 SE3, SE4 SE3, SE4 SE3, SE4 SE3 SE3, SE4 SE3 MD3 SE3 SL MDl SE3 SE3 SE3 SE3 SE3 SE3, SE5 SE3, SE5 SE3, SE5 SE5, SE3 SE5,SE3 SE3 SE5 SEl, SE5 SEl, SE5 SE3, SE5 SE5, SE3 SE3, SE5 SE5, SE3 SE3 SE3 SE3 MD3,MD2 MDl, MD2, MD3 SE3 MDl SEl SEl SL SE3 SE3 SL CATEGORY C - WET, HEAVY, SLOW PERMEABILITY Blount silt loam, 1-4% Capac loam, 0-6% Capac-Wixom complex, 1-4% Glynwood clay loam, 1-6% Glynwood clay loam, 6-12% Kibbie fine sandy loam, 0-3% Marlette loam, 6-12% Marlette loam, 12-18% Marlette loam, 18-35% Marlette-Capac loams, 1-6% Metamora sandy loam, 1-4% Rimer loamy sand, 0-4% Seward loamy fine sand, 1-6% 41B 16B 21B 8B SC 33A 14C 14D 14E 75B 42B 28A 60B Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �~ SOILTYPE AND SLOPE SOIL NUMBER LIMITATIONS FOR SEPI'IC TANK ABSORPTION FIELDS LIMITATIONS FOR DWELLINGS WITH BASEMENTS CATEGORY D - VERY WET SOILS, ORGANICS, FLOODPLAINS /• Adrian muck Algansee loamy sand, protected, 0-3% Aquents and Histosols, ponded Belleville loamy sand Brookston loam Belleville-Brookston complex Cohoctah silt loam, Cohoctah silt loam, protected Colwood silt loam Corunna sandy loam Dune land and beaches Glendora loamy sand Glendora loamy sand, protected Granby sandy loam Houghton muck Martisco muck Napolean muck Newton mucky fine sand Palms muck Pewamo silt loam Sebewa loam Sloan silt loam 6 73A 50 48 17 64 29 65 30 36 4 2 74 39 5 67 47 69 7 45 23 62 SE6, SE4 SE3, SE4 SE6, SEl0 SES, SE3 SE6, SE5 SE6 SE6, SE5 SE3, SES SE6 SE6 SE6, SE5 SE6 SE6 SE6 SES, SE3 SES, SE6 SE6 SE6 SE6, SE3, SE4 SE6, SE4 SE6, SE4 SE6, SE5 SES, SE6, SES SE6 SE6, SE4 SEll, SE6 SE5, SE6 SE4,SE6 SE8,SE3,SE5 SES, SE3 SES, SE6 SE6 SE6, SEl0 SES, SE6 SE6, SEl0 SE6 SE6, SEl0 SE6 SE6 SES, SE3 CATEGORY E - WELL DRAINED LOAM AND LOAMY FINE SAND Ockley loam, 6-12% Ockley loam, 12-18% Ockley loam, 18-30% Riddles loam, 6-12% Tekenink loamy fine sand, 6-12% Tekenink loamy fine sand, 12-18% Tekenink loamy fine sand, 18-35% 12C 12D 12E 63C 31C 31D 31E MDl SEl SEl MDl MDl SEl SEl MD2,MD1 SEl SEl MD1,MD2 MDl SEl SEl CATEGORY F - WELL DRAINED LOAM AND LOAMY FINE SAND Ockley loam, 1-6% Oshtemo-Chelsea complex, 0-6% Oshtemo-Chelsea complex, 6-12% Oshtemo-Chelsea complex, 12-18% Oshtemo-Chelsea complex, 18-35% Riddles loam, 1-6% Tekenink loamy fine sand, 2-6% 12B llB llC llD llE 63B 31B SL SL MDl SEl SEl SL SL ·1 t Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan MD2 SL MDl SEl SEl MD2 SL �UNCLASSIFIED SOILS Aquents, sandy and loamy Pits Udipsarnments 34 18 66 KEY FOR LIMITATION CODES SEVERE LIMITATIONS: SEl SE2 SE3 SE4 SE5 SE6 SE7 SEB SE9 SEl0 SEll SLOPE SHRINK-SWELL WETNESS POOR FILTER PERCS SLOWLY PONDING CUTBANKSCAVE FLOODING EXCESSIVE HUMUS LOW STRENGTH SUBSIDES MODERATE LIMITATIONS: MDl MD2 MD3 SLOPE SHRINK-SWELL WETNESS SLIGHT LIMITATIONS: SL SLIGHT LIMITATIONS Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wyckoff Planning and Zoning Collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Planning & Zoning Center (Lansing, Mich.) (Organization) Wyckoff, Mark A. Description An account of the resource Municipal master plans and zoning ordinances from across the state of Michigan, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2020s. The bulk of the collection was compiled by urban planner Mark Wyckoff over the course of his career as the founder and principal planner of the Planning and Zoning Center in Lansing, Michigan. Some additions have been made to the collection by municipalities since it was transferred to Grand Valley State University. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960/2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Subject The topic of the resource Michigan Comprehensive plan publications Master plan reports Zoning--Michigan Zoning--Maps Maps Land use--planning Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-240 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Tri-Community_Comprehensive-Plan_1989 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tri-Community Area Joint Planning Committee, City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and Village of Douglas, Allegan County, Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1989-11 Title A name given to the resource Joint Comprehensive Plan Description An account of the resource The Joint Comprehensive Plan for the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the Village of Douglas was prepared by the Tri-Community Area Joint Planning Committee in cooperation with Coastal Zone Management Program and with the assistance of Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. in November 1989. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. (consultant) Subject The topic of the resource Comprehensive plan publications Saugatuck (Mich.) Douglas (Mich.) Saugatuck Township (Mich.) Allegan County (Mich.) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/f1032a90b793824c8686b2b87f9ef5ef.pdf 93ee417f10154033b16c83a4a555745b PDF Text Text �. JOINT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CITY OF SAUGATUCK, SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP AND CITY OF VILLAGE OF DOUGLAS Prepared by the Tri-Community Planning Committee Saugatuck City Planning Commission City of Village of Douglas Planning Commission Saugatuck Township Planning Commission Saugatuck City Council City of Village of Douglas Council Saugatuck Township Board of Trustees With assistance of the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. 715 N. Cedar St. Suite 2 Lansing, Ml 48906-5275 517-886-0555 517/886-0564 Fax www.pzcenter.com With financial assistance from the Coastal Zone Management Program of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration authorized by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. The views presented herein are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the views of NOAA, the DEQ or any of its sub-agencies. June 2005 Update of 1989 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan �TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1: Goals & Policies: The Area Wide Policy Plan Introduction .............. ... .. .. .. ....... ... ..... ... ... .. .... ... ................. ............... ...... .. .............. ...... 1-1 Ovet arching Goal ........ ... .. .. .................... ...... .. .. .. .... ....... ....... ...... ..... ..... ............. .......... 1-2 Community Character ... ...... ..... .......................... .... ............................ ... .. ... ... ...... ........ 1-2 Growth Management. .. ........ .... ... .... ................. .... ....... ... ... ..... ..... ........... ........ .... .... ... ... 1-4 Ten Tenets of Smart Growth ............ ............. ... ...... ... .......... .. ... ........ .... .. .................. ... 1-4 Land Use and Community Facilities ...... .. .. .. ..... .. .... ........ ................ .. .. .. .............. ..... .... 1-5 Agriculture ....... .. ... ...... .... ... .. ........ .... ... .................................... .... .... .... ..... .. .... ... .... .... ... 1-5 Economic Development ... ........ ..... ...... ..... .... ......... .. .... ... ...................... .. ... ........ .......... 1-6 Commercial ... ... ..... ..... ...... .... ..... ..... .... .... ........................ ........ .... ... ............ .. ......... ...... . 1-7 Industrial ..... ........... ..... ............. ... ... ... ... .. .... ....... .... .... ........ .. ............... .... ... ... ..... .... ...... 1-9 Cultural/Historic/Archeological ....... ............. .. .......... ..... ... ... ...... .. ... .... ............. .......... . 1-10 Housing/Residential ..... .... ........ ......... ... .... ..................... .. ..................... ............. ........ 1-10 Special Environments and Open Space ..... ..... ...... .. ..... .. ..... ... ... ........... ... .. ..... .......... . 1-12 Waterfront ... .. ... ....... ....... .. ...... ......... ................ ... .. ........ ......... ........ ... .. .............. ... ... ... 1-13 Recreation .. ... ..... ...... .... ....... .............. .. .. ........ ..... .. .... ..... ....... .... ... ...... .... ..... .... ... .. .. ... 1-14 Transportation ............. .... ...... ........ ... .. ... .. .. .. .. ....... ........... ..... ... ... ........ ........ ......... ...... 1-15 Water and Sewer ..... .......... ........ ... .... .. ................ ..... .......... .... ................ ................... 1-16 Police, Fire and Emergency Services ... ..... ........................................ ... ... ........ ... ... ... . 1-17 Social Services .... .... ...... .... ...... ... .... ... .. ........ ........ .... .... .. ...... ........ .. ............ ..... ... ....... 1-17 Waste Management ........ ...... ... ....... .. ........... ... ...... .. ........ .... .. .............. .. .. .. .. .............. 1-17 Energy ........ .... .. .. ... .... ............. ......... .... .. .. .. .. .... ..... .. ...... ........ ....... ... ........... ..... ........ .. 1-18 Chapter 2: Demographics Introduction ...... ............ .. ............... .. ............ .. ........ ... ............................ ... .. ..... ... .... ...... 2-1 Population Size .................. ... ...... ... ........................ ..... ........... ....... .. .... .. .. .. .... ..... ....... .. 2-1 Projected Population ... ..... .. ........... ...... .... ... ... ...... ....... .. .... .... .. .... .... ......... ... .......... .. ..... 2-1 Seasonal Population .... .. ... ........... .... .... ......... ................. ..... ... ... ..... ......... ....... ... .. .. .... .. 2-2 Households and Average Household Size .................... .................... ..... .. ............. ... ... 2-2 Educational Attainment ..... ... ..... ........ ............ ..... .. ..................... ... ... ... .... ........... ... .... ... 2-6 Chapter 3: Economics ... ...... ..... ..... ... ..... .................... ... .. ................ ... ...... .. ......... .. .... 3-1 Introduction ................ ....... ..... .... .. .. ... ......... ..... ...... .......... ..... ..... ... .. ....... ... ...... ........... .. 3-1 Economic Base .. ..... .. .... .... ........ ... ..... ... ....... .. .. ................ ........ .. ...... .. ......... .. ...... ... ... .. . 3-1 lncome ................. ..... ..... .. .. .. .. .... .... .... .. ... ............... .... ........ ... .... ... .. .... ... .......... .... ..... ... 3-1 House Value .. ........................ ...................... ... ..... ... .. .. ... ......... ... .... .. ............. ........... .. . 3-1 Work Force ... .. ..... ... ......... .. ... .................. .. ......... ................ ....... ... ... ...... .......... ...... .... .. 3-2 Employers ..... ........ ............ ....... ........ .. ..... ... ... ... ... ..... ....... .. .......... .. .. ....... ............. ... ..... 3-3 SEV ......................... ... ... .... ... ... ... ..... ... ............... ... ... .... ......... ......... ............ ...... ........... 3-3 Building Permits .. .................... .. ... ..... ............. ...... ... ........ ... ... ... .. ... ... .... ........ ........... .... 3-5 Chapter 4: Natural Resources and the Environment Introduction .. ..... ..... ...... ... ........... ........... ..... ... ... ..... ..... ....... .. ..... ... ... .... .... ... .. .............. .. 4-1 Climate .. .. ................. ..... ... .. ....... ..... ..... ....... ...... ..... ......... .. ..... ... .. ......... ... ... .... ........... .. . 4-1 Geology ... .... ..... .. ...... .... .. ... ..... .............. ..... ... .......... ..... ... ... ............... ... .... .. ..... .. .......... 4-2 Topography .. ........ ....... ...... .... .. .... ... ........... ..... ............. ... .. .. .... ... ..... ..... ....... ........... .. .. .. 4-2 Drainage ...... ... ..... .. ....... .... .... .. ..... .. ... ....... ..... ... ....... ..... .......... .... ... .. ... ... ....... ... ...... .... .. 4-5 Floodplains ......... ...... .. ...... ..... ..... ........ .. .... ... ... ... .... ... ......... ..... ..... .. .. ... ... ... .. ........ ..... ... 4-5 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 �TABLE OF CONTENTS continued Chapter 4: Natural Resources and the Environment, continued Wetlands .. ........ ....... ........ ................... ..... ........... .. .............. ....... ......... ..... ... .. .... ........... 4-7 Soil~ ............................................................................................................................ 4-8 Basement Limitations .............................................................................................. 4-8 Septic Limitations .................................................................................................... 4-8 Standards for Septic Systems ...... .. ...... ....... ..... .. .... ..... ........ ... .. ... ... .. .............. ..... ... . 4-11 Single Family Residential ........................................................................................ 4-11 All Other Residential, Plus Commercial .. ............................................................... .. 4-12 Hydric Soils ............................................................................................................. 4-12 Prime Farmland ....................................................................................................... 4-13 Groundwater ................. .. ............................................................................................ 4-16 Special Features ................................. .. ......... .......... ........... .............. .... ...... ..... ... .... .. .. 4-18 Lake Michigan Shoreline and Beaches ................ ................ ................................... 4-18 Sand Dunes ................. ................... .. .............. ...................................... ........ .......... 4-23 Woodlands .................................................................................................................. 4-23 Chapter 5: Existing Land Cover and Use Introduction .. .......... .. .................... .... ... .. ...... ........ ..... ..... .. ............... ......... .... .. .............. 5-1 Land Use/Cover Data Sources .. ...... ......... .. ....... .............. ................. ........................... 5-1 Land Use by Tax Class ... ............ .... ..... .................. ..... ..................... .............. ...... .... 5-3 Agricultural .................................................................................................................. 5-6 Prime Farmlands ................. .. ...... .. ..... .. .......... .......... ......... ...... ... ... ... ......... .............. 5-6 Michigan Farmland Preservation Act.. ..................................................................... 5-6 Residential .................................................................................................................. 5-6 Lakeshore Area ....................................................................................................... 5-6 Kalamazoo River ..... ... ..... ... ..... .. ... .......... ........ ........... ..... .............. ...................... ..... 5-7 Rural Areas ............................................................................................................. 5-7 Douglas ................................................................................................................... 5-7 Saugatuck .......................... .......... ............. ... .... .. ....... ..... ... ... ......... ..... .. .. ..... ..... ....... 5-7 Commercial .. ..... ....... .. ....... .. .................. .. ..... .... ........ .. ....................... ..... ... ... .. .. ........... 5-8 Blue Star Highway ................................................................................................... 5-8 Downtown Saugatuck ............................................................................................. 5-8 Douglas Village Center ... ................................ ...... ... ........................ ....... .......... .... .. . 5-8 Industrial .... ........ ........ ..... .......... ............. .............. ...... .. .. ... ........ ...... ....... ............. ..... .. . 5-9 Cultural, Historical, and Archeological Resources .................................................. ..... 5-9 Community Cultural Base .... .. ....... ... ................... ......... ... ... ... ... ..... ...... ..... .......... ...... 5-9 Community Historic Character.................. ... ........ ................. ...... ... ...................... .... 5-9 Historic Buildings and Sites ...................... ....... ................ ... .. .. ............. ..... ......... .. .. .. 5-9 Historic Districts ...................................................................................................... 5-1 O Douglas Historical Preservation Committee ............................................................ 5-10 Archaeological Sites ................................................................................................ 5-11 • Chapter 6: Public Facilities and Services Introduction ..... .......... ....... ................ ....... .... .. ............ ... ......... ....... ..... ... ... ...... ... ... ........ 6-1 Utilities .. ... .. .. .. .. .. ......... ... ..... .. ........................................... .......... ........... ... ..... ... ...... .. ... 6-1 Sewer and Water Authority ..................................................................................... 6-1 Water System ... ..... ...... ..................... ... ....... .......... ... ... ......................... ... ....... .... .. ... 6-1 Sewer System ................ ... ...... ....... .................... .. .. .. .. .. .. .... ... ... ..... ... .. ....... ...... ........ 6-4 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 ii �,... TABLE OF CONTENTS continued Chapter 6: Public Facilities and Services, continued Overview of Sewer Agreement ................................................................................ 6-4 Storm Sewers ......................................................................................................... 6-5 County Drains ......................................................................................................... 6-5 Gas Electric, Telephone and Cable ......................................................................... 6-7 Transportation ............................................................................................................. 6-7 Overview ................................................................................................................. 6-7 Road Classifications and Volumes .......................................................................... 6-7 Traffic Counts ........................................................................................................ 6-10 Speed Limits ......................................................................................................... 6-12 Crash Locations .................................................................................................... 6-12 Blue Star Highway ................................................................................................. 6-13 Lakeshore Drive .................................................................................................... 6-15 Transit ................................................................................................................... 6-15 Non-motorized Transportation ............................................................................... 6-15 Air ......................................................................................................................... 6-16 Police, Fire and Emergency Services ........................................................................ 6-16 Police .................................................................................................................... 6-16 Fire ........................................................................................................................ 6-16 Emergency Services ............................................................................................. 6-16 Hospitals ............................................................................................................... 6-17 Schools ..................................................................................................................... 6-17 Solid Waste Disposal ................................................................................................ 6-20 Brush and Leaf Pickup .......................................................................................... 6-21 Public Facilities ......................................................................................................... 6-21 Chapter 7: Recreation and Open Space Introduction ................................................................................................................. 7-1 Administrative Structure .............................................................................................. 7-2 Areawide Recreational Opportunities .......................................................................... 7-2 Physical Recreation ................................................................................................ 7-3 Social Recreation .................................................................................................... 7-4 Cognitive Recreation ............................................................................................... 7-5 Environmentally Related Recreation ....................................................................... 7-5 Recreation Inventory ................................................................................................... 7-6 Recreational Needs and Use ...................................................................................... 7-11 Non-Motorized Trails and Bike Paths ...................................................................... 7-12 Waterfront Open Space ........................................................................................... 7-15 Senior Citizens Center ............................................................................................ 7-15 Recreation and Local Spending .................................................................................. 7-16 Open Space Protection ............................................................................................... 7-16 Definitions ............................................................................................................... 7-17 Chapter 8: Waterfront Introduction ................................................................................................................. 8-1 Watersheds of the Kalamazoo River Basin ............................................................. 8-2 Primary Ecosystems ................................................................................................... 8-5 Water Quality .............................................................................................................. 8-6 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 iii �J TABLE OF CONTENTS continued Chapter 8: Waterfront, continued Bacterial Pollution ................................................................................................. 8-13 Lal<e Levels .. ... ..... ...... ................... ..... ........ .................... ..... ... .......... .. ... ............ ........ 8-13 Harbor ....................................................................................................................... 8-14 Marine Safety ............................................................................................................ 8-21 Existing Land Use Along Waterfront. ..... ... .. .............. ..... ............................................ 8-22 High Water/Low Water ...... ... ...... ... ..... ...... .. ..................... .. .............. ........ ... ..... ...... 8-22 Acquisition and Development of Public Lands Along the Waterfront. ..................... 8-24 Limiting the Intensity of Development.. .................................................................. 8-25 Retaining Visual Access, Aesthetics and the Character of the Area ........... ........... 8-26 Surface Water Use Conflicts ........ ........... ... .... .. ............................... ................ ..... .... . 8-27 Recommendations to Guide Future Use ................................................................... 8-27 Need for Intergovernmental Cooperation .................................................................. 8-28 Chapter 9: Growth and Development Trends Introduction .......... .. ... ............. .. .... ....... ................. ... ..... .. ... ........... ... ....... ........ .. .. ...... ... 9-1 Growth Rates .......................................................................................................... 9-1 Residential & Commercial Construction ........................... .. .. ...... .......................... .. . 9-5 Policy Implications ....................................................................................................... 9-6 Chapter 10: Future Land Use lntroduction .............................................................................................................. 10-1 Planning and Design Principles ................................................................................ 10-1 Protection of Public Health and Safety ................................................................. 10-3 Conservation of Natural Resources ...................................................................... 10-3 Environmental Protection ................................................................ ...... ...... ......... 10-3 Minimizing Public Service Costs ........................................................................... 10-3 Efficiency and Convenience in Meeting Land Use Needs ..................................... 10-3 Insuring Compatibility Between Land Uses .......................................................... 10-4 Development and Conservation Areas ..................................................................... 10-4 Preservation of Community Character...................................................................... 10-4 Residential ............................................................................................................... 10-5 Commercial .............................................................................................................. 10-5 Industrial .......... ... ... ............................ .. ......................... ........................................... 10-6 Agricultural ............................................................................................................... 10-7 Waterfront Mixed Use .............................................................................................. 10-7 Greens pace and Preserve .... .... ................... ........................................................ ... . 10-7 Highway Buffer ......................................................................................................... 10-8 Chapter 11: Zoning Plan Introduction .............................................................................................................. 11-1 What is a Zoning Plan? ............................................................ ........... ................. .... 11-1 Relationship to Joint Comprehensive Plan ........... .................... .................... .... ........ 11-1 Districts and Dimensional Standards ........................................................................ 11-1 City of Saugatuck ............................................... ............. ............. .... ............... .... 11-2 Commercial Districts ..... .... ........... ..... .............. .... .................... .. ....... ........... .... 11-2 Residential Districts ....................................................................................... 11-2 Cultural/Community District. ........................................................................... 11-3 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 iv �TABLE OF CONTENTS continued Chapter 11: Zoning Plan, continued Conservation and Recreation District ........ ..... .. ... .. .... ... ......... .. ....................... 11-3 • Mixed Use District .... ..... ... .. .... ... ... .. .... .... ..... ........ ... .... .. .... .. ..... ..... ...... ............ 11 -3 Saugatuck Township ...... .......... ...... ... ... ... ....... ............ .... .... .. ...... ..... .... ............. .. 11-4 Rural Districts .... ........ ... .. ....... ..... .. ..... .... ......... .. .... ... ... .... .......... ... .. .... ... .. ... ..... 11-4 Residential Districts ...... ............ ...... ........ ......... ... ................ ... ..... ... ................. 11-5 Commercial Districts .... ....... .. ................ .. ....... .......... .. ........ .. .... ....... ...... .... .... .. 11-5 Industrial District ...... .. .. ... .... ... .. .... .... ..... ..... .... ...... ... ..... ..... ... .. ... .... .......... .. .. .... 11 -6 City of the Village of Douglas .... .... .. ............... ... .... ........... ...... ......... ... .. ........ ....... 11-7 Residential Districts ............ ..... ... ......... ..... .... ..... .............. ..... ..... ...... ...... ... ... ... 11-7 Commercial Districts .. ... ... .... .. ..... ... ... ............... .. ......... .... ... .. ..... .... ........... .. ..... 11-7 Industrial Districts ............... .. .. .... .... .... ...... ....... .......... .. ....... .......... .................. 11-7 Public Lands District .. .... ............ ...... ........................... ........ ... ......... ................ 11-7 Chapter 12: Intergovernmental Cooperation Introduction ......... .... ........ .... ... ..... ........ .... ............ ................ ... ............ ...................... 12-1 Tri-Community Intergovernmental Cooperation Issues .. ........ ............ ... .. .. ..... .. ... .... .. 12-1 Adjoining Jurisdiction Issues ...... .. ... ............ .. ... ........... ... .... ...... ...... ... .... ... ... ..... ........ 12-2 Chapter 13: Strategies for Implementation Introduction ..... ... ... ........ .. ...... ... .......................... ... ..... ... .. .... ........ ...... ... ..... ..... .... ... ... 13-1 Elements of Successful Plan Implementation ...... ...... .. ... ... ...... ...... .. .. ......... ... .. ... ... ... 13-1 Central Ingredients .. .... .. ... .. ............ ....... ..... .... ... .. .. .... ... ... .... ....... ....... .. ....... ..... .. ... 13-1 Focusing on Priorities ...... ...... ............... ..................................... .... ......... ..... ... ...... 13-1 Annual Tasks .. .......... .... ..... .... ... ............. ....... .. ... ..... .... ... ... .... ... ... .. .. .... .. ..... ........ .. 13-1 Priority Recommendations to be Implemented ..... .. .. ...... .... .... .............. .... ......... .. .... . 13-2 All Three Jurisdictions Together ....... .... ...... .. .... .... ... ... ... .......... .... ... ................. ..... 13-2 Governing Body Priorities ............... ...... .................. ....... ............. .... ..... ....... ... .... ... 13-2 Planning Commission Priorities .................. ... ... ..... ......... .. ...... ....... ...... .. ........ ... .... 13-2 Saugatuck City ............. ...... ... ... ...... ... .......... ....... .... .... ... ... ..... ... .... ...... ...... .......... .. 13-3 City of the Village of Douglas .. ..... ..... ... .... ............... ...... ... ... .... ...... ..... .. ..... .. .. ...... . 13-4 Saugatuck Township ............................ ... ... ............. ........................ ........... .. ........ 13-4 Key Strategies to be Implemented ........... .... ..... ...................... ..... .......... .. ................ 13-5 Bibliography Appendix: Results of 2004 Citizen Opinion Survey See separate file on CD Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 V �TABLE OF CONTENTS continued LIST OF MAPS 4-1 ' Tri-Community Topography .... .... .. ....... ............ ... ...... ..... ..... ..... .. ....... .... .. ....... ..... 4-4 4-2 Tri-Community Floodplains ... ...... ..... ........... .. .......... ....... ......... ................. ........... 4-6 4-3 Tri-Community Wetlands and Hydric Soils ......... ... .... ....... .. .. .. ..... ..... .. .... .... ..... ... . 4-9 4-4 Tri-Community Development Limitations .... .. .... .... .. ....... .. .. .. .... .. ... ..... ... .. .... ........ 4-10 4-5 Prime Farmlands with Agricultural Protection ........ .. ......... ... ...... ................. ......... 4-15 4-6 Tri-Community Groundwater Vulnerability and Well Locations ... .... .. .. ...... ....... .... 4-17 4-7 Tri-Community High Risk Erosion Areas ... ... .. .. ...... .. .. .. ..... ............ ...................... 4-22 4-8 Tri-Community Critical Dunes Areas ... .. ... .. ... ...... ....... ............... .... ... .. .... .... ...... .. . 4-24 4-9 Tri-Community Woodlands ............. ......... ....... ..... .... ..... .... ... ....... ... ..... ... .. .. .. ... .. ... 4-25 5-1 Tri-Community Land Cover/Land Use, 1996 ... ...... .. ....... .... ................. .. .. .. .... ...... 5-2 5-2 Tri-Community Land Use by Tax Class, 2003 .... .. ..... ... .... .... ....... ...... .... ...... ... ..... 5-5 5-3 Saugatuck Historic District ....... ....... .. ......... ... .............................. ...... ... .. .... ..... .. .. 5-13 6-1 Tri-Community Utilities .......................... .......... .... .. ... .... ........ ... ......... .. .. .. ...... .. .. .. . 6-3 6-2 Tri-Communities County Drains in the ..... .. ..... .... .... ..... ........... ............... ........... ... 6-6 6-3 Road Classifications .... .. ... .... .. ...... ... ............ .. ..... .... ... ....... .. ... .... .... ..... .......... ...... . 6-9 6-4 Tri-Community Traffic Count Locations .... ..... ...... .. .. ... .. .. ... .... .... ...... .. ... ... ..... .. .... . 6-14 6-5 Tri-Community Public Facilities and School Districts ..... .... .. .... ...... .. ............. ....... 6-19 7-1 Tri-Community Recreation Facilities .... .. .... .......... ........... .... ... ...... .... ........... ... .. .... 7-8 7-2 Tri-Community Area Proposed Bike Paths .... .... .... .. .. .. ................ .. ... .. .. .. .. .. ........ . 7-14 7-3 Tri-Community Greenspace Elements ... ... ..... ... .... .. .... ...... ...... ... ........ ........ ..... ..... 7-19 8-1 Tri-Community Watersheds ........ ..... ...... ....... .. .... ... .. ...... .. .. ...... .. ... ... .. ... ... .... ....... . 8-4 8-2 Kalamazoo River Wild-Scenic River Segment.. ......... ...... ... ... .. .. .... ... ........ .. .... ... .. 8-7 8-3 Saugatuck Harbor Chart ..... ........ ..... .. ... .... .. ..... .......... ........ .. .... ... ........ ...... .... ...... 8-16 8-4 Marinas in Saugatuck/Douglas ................. .. ..... ............................ ........ ....... .... ..... 8-18 10-1 Future Land Use Map ... .... ...... ... .............. ......... ... .. .... ...... .......... .. ..... ... .......... ... .. 10-2 LIST OF TABLES • 2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-5 2-6 3-1 3-2 3-3 3-4 3-5 3-6 4-1 4-2 5-1 5-2 Population in the Tri-Communities, 1990-2000 .. .. .... .. .............. ... ................ ........ 2-1 Population in the Tri-Communities, 2000-2020 ......... ....... ..... ..... .... ... .. ... .. ........... 2-2 Seasonal Housing Units, 2000 .... ....... ......... ......... ............. .............. .... ......... ... ... 2-2 Households in the Tri-Communities, 1990-2000 .................. .. ..... ..... ... .. .. .... ... ... .. 2-3 Persons per Household in the Tri-Communities, 1990-2000 ....... ..... .... .. ............ 2-3 Tri-Community Educational Attainment, 2004 ..... ........ ................... ............ ..... .. . 2-7 Tri-Community Median Income, 1990-2000......... .. ... ..... ...... ..... .. .. ........... ...... .... . 3-1 Tri-Community Median Home Value, 1990-2000 ... ... ... ........... ... ..... .... .. .. .. ..... .... . 3-2 Tri-Community Workforce and Unemployment Rate, 2003 ... ... .... .. ...... ... .. .. .... .... 3-2 Tri-Community Major Employers and Number of Employees, 2004 ..... .. ........ ..... 3-3 Tri-Community State Equalized Value, 1995 and 2003 ...... .. .... ... ...... ... ... ..... .. .... 3-4 Tri-Community Number of Building Permits for New Structures, 2000-2003 .. .. ... 3-5 Summary of Relevant Climate Conditions ... ............ ...... .. ..... .... .. ... ... .... ... ..... ... .. .4-2 Revised PA 116 Contract List as of 9-30-2004 ....... ... ........ .... .. ... ..... ... ......... ... .. 4-14 Tri-Community Land Use/Land Cover, 1978 & 1996 .... ......... ....... .. .......... ..... ..... 5-3 Land Use by Tax Class, Saugatuck City, Saugatuck Township and City of the Village of Douglas, in Acres, 2003 ...... .. ........ ... .. ... ... ... ..... .... .. ............. ............ .. . 5-4 5-3 State Historic Sites ...... .............. ... ... ...... ...... ... ... .... .... .. ....... .... ... ........ ...... ...... ... 5-12 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 vi �TABLE OF CONTENTS continued List of Tables, continued 6-1 Tri-Community Traffic Counts ........................................................................... 6-11 6-2 • Enrollment in Schools Serving the Tri-Communities ......................................... 6-17 6-3 Tri-Community Public Facilities ........................................................................ 6-23 7-1 Summer Recreation Programs ...................... .......... ..... ............ ........... ............. 7-4 7-2 Inventory of Outdoor Recreation Facilities ........................................................ 7-7 7-3 Planned Improvements in Tri-Community Parks ............................................... 7-9 7-4 Planned Recreational Projects and Acquisitions ............................................. 7-11 7-5 Community Opinion on Recreation and Facilities, 2004 ................................... 7-12 7-6 Support for Recreation-Related Services if Increased Property Taxes Required ............. .... ... ... ....... ... ..... ............ ................ ... ..... ..................... . 7-16 8-1 Mean Monthly Flow of Kalamazoo River ......... .......... ... .. .................................. 8-5 8-2 Exceedance Flows of the Kalamazoo River ..................................................... 8-5 8-3 Kalamazoo River Area of Concern Impairments ............................................... 8-10 8-4 Saugatuck/Douglas Marinas .. ....... ............. ...... .. ...... .. ..................... ........... .. .... 8-19 8-5 Tri-Community Boating Related Survey Responses ......................................... 8-25 9-1 Buildout Analysis of Saugatuck Township ............ ..................... .... ...... .. ........ ... 9-3 11-1 City of Saugatuck Zoning District Regulations .................................................. 11-4 11-2 Saugatuck Township Zoning District Regulations ............................................. 11-6 11-3 City of the Village of Douglas Zoning District Regulations .......... ................. ..... 11-8 LIST OF FIGURES 2-1 2-2 2-3 2-4 2-5 4-1 8-1 8-2 Douglas Village Age and Sex, 2000 ...................... .. ................. ........ ......... .......... 2-4 Saugatuck City Age and Sex, 2000 ..................................................................... 2-4 Saugatuck Township Age and Sex, 2000 ....... .. ....... ........ .... ........ ........ ...... .......... 2-5 Tri-Community Age and Sex, 2000 ..................................................................... 2-5 Allegan County Age and Sex, 2000 ..................................................................... 2-6 Kalamazoo River Basin ....................................................................................... 4-3 Lake Michigan Recent and Projected Water Levels, 2003-2005 ..... .................. 8-14 Potential Low Water in Saugatuck Harbor .............................................. ..... ...... 8-23 LIST OF PHOTOS • 1-1 Small Town, Scenic Character ............................................................................ 1-3 1-2 Preserve Agricultural Land .................. .................... ....... .... .. ......... .. ..... ....... ... ..... 1-6 1-3 Improve Tourist Attractions ............ ................ ............. ... ............. ... .............. .. .. ... 1-7 1-4 Maintain and Improve Commercial Structures ..................................................... 1-8 1-5 Prepare Subarea Plan and Design Concept for Freeway Interchanges .... ... ..... ... 1-9 1-6 Maintain Rural Residential Housing .................................................................. 1-11 1-7 Encourage Preservation of Older Homes .......................................................... 1-12 1-8 Protect Sensitive Environments ......................... .. ......................... .... ........... ...... 1-13 1-9 Protect the Aesthetic Values and Recreational Potential of Waterfront Areas ... 1-14 1-10 Enhance Recreational Opportunities ................................................................. 1-15 1-11 Maintain a Safe and Effective Transportation System ....................................... 1-16 1-12 Ensure a Safe and Adequate Drinking Supply ... ... ....... ........................... ........... 1-17 4-1 Tri-Communities Experience Four Seasons ....... ................... .............................. 4-1 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 vii �TABLE OF CONTENTS continued List of Photos, continued 4-2 Wetlands in Peterson Nature Preserve .. .... .. ....... .. .. ...... .......... .... ........ .... .......... ..4-7 4-3 Lake Michigan Beach ... .... ....... .... ..... ........ .. .. ............ .... .. .... ..... ...... .......... ... ... .... 4-18 4-4 Shallow Lakefront Parcels in Saugatuck Township ... .. ......... .. .. .. .... .... .. ........ ... .. 4-20 4-5 Deep Lakefront Parcels in Saugatuck Township .... ... .. ... .............. .. ...... .. ...... ..... 4-21 6-1 Waste Water Treatment Plant ..... .... .......... ...... ...... .... ...... .... .... .... ....... .... ....... ...... 6-4 6-2 Local Street in the Tri-Communities ....... .... .. ...... .. .. ............. ... ..... .. .. ... ... .... ... .. .. ... 6-8 6-3 Traffic has Grown on Blue Star Highway .. ..... ....... .. .. .. ... ........ ... .... ... ..... ... .. ...... .. 6-12 6-4 Blue Star Highway Needs Better Access Management.. ....... ..... ...... ....... ... .. .... . 6-13 6-5 Interurban Vehicle ...... .... ..................... ..... ... ... .... ...... ........ ..... ... .......... .... .... ... .... 6-15 6-6 Saugatuck Middle/High School ...... .. ...... .. .... .... .. .. ... ... .. .. ... ... .. .. ..... .. .. ......... ....... 6-18 6-7 Douglas Elementary Schools ...... .. .... ... ....... ...... .. ... ... .. .. ... .. ..... ............. ............. 6-18 6-8 Saugatuck Public Works Department Building ........................ .... .. .... ... .... .. .. .... . 6-21 6-9 Saugatuck Township Hall ...... .... .. ..... .... ..... .. .. ... ....... .. .... ......... ........ ... ........... .. ..... 6-22 7-1 The Tri-Communities are an Active Recreation Destination ... .......... .. ........... ... .. 7-1 7-2 Soccer Recreation Program .. ....... ... ... ....... .. ......... ........ ....... .. ... ..... .. .. .... ............. 7-3 7-3 Summer Swimming Program .... ....... .. ..... ..... .. ... .. .. ..... .... ... ... ...... ... .. ... ............ .... 7-3 7-4 Vintage Baseball League Team-Douglas Duchers ....... ...... ......... ... .... .... .... .. ... . 7-4 7-5 Saugatuck Women's Club ... ... .... .. .... ... ... ... .. ... .. .. ..... ....... .. .......... .. ... ........ ... ... ... .. 7-5 7-6 Ravines Golf Course .. .. ....... .... ............ .. ... .... .. .. .. ........... .. ....... ........ .... ... ........ ..... 7-6 7-7 Interurban Trail. ........... ....... ... ...... .... ......... .... ..... .. ... ............ ....... ...... ........... .. ... . 7-13 7-8 Restaurants are Among Water Viewing Sites .... ....... ...... .... ..... ... ... .. .. ...... .. .... ... 7-15 7-9 Protected Open Space Adds Value to the Community ........ ..... ....... ............. ... . 7-17 8-1 Kayakers About to Enjoy Kalamazoo Lake ................. .... ..... ... .. .. ..... .... .... .... .. .. .. . 8-1 8-2 Blue Star Highway Bridge ..... ..... ... .. ..... ... .. ......... ... ... ..... ..... .. .... .. .. ..... ................. 8-2 8-3 View from Tannery Creek Outlook of Kalamazoo River and Distant Wetland Areas ... .. ..... .... ...... .... .... ..... ........... ... .. ............................. .. .... .. ... .. ... .. .... 8-3 8-4 The Harbor is Home to Many Boaters and Marinas ......... ......... .. .. .... ..... .. ... ....... 8-15 8-5 Cruise Ship Entering Saugatuck Harbor. ....... .... ... ... ... ... ... .... .. .... .. ... ............. ..... 8-17 8-6 Marina in Lake Kalamazoo .. ... ....... ... ... .... .... .... ... .............. ............ .... ..... .... .. ... ... 8-21 8-7 Residential and Recreational Use of the Kalamazoo Lake Shoreline ... .. .......... . 8-22 8-8 Boat Launch Ramp Sites are Difficult to Provide Due to Shoreline Topography and Shallow Depth of Lake Kalamazoo .......... .... ......... ...... ...... .. .. .. 8-24 8-9 Tourism Depends in Part on Retaining Views of the Water .. .. .. ....... .. ... ... .. ........ 8-26 9-1 Saugatuck City Attracts Many People but Parking Space is Scarce ......... ... ... ... .. 9-2 9-2 Maintaining Rural Character in Saugatuck Township is Important to Residents .. 9-4 9-3 Residential Construction Takes All Types: New Cottages at Summer Grove ...... 9-5 12-1 The Spirit of Cooperation is Important to the Tri-Communities ... ....... .. .. ............ 12-2 12-2 Kalamazoo River Water Quality is a Shared Responsibility of the Tri-Communities and Other Adjacent Jurisdictions .. .... .. .... ... .... ... .. ...... .............. 12-4 13-1 Preparation of an Oxbow Peninsula Sub-Area Plan is Important for Long-Term Preservation .... ....... ...... ... ... .. .. ..... .... .. .... ..... .............. ... .... ..... ...... 13-4 13-2 Preservation of Scenic Viewing Areas is Very Important to Improving Quality of Life as with this Opportunity Along Tannery Creek .. .. .. .. .. ...... .. .... ...... 13-6 13-3 Maintaining Quality Streets and Preserving their Capacity is Important for Access by Residents and Visitors ... .... ... ..... ..... ...... ....... ..... .. ..... 13-7 john : F: winword\tri-communities\nov 10 04\TABLE OF CONTENTS nov 10 04 .doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\TABLE OF CONTENTS nov 10 04- revised 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 viii �. Chapter 1 GOALS & POLICIES: THE AREAWIDE POLICY PLAN INTRODUCTION Goals and policies are the foundation of a comprehensive plan . They address the key problems and opportunities of a community and help establish a direction and strategies for future community development and growth . Goals establish general direction. The policies embodied in this Plan were prepared through two extensive processes that included leadership surveys, public opinion surveys, meetings with local officials, and area wide town meetings. The first process took place from 1987-1989 when the first Tri-Community Plan was prepared. The second process was undertaken in 2003 and 2004 when this Plan was extensively updated. The first step in both the 1987 and 2003 processes was a survey of area leaders including members of each planning commission, elected officials, prominent members of the private sector. Leaders were asked their views on the major problems and opportunities facing their jurisdiction and the Tri-Communities, and the results were tabulated and presented to each local government. These results served as the basis for initiating a public opinion survey. The second step in both processes was the solicitation of citizen views on area wide planning issues through public opinion surveys mailed to every property owner in the TriCommunity area and distributed in many rental units. Survey questions were prepared for each jurisdiction through consultations with the joint planning committee and each individual planning commission. Dr. Brent Steel, Oakland University, conducted and tabulated the first survey while Dr. David Hartman of Western Michigan University's Kercher Center for Social Research conducted and tabulated the second survey. The response rate to the first survey of 43% and 40% to the second survey was very high considering the length (about 1 hour completion time) and type of survey: thus responses are believed to represent the majority view in each community. Most respondents were homeowners in their mid-fifties, registered to vote, who are long-term residents and plan to live in the area for ten or more years. Survey results are shown in Appendix A. Results of the citizen opinion survey and leadership survey were used to identify issues for discussion at the first town meeting in 1987. This meeting was a "futuring" session where participants were asked to imagine how they would like their community to be in the year 2000. Participants were separated into groups and asked to prepare a list of "prouds" and "sorries" in their community, and things from the past which they would like to preserve. The lists were compared and then groups were established according to topic area and were asked to imagine that element of their community in the year 2000. This futuring process identified key issues and community elements which were pulled together to form a vision and direction for the Tri-Communities in the year 2000. In 2004, the results of the citizen opinion survey were used to identify key issues for Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-1 �discussion at a Town Meeting where participants were polled on their preferred option for addressing each issue. This Plan uses 2025 as the target year. A draft policy-based plan, with defined goals and policies, was then prepared based on this Iown Meeting process and the survey results. The draft was refined through a series of meetings with area officials and then presented to area citizens in a second town meeting. Citizen comments were reviewed by officials from each community and incorporated into the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan. Data and trends in the Tri-Community area were also analyzed . This analysis supported the direction of the 1989 Comprehensive Plan, as well as the updated Plan. Thus, the broad based input of area officials, leaders, and citizens, plus detailed analysis of local trends and land use characteristics have formed the goals and policies that comprise the policy portion of this Comprehensive Plan . These joint goals and policies will serve as a guide for land use and infrastructure decisions in Saugatuck Township , the City of Saugatuck, and the Village of Douglas. With time, some elements may need to be changed , others added, and still others removed from the list. Before amendatory action is taken, however, the impact of the proposed changes should be considered comprehensively in relation to the entire Plan. These joint goals and policies are premised on a pledge by Saugatuck Township, the City of Saugatuck, and the Village of Douglas to mutually cooperate in guiding future development to advance a common vision . It is intended that these goals and policies be consulted when considering future land use decisions within an individual jurisdiction, as well as those decisions that affect the interests of more than one jurisdiction. OVERARCHING GOAL It is the long term goal of this joint Comprehensive Plan to improve the quality of life for all citizens in the Tri-Communities through implementation of policies and best practices that preserve the existing small town/rural character of the area and that achieve sustainable development - that is, which meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. COMMUNITY CHARACTER Goal: Retain and enhance the quiet, scenic, and small town/rural character of the TriCommunities. Policy: Preserve the character of the Tri-Communities area by encouraging land uses and densities of development that are consistent with maintaining its small town/rural nature. Goal: Preserve the established character of neighborhoods and rural areas within the Tri-Communities. Policy: Encourage architectural and site design that complements, rather than detracts from existing development on neighboring parcels. Policy: Encourage the preservation and restoration of historic structures. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-2 �Policy: Preserve the character of the area by encouraging land uses and densities/intensities of development which are consistent with and complement the character, economic base, and image of the area. Policy: Improve the appearance of entrances into the Township and Village of Douglas and maintain the entrances to the City of Saugatuck through landscape designs, signs, and land development which promote the vitality and character of each community, without unnecessary clutter or safety hazards. Photo 1-1 Small Town, Scenic Character Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Policy: Manage the trees lining streets in the City and Village to provide a continuous green canopy. Plant indigenous trees along Blue Star Highway and maintain them along other roads in the Township. Policy: Replace post mature trees through an aggressive planting program that will maintain aesthetically pleasing, tree-lined streets and roads throughout the TriCommunity area. Policy: Discourage the development of "bigfoot" homes that restrict views, block light and the free flow of air for neighbors, detract from the charm of a neighborhood, and serve as a catalyst for sending excess stormwater runoff onto abutting properties and into lakes and streams. Policy: Explore the possibility of establishing uniform sign standards in all three jurisdictions. Policy: Discourage designs which would block significant views and vistas. • Policy: Increase enforcement of existing ordinances and regulations to better preserve the established character of the Tri-Communities and promote the goals and policies of this Plan . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-3 �GROWTH MANAGEMENT Goal: Guide development in a manner which is orderly, consistent with the planned expansion of public facilities , and strives to preserve the scenic beauty, foster the wise use of natural resources, protect environmentally sensitive areas, and enhance the special character of the Tri-Communities. Policy: Encourage development in locations that are consistent with the capacity of existing and planned public services and facilities, and are cost effective in relation to service extensions. Policy: Encourage new development to be in compact increments adjacent to existing development. Policy: Review all plans by other public entities for expansion and improvement of existing road and street networks for impacts on growth patterns and for consistency with the goals and policies of this Plan . Policy: Encourage new development wherever possible to contribute to achieving the ten Tenets of Smart Growth as detailed in the Michigan Land Use Leadership Council Report and reproduced in the sidebar below. Policy: Consider the impact of land use planning and zoning changes on the other jurisdiction(s), and discuss proposed changes with the affected jurisdiction(s) prior to making such changes. A common procedure for such communication shall be established and followed. Policy: Examine the feasibility and benefits of a single planning commission for the TriCommunities. Policy: Examine the feasibility and benefits of a common zoning ordinance (or at least uniform zoning standards) in the Tri-Communities. Ten Tenets of Smart Growth: 1. Create a range of housing opportunities and choices. 2. Create walkable neighborhoods. 3. Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration . 4. Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place. 5. Make development decisions predictable, fair and cost-effective. 6. Mix land uses. 7. Preserve open space, farmland , natural beauty and critical environmental areas. 8. Provide a variety of transportation choices. 9. Strengthen and direct development towards existing communities. 10. Take advantage of compact development design. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-4 �LAND USE AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES Goal: Promote the balanced, efficient, and economical use of land in a manner which minimizes land use conflicts within and across municipal borders, and provides for a wide range of land uses in appropriate locations to meet the diverse needs of area residents. Policy: Insure compatible land use planning and zoning across municipal borders and minimize land use conflicts by separating incompatible uses and requiring buffers where necessary. Policy: Discourage sprawl and scattered development through planned expansion of roads and public utilities and through zoning regulations which limit intensive development to areas where adequate public services are available. Policy: Provide for necessary community facilities (e.g. schools, garages, fire halls, etc.) consistent with adopted land use plans and long-term capital improvement programs. Policy: Coordinate Capital Improvement Programming with each of the TriCommunities. Policy: Encourage approaches to site design which take into account natural features of the property, such as soils, topography, hydrology, and natural vegetation, and which use the land most effectively and efficiently by maximizing open space, preserving scenic vistas, conserving energy, and pursuing any other public policies identified in this Plan. Policy: Advise developers during site plan review to contact the Office of the State Archaeolog ist, Michigan Historical Center in the Department of History, Arts, and Libraries to determine if the project may affect a known archaeological site. AGRICULTURE Goal: Maintain a variety of agricultural operations and promote the preservation of existing farms and farmland through coordinated planning and development regulations, public incentives, and educational strategies. Policy: Preserve prime agricultural land as long as a landowner has a desire to farm the land. Policy: Encourage cluster zoning in a manner that is compatible with typical agricultural activities and preserves open space. Policy: Encourage farmers on lands well suited to agriculture to enroll and maintain enrollments on their property in the Michigan Farmland Preservation Act program, as originally provided in Public Act 116 of 1974, as amended. Policy: Encourage the expansion of specialty farms and related activities which enhance the tourism and recreation potential of the area (e.g. "you pick", farmers markets, farm tours, corn mazes, etc.). Policy: Discourage the establishment of high density livestock and poultry operations as inconsistent with the agricultural and resort character of the Tri-Communities. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-5 �Photo 1-2 Preserve Agricultural Land Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Goal: Strengthen and expand upon the area's economic bases through strategies, which attract new businesses, strengthen existing businesses, and enhance the tourism potential of the area. Policy: Identify potential sites for industrial development and alternative means of financing necessary public improvements and marketing of the sites (i.e. tax increment financing, special assessments, state grants and loans, etc.). Policy: Support efforts to foster tourism by preserving the scenic beauty of the environment, expanding recreation opportunities, improving tourist attractions, preserving the historic character of the communities through the preservation of historic structures, expanding cultural and arts opportunities and encouraging development of promotional materials which highlight the attractions of the Tri-Communities. Policy: Utilize the 2002 Saugatuck 10-Year Strategic Development Plan where advisable. Policy: Encourage the development of one non-governmental organization that would promote and coordinate the development of all economic activities in the TriCommunities. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-6, �Photo 1-3 Improve Tourist Attractions Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau COMMERCIAL Goal: Encourage the development of commercial land uses in appropriate locations which serve the current and future needs of residents and tourists, are of a character consistent with community design guidelines, and which promote public safety through prevention of traffic hazards and other threats to public health, safety, and general welfare. Policy: Encourage new commercial development to locate adjacent to existing commercial areas. Policy: Encourage the design and location of neighborhood commercial centers in a manner which complements and does not conflict with adjoining residential areas. Policy: Encourage a compatible and desirable mix of commercial uses. Policy: Encourage design guidelines which promote similarity in the height and design of storefronts and prevent the creation of structures whose mass is too great for the lot and structures on adjoining lots. Policy: Along the Blue Star Highway, promote the development of small, commercial centers off the road, rather than lot by lot commercial strips. Policy: Continue to discourage unsafe and unsightly strip commercial development along the Blue Star Highway through design and landscaping requirements such as berms, planting, shared access and shared parking when possible. Also require large lot frontage and service roads for commercial uses along Blue Star Highway to prevent traffic hazards wherever feasible. Policy: Encourage landowners to maintain and where necessary improve the condition of commercial structures. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-7 �Policy: Develop a comprehensive policy regarding parking (parking requirements for businesses, location of parking lots, shuttle service) which preserves the character of downtown Saugatuck and Douglas while meeting the parking needs of residents, shoppers, visitors and employees, recognizing that maintaining the small town historic ambiance is central to economic viability. Photo 1-4 Maintain and Improve Commercial Structures Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Policy: Avoid separate parking lots for each business where feasible and encourage centrally placed lots which serve several businesses. Policy: Encourage continued concentration of tourist oriented businesses in Saugatuck and Douglas, general commercial businesses in Douglas and Saugatuck Township, and highway service activities that serve regional markets and passenger vehicles at the highway interchanges. Policy: Encourage retention of existing downtown businesses in order to preserve those functions within Saugatuck and Douglas because they are so central to the character and function of those downtowns. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-8 �Photo 1-5 Prepare Subarea Plan and Design Concept for Freeway Interchanges Source: Aaron Sheridan Policy: Prepare and maintain a subarea plan and design concept for the freeway interchange areas and along Blue Star Highway which identifies appropriate land uses and emphasizes the design guidelines contained in this Plan. Policy: Improve the downtowns in Saugatuck and Douglas as funds are available by improving the supply of parking at peak periods, by installing additional public restroom facilities and generally improving the appearance and function of the sidewalks and streets through appropriate benches, flower plantings, lighting, litter pickup and maintenance. Policy: Encourage the Tri-Communities as a potential home for professional/high tech business and light industry. INDUSTRIAL Goal: Encourage the location of non-polluting light industry in the area without damaging the environment, spoiling the scenic beauty of the area, or overburdening local roads, utilities, or other public services. Policy: Encourage new industries to locate contiguously to existing industrial areas and in locations with existing or planned sewer, water, electric, and solid waste disposal services to minimize service costs and negative impacts on other land uses. Policy: Explore the feasibility of and determine the appropriate locations for a small industrial park that will generate jobs and conform to the design guidelines contained in this Plan and to local zoning regulations. Policy: Implement site plan requirements for light industries which are designed to incorporate generous amounts of open space, attractive landscaping, and buffering from adjacent non-industrial uses. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-9 �Policy: Require the separation of industrial sites from residential areas through buffers made up of any combination of parking, commercial or office uses, parks, parkways, open space, or farmland. CUlTURAUHISTORIC/ARCHAEOLOGICAL Goal: Encourage planning efforts based on the understanding, knowledge and respect for the Tri-Community's historical and cultural resources. Policy: Conduct and maintain historic and cultural resource inventories and transfer development rights. Policy: Collaborate with and encourage local historic and cultural organizations. Policy: Encourage land use and zoning regulation that complements and encourages historic and cultural growth and use. Policy: Consider historical and cultural concerns when developing zoning and other public policies. Goal: Creating strategies to engage arts and culture as vital resources for the quality of life for all members of the community and as a strategy for economic growth. Policy: Assure that historical and cultural opportunities are promoted for the widest range of participants throughout the Tri-Communities. Goal: Preserve and maintain structures that serve as significant reminders of the community's social and architectural history and that, through their ability to attract visitors and residents, contribute to the economic and cultural development of the community. HOUSING/RESIDENTIAL Goal: Encourage a variety of residential dwelling types in a wide range of prices which are consistent with the needs of a changing population and compatible with the character of existing residences in the vicinity. Policy: Maintain "rural residential" with a large minimum lot size as the primary residential land use in the Township in those areas where sewer and water are not available or planned. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-10 �Photo 1-6 Maintain Rural Residential Housing Policy: Explore alternative measures to reduce housing costs and make home ownership more affordable, such as zoning regulations and other programs which are designed to reduce the cost of constructing new housing, provided the exercise of these measures still preserves the character of the area in which the housing is to be built. Policy: Expansion of existing mobile home parks or construction of new mobile home parks adjacent to existing mobile home parks should be encouraged over the creation of new mobile home parks elsewhere in the Tri-Communities. Policy: Allow only quiet, low traffic, low intensity home occupations in residential areas to preserve the stability of existing neighborhoods. Policy: Provide streetlights and sidewalks in residential areas where there is a demonstrated need and according to the ability of residents to help finance such improvements. Policy: Require absentee homeowners to maintain their properties in a manner that is consistent with the character of the surrounding neighborhood. Absentee homeowners should be discouraged from renting their homes out to an excess number of persons for short periods of time so as to avoid bringing a transient character into the neighborhood. Policy: Adopt and enforce a basic property maintenance code and building code . Policy: Consider the development of landscaping standards to be applied to all new housing, both in town and in rural areas, that require a minimum level of landscaping be installed if the lot either has no natural trees or shrubs on it or if such natural plant material was eliminated during construction , recognizing the importance of landscaping in preserving the character of a neighborhood or community. Policy: Encourage the preservation and retention of older homes to maintain community character and history and utilize zoning regulations to prevent homeowners from splitting older homes into multiple family apartment or condominium units. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-11 �Photo 1-7 Encourage Preservation of Older Homes Source: Aaron Sheridan Policy: Allow accessory uses such as garages and pole barns in residential districts subject to height, setback, and location requirements in the local zoning ordinance. Policy: Discourage the development of high intensity residential uses along the waterfront. • Policy: Explore the eligibility of residents to apply for federal, state or county housing rehabilitation grant funds and encourage eligible landowners to participate in such programs. SPECIAL ENVIRONMENTS AND OPEN SPACE Goal: Protect special environments and open spaces, including but not limited to sand dunes, wetlands, and critical wildlife habitat, from the harmful effects of incompatible development activity by limiting the type and intensity of land development in those areas. Policy: Identify development limitations on special environments which classify environments based on their value to the ecosystem, unique attributes, the presence of endangered plant and wildlife species, and other characteristics deemed significant. Policy: Devise regulations for land development in special environments which permit development in a manner consistent with identified protection objectives and which complement state and federal regulations for special environments. Policy: Require development projects deemed appropriate in, compatible with, and adjacent to special environments to mitigate any negative impacts on such environments. Policy: Encourage acquisition of special environments of significant public value by public agencies or nonprofit conservancy organizations for the purposes of preservation . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-12 �Policy: Prepare and maintain a subarea plan for the Oxbow Peninsula including the "Denison Property". Photo 1-8 Protect Sensitive Environments Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau WATERFRONT Goal: Protect and enhance the natural aesthetic values and recreation potential of all waterfront areas for the enjoyment of area citizens while recognizing private property rights of waterfront property owners. Policy: Promote the preservation of open space and natural areas, as well as limited, carefully planned development along the Kalamazoo River, Kalamazoo Lake, Silver Lake, Goshorn Lake, and Lake Michigan and connecting streams, creeks, and drainage ways to protect and enhance the scenic beauty of these waterfront areas. Policy: Explore the feasibility and benefits of establishing a joint site plan review process among the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the Village of Douglas for regulating development on Kalamazoo Lake and the Kalamazoo River. Policy: Some waterfront lands may be developed to meet residential and commercial needs, enhance local tax base, and contribute to paying for local public service costs associated with their use and development, consistent with environmental protection policies in this Plan, where such development would contribute to local quality of life. Policy: Maximize public access, both physically and visually, by acquiring prime waterfront open space whenever feasible . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-13 �Photo 1-9 Protect the Aesthetic Values and Recreational Potential of Waterfront Areas Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Policy: Encourage private property owners to grant scenic easements wherever public values dictate the maintenance of visual access to the waterfront and the property is not available for fee simple purchase. Policy: Limit the height and mass of new development along waterfront areas and preserve setbacks between buildings to maintain visual access and the natural beauty of the waterfront for the broader public. Policy: Explore the limited conversion of street ends which abut waterbodies for use as safe public access to the water for fishing, viewing, and launching of small water crafts. Policy: Maintain a natural greenbelt along the Kalamazoo River and its tributaries. RECREATION Goal: Enhance the well-being of area residents by providing a variety of opportunities for relaxation, rest, activity, and education through a well-balanced system of private and public park and recreational facilities and activities located to serve identified needs of the area. Policy: Identify and explore opportunities to cooperate with other jurisdictions and agencies, including Allegan County and the Department of Natural Resources Recreation and Camping Division, on recreation projects which would benefit area residents and strengthen the tourism industry. Policy: Examine the feasibility of, and establish if feasible, a jointly owned and operated community center to serve residents of all ages in the Tri-Communities. Policy: Examine the feasibility of expanding low cost opportunities for public beach and campground facilities for area citizens with boat launching sites, bike paths, crosscountry ski trails, and docks for shore fishing . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-14 �Photo 1-10 Enhance Recreational Opportunities Source: Scott Kierzek, Community Recreation Director Policy: Promote a system of non-motorized, biking, hiking and cross-country ski trails throughout the Tri-Communities with other jurisdictions or agencies if possible, through the use of local funds, grants and loans, and coordinated long-term capital improvement programming. Policy: Investigate developing a joint public marina and launch facility where federal and state funding is available to assist with financing such a venture. Policy: Encourage local government participation in activities designed to enhance the area's seasonal festivals. Policy: Retain, maintain, and improve all existing publicly owned parks so that they continue to meet the diverse recreation needs of area citizens and tourists through a single Parks Commission. TRANSPORTATION Goal: Maintain a safe, effective, and efficient road and street network and improve roads and streets to promote growth in a way that is consistent with land use goals and policies of this Plan. Policy: Implement traffic controls and design features that will increase the efficiency and safety of major arterials, including but not limited to: traffic signals, deceleration lanes, limiting driveways, minimum standards for driveway spacing, uniform sign regulations, shared or alternate access, left and right turn lanes, and speed limit adjustments. Policy: Prepare a joint governmental capital improvements program to schedule and prioritize transportation improvements and maintenance. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-15 �Policy: Redesign Blue Star Highway as a boulevard between freeway exits #36 and #41 to control access, improve traffic safety and flow, and improve the visual appearance of this highly traveled corridor which provides the principal means of access to each of the three jurisdictions. Photo 1-11 Maintain a Safe and Effective Transportation System Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Goal: Encourage a wide variety of transportation means, such as walking, biking, and public transportation, to meet the diverse needs of area residents. Policy: Promote pedestrian and bike travel through a coordinated network of bikepaths, trails, and sidewalks. Policy: Promote regularly scheduled, affordable, and dependable public transportation to increase the quality of life for those who live in and visit the Tri-Communities thus helping to reduce parking and traffic congestion Policy: Encourage expansion of the interurban system consistent with municipal means to finance the increased service and identified public need. WATER AND SEWER Goal: Ensure a safe and adequate long-term water supply for the area, and environmentally sound sewage treatment, which are efficiently provided and cost effective. Policy: Provide a reliable supply of safe, clean, and good-tasting drinking water. Policy: Minimize the potential for groundwater contamination through planning and zoning which is consistent with the capacity and limitations of the land and available services. Policy: Ensure carefully timed provision of sewer and water service in the area consistent with the development goals and policies of this Plan. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-16 �Policy: Devise alternative mechanisms for financing sewer and water expansions, upgrades and replacements which are financially sound and equitable. Policy: Ensure that the expansion of sewer and water service into an area is consistent with the planned intensity of land use for that area, and implemented when necessary to meet an identified need in the area rather than on a speculative basis. Photo 1-12 Ensure a Safe and Adequate Drinking Supply Source: Aaron Sheridan POLICE, FIRE, AND EMERGENCY SERVICES Goal: Provide police, fire, and emergency services consistent with public needs and the ability to finance improvements in the most cost effective manner for the TriCommunities. Policy: Continue to provide police, fire, and emergency services across the three communities where possible to eliminate overlap in service and expenditures and improve service delivery. Policy: Continue to maintain 24-hour emergency medical service which serves the TriCommunities. SOCIAL SERVICES Goal: Encourage the delivery of County and private social services in the TriCommunities to meet the needs of area residents. Policy: Make available to the Tri-Communities facilities for the local delivery of social services. WASTE MANAGEMENT Goal: Ensure the safe, effective, and efficient disposal of solid waste and other toxic substances. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 1-17 �Policy: Encourage the reduction of solid waste through recycling, composting , and waste-to-energy projects. Policy: Manage disposal of solid waste and location of solid waste facilities in acc@rdance with the Allegan County Solid Waste Management Plan prepared under PA641 of 1978. Policy: Adopt local site plan review standards for on-site storage and transportation of hazardous waste which require: • Secondary containment for on-site storage of hazardous waste; • No transfer of hazardous waste over open ground or water; • No floor drain discharge to groundwater or public sewer unless approved by the appropriate public entity. Policy: Mandate sewer hook-up in environmentally sensitive areas where sewer lines are available especially along all waterways. ENERGY Goal: Promote site design and building which is energy efficient and encourage energy conservation through good land use planning and wise public building management. Policy: Encourage developers to provide sidewalks or non-motorized paths in appropriate locations through subdivision and site condominium regulations. Policy: Encourage higher density residential development near areas with shopping and services to limit the number and length of trips generated from that development. John f:\winword\Tri-Communities\final\CHAPTER 1 GOALS & POLICIES final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 1 GOALS & POLICIES final 6 2 OS.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 1-18 �Chapter 2 DEMOGRAPHICS INTRODUCTION This chapter presents information about the size and other characteristics of the population of the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township and the City of the Village of Douglas. It also presents information about how the population in the three communities has changed over time and how it may change in the future. Where possible, information about the Tri-Communities is compared to Allegan County. For some demographic information, the City of the Village of Douglas is grouped with Saugatuck Township because the data was not separated by the US Census. POPULATION SIZE The population of the Tri-Communities was 4,655 persons in 2000, 20% larger than in 1990 and an increase of nearly eight hundred persons. The population of Douglas Village was 1,214 in 2000, an increase of 17% or 174 persons between 1990 and 2000. Saugatuck City increased by 111 persons between 1990 and 2000 to 1,065 persons , a gain of 12% while Saugatuck Township gained 500 persons to 2,376 persons, a rise of 27%. See Table 2-1. The population increase in the Tri-Communities was 5.2% of the total increase in Allegan County from 1990-2000. The County population grew by 15,156 persons or 17% during this period. Table 2-1 Population in the Tri-Communities, 1990-2000 Community DouQlas City Saugatuck City Sauoatuck Township Tri-Community Total AlleQan County 1990 1,040 954 1,876 3,870 90,509 2000 1,214 1,065 2,376 4,655 105,665 Total Change 1990-2000 174 111 500 785 15,156 % Change 1990-2000 17% 12% 27% 20% 17% Source: US Census PROJECTED POPULATION If the growth rate experienced by the Tri-Communities were to continue into the future, the population of the three communities would reach 6,225 by 2020 (an increase of 1,570 or 34% above 2000 population) and 7,795 by 2040 (a 65% increase, or 3,140 more persons than in 2000). While 2040 is quite distant, 2020 is not that far away (think back to 1984 ). If the current trend continues, that means that roughly 1 in 4 persons in the Tri-Communities would be a new resident in 2020. See Table 2-2. This population increase depends on many factors remaining constant (including market demand, the economy, land availability and others) and the actual rate could be higher or lower than the trend over the past decade. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 2-1 �Table 2-2 Population in the Tri-Communities, 2000-2020 Community Douqlas City Saugatuck City Sauoatuck Township Tri-Community Total Alleqan County Total Change Percent Change 2000 2010 2020 20002020 20002020 1,214 1,065 2,376 4,655 105,665 1,388 1,176 2,876 5,440 120,821 1,562 1,287 3,376 6,225 135,977 348 222 1,000 1,570 30,312 29% 21% 42% 34% 29% Source: US Census and straight /me pro1ectIon based on the rate of change from 1990-2000 by Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. SEASONAL POPULATION Seasonal housing units comprise about 24% of the total housing stock of the TriCommunities. This is a slightly higher proportion than at the time of completion of the previous Comprehensive Plan in 1989, when it was estimated to be about 21 % of the housing stock and the seasonal population to be as much as one-third more during the summer season. There has been an increase in the construction of seasonal units and many existing year-around homes have been purchased for weekend and vacation use by non-residents. The lowest proportion of seasonal homes is in the Township, which has also seen growth in year-around homes for people who commute to jobs within the region. Seasonal homes are 15.9% of homes in the Township, but 25.4% in Douglas and 34.4% in the City of Saugatuck. See Table 2-3. Table 2-3 Seasonal Housing Units, 2000 Community Douqlas City Sauqatuck City Saugatuck Township Tri-Community Total Alleqan County Total Change % Change 1990 2000 19902000 19902000 184 287 180 651 2,730 217 319 197 733 3,154 33 32 17 82 424 18% 11% 9% 13% 16% Total Housing Units Seasonal ¾of Total 2000* 2000 853 928 1236 3,017 43292 25.4% 34.4% 15.9% 24 .3% 7.3% Source: US Census *Total Housing Units includes occupied, seasonal and vacant housing. HOUSEHOLDS AND AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZE In 2000 there were just over 2,100 households in the Tri-Communities, with 587 in Douglas, 549 in the City of Saugatuck and 994 in Saugatuck Township. This was an increase of 394 households, or 23% between 1990 and 2000. See Table 2-4. The increase in Douglas was 111 households, or 23%, Saugatuck City increased by 50 households or 10% and Saugatuck Township increased by 233 households or 31 %. Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 2-2 �Table 2-4 Households in the Tri-Communities, 1990-2000 Community Douglas City Saugatuck City Saugatuck Township Tri-Community Total Allegan County Total Change % Change 1990 2000 19902000 19902000 476 499 761 1,736 31,709 587 549 994 2,130 38,165 111 50 233 394 6,456 23% 10% 31% 23% 20% Source: US Census While household numbers increased, the size of households generally declined. Persons per household declined 3% in the Tri-Communities from 2.07 to 2.01 between 1990 and 2000. Saugatuck Township persons per household declined by 4% to 2.2, Douglas by 5% to 1.91 persons per household while Saugatuck City rose by 1% to 1.93 persons per household during the same period. See Table 2-5. The change in household size between 1990 and 2000 is relatively small, but indicates a trend experienced elsewhere in Michigan and the nation. Household size is declining due to divorce, a greater number of empty nesters, death of a spouse and a greater number of singles setting up household and waiting longer to marry. In contrast, Allegan County experienced an 11 % increase in the size of households between 1990 and 2000. This could reflect a trend of families with children moving from larger metropolitan areas like Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids to Allegan County. Table 2-5 Persons per Household in the Tri-Communities, 1990-2000 Community Douglas City Saugatuck City SauQatuck Township Tri-Community Average AlleQan County MichiQan Total Change % Change 1990 2000 19902000 19902000 2.01 1.91 2.29 1.91 1.93 2.20 -0.10 0.02 -0.09 -5% 1% -4% 2.07 2.45 2.66 2.01 2.72 2.56 -0 .06 0.27 -0.1 -3% 11% -4% Source: US Census Figures 2-1 through 2-5 indicate the number of males and females in each age cohort. Generally, males and females are about even in the younger age categories, with males having a slight numbers advantage in the 20s through 40s. Females generally outnumber males in the 65 and over age group. Also, the population of each of the TriCommunities tends to be larger in number in both the under 18 group and the 65 and over group. This is not typical of Allegan County, which has a large population under 18 years but a relatively small 65 and over population. Allegan County is also more evenly divided between males and females across all age groups. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 2-3 �,-- Figure 2-1 Douglas City Age and Sex, 2000 65 and over 55-64 45.54 (I) C) 35-44 < ■ 25-34 Female □ Male under 18 150 100 o 50 50 100 150 200 250 Number of People • Douglas Source: US Census Figure 2-2 Saugatuck City Age and Sex, 2000 r I 65 and over 55-64 45-54 (I) C) 35-44 < ■ 25-34 18 ·24 Female □ Male under18 150 -100 50 0 50 100 150 Number of People • Saugatuck City Source: US Census Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 2-4 200 250 �r- Figure 2-3 Saugatuck Township Age and Sex, 2000 65 and over 55-64 45-54 G) 35-44 Cl <( 25-34 18 -24 under18 500 400 300 200 0 100 100 200 300 400 500 Number of People• Saugatuck Township Source: US Census Figure 2-4 Tri-Community Age and Sex, 2000 65 and over 55-64 ■ 45-54 35-44 Female □ Male 25-34 18 -24 under 18 800 600 400 200 0 200 400 600 Number of People - Tri-Communities Source: US Census Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 2-5 800 1000 �Figure 2-5 Allegan County Age and Sex, 2000 T 5 and over 55-64 ■ Female 45-54 □ Male Cl) 35-44 C) <( 25-34 18 -24 under 18 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 5,000 0 10,000 15,000 20,000 Number of People • Allegan County Source: US Census EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT The population of the Tri-Communities is very well educated. As is shown in Table 2-6, the three communities have a smaller percentage of persons with fewer years of education than the average for Allegan County, but generally higher percentages than the County when comparing college graduates and persons with advanced degrees. The Tri-Communities also compare favorably with the rest of Michigan, with a higher percentage of persons with bachelor's and master's degrees and about the same percentage with professional or doctorate degrees. As a whole, 11.6% of all year-around residents of the Tri-Communities, 25 years or older, have less than a high school diploma, 30.5% have a high school diploma or equivalent, 30% have some college or an associate degree and 30.8% have a bachelors or advanced degree. (Total does not equal 100% due to averaging.) In Allegan County as a whole, 17.7% of residents 25 years or older have less than a high school diploma, 39.1 % have a high school diploma or equivalent, 30.3% have some college or an associates degree and 15.8% have a bachelor's or higher degree. In Michigan as a whole, 16.5% of residents 25 years or older have less than a high school education, 31.3% have a high school diploma or equivalent, while 30.3% have some college or an associates degree and 21.8% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 2-6 �Table 2-6 Tri-Community Educational Attainment, 2004 • Educational Attainment Douqlas City Saugatuck City Saugatuck Township Tri-Community Average Allegan County Michigan Educational Attainment Douglas City Sauqatuck City Saugatuck Township Tri-Community Average Alleqan County Michigan High school graduate or equivalent 33.2% 22.0% 36 .2% Less than one year of college credit 4.8% 4.7% 5.6% Less than 5th Qrade 0.3% 0.0% 0.4% 5th to 8th grade 5.0% 0.6% 3.7% 9th to 12th grade, no diploma 9.4% 5.3% 10.2% 0.2% 1.1% 1.1% 3.1% 4.9% 3.5% 8.3% 11.7% 11.9% 30.5% 39.1% 31 .3% 5.0% 7.9% 8.3% 1 or more years of college credit no degree 14.1% 19.1% 16.0% Associate Degree 5.9% 6.6% 4.7% Bachelor's Degree 17.0% 28.2% 15.0% Master's Degree 8.1% 9.5% 6.8% Professional Degree 1.5% 3.0% 1.1% Doctorate Degree 0.8% 1.0% 0.3% 16.4% 13.1% 15.0% 5.7% 6.3% 7.0% 20.1% 10.8% 13.7% 8.1% 3.7% 5.7% 1.9% 0.9% 1.6% 0.7% 0.4% 0.8% Source: US Census Note: Totals do not equal 100% due to rounding. john f:\winword\tri-communities\final\CHAPER 2 DEMOGRAPHICS final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 2 DEMOGRAPHICS final 6 2 OS.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 2-7 �Chapter 3 ECONOMICS INTRODUCTION This chapter discusses characteristics of the Tri-Community economy, including median income, housing value, state equalized value of property, the employment, workforce characteristics and recent building permit activity. ECONOMIC BASE The primary reasons people visit or live in the three communities are to enjoy the scenery and recreational opportunities and to live in a picturesque, safe place while they commute to nearby (or distant) urban centers. Beach recreation, boating and other water activities, shopping, art galleries and enjoying the scenery are the primary attractions for both tourists and year-around residents. While agriculture, industry and tourism are important economic sectors represented in the Tri-Communities, tourism is king . The impact of travel on Allegan County was estimated at over $98 million in 1996, the last time an estimate was made (Allegan County Tourism Profile, Tourism Resource Center, Michigan State University). This is based in part on an estimated 1.8 million pleasure trip nights. Due to the high relative importance of the Tri-Communities in the tourism economy of Allegan County, the Tri-Communities share of the County travel dollar should be large. INCOME The median household income in the Tri-Communities was $43, 113 in 2000. This was slightly lower than that of Allegan County, where it was $45,813. Median household income ranged from $41,250 in Douglas to $43,771 in Saugatuck Township to $44,318 in Saugatuck City. Both Douglas and Saugatuck City nearly doubled median household income between 1990 and 2000. (There was no information for Saugatuck Township for 1990.) Table 3-1 Tri-Community Median Income, 1990-2000 Community Douqlas City Saugatuck City Saugatuck Township Tri-Community Average Alleqan County Michigan 1990 $24 ,022 $23,792 $30,023 $25,946 $30,596 $31 ,020 2000 $41,250 $44,318 $43,771 $43,113 $45,813 $44 ,667 Total Change 1990-2000 $17,228 $20,526 $13,748 $17,167 $15,217 $13,647 % Change 1990-2000 72% 86% 46% 66% 50% 44% Source : US Census HOUSE VALUE Housing is either very valuable in the Tri-Communities or very expensive, depending on your perspective. Median house value for the Tri-Communities was $173,700 in 2000. Value was the highest in Saugatuck City, at $184,400, with a median value of $175,000 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 3-1 �in Douglas and $161,700 in Saugatuck Township in 2000. These values were substantially higher than the median for Allegan County, which was $115,500 in 2000. Table 3-2 Tri-Community Median Home Value, 1990-2000 Community Douglas City Sauqatuck City Sauqatuck Township Tri-Community Average Allegan County Michigan 1990 $99,900 $99 ,900 $94,900 2000 $175,000 $184,400 $161,700 Total Change 19902000 $75,100 $84,500 $66,800 $98,233 $59,300 $60,600 $173,700 $115,500 $115,600 $75,467 $56,200 $55,000 % Change 19902000 75% 85% 70% 77% 95% 91% Source: US Census High home value brings attractive returns on investment, but also prevents many from buying homes in the community, including part-time and seasonal workers typically needed in a tourist or recreational area and young adults with moderate incomes. High property values can provide communities with substantial tax revenues, but can also make property owners less willing to support millage increases. High property values in the City and Village can place additional development pressure for lower cost housing on the more rural parts of the Township where land values and taxes are lower, followed by the demand to extend public services. WORKFORCE The workforce numbered 2,000 for Saugatuck Township (including the City of the Village of Douglas) in 2003 and 725 for Saugatuck City. The unemployment rate was 6.8% in Saugatuck Township (including the Village) and 7% in Saugatuck City. See Table 3-3. This rate was about average for Michigan (7%) in 2003 and only slightly higher than Allegan County, at 6.6%. On average, about 175 persons were unemployed per month in Saugatuck City, Saugatuck Township and City of the Village of Douglas during 2003. Table 3-3 Tri-Community Workforce and Unemployment Rate, 2003 Community Saugatuck City Saugatuck Township and Douglas City Allegan County Michiqan Workforce, 2003 Avg. 725 Unemployment Rate, 2003 Avg. 7.0% 2,000 58,000 5,107,000 6.8% 6.6% 7.0% Source: Michigan Department of Career Development, Office of Labor Market Information - LAUS Data Note: Douglas City included in Saugatuck Township. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 3-2 �EMPLOYERS Countywide, manufacturing is the largest employment sector, with over 13,000 employees. Total annual wages for those sectors was approximately $550 million and $73 •million, respectively. Other strong sectors include retail trade with 3,883 employees, accommodation and food service with 2,754 employees and food service and drinking places with 2,436. Annual wages for those sectors were approximately $75 million, $29 million and $25 million, respectively. There are a variety of employers in the Tri-Communities. These inclucie manufacturing, marine services, food service, public employers and others. Table 3-4 lists many of the major employers, but certainly not all employers. Many of the employees are part-time or seasonal, reflecting the high activity of the summer season. Table 3-4 Tri-Community Major Employers and Number of Employees, 2004 City of the Village of Douglas Douqlas Marine Haworth Enterprise Hinqe Tower Marine City of Saugatuck Coral Gables Butler Marros Sauqatuck Schools Mermaid Toulouse Saugatuck Drugs Wilkins Hardware Saugatuck Yacht Service City of Sauqatuck Full TimeNear Around Part Time/ Seasonal Total Employees NP NP NP NP NP NP NP NP 30 121 12 22 4 50 50 50 50 30 20 4 3 8 8 8 54 54 50 50 34 24 12 12 11 8 0 8 Saugatuck Township Clearbrook Ravines Spectators Paramount Tool Best Western 15 3 30 25 5 40 31 NP NP 10 55 34 30 25 15 Total 140 355 495 4 0 0 4 4 4 Source: City of the Village of Douglas, Saugatuck Township and City of Saugatuck NP = Not Provided Separately SEV State Equalized Value (SEV) is a measure of taxable value of real property in a community according to a set of State rules that seek to reflect 50% of true cash value . Real property in the agriculture, industrial, commercial and residential tax classes is Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 3-3 �reported in Table 3-5 for 1995 and 2003 in the three communities separately and as a total for the Tri-Communities . SEV for the City of the Village of Douglas is included with Saugatuck Township. Agriculture property and industrial property were each very small portions of the SEV of real property in 1995 and 2003, both tax classes dropping below 2% of total real property in the Tri-Communities by 2003. Industrial property disappeared entirely from Saugatuck City by 2003, leaving only commercial and residential property classes in the City. Commercial SEV in the Tri-Communities was 17.4% of total SEV in 1995, but declined to 15.6% in 2003. At the same time, residential SEV in the TriCommunities rose slightly from 78.4% to 81.8% of total SEV, to remain the dominate tax class. Total SEV was $295,232,508 in the Tri-Communities in 2003. Table 3-5 Tri-Community State Equalized Value, 1995 and 2003 A riculture %of Total Residential %of Total $35,672,256 69.3% 1995 Saugatuck City Saugatuck Township & Douqlas TriCommunities $0 $3,408,888 3 .0% $92,466,550 82.6% $3,408,888 2.1% $128,138,806 78.4% $65,960,665 76.9% 2003 Sauqatuck City Saugatuck Township & Douglas TriCommunities $0 $4,080,518 1.9% $175,505,152 83.8% $4,080,518 1.4% $241,465,817 81 .8% Commercial %of Total Industrial % of Total Total Real Pro ert 1995 Saugatuck City Saugatuck Township & Douglas TriCommunities $15,005,710 29.2% $789,750 1.5% $51,467,716 $13,380,300 11.9% $2,742,300 2.4% $111,998,038 $28,386,010 17.4% $3,532 ,050 2.2% $163,465,754 Sauqatuck City Saugatuck Township & Douqlas TriCommunities $19 ,760,433 23.1% $0 0.0% $85,721,098 $26,411,437 12.6% $3,514,303 1.7% $209 ,511,410 $46 ,171 ,870 15.6% $3,514,303 1.2% $295,232,508 2003 Source: Michigan Department of Treasury Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 3-4 �BUILDING PERMITS The number of building permits issued by a community is an indicator of recent commercial, industrial and residential building activity. Table 3-6 shows that the three communities have averaged about 86 new structures per year from 2000 to 2003, with the exception of 2002 when there was a spike to 113 new structure permits. Most of this activity has been in Saugatuck Township. Building activity was primarily residential , with only four commercial building permits issued in the City of the Village of Douglas between 2000 and 2002, the remainder were new building permits for homes. In Saugatuck Township in the period 2000-2003, three duplexes were built and twenty-nine double-wide manufactured homes were permitted, which are included in the totals in Table 3-6. Table 3-6 Tri-Community Number of Building Permits for New Structures, 2000-2003 Community Douglas Citv of Saugatuck Saugatuck Townsh ip Total 2000 2001 2002 2003 4* 12* 32 17 2 10 62 65 71 14 4 51 79 113 69 83 Source: City of the VJ/lage of Douglas, City of Saugatuck and Saugatuck Township. *During the period May 24 2000 to March 30, 2001 , building permits were issued by the State of Michigan and not the City of the Village of Douglas. The number of permits issued by the State of Michigan during this period was not available. It is likely that between 10 and 20 building permits were issued in Douglas during this period. If 15 were used as the number, then the total in 2000 would be 130 and the total in 2001 would be 132. If the 2000 to 2003 average rate of building were to continue, the number of households could reach about 3,000 by 2010 and about 3,900 by 2020. This rate is higher than that for the period 1990 to 2000, and would lead to a population of about 600 higher than projected for 2010, or about 6,000 persons (See Table 2-2) based on the rate of population increase between 1990 and 2000, or about 1,500 higher for 2020, or about 7,700 persons if household size remained at about 2 persons per household (average for the Tri-Communities). Both Saugatuck Township and the City of the Village of Douglas have enough undeveloped land to accommodate such growth, but building activity in the City of Saugatuck may focus on remodeling, and thus not increase population as rapidly. John f: winword\tri-communities\final\CHAPTER 3 ECONOMICS final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 3 ECONOMICS final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 3-5 �I Chapter 4 NATURAL RESOURCES AND THE ENVIRONMENT INTRODUCTION This chapter discusses the environment of the Tri-Communities, such as climate and natural features, including topography, soils, woodlands and wetlands, lakes, rivers and shorelines. It also discusses how these features can affect development in the community and how important natural features can be protected. CLIMATE Weather conditions affect the community's economic base. Variations in average conditions, especially during the summer months, can cause fluctuations in tourism and outdoor recreation activities, upon which the local economy is dependent. Prevailing winds determine lakeshore and sand dune erosion patterns, which impose limitations on development along the Lake Michigan shore. Below, in Table 4-1, is relevant climatic information for the area. These conditions generally do not pose limitations on the area's growth except along the Lake Michigan shore, where natural forces can cause rapid and extensive erosion of beaches and sand dunes. The climate is also considered favorable for growing certain fruits, such as apples and blueberries. Photo 4-1 Tri-Communities Experience Four Seasons Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Visitors and Convention Bureau Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-1 �GEOLOGY The Tri-Community area is located on the southwestern flank of the Michigan Basin, which is a bedrock feature centered in the middle of the Lower Peninsula . The sandstone and shale bedrock is overlain by glacial deposits from 50 to 400 feet thick. The e are no outcroppings of the bedrock and the proximity of the bedrock to the surface of the ground does not impose limitations for normal excavating or construction. Glacial deposits consist primarily of sandy lakebed deposits located between two major physiographic formations: the Lake Border Moraine, which is adjacent to Lake Michigan, and the Valparaiso Moraine, which extends through the center of the county, from north to south, oil and gas drilling in the area occurred mostly during the period from late 1930's to the early 1950's. At present, there are no producing wells in the Tri-Community area. TOPOGRAPHY Most of the Tri-Community area is relatively flat, but local variations in elevation of up to 150 feet exist in some places between uplands and the floodplain of the Kalamazoo River. There are also considerable local differences in elevation in the extreme northwest portions of the Township in the sand dunes between the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan. The highest point in this area is Mt. Baldhead, which rises 310 feet above Lake Michigan. Areas of abrupt local variations in elevation appear as dark areas on the topographic map and the highest elevations as light colors, such as yellow and beige. (Map 4-1 ). Steep slopes present impressive scenery and pose increased maintenance and construction costs as well as safety risks. This is especially true with unstable landforms such as sand dunes. Generally, slopes exceeding 7% should not be developed intensively, while slopes of more than 12% should not be developed at all because of erosion and storm water runoff problems. Table 4-1 Summary of Relevant Climate Conditions Climate variables Coldest Months (JanuaryFebruary) Hottest Month (July) Annual Average Temperature Average Rainfall Average Growing Season Average Annual Snowfall Elevation Above Sea level Prevailing: Winds Average condition 16°F/-9°C-31 °F/-1 °C Extreme condition -11 ° F - -35° F 60°F/116°C-84°F/29°C 48.3° F 36 inches/91 cm 151 days 80 in/203 cm 590 feet Westerly 96° F -100° F Source: USDA Soil Survey. Allegan County Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-2 �Figure 4-1 Kalamazoo River Basin Watershed graphic designed by Greg Anderson, WMU GIS Department Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-3 �:i Map 4-1 Tri-Community Topography Saugatuck Tri-Co111munitics ~<., -"1,.,6·0,p~ TOPOGRAPHIC MAP -~ Al 11 (,\t\' ( '(H, I'\ , \11< lll<~A'\ I ,I , i I 1· I I I I C' I -~~ -~ ~ I '"h Mi.mklpal legend c:J ~ 1.~tw,.,!l..,.l/l•k>, ! Sec:llon Lttg•nd :j(I ~ ~ i.,,l\c.c,,wJ.,,-,, Contou,L~1d" ~ t ,'1:1,,, ea..,,.., U•v•tion Range1o·· ~ ■ 1000 10 lt•!.Ok-tl ■ ~!,t'lt-,100IH".-t • i.1 Ill • 11iJ ■ • LI 'lil()l,.,lt~,Of.tt,1 ft~l<-•'JllOf,.41 a-JO~lt".>ll tr r1 ,~ ..,tl0'\ 1, <e>t (00 "-' f!)U .,, ,., , 6'.nh,OOIIH•I f"t'),111:,/~ " ~ ~bt.w lo..,t fka , ., u,.,,,,:iri-,.,~ - ·"""' -~" ... .,,11<1a~ ,.,......." ,1c..-, ;, .,.,,._._. ,""-'",~ .. """ltll')"••~""" w*• Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-4 * ~,.i-_.... ..-, ~ ,.stf..... �DRAINAGE Most of the Tri-Community area lies within the Kalamazoo River Basin, which begins near Jackson and extends westward into the Tri-Community area (see Figure 4-1 ). The extreme southwestern portion of the Township drains directly into Lake Michigan. All of the watercourses within the area drain into the Kalamazoo River, which flows westward through the middle of the Township and into Lake Michigan. Tannery Creek, Peach Orchard Creek, Silver Creek and Goshorn Creek are all short-run streams that flow into the Kalamazoo River. A network of County drains facilitates the removal of runoff from flat areas with poorly drained soils in the southern half of the Township. The sand and clay bluffs along Lake Michigan in Section 20 are being eroded by grcundwater which flows through the sandy topsoil and onto the less permeable clay layer. The water flows out the side of the bluff, undermining the sandy upper layer. Several County drains were built that collects runoff on the landward side of the bluffs for discharge via a pipe drilled through the bluff into Lake Michigan. Most other areas of the Township drain fairly well, especially Saugatuck and Douglas. All watercourses, including county drains, are found on Map 4-2. The Allegan County Drain Commissioner issued updated development standards in October, 2003. These standards outline the review process for development projects within the County and guidelines for management of stormwater and protection of surface water resources, such as wetlands and floodplains. FLOODPLAINS Areas adjacent to creeks, streams and rivers are susceptible to periodic flooding that can cause extensive damage to buildings and can pose a substantial threat to public health and safety. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has mapped the boundaries of the 100 year floodplain in the Tri-Community area. Those boundaries are denoted by the shaded areas on Map 4-2 and would be inundated during an Intermediate Regional Flood. The Federal Flood Insurance Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has established guidelines for use and development of floodplain areas. Those regulations indicate that development in floodplains should be restricted to open space, recreational or agricultural uses. Installation of public utilities and permanent construction for residential, commercial or industrial uses should not occur in floodplain areas. Floodway filling or alteration (in watersheds with a drainage area of 2 square miles or more) is not allowed without review and approval by the Allegan County Drain Commissioner and in compliance with the Floodplain Regulatory Authority found in Part 31, Water Resources Protection, of PA 451 of 1994, the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The US Army Corps of Engineers, in the Lake Michigan Potential Damages Study, found that the Kalamazoo Lake portion of the Kalamazoo River has a greater potential for flooding from high Lake Michigan water levels than thought previously. The study found that both high and low Lake Michigan levels could range more than has been experienced in the lifetime of current residents, and more so than recorded by European settlers. Portions of the downtown of the City of Saugatuck have flooded previously, but additional properties would likely flood if Lake Michigan reached extreme high levels, regardless of the conveyance of floodwaters from inland portions of the Kalamazoo River watershed. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-5 �7 Map 4-2 Tri-Community Floodplains Saugatuck Tri-Communities FLOODPLAIN MAP 5 ALLEGAN COUNTY, MICHIGAN '\. Municipal Legend i C ] Junsdictlon Boundaries Section Legend LJ Section Bounda-ies Floodplai n Legend" c=:J Zone A -~~ -~ i::;;::J Zone A2 - ZoneA3 Zones ·Floodplain boi.nd.wies WMI digitized from ;ooreferen::ed Rood lntu"arg Rate Mapo (FIRMs) ~ by h ~ Fedel-al Emergency MwiagemetK A ~ (FEMA) Tt-~lncllcaielhailJlP!'QlllnlatBextentoflhe100yea floodplain. This map cam::it be UIIOd lo make a Ooodplain since lloodpkiin del!lrmlneliOM .-e based on liile specific: eloVation rahf than hortzorul d~ance ~ ~ .... '29 25 28 33 ~·~ ;1 i ' ~ 34 ~I I liJ J L ~M·~ 36 ,:is ~-GANOEST I I P \, wf I "'::9"~==:-.::..s...=.-=:-...""~:'·" Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-6 �WETLANDS There are many wetlands in the Tri-Community area. Most are contiguous to or hydrologically connected (i.e. via groundwater) to Lake Michigan, rivers, streams, or creeks. Wetlands are valuable in storing floodwaters, recharging groundwater, and removing sediment and other pollutants. They are also habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals, including a large rookery of Great Blue Herons along the Kalamazoo River. Because wetlands are a valuable natural resource , they are protected by Part 303 Public Act 451 of 1994. Part 303 requires that permits be acquired from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) prior to altering or filling a regulated wetland. The Wetland Protection Act defines wetlands as characterized by the presence of water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support and that under normal circumstances does support wetland , vegetation or aquatic life and is commonly referred to as a bog, swamp, or marsh and is contiguous to the Great Lake, an inland lake or pond or a river or stream. Photo 4-2 Wetlands in Peterson Nature Preserve Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Visitors and Convention Bureau Regulated wetlands include all wetland areas greater than 5 acres or those contiguous to waterways. Wetlands which are hydrologically connected to waterways are also regulated. Activities exempted from the provisions of the Act include farming, grazing of animals, farm or stock ponds, lumbering, maintenance of existing nonconforming structures, maintenance or improvement of existing roads and streets within existing rights-of-way, maintenance or operation of pipelines less than six inches in diameter, and maintenance or operation of electric transmission and distribution power lines. The Allegan County Drain Commissioner's Development Standards includes a 25' permanent buffer strip, vegetated with native plant species, to be maintained or restored around the periphery of wetlands in development projects. These buffer strips are defined as zones where construction, paving and lawn care chemical applications are prohibited . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-7 �Permits are not to be issued if a feasible or prudent alternative to developing a wetland exists in such areas. An inventory of wetlands based on the 1996 land use\cover inventory (see Chapter 5) is illustrated on Map 4-3. While wetlands are mapped, on-site inspections will be necessary to establish whether a wetland indeed exists, and the extent to which it exists on any site. Areas of hydric soils in the south-central part of the Township would be classified as wetlands if they were not in agricultural use and served by county drains. SOILS A modern soil survey was completed for Allegan County by the USO.ti Natural Resource Conservation Service in March, 1987. For information about specific soil types, contact the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, Allegan Service Center, 1668 Lincoln Rd, Allegan, Ml 49010-9410, (269) 673-6940, (269) 673-9671 fax. Each soil type has unique characteristics which pose opportunities for some uses and limitations for others. The most important characteristics making the soil suitable or unsuitable for development are limitations on dwellings with basements, limitations on septic tank absorption fields, and suitability for farming. Soil limitations have been classified into three categories, which are described below. • Slight: Relatively free of limitations or limitations are easily overcome. • Moderate: Limitations need to be considered, but can be overcome with good management and careful design. • Severe: Limitations are severe enough to make use questionable. Large areas of soils in the Township create severe limitations on residential and urban development. See Map 4-4. The degree of soil limitations reflects the hardship and expense of developing the land . Fortunately, most of the soils which are not suited for residential development are also considered prime farmland soils by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Basement Limitations Limitations for dwellings with basements are shown on Map 4-4. Some soils impose severe limitations on basements because of excessive wetness, low strength, excessive slope, or shrink-swell potential. These areas are found primarily in the northeast comer and in the southern half of the Township. Septic Limitations Soils in most of the Tri-Community area impose severe limitations on septic tank absorption fields for a wide variety of reasons. The permeability of soils in the area ranges from very poorly drained to excessively drained. There are only a few small areas which are neither poorly nor excessively drained, do not have a high water table, and are therefore well suited for septic tank absorption fields. These areas are located in the southeast corner of the Township and in the southwestern portion of Douglas. Most of the Tri-Community area that is likely to experience future growth has moderate to severe limitations for on-site septic systems. Map 4-4 shows the septic limitations for the area. This map suggests the need for municipal sewers to accommodate new development in many areas if the density is anything greater than one dwelling unit per two acres. The degree of soil limitations reflects the hardship and expense of developing that land for a particular use. Those soils classified as "severe" have varying degrees of development potential based on the nature of the limitation. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-8 �~ Map 4-3 Tri-Community Wetlands and Hydric Soils Saugatuck Tri-Communities I I ' ' ' HYDROLOGY MAP 5 ALLEG AN CO UNTY, M IC HJGAN 1 MILE Municipal Legend CJ Jurisdielion Boundaries Section Legend Section Boundaries Water Legend - § -~ Watercourses County Drains Wetlands Legend l'2ZI ~ ~ ' National Wetlands Inventory Wetlands" 96 Land Use Wetlands"' Hydric Soils ~ ~ r::::J c:::J D Non-Hydr!c Soil Possibly Hydr!c Soil"" Hjdr!c Soi - Water • Olgillzed from US Flsh end Wilclhfe Service National WeUand& JrMr'llory maps Wetlands were mapped from high-altllude oolOf lnfr8fBd Mrilll pholcgrllphl In lhe 1970'1 and 1980'1 •· AJt dass!1\ed 600 category wetlands, lowland h.-ct.....oods andloWl.-.:1001'\flerS ... These SOIi •&as maybe h ~ under oertan slla spedl\c eondiUOns wf ~ ~ Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-9 .-.P'IOml'l)<~~s----l'Clw,ay 1or---~~11oo11 .... ,_,. _ _ �~ Map 4-4 Tri-Community Development Limitations Sa111,:atucl< Tri-( 'onunnnWcs SOIL SlllTABILTY 1\1/\I' l>cvdo1llnc11C and S(•plic s \I 11 :( , \I\ ( 01 ' IY, \II( 111( , ,\ f\ . :'.•I ~ I ,I H M l•tHCIJH~I I (l{lf'l1d -~ -~ ~ c=-- ,.,,-.,:1t1,,,1·,,.,.,.1n, ~ Section leg•nd ~udlt>1,fio1JJ11:li'n11 Dtvelo,-m.e1t1 Sult;,blht,.. ~ ~ J ~ No-tl<,1t.,1 t ... _,.1t1lh 11.,~,,., I U,,·l,.,f,>l•·l,.,.,.d•··..-. f ',hf,c I m•1.1t,g1~ Sepllt Sull.,billty .. I t.11.o11-i1, .. , C•il •...... • l•·••ltl•l•'"" ..,.... i.....,1 .. 1 ..,.e.,11,. ... r,J,-~,l I 11!,I ,1.,,.,. '(.>,40.~,.,noil'-" ~1,j,,,J,..~ -Ml•h1<,,.,.,.,~ 1....~ .... ,, ..,..1,,.,, ...... ,..... 1-i~w..J•·• ... ... 11~•"·"""'••1tltjlh.lfld1,l'llri,-.,1l><"C"l'r,.;.t>1 h• ..,,J Mb•~,..-.... '"'~-~v..,ry,.'C'I..,,.... ... oLl'l, .. 1<,,>,.,,.fl,r,, ...... , _ . , ..... ~1-1-IO\,......,~. .. ~.*"-••·.lll~lutlll""""-'llnl•hHh l"'"'"O ....... ..,., .... q,tl.oo; t"2n'Wll) "'·"""•J ,_....•..., 6',,..,,..,........ t-'Of •~~ fW'O "'''"'· ,"""'~·~••PflJPC'tb, ~ ...... ,.. 5n:'1f,.-<,·f..·ro--,..,., ,.1r...,•.-Ynol-.. lou,&ait,,r.i, .ai,k ♦ ,o,.;,,cr1tlW\ll'IDftWl•••• ...... -•I S.w•• 1-J~ _!\HJ.._t.,o1i....,,..,,1,1~,~·~......,., Mi\_,.(>..,i•~•.,; ... ,,...,,.,,,.,r,y""'...,.1~-"h-J.• 1-,. .........., *.,....~-· t \•~,-~k«Mf', w*• Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-10 , 't~ o• �Standards for Septic Systems The Allegan County Health Department has established certain standards for septic systems. These standards apply somewhat different site characteristics when determining the degree of limitations for septic systems, compared to the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service approach, which focuses on soil types and slope. Below is a review of these standards by development type. Single Family Residential The Allegan County Health Department has developed building site acceptance specifications for onsite septic disposal. Generally, if a residence is planned for a particular part of Saugatuck Township where municipal sewer is not available, the following Allegan County Water and Sewer Regulations apply. "The following specifications shall be used in determining the suitability of the soil to provide satisfactory drainage for a sewage disposal system utilizing one or more septic tanks and an absorption field , trench or bed : • The soil classification and interpretations as provided by the United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service and the use limitations pertaining to that soil classification may be considered by the Health Officer and used as part of the soil and drainage evaluation. • The borings or excavations shall be made within the area proposed for the sewage disposal system to determine that the seasonal high water table and soil formations comply with this section. The Health Officer may request that excavations or borings to a minimum of six (6) feet be made available for inspection and evaluation of soil types and conditions . • Seasonal high water table or evidence thereof shall be at least four (4) feet below the bottom of the trench or bed. • Impervious hardpan or clay, if present, shall be at least four (4) feet below the bottom of the trench or bed. • Filled ground or "made land" shall be acceptable only under specific written approval of the Health Officer and in any case shall be compacted or allowed to settle for at least one (1) year from the time of filling. • In addition to evaluation of the data required above, the Health Officer may request stabilized percolation rate tests, conducted by a qualified professional, when deemed necessary to determine the absorption capacity of the soil. • Sufficient area shall be set aside or put on reserve for a future replacement system. Such replacement system area shall at least equal the area required for the initial system. In cases where filling is allowed, the size of the replacement area shall equal the area of the initial absorption system and fringe area. The replacement drainbed must be isolated at least 15 feet from an existing bed/field or drywell." Lot size can be affected by the use of private wells and onsite septic systems. There must be an adequate separation distance between the well and any component of the septic system, and in Allegan County this is 75 feet. A separation distance of 100 feet is required between any portion of the septic system and a lake or stream but only 1O feet to a property line. The size of the required septic field and an area designated for a replacement field Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-11 �depends on the percolation rate of the soil and the number of bedrooms in the house. Other factors that could increase the size of the absorption field are: • "For each additional bedroom over six (6) add 250 gallons liquid capacity. • Additional septic tank(s) shall be required by the Health Officer where adverse soil , conditions are determined to exist. • If a garbage grinder or sewage lift with a grinder pump is planned or installed, additional septic tank capacity and absorption area will be required by the Health Officer. • Footing drain water, roof water, or storm drainage, shall not be connected or discharged into or over the surface of a sewage disposal system. • Water softener effluent is discharged into a sewage system rather than a separate system, additional absorption area will be required. • Hot tubs, garden tubs, Jacuzzis, etc. having a liquid capacity exceeding 100 gallons will require additional absorption area." Alternative systems may be permitted by the County Health Department upon the guidance by the County Board of Commissioners. All Other Residential, Plus Commercial Commercial and group residential systems have different standards than single family systems. All sewage disposal systems except one and two family dwellings are under the control of the DEQ. The Allegan County Health Department is authorized by the DEQ to handle septic system disposal for flows in amounts of less than 10,000 gallons per day. Commercial systems generally have flows greater than that of a residential system, depending on use. Size and spacing requirements for onsite septic systems, plus soil percolation rates can make some parcels or areas of the Tri-communities difficult to site a commercial establishment. A "pump and haul" system has been employed in many communities where onsite sewage disposal was not possible and municipal sewers were not available. "Pump and Haul" systems have been used adjacent to lakes or where groundwater is very high. This system is essentially a large holding tank that stores sewage until it is pumped out and hauled to a waste treatment facility. Depending on the type of establishment, pumping could take place at a rate exceeding once a day. In Allegan County, such systems are only permitted where municipal sewers are scheduled to be built within six months of occupancy. Hydric Soils Hydric soils are another limitation on development. Hydric soils generally have been exposed to water saturation conditions for extended periods, such as in a wetland . They are very poorly drained, saturate easily and retain large quantities of water. If artificially drained, they are often suitable for farmland use. Map 4-3 shows where these soils are. In the Tri-Community area, most of the hydric soils are found near watercourses and correspond to present or former wetlands. There is a large area of hydric soils in the southwest portion of the Township which is currently being farmed . Residential, commercial and industrial development in areas containing hydric soils should be discouraged. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-12 �Prime Farmland Prime farmland soil types have been identified by the Natural Resources Conservation Service as those best suited for food production: they require minimal soil enhancement measures such as irrigation and fertilizer. There is a very large area of prime farmland soils in the south central portion of the Township. These areas contribute significantly to the area's economic base. The loss of prime farmland to other uses results in farming on marginal lands, which are more erodible and less productive. Soils in prime farmland categories that have frequent flooding or seasonal high water table, such as those in the southern half of Saugatuck Township, qualify as prime farmland because those limitations have been overcome by drainage. Unique farmlands are based on certain soil types as well as other factors, such as landscape position (proximity to water supply, orientation to sunlight, slope, etc.), moisture supply and present management practices. Prime farmland soils and unique farmlands are shown on Map 4-5. Unique farmland and lands enrolled in the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116 of 1974) are also depicted on Map 4-5. See contract list in Table 4-2. Total 466.58 acres mapped and not mapped. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-13 �Table 4-2 Revised PA 116 Contract List as of 9/30/2004 Agreement# GIS Acreage OwnerName Township LegaIDesc1 Last 6 Numbers of Aareement # refer to the Expiration Date IExamole: -1 23125 = 12/31/2025}. Records end ing in 94, 95, 96, 97, 98, 99, 00, 01, 02 , and 03 are ex pired but are still o n file. SauQatuck Township Comm in center of Old Allegan Road 85.47 ft SW of NE comer Lot 18, th S 1518.6 ft, th W 577.23 ft to W line Lot 18, th N along W line to center Rd ., th NE'ly along Rd. to beginning being part of Lot 18; Sections 11 & 14, T3N , R16W , Saugatuck Township , Allegan County, Michigan. Comm at the SW corner of the SE 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of the SW 1/4 of Section 27 , T3N , R16W , as the POB. then N 330 ft, then E 132 ft, then S 330 ft, then W 132 ft to the POB. ALSO the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, T3N , R16W , EXCEPT the S 200 ft of the E 275 ft of the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 33, T3N , R16W , Saugatuck Township, Allegan County, Michigan. SW 1/4 of NE 1/4, Sec 33, T3N, R16W, ALSO W (2) rods (33ft) of W 1/2 of NW 1/4 of NE 1/4, Sec 33, T3N , R16W, Saugatuck Township, Allegan County, Michigan. (41) Saugatuck Township That part of W 20 acres of SE 1/4 & E 1/2 of SW 1/4, Sec 25 lying S'ly of a line descas comm at SW cor of sd sec, th N 89deg 12'57' E along the S line of the SW 1/4 1610.30 ft to POB of sd desc line, th N 54deg23'33' E 1685.06 ft to E line of the W 20 acres of SE 1/4 & POE of said desc line Sec 25; ALSO SE 1/4 of NW 1/4; ALSO that part of E 1/2 of SW 1/4 & W 20 acres of SE 1/4 Sec 25 lying N'ly of a line desc as comm at SW cor of sd sec, th N 89deg12'57' E along the S line of SW 1/4 1324.61 ft to W 1/8 line of sd sec, th N 00deg05'20' W along the sd W 1/8 line 106.71 ft to POB of sd desc line, th N 54deg23'33' E 2036.22 ft to the E line of the W 20 acres SE 1/4 of sd sec & POE sd desc line Section 25; All above in Section 25 , T3N , R16W , Saugatuck Township, Allegan County, Michiaan. 03-49831 -123107 18.45 Linda J. Charvat SauQatuck Township 03-16300-123104 60.01 August L. Knikelbine Saugatuck Township 03-17868-123199 03-48670-123105 39.8 Bruce R. Gould 127.68 Ronald S. Powers 03-25207-123111 48.62 David M. Skinner SauQatuck Township 03-25505-123116 58.02 Harold R. Krupka Sauaatuck Township The N 34 acres of the E 50 acres of the S 1/2 of the NE 1/4 of Section 28, T3N , R16W , EXCEPT beg at the NE comer of the S 1/2 of the NE 1/4 Section 28, T3N , R16W, then S 89deg03'30" Won the E W 1/8 line, NE 1/4, 1650 ft, then S 00deg46'07" E, 883.77 ft, then N 89deg12'43" E, parallel with the S line of the section. 623.32 ft, then N 02deg 18'52" W 851 .63 ft, then N 89deg09'30" E, 1049.65 ft to the E line of the section, then N 00deg46'07" W on section line 33 ft to the POB; all in Section 28, T3N, R16W , Sauaatuck Township, Alleaan Countv, Michigan. The S 1/2 of the NW 1/4 of SE 1/4, EXCEPT a parcel in the NW corner 18 rods N & S by 27 rods E & W , ALSO the SW 1/4 of the SE 1/4 of Section 26 , ALSO EXC comm on S In of sd Sec 26 at a pt 758.50 ft, S 89deg31'15" E of the S 1/4 post, th N para with the N-S 1/4 In, 155.57 ft, th S 89deg31'15" E 280 ft, th S 155.57 ft, th N 89deg31'15" W 280 ft to POB; All land desc located in Section 26, T3N R16W , Saugatuck Township, Allegan County, Michigan. The S 3/4 of N 1/2 of SW 1/4 of Section 28, T3N, R16W , Saugatuck Township, AlleQan County, MichiQan. (60) Sauaatuck Township The W 1/2 of NW 1/4 Section 35, T3N R16W, ALSO at the NE corner of Sec 34 , th Won the N line of sd sec, 831 .16 ft to the POB of this desc, th cont. W 172 ft, th S 204 ft, th E 111 .34 ft, th N 54dg40' E 74.35 ft, th N 161 ft to the POB, ALSO EXC comm 590 ft E of the NW comer of Sec 35, th S 500 ft, th E 450 ft, th N 500 ft, th W 450 ft to POB, Section 34, T3N R16W, ALSO EXC that part of the NE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Sec 34, desc as beginn at a point on the N line of Sec 34 , being N godegO0'OO" W 817 .18 ft from the NE comer of Sec 34, th proceeding S 26deg00'00" E 61 .295 ft, th S 0OdegOO'0O" W 218.05 ft, th N 90deg00'00" W 240.17 ft, th N 0OdegOO'OO" E 144.645 ft, th S 90deg00'00" E 14.26 ft, th N 0Odeg00'0O" E 128.50 ft to the N line of Sec 34 , th on sd N line S 90deg00'00" E 13.06 ft, th S 0Odeg0O'00" W 204.00 ft, th S 90deg00'00" E 111 .34 ft, th N 54deg40'06" E 74.355 ft (previously desc as N 54deg40' E 75.35 ft) , th N 0OdegOO'OO" E 161 .00 ft to the N line of Sec 34, th S 90deg00'00" E 13.98 ft to the POB, cont 0.671 acres being subject to any part taken , used or deeded for public road purposes and being subject to any easements or other conveyances of record. All land is located in Section 34, T3N R16W , SauQatuck Township, AlleQan County, MichiQan. 03-16301-123104 03-34237-123102 Not MaPPed Auaust L. Knikelbine Not Maooed Paul A. Koeman Sauaatuck Township Tri-Com munity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4- 14 �7 Map 4-5 Prime Farmlands with Agricultural Protection SaugatucJ< Tri-Communities PRIME FARMLAND MAP with Agricultural Protection ALL EG A N C O UNTY , MI C HIG AN Municipal Legend C J Jurisdtction Boundaries Section Legend I ] Section Boundaries Prime Farmland* - § Unconditional [=:I Where drained c:=l Where drained and protected from flooding Ij PA116 Protected Lands rzz2l Labeled with contract expiration date • Areas of lh& map shown as prime farmland based on aoll type•"' rot considered prime farmland If they are U'bal'U.ed or built~. Sou-co: 1983 USDA Soil Slriey of Alegan Courty, Maps georeferenoed and digitized by Western Mlctigan Utiversity. * _ ,. . \. . ~··•rrk•t w' 8 . "':-',.C;::!;::..._~-~-=:-:.:ad=-\' Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-15 �GROUNDWATER Groundwater from wells is an unseen resource and is therefore particularly vulnerable to mismanagement and contamination . Prior to the 1980's, little was known about groundwater contamination in Michigan. Since then some startling facts have been revealed. The leading causes of groundwater contamination in Michigan are from small businesses and agriculture. More than 50% of contamination comes from small businesses that use organic solvents, such as benzene, toluene and xylene, and heavy metals, such as lead, chromium, and zinc. The origin of the problem stems from careless storage and handling of hazardous substances. On paved surfaces where hazardous materials are stored, substances can seep through or flow off the edge of the pavement. Materials can get into floor drains which discharge to soils, wetlands or water courses. At present, groundwater is the only tapped source of potable water for the City of Saugatuck, the City of the Village of Douglas and Saugatuck Township. The glacial drift aquifers in the area are especially vulnerable to contamination because of rapid permeability and high water table. In a local example, Douglas' municipal water supply has been contaminated by volatile organic compounds (VOC's), supposedly by an industrial site within the Village (The old Case manufacturing plant, now owned by Haworth Company. This site has recently been allocated $2.2 million by the MDEQ for clean-up. The plume of contamination has been spreading toward the site of an old golf course that has been planned for housing development.) Some areas without municipal sewer and water service are in danger of groundwater contamination due to septic systems, intensive development and a high water table. In the Goshorn Lake area, household wells are susceptible to contamination from septic systems due to intensive development and a high water table. The Allegan County Health Department recommends provision of public water and sewer to households in that area. Protection of groundwater resources is problematic because of difficulties in locating aquifers. Well depth records indicate the relative location of groundwater at particular points. According to well logs from Michigan Groundwater Survey (MGS) data, well depths range from 29 ft. in the north central area to 360 ft. in the extreme southwest comer of the Township. Soils most vulnerable to groundwater contamination are found on Map 4-6 . Well locations are indicated by small triangles on Map 4-6. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-16 �=i ) f Map 4-6 Tri-Community Groundwater Vulnerability and Well Locations Saugatuck 1)i-Commw1ities GROUNDWATER SENSITIVITY MAP l ALLEGAN COUNTY, ~UCIOCAN M unlcipal Legend C'I Jurisdiction Boundaries Section Legend Sect10n Boundaries Groundwater Sensitivity• §f -~ ~ ~ - Very High High lloderate lo High lloderate to Low Low - Very Low •Scuce.l.JJsch,OEtel MicHgan StaCe Unlwrsityc«--.er fa- R&'Td.e Senslrg .?J ~ wf -:""r:::~~.:.:::.~ l Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-17 �SPECIAL FEATURES Lake Michigan Shoreline and Beaches The entire shoreline, from M-89 to the sand dunes, is flanked by single family homes overlooking sand and clay bluffs. The Lake Michigan shoreline in Saugatuck Township is very susceptible to wind and water erosion during storms and high lake levels due to resultant wave action. According to US Army Corps of Engineers studies (Lake Michigan Potential Damages Study, 2002), some bluff loss can continue during low water periods as well, but this has not been observed in the Tri-Communities area. The closing of a segment of Lakeshore Drive due to bluff erosion is a graphic example of the inevitable landward movement of the bluff line. This process includes wave action; high Lake Michigan level; wind and rain erosion; the effects of groundwater flow; lake currents that transport sediment; long shore and pier structures that interrupt sediment transport along the shore; and gravity. The Saugatuck Pier is an example of a structure that contributes to shoreline erosion in the direction of current flow, according to a Harbor Structure Impact Study. These all work together to create a bluff dynamic that poses potential hazards to public health and safety. The Shorelands Protection Act of 1970 [now Part 323 of PA 451 of 1994] was enacted to identify areas where hazards exist by designating them and by passage of measures to minimize losses resulting from natural forces of erosion. High risk erosion areas are defined by the State of Michigan as areas of the shore along which bluffline recession has proceeded at a long term average of 1 foot or more per year. Almost the entire Lake Michigan shoreline in the TriCommunity area has been designated as a high risk erosion area, with some portions eroding at a rate of 1.7 feet per year. Within the designated area, shown on Map 4-7, alteration of the soil, natural drainage, vegetation, fish or wildlife habitat, and any placement of permanent structures, requires a DEQ review and permit, unless the local unit of government has an approved high risk erosion area ordinance. Similar to most shoreline communities in Michigan, Saugatuck Township, Douglas and Saugatuck do not have such an ordinance. Photo 4-3 Lake Michigan Beach Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Visitors and Convention Bureau Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-18 �Recent studies by the US Army Corps of Engineers (Lake Michigan Potential Damages Study) have re-examined the potential damages that could be caused by fluctuating Lake Michigan levels. These studies were based on evidence that the range of that fluctuation could be greater than has been experienced in the lifetime of current residents, and more so than recorded since European settlers arrived. The study found that many existing residences could suffer damage, or even be destroyed by collapsing bluffs, within the next 50 years . Only a very well-constructed armament of the shore, with Class One revetments (engineered to survive at least 50 years) extending at least 1,000 feet along the shore is likely to prevent the loss of structures within the potential erosion zon8. However, it is unlikely that such structures will be permitted by the Corps of Engineers because armament of the shore prevents the contribution of sediment to the littoral currents that nourish beaches down the coast. The result of armament of one section of shore has often been found to accelerate erosion of the next, unarmored segment of shore. The Tri-Community Lake Michigan shoreline has parcels of many different depths. Where shoreline parcels are not very deep, there is little room to adjust to the receding bluff. See Photo 4-4. There will likely be considerable pressure to obtain permits to protect those bluffs from further erosion. Where parcel depth permits, residences could be moved or rebuilt farther from the advancing bluff. See Photo 4-5. New homes could be built using a system of built-in rollers that permits it to be moved back when necessary. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4- 19 �Photo 4-4 Shallow Lakefront Parcels in Saugatuck Township Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-20 �Photo 4-5 Deep Lakefront Parcels in Saugatuck Township Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Of particular concern is the safety issue of falling debris from collapsing houses and the public health hazard of damaged or collapsed septic systems. This danger needs to be addressed as the bluffs continue to erode. Fluctuating Lake Michigan levels also affect the beaches. At very high Lake Michigan levels, there can be little or no beach for residents and tourists to walk along . At very low levels, there is plenty of beach to enjoy. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-21 �7 Map 4-7 Tri-Community High Risk Erosion Areas Saugatuck Tri-Communities HIGH RISK EROSION AREAS AL LEGAN COUNTY, l't11 CHJGAN Municipal Legend c::Ji JurlsctecUOn Boundwies Section Legend 1 Secbon Boundaries Parcel Legend § C::J -~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Parcel Boundaries High Risk Erosion Areas Cl ErOSion Neas Wilh 30 and 60 Yea- Setbacks• teb 11 ff ~. it 'Nl.fflb&ni In fMI "'f)IOMnl it. p,oJIICted lh:Jrolre rec.N9ion dlt#n::eS for JO ind 60 ~ periods Thole.,.... . . defnid by P.rt 323, S1-ofeli!nd, Proteccion ind Managemert. of h NaU'al R.ho1.1ee & ErwlfOmlert.al PIQtectlonAd. 1994 PA ◄ 51 bef~ Groat ulrN ~ .... doa.monl9d lo recede., average of one fool or ITIOAI ~ yea- Mic:Hg#t [)ep#tmett of Natuw: ~ 0 8 9 - Lend.-dWaterM~Olvtlion - 1995 1 leg.., ~ ~§ H it Ra ~~ 1j !. H ~ll w' . _..________ ... _ ,.. __ M,,p,,Co.nr~.._.........__"" Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 4-22 �j"" Sand Dunes The sand dunes along Lake Michigan in the northwest corner of the Township represent a unique and fragile physiographic formation and ecosystem that is very susceptible to wind and water erosion, and destruction due to careless use or development. The dune arect which is in Saugatuck Township and the City of Saugatuck has been identified by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a critical dune area, subject to protection under the Michigan Sand Dune Protection and Management Act, new Part 353, PA 451 of 1994. The designated critical dune area is shown in the shaded region of Map 4-8. Under this Act, all proposed commercial or industrial uses, multifamily uses of more than 3 acres, and any use which the local planning commission or the DEQ determines would damage or destroy features of archaeological or historical significance must be approved by the State. Single family residential development is to be regulated at the local level. The law prohibits surface drilling operations that explore for or produce hydrocarbons or natural brine as well as mining activities (except in the case of permit renewals). The legislation also imposes certain standards on construction and site design in critical dune areas . Site design and construction standards for sand dunes should be enhanced at the local level to prevent further deterioration of this fragile environment. Areas needing special attention in such standards are vegetation, drainage and erosion protection. WOODLANDS The wooded areas of the Tri-Community area are a mixture of hardwoods and conifers. Large areas of upland hardwoods are found in the sand dune areas, along Lake Michigan, and in the northeast quarter of the Township. A large area of lowland conifers exists in the southwestern portion of the Township east of 1-196. Other smaller patches of upland and lowland hardwoods and conifers are scattered throughout the area, as shown on Map 4-9. Mature trees represent a valuable resource in maintaining the aesthetic character of the area, not to mention their overall importance to wildlife and the natural environment. In particular, the wooded sand dunes along the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, and those buffering adjacent uses from 1-196, are especially important. They should be managed to insure their long term existence. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-23 �7 ) ) Map 4-8 Tri-Community Critical Dunes Areas Saugatuck Tri-Communities CRITJCAL DUNES MAP ALLEGAN COUNTY, MICHIGAN ' ~' Muni cipal legend i c:::J Jurtsdiction Boundartes Section Legend i__, Section Boundaries Critical Dune Legend ~ Designated Barrier Dune Formations l122l Exemplary Associated Plant Commun~ies -~ ~ Sot.n:e AIIH or Proposed Crilk:-al Di.ne• - 02/17(1989 ·S:t ~ Land and Walof Management Olvlfllon - M!cNgan Department of N.lural Resotn:es Olgl~ ftom g&OA1f--»d or paper maps from pi.blahed atlas -=- J ~ 28 I •-- _L 33 .I 2;r 34 I t 16 ,,,..~ I f I I .,.,,J :1 I ~s•-•~ •! -- ' i ----ti - ,--+I =•1: ;' -36 ! i ~17! -I! --I ~ 1-~·r 1-· 1, . - - -·-·~ ) ~ -I r·~ I ~~ <1. -- - - ._ Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 · 4-24 wt I 122tdA,4 l N .......,,~....,~a.---""....., ._.._._.__.. ,....d._ ... �7 ) ) Map 4-9 Tri-Community Woodlands , Saugatuck Tri-Communities ; WOODLANDS MAP ALLEGAN COUNTY, MICHIGAN I ~ Municipal Legend I CIJurisdictlon Boundaries Section Legend [ Section Boundaries Woodland Legend' - ~ Natural Woodland -Tree Plantation -~ ~ • Based on a 1996 Land Use Classification conducted by the GIS Research Center at Western Mchigan UnNel's!ty for a ~ project funded by the Envlronmental Protection Agency ~ ~ wf r ... John : f:\winword\tri -communities\final\CHAPTER 4 NATURAL RESOURCES final.doc ,,.,,.. .j. "':""_c:-:=.=:-:-8::.":.-=:.-::.,.__. C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 4 NATURAL RESOURCES final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 4-25 �Chapter 5 EXISTING LAND COVER AND USE INTRODUCTION This chapter discusses the types of land uses and land cover in the Tri-Communities. Land use refers to the types of activities on land, such as residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial and recreational. Land cover refers to the presence and type of vegetation or lack of it, such as dune areas and water bodies. LAND USE/COVER DATA SOURCES Land cover and use refers to an inventory of existing vegetation, natural features, and land use over the entire Tri-Community area. This data was obtained in computerized form from the Allegan County GIS Department based on 1978 aerial photographs and the Michigan Resource Inventory System (MiRIS) database, and an update based on 1996 aerial photographs and interpreted by Western Michigan University GIS Department. Land cover and use categories included in the data are explained on the legend to Map 5-1. The wetlands and woodlands maps in Chapter 4 were also derived from this data. Land use by category for the entire Tri-Community area is shown in Table 5-1. This information was derived from the aforementioned data sources and areas were calculated using the County's Geographic Information System (GIS). The predominant land use in the Tri-Community area is agricultural (3, 11 O acres), followed by single family residential (2,242 acres). There were substantial changes in land use between 1978 and 1996. Agriculture declined by 43% from 5,431 acres and residential increased by 57% from 1,431 acres. Much of the shift in agriculture went to "open land, shrub and herbaceous," the rest to low density residential. The predominant land cover types are upland forest, open land, shrub and herbaceous (3,570 acres) and wetlands (2,645 acres). The data shows that wetland acres increased by nearly 700% between 1978 and 1996, this is due to changes in classification and not to an increase in the acres of wetlands. Often, wetland acres decline due to development, but this data does not reflect any wetland loss. Vacant land, which includes the categories of open land, shrub and herbaceous, upland forest, lowland forest and wetland land cover types, comprises fifty-six percent of the total land area (street ROWs, which comprise about 1.3% are excluded). Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 5-1 �7 ) ) ) Map 5-1 Tri-Community Land Cover/Land Use, 1996 Saugatuck Tri-Communities I i LAND USE 1996 MAP _..J:.:-_ 5 ALLEGAN COUNTY, MIClUGAN Municipal legend C:,Jurisdicl,on BoundaMes Section Legend 7 Section Boundaries Land Use Legend• r=] Resldentia! § c=J Mobile Home Par1( .~ - commercial c:::::I Institutional -Industrial CJ Transportation ~ ~ - Utilities Recreation Cemeteries Cl AgMculture c::::J Herbaceous and Shrubland ~ ~ liil:ITreePlantation Woodland □ Wetlands CJ Water D Dunes, Beaches and Banks - Exposed Rock Aggregate Extraction CJ Landfills and Junkyards • Land use interpreted by the 01S Research Center al Weslem Mchlgan Uolversily fof a project funded by lhe EnWOf'lmenlal Protection Agency wf "'":"'..;::'!::!':.:..-:::.~:-:.-- Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-2 �Table 5-1 Tri-Community Land Use/Land Cover, 1978 & 1996 1978 • 1996 LAND COVER/USE Residential: Low Rise Multi-Family Single Family/Duplex Mobile Home Park Commercial: Central Business District* Strip Commercial* Industrial Institutional Transportation Commun ication and Utilities Extractive or Wells Outdoor Recreation Cemeteries Agricultural Open Land, Shrub and Herbaceous Upland Forest Acres %of Total Acres %of Total % Change 19781996 6 1,431 41 0.0% 8.1% 0.2% 45 2,242 38 0.3% 12.6% 0.2% 665.5% 56.7% -8 .5% 0 180 21 37 281 36 0 317 22 5,431 1,032 6,406 0.0% 1.0% 0.1% 0.2% 1.6% 0.2% 0.0% 1.8% 0.1% 30.6% 5.8% 36.1% 96 76 144 152 239 52 50 249 28 3,110 3,570 3,663 0.5% 0.4% 0.8% 0.9% 1.3% 0.3% 0.3% 1.4% 0.2% 17.5% 20 .1% 20.6% 0.0% -57 .7% 598 .5% 311 .7% -15.1% 46.4% -21 .5% 29 .7% -42.7% 245.8% -42 .8% Lowland Forest Water Wetlands TOT AL AREA (ACRES & %) 991 1,193 334 17,758 5.6% 6.7% 1.9% 100.0% 0 1,349 2,645 17,749 0.0% 7.6% 14.9% 100.0% 100.0% 13.1% 692.9% 0.0% - Note: City and Village data included in the Township. SOURCE: 1978 data: MIRIS, Land and Water Management Division, DNR 1978 SOURCE: 1996 data: GIS Research Center Western Michigan University & Allegan County GIS Department *CBD was included in strip commercial in 1978 Land Use by Tax Class Another measure of land use is to look at land use by tax assessment classes . This approach covers the use of the land but not the different characteristics such as vegetative cover, water, etc. Land use acres by tax class for the Tri-Communities are shown in Table 5-2. See also Map 5-2. It can be useful to compare land use as interpreted from aerial photographs and land use by tax class in order to view the potential for development. Land may be vacant or have shrub or wooded cover, but if classed as residential , commercial or industrial it has potential for development in the near future . While about 2,200 acres are currently in residential land use, according to the 1996 Land Use/Land Cover Map (Map 5-1) and Table 5-1 , there are over 10,500 acres classed as residential in Saugatuck Township (Table 5-2). This suggests a large portion of the Township is primed to be converted from vacant to residential development. However, Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-3 �note on Map 5-2 that there are large areas classed as residential that are unbuildable, especially in the wetland areas in the Kalamazoo River floodplain . Table 5-2 Land Use by Tax Class, Saugatuck City, Saugatuck Township and City of the Village of Douglas, in Acres, 2003 Class Code 000 001 101 102 201 202 301 302 401 402 601 602 701 702 705 Total Class New Parcel Real Reference Real Agricultural Agricultural Vacant Commercial Commercial Vacant Industrial Industrial Vacant Residential Residential Vacant Developmental Developmental Vacant Exempt Exempt Vacant Commercial Forest Acres by Jurisdiction Saugatuck Twp 291 59 3,488 91 2,723 7 169 2 8,644 1,686 262 Saugatuck City 6 1 0 0 68 0 0 0 507 0 0 Douglas City 14 0 0 0 250 14 69 0 1,387 7 71 Total Acres by Class 311 61 3,488 91 3,042 21 238 2 10,539 1,693 333 43 860 0 0 18,326 0 283 0 0 865 0 71 0 0 1,885 43 1,214 0 0 21 ,076 Source: Allegan County GIS Department Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-4 �2 co "O a. >< ....ns>, N.C I L{) Q) 1/) c..:::::, ro 'tJ ~c ns --' :::> C co 0:: Q) .2: ti) CLO 0 .s::::.O Q) Ql N ~ 0:::, (.)' ~ ·c: :::, E E 0 (.) I ·.::: f- LO g J, �AGRICULTURAL The size of agricultural parcels in Saugatuck Township ranges from over 160 acres to under 10 acres, with the average size being about 43 acres. Agricultural land in the Township is used primarily for crops and orchards, with some livestock. See the parcel dist,ibution on Map 5-2. Prime Farmlands Prime farmland is generally concentrated in the south central part of the Township . See Map 4-5. There is a fairly good match between the location of prime farmland soils and the location of agricultural land (see Map 5-1, Land Use/Land Cover). Prime farmland is of major importance in meeting the nation's short and long term needs for food. Prime farmlands have been identified by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service so that local governments can encourage and facilitate the wise use of valuable farmlands. Prime farmland is that which is best suited to food, feed, forage and oilseed crops. The soil qualities, growing season and moisture supply are those needed to economically produce a sustained high yield of crops. Michigan Farmland Preservation Act The Michigan Farmland Preservation Act of 1974 (PA 116), now Part 361 of PA 451 of 1994, allows landowners to enter into a voluntary agreement with the State whereby the land will remain in agricultural use for at least ten years. In return, the landowner is entitled to certain tax benefits. The program has been effective in helping to ensure that suitable lands are retained for farming. There are 74 acres of PA 116 lands in the Township , all of them in the southern half, in sections 27, 28 and 33. In 1988, there were 1,100 acres under PA 116 contracts. This is a reduction of nearly all PA 116 lands since the previous Comprehensive Plan was written . Contracts for the remaining PA 116 lands expire in 2004. This means this land is available for residential use and is no longer being managed for long term agricultural production. Most of the prime farmlands in the Township are not suitable for intensive development because of soil limitations. However, there are some farmlands that are suitable for development. RESIDENTIAL Residential areas in the Tri-Community area vary widely in character between the rural areas of the Township and the urbanized areas of Saugatuck and Douglas. The majority of residential development in the Township is scattered along county roads and along the Lake Michigan Shore. Most resort-residential development in all three communities is located along the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan. Single family structures are the predominant residential type. The "hill" in Saugatuck and the neighborhood surrounding the Village Center in Douglas are other distinct residential areas. Most multiple family structures are concentrated in Saugatuck and Douglas, with only one such development in the Township (Section 3). There are four mobile home parks in the Tri-Community area: two in the City of the Village of Douglas and two in the southern half of the Township. Some distinct residential areas existing within the three communities are described further below. See the parcel distribution on Map 5-2. Lakeshore Area The Lake Michigan shore is fronted by many large single family homes along Lakeshore Drive for five miles from M-89 to the City of Saugatuck. This area is characterized by scenic vistas of the lake and the bluffs. Large trees line the road and many homes are Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-6 �on wooded lots. Many of the lots are very long and narrow. See the parcel distribution on Map 5-2. Where lots are long, there may be sufficient depth to move homes or rebuild as the bluff retreats landward over time. Where lots are very shallow, there is no room to adjust to bluff retreat and many of the "second tier" homes (those across the street from lake'front lots) may become "first tier'' as homes currently on lakefront property are destroyed. See the discussion and photos in Chapter 4. This is likely to be a protracted process as bluff retreat does not occur at a constant rate and varies in rate along the shoreline. A large portion of the lakeshore both north and south of the mouth of the Kalamazoo River is undeveloped or very sparsely developed. A portion of this segment of shoreline is in public ownership as Oval Beach Park. A fund-raising program is underway to acquire the "Denison Property", which is the large acreage immediately south of the river mouth. This would provide a more substantial public beach and help preserve the dune ecosystem in a natural state. Preservation of the area north of the River mouth is also sought in order to add to the State Park. Kalamazoo River Much of the area surrounding the Kalamazoo River east of Douglas is a wetland, unsuitable for residential use. The area is also wooded and is habitat to many birds and other wildlife. In some places, homes overlook the Kalamazoo River and Silver Lake (a shallow bayou connected to the Kalamazoo River) . The character of the Kalamazoo River area is widely different from other residential areas of the Township in that there are no farms or commercial/industrial development-aside from a marina in Section 23. Lot sizes in this area vary widely. Lots on the north side of Silver Lake tend to be very long and narrow and could pose land development problems if permitted to be subdivided any further. See the parcel distribution on Map 5-2. Rural Areas The rural areas of the Township are the southern agricultural, northeast, and riverfrontdunes areas. The southern agricultural area consists of farms, orchards, and a growing number of single family homes on large lots (1 O+ acres). Typically, these homes are located along the county roads at the perimeter of the sections. In addition to scattered development on large lots, there are several subdivisions. These are developments with 30 or less lots averaging approximately one acre each in size. The northeast area is a mix of woodlands and farms, with some steep slopes. Residences are mostly on large lots (40+ acres), with some on small lots within the large lots. Residences in the riverfront-dunes area north of Saugatuck are mostly on small lots fronting the Kalamazoo River. Most of that area is unspoiled wetland, dunes and beaches. See the parcel distribution on Map 5-2. Douglas Approximately 25 blocks of long-established neighborhoods surround the center of the City of the Village of Douglas. These consist primarily of older homes with some homes less than 30 years old scattered throughout. Elsewhere in the Village, residential development is concentrated along Lakeshore Drive and along Campbell Road, 130th Avenue, and Water Street. Saugatuck Condominiums line the shore of Kalamazoo Lake along Lake St. and block a scenic view of the lake. Most of the City's year-round residents live above the steep ridge ("the hill") Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-7 �which separates the waterfront area from the rest of the City. Small cottages on very small lots line the west shore of Kalamazoo Lake along Park St. Tearing down smaller, older homes to be replaced by larger, newer homes will become a larger challenge in the next few years to retaining a "quaint small town" atmosphere . • COMMERCIAL The major commercial areas in the Tri-Community area are in the northern part of the Township along Blue Star Highway, downtown Saugatuck, the Douglas village center, and in Douglas along Blue Star Highway. Blue Star Highway The negative effects of commercial strip development has been addressed by zoning ordinances such as consolidation of driveways and parking facilities , grouping of stores into "mini malls", and site design standards which require that natural features be positively incorporated into new developments, as well as minimizing "asphalt landscaping". Siting new development back from the highway has been a major improvement. Sixty-five percent of the people responding to the 1988 Public Opinion Survey indicated that they did not want to see strip commercial development in the future. In the 2004 survey, the same question was not asked . However, appearance of the Blue Star Highway was important to survey respondents . Commercial uses along Blue Star Highway in the Township include restaurants, gas stations, boat service, motels, auto repair, small offices, mini-storage buildings, firehouse and a mixture of small retail establishments. Blue Star Highway from 130th. Avenue south to M-89 has a rural character with a combination of wooded areas, open land, scattered residential development, and a "you pick" blueberry farm. Some highway oriented commercial uses are clustered around the interchanges with 1-196. Downtown Saugatuck Commercial uses in downtown Saugatuck are primarily oriented to tourists and seasonal residents. Many of the businesses occupy large, older residential structures. Others occupy the old and historic buildings lining Butler Street. This business district has few parking spaces due to the compact arrangement of the area's original design and heavy pedestrian traffic. Parking is a seasonal problem and a permanent solution has not yet been formulated . There is a shuttle service between the downtown and the High School parking lot during peak use periods to help alleviate the situation. Businesses include bed and breakfasts, small and large restaurants, clothing stores, art galleries and numerous specialty shops, with boat service and marina facil ities located along the waterfront. This commercial district has a unique historic character worth preserving and further enhancing and represents a great asset to the Tri-Community area as well as to the region and the state. Douglas Village Center This growing retail area consists of restaurants , public and private offices and specialty shops increasingly tourist/seasonal oriented. Other uses include the Post Office, Village Hall, restaurants , art galleries, police department, antique shops and the public library. Parking is located along both sides of Center St. and is adequate to meet current needs. There are few vacant lots and buildings in this area which could be used for new retail development. Douglas has an active and expand ing Downtown Development Association . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-8 �INDUSTRIAL Industrial development is limited in the Tri-Community area. Less than 1% of the total land area is devoted to industrial uses. Office furniture manufacturing is the major industrial activity. There are few small manufacturing firms. The Tri-Community area is located 150 miles from Detroit, 180 miles from Chicago and 36 miles from Grand Rapids al~ng a major interstate highway. This is an advantageous location for small scale, light industrial development. CULTURAL, HISTORICAL AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES The Tri-Community area is rich in cultural, and historical points of interest and many archaeological sites can be found throughout the area. Leading eco omists and forwardthinking governmental leaders have recognized the social and economic value of promoting and preserving cultural and historic assets. The state of Michigan recommends that local strategic planning documents contain an historic preservation element, which becomes or provides the blueprint for preservation efforts. People like to live, work and play where history prospers. History attracts tourists and residents to Michigan towns. The community survey that was conducted as part of this Tri-Communities Planning Process indicated that a high percentage of residents concur that historic preservation should be one of the components of a strategy for shaping our future. The state of Michigan has made community cultural-;- planning a key part of several of its most publicized and marketed economic development strategies: the "smart growth"; "heritage/cultural tourism"; and "cool cities" initiatives. Community Cultural Base The Tri-Communities are rich in cultural opportunities for residents and visitors. They include a long-standing chamber music venue and jazz performance series, an annual film festival, a children's film festival, a professional theater venue, on-going art fairs summer school of painting and the arts, and many excellent art galleries. In addition, a number of civic and religious organizations exist, including Masonic, Lions and Kiwanis clubs, as well as several garden clubs. Since 2003 the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, a non-profit organization, was formed to serve as a venue for performance (music, dance, theater), film, arts education, exhibitions (arts, cultural, historical) and community activities. Community Historic Character The Tri-Communities are rich in history and many historic and archaeological sites can be found in the area. Equally important, the communities have been the home of a number of nationally and internationally important architects, artists and arts-related professionals. The absence of industrial development in the area has left much of these layers of history intact and still much in evidence as part of the visual make-up of the area. In addition, the communities have a number of architecturally or historically significant buildings, some by important American architects, as well as collections (neighborhoods) of historic structures. Historic Buildings and Sites -------- Singapore, Michigan's most famous ghost town and once a thriving lumber town, lies buried at the mouth of the Kalamazoo River. A plaque commemorating its existence stands in front of the Saugatuck City Hall. Historic and archaeological sites are Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 5-9 �r designated by the Michigan Bureau of History. The Michigan State Register of Historic Sites was established in 1955 to provide official recognition for historic resources in Michigan . Designated historic sites have unique historic, architectural, archaeological, engineering, or cultural significance. There are numerous State historic sites throughout the Tri-Community area, which are listed on Table 5-3. Old Allegan Road in Saugatuck Township is officially designated as a State Historic Site. Preservation is an on-going activity. For example, as early as the 1940's the famous "lost village" of Singapore was placed on the National Register of Historic Places; in the 1980's inappropriate alterations to the Saugatuck Village Hall were blocked and alternate plans were implemented that were more respectful to the building's history; the city's former pump house was converted to a public museum in 1993; the Douglas Village Hall-Dutcher Lodge was recently restored; and the city of Saugatuck has mandated a part of the city as an historic district. In addition, a number of private property owners have engaged in restoration projects. Nearly a dozen properties in the Tri-communities are included on either or both the State and National Register of Historic Places. State historic site or historic district designation does include tax benefits, but does not impose any restrictions upon the owner of the property. Saugatuck and Douglas recently received the federal "Preservation America" Award which opens the door to federal grant money. The Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Society is active in promoting, identifying and preserving many aspects of area history, including historical sites. It has undertaken a survey of area buildings, published nine books on area history and has collected some 12,000 photographic images relating to the community and its history. In the past four years it has given "Heritage Awards" to over 300 local property owners, builders and architects for their accomplishments in the area of new construction and preservation of existing structures. It operates the award-winning Saugatuck-Douglas Historical Museum. Historic Districts The City of Saugatuck has also taken local steps to preserve its historic character. PA 169 of 1970 permits the legislative body of a local government to regulate the construction, demolition and modification of all structures within a designated historic district. The City of Saugatuck has established an historic district within the oldest part of the city. Within this district, construction, addition, moving, excavation and demolition and exterior alteration and repair of structures or resources within the Historic District must comply with requirements set forth in the CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF SAUGATUCK, Chapter 152 HISTORIC DISTRICT REGULATIONS, and the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings. See Map 5-3 for the boundaries of the Historic District. Douglas Historical Preservation Committee The Douglas Historical Preservation Committee was formed in May of 1991 . The purpose of this Committee is to discover, procure and preserve whatever may relate to the civil, religious, social, cultural and natural history of the City of the Village of Douglas. Its mission includes: collecting oral histories, establishing a library of books, pamphlets, Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 5-10 �r maps, manuscripts, prints, papers, paintings, photographs, historical, genealogical, archaeological and biographical materials relating to the Douglas area, and at a future time, maintain a museum for the purpose of exhibiting, illustrating and preserving antiquities descriptive of past and present resources of the Douglas area. The Committee also plans to encourage and promote the study and enjoyment of history by lectures and other means; and to publish and distribute information relative to the Douglas area, as well as the physical preservation and when possible, the renovation of historic structures. The focus of the past several years has been to raise funds and encourage the City of the Village of Douglas to renovate the landmark building in the center of town, known as the Dutcher Lodge, for a community center and Village Hall. This phase has been completed. Archaeological Sites Archaeological sites are of particular scientific value to the fields of anthropology, ecology and biology, and may have historic or ethnic significance as well. There are 120 archaeological sites scattered throughout the Tri-Community area, mostly related to Ottawa and Potawatomi cultures. Their exact locations have not been disclosed by the Bureau of History to protect them from exploitation. One of these sites, the Hacklander Site, located in Section 23 is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has components representing Middle and Late Woodland periods. A second important site is the old Singapore site located at the north edge of the "new" (1906) harbor channel. Recipients of Federal assistance must ensure that their projects avoid damage or destruction of significant historical and archaeological resources. The Michigan Bureau of History reviews these projects to assess their impact on archaeological sites. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 5-11 �r Map 5-3 Saugatuck Historic District 11.E LIi. / ,..;;'··, ·\·' " - . John: f:\winword\tri-communities\final\CHAPTER 5 EXISTING LAND USE final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 5 EXISTING LAND USE final 6 2 OS.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 5-13 ---- �r Chapter 6 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES INTRODUCTION This chapter discusses public facilities and services other than those related to recreation (see Chapter 7: Recreation). These include utilities, public safety, schools, transportation and local government lands and facilities. UTILITIES Sewer and Water Authority The Tri-Communities area sewer and water systems are managed by the Kalamazoo Lake Sewer and Water Authority (KLSWA), which is responsible for operation and maintenance and provides water production and wastewater treatment. Each community is responsible for providing and financing their own infrastructure. The service areas for the sewer and water systems, shown on Map 6-1 include Saugatuck City, Douglas Village and a portion of Saugatuck Township. Water service also extends into Laketown Township. Proposals for modifications or expansions of water and sewer must take into consideration the permanent population, seasonal population, number of daily visitors, and future industrial flow. Peak periods for public utilities in the Tri-Communities area are more pronounced than in typical communities due to the relatively high seasonal and daily visitor populations. Water System The source of the municipal and private water supply is groundwater. Capacity of the municipal system is 3.6 million gallons per day and a firm capacity of 2.8 million gallons per day. Firm capacity is the amount of water which can be pumped with the largest system well out of service. Using Lake Michigan as a water source has been studied in the past, but is not as cost effective as groundwater at the present. Pockets of groundwater contamination in the Tri-Communities affect the ability of individuals and the communities to rely on groundwater. Both Saugatuck and Douglas have policies encouraging their citizens to hook up to city/village water and sewer lines. The reliability of the water system depends on water supply sufficient to meet peak demands, storage capacity to provide fire flows for sufficient duration, adequate water pressure, water quality and distribution system loops. There is no deficiency in meeting peak demands nor is there any deficiency in pumping capacity. The Maximum Day Demand to date has been 1.69 M.G.D. (June 2003) while the firm capacity is 2.8 M.G.D. The water is not treated, except for chlorination and iron sequestering . Parts of the current water system date back to 1907 in Saugatuck, and to 1914 in Douglas. In addition, some water mains are old, small and substandard; leaks are a problem on older service lines. Growth is restricted in areas not serviced by the system. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-1 �r The Kalamazoo Lake Water and Sewer Authority provides water service to Saugatuck City, Douglas Village and portions of Saugatuck Township through a joint water agreement. A new Joint Water Agreement was approved in 2001. The Joint Water Agreement: • 'Provides for the interconnection of the Saugatuck-Douglas system with the Township • Does not require any payment from one party to another • Reserves 50 percent of the total well capacity of the Township customers of the initial service area • Bars the Township from selling capacity beyond the 50 percent level to anyone outside the service area without the written consent of all three ju isdictions • Requires that Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township continue to own their respective water systems • Bases rates on strict cost of service principles, with each government determining the debt service component charged to customers within its boundaries. In addition to supplying water to the Tri-Communities, KLWSA also provides water to a portion of Laketown Township. An agreement was reached in 2003, following several years of negotiation, to provide Laketown Township with 20,000 gallons of wastewater per day (gpd) with no limitation on water. Previously, KLSWA had an agreement to provide Laketown Township with up to 10,000 gpd of wastewater as part of an arrangement that included the provision of water to the State Correctional Facility in Laketown Township, now closed. Saugatuck Township currently supplies water to portions of Laketown Township (Goshorn Lake) under terms of a Water Agreement signed in November, 1998. The existing water system still has many dead end lines, which are susceptible to water discoloration and development of tastes and odors due to stagnation. The best arrangement for water mains is the gridiron system, where all primary and secondary feeders are looped and interconnected, and the small distribution mains tie to each loop to form a complete grid. If an adequate number of valves are inserted, only a small 1 block area will be affected in the event of a break. An 8-in. interconnection between the Township well system and the Saugatuck-Douglas system has been established. Two river crossings exist. One 12-in. connecting Saugatuck with Douglas at the Blue Star Bridge; one 16-in. connecting the Mt. Baldhead Reservoir to the 12-in. main in Water Street within the city of Saugatuck. In 1984 and 1985, a one million gallon above-ground storage tank was constructed, which allowed Saugatuck and Douglas to meet normal and fire protection demands. Now that Saugatuck Township is included in the system, the storage tank has helped raise the fire protection rating for Saugatuck Township from a 9 to a 5, a better rating that reduces insurance costs to businesses and home owners (fire fighting equipment capacity also contributed to improved rating). Additional storage capacity is needed if service were extended to the southern portions of the Township. If water were to be extended to areas of the Township south of the Douglas elevated storage or a booster pumping station might be required to provide adequate system pressure to the area. Recently, the City of Holland proposed to extend a water intake into Lake Michigan from Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Significant opposition has left that proposal in limbo. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-2 �- - - -- --=====:::::=::::::=;;::;:::;:::::=~---~=~=========-~II ) ) Map 6-1 Tri-Community Utilities • -1, <fl l ■ .:I.I Saugatuck • Tri-Communities ., ~ j UTILITIES MAP I I 5 ;iJI ALLEGAN 8 '"'" . ,j "- cou~. MI CHIGAN Municipal Legend ! c::JJurisdiction Boundaries Section Legend [ J Section Boundaries Water Legend -~: tz22 Areas Within 500 Feet of a Water Main· Water Well 0 Waler Tower Sewer Legend ~'\." Areas Within 500 Feet of a Sewer Line• " Sewage Treatment Plant Effluent Discharge Point -~ ~ Powerline Legend - - PONerline ~ ~ Pipeline Legend - r 28 33 ., i 34 'ii - Gas Pipeline ·re~ on map Indicates most reoenl L4J(late 36 GA.NOES TWP wf m~~ Source: Allegan County GIS Department Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-3 ---·~11-~1w . .., . . .,.,. AlitgM, C. . . n y ~ _ . . . . . , , , S - - _ , w , ~ lt/ �r About 77 homes in the "Triangle Area" of Saugatuck Township were forced to use bottled water until a water line was extended to them. These homes were in the area bordered by 63 rd Street, Old Allegan and Gleason Roads. Funds for the $1 .6 million project were provided through the Remediation and Redevelopment Fund and the Env1ronmental Protection Bond Fund . Groundwater contamination has also been found in shallow wells in the area of M 89 and Exit 34 in the Township . The City of the Village of Douglas constructed an aerated Iron Removal Plant in 1994 which effectively treats contaminated groundwater prior to distribution. Sewer System Wastewater treatment is provided at a treatment plant located in Saugatuck Township north of the Kalamazoo River. The facility was constructed by the City of Saugatuck and the City of the Village of Douglas in 1978 with the aeration system upgraded in 2000. The treatment system provides biological and clarification processes for the reduction of BOD (biochemical oxygen demand) and suspended solids, including chemical precipitation for the reduction of phosphorus from fertilizers and detergents. The plant has two aerated lagoons and was designed for incremental addition of lagoons to accommodate increased wastewater flow. Capacity is currently 1 million gallons per day. The system currently runs at 45% capacity during the season and 35% capacity during the off-season. The facility was designed for heavier BOD loading than other facilities its size, in order to accommodate a pie factory and thus may not need more capacity of that type for many years. The factory closed in 1998. The discharge is to the Kalamazoo River on the north side of Saugatuck. Photo 6-1 Waste Water Treatment Plant Source: Aaron Sheridan Overview of Sewer Agreement (Approved in 2001) • Provides sewer service to the Township by allowing them to purchase a percentage of Saugatuck's reserve capacity for $262 ,500. Over a six-year period this works out to a total capacity of 100,000 gallons which the Township has purchased and paid for. • Gives the Township access to the force main going to the old state prison. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-4 �r • • Preserves the right of Saugatuck and Douglas to determine the use and accessibility of their infrastructure and under what conditions. The Township provides the infrastructure. In 1957, many of the storm sewers in the City of Saugatuck were converted to sanitary sewers. This system was expanded in 1979 with PVC pipe, and some improvements were made to the old system. The sewer system in Douglas was built entirely since 1978. The two jurisdictions merged their facilities in the late 1970's to form the KLSW A. There has been some infiltration into the system from groundwater due to faulty manholes, pipe, and roof drains. The impacts of this infiltration were most pronounced when Lake Michigan water levels were high. The capacity of the sewer system is sufficient to meet the needs of Saugatuck and Douglas until approximately 2008. The capacity of the wastewater treatment facility would have to re-rated to 1.2 MGD for the Township to use the system until 2008. Thirty-year projections for wastewater treatment for Saugatuck Township include extending service to the south lakeshore residential area and the area of the Township northeast of 1-196. The township has purchased the entire 100,000 gallons of capacity provided for in the Sewer Agreement of 2001 . About 500,000 gallons of reserve capacity is available at the Waste Water Treatment Plant for use by the Authority's member municipalities. As capacity in the plant approaches 900,000 gallons per day, provisions for expanding capacity will be undertaken by the Authority. Sufficient land area is available at the current site to expand the lagoon system and provide capacity to 1.4 million gallons/day. The two basic alternatives for expanding the wastewater collection system in the Township are pressure sewers and gravity sewers. Pressure sewers are generally used where topography or spacing between services prohibit the use of gravity sewers or where high water table and difficult soil conditions prevail, such as in the Tri-Community area. These systems have lower construction costs and higher maintenance and operation costs than gravity sewers. Gravity sewers are the most common in use due to their minimal operation and maintenance expense. However, the cost of initial construction can be substantial for small communities, especially if construction costs are further aggravated by difficult topography and soil conditions. In addition, it is rare that an entire community can be served by gravity sewers. The existing system in Saugatuck and Douglas is a gravity system, with local areas of pressure. Storm Sewers There are very few mapped stormwater drains in the Tri-Community area. Damage has not been a significant problem in most developed areas because of sandy, high permeability soils and lack of large paved areas. It is suspected that some stormwater drains, individual residential and business gutters flowing into the sanitary sewer system which need to be removed. Efforts are underway to improve stormwater drainage. County Drains County Drains are found throughout the Tri-Community area, but mostly in the southern portion of the Township. A network of drains in Sections 27, 28, 34, 35 and 36 facilitates the removal of water from an area of poorly drained soils which is used as farmland. The Allegan County Drain Commission placed five drains along the Lake Michigan shore in Sections 20, 29 and 32. These drains help stabilize sand and clay bluffs along Lake Michigan, which are being eroded by groundwater. Other County drains in the area are located in the northeast comer of the Township. See Map 6-2. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-5 �. Map 6-2 Tri-Community County Drains ,- 1;;.· I ~;' '. / ·•r· Saugatuck Tri-Communities .: ,~//,. lI \ / i C HYDROLOGY MAP ALLEGAN COUNTY. MICHIGAN Municipal Legend c::J Jurisdiction Boundaries Section Legend r J Section Boundaries Water Legend Watercourses § - -~ I County Drains Wetlands Legend .'§ rz.zl National Wetlands lnventoiyWetlands" ~ 96 Land Use Wetlands" ~ HydricSolls D ~ c:::J Non-Hydric Soi Possibly Hydric So!'" H)(lricSOil - W,aer ~ ~ ~ ,,. <~ · \ ·,, • OigltiZ!ld ln:lm US fish snd WHdllle Ser...ce Natlonal Wellands lnYenlOfy maps Wed ands were mapped tom high-llllitude colOI infr'•ed Mriel ~ephs In he 1ua, end 1980'• •• Alt clatsi~ 600 utegoryw.ilands, low11Wld hac!Wooda andlow1aodconllt>rs. ••• TheM SQI! ffl!IS may be h~ric unoe, Ge£1aln alle specific condilons . wf Source: Allegan County G/S Department Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-6 ·-•--t. . . ~~t.-...,_, _ _ _ .,._I) _of _ _ �Gas, Electric, Telephone and Cable There are no major gas or oil pipelines in the Tri-Community area. Gas service is provided by Aquila Gas Company and approximate locations of gas mains are shown on Map 6-1 . There is one major 760 kilovolt electric transmission line which crosses the extreme southeast comer of the Township. See Map 6-1 . Electricity in the TriCommunity area is provided by Consumers Energy. Telephone service is provided by Verizon; cable TV service is provided by Comcast of Western Michigan. High speed internet service is provided by satellite, cable, wireless and telephone. TRANSPORTATION Overview Transportation facilities within the Tri-Community area include streets and roads and a public transportation system (Interurban). The Tri-Community area is served by a major Interstate highway (1-196) and by a State highway (M-89). Blue Star Highway, part of the Great Lakes Circle Tour, is the other major highway serving the area. The nearest railroad is the AMTRAK passenger rail system in Holland . Transportation facilities are important in stimulating growth for the Tri-Community area and its location is an asset for attracting further economic and industrial development. Increased non-motorized transportation options, including pedestrian and bicycle trails could further enhance summer recreation opportunities. Providing safe non-motorized transportation paths between downtown Saugatuck, Douglas and the lakeshore beach areas also offers an opportunity to reduce vehicle traffic in core areas. Road Classifications and Volumes Roads are classified according to the amount of traffic they carry and the nature of the traffic. Four common categories are local streets, collectors, local arterials, and primary arterials. Local streets typically provide access to residences with speeds from 20 to 25 mph. Collectors connect local streets to arterials and speeds average 25-35 mph. Primary arterials facilitate larger volumes of traffic which generally originate and terminate within the Tri-Communities area, with a trip length of ten miles or less and an average speed of 35-45 mph. Primary arterials are typically used for high speed-through traffic, and access to the roadway is usually limited . Freeways or expressways are regional arterials and are the highest road classification in the Tri-Community area. I196/US-31 links Saugatuck with nearby Grand Rapids and from the south links with cities such as South Haven and Benton Harbor. See Map 6-3 for road classifications. A paved county primary is a local arterial, while an unpaved county primary is a collector. Each class of road has an important function in maintaining the efficient flow of traffic and it is essential that adequate transportation facilities exist or can be efficiently provided . Driveways should be limited and widely spaced along primary arterials and collectors to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety. Therefore, low intensity land uses with wide lot widths should be built to keep the access points to a minimum. Where commercial use is permitted , shared driveways, connected parking lots and service drives should be used where possible. P A 51 of 1951 provides for the classification of all public roads, streets and highways for the purpose of managing the motor vehicle highway fund . The classifications which pertain to the Tri-Community area are "County-Wide Primary Road" and "County-Wide Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-7 �r Local Road" in Saugatuck Township , and "Major Streets" and " Minor Streets" in Saugatuck and Douglas. Funding is provided to cities and villages for street maintenance and construction based on the number of miles of streets by class within each community. Roads in the Township are managed by the Allegan County Road Commission, which receives Act 51 funds based on the mileage of roads in each class under its jurisdiction . In addition, Township residents passed a millage in 2003 to help pay for road improvements, primarily paving. This is used to cost share with the County Road Commission. Photo 6-2 Local Street in the Tri-Communities Source: Aaron Sheridan Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-8 �r Map 6-3 Road Classifications ~ 5 2 A~ I-' c.u MVN IC uh r 1 V, a cc r2 13 26 25 127THAVE 126TH AVE Source: Allegan County Road Commission, 2004 Map Addenda The end of Park Street in Saugatuck Township as been abandoned and does not extend to the lagoon, as shown. Where the road turns at the top of the hill toward the Oxbow, a line shows an "other road." The road does not exist. Near the entrance to the City water reservoir a line shows an "other road ." Tt does not exist- it is a private easement. . . . Expressway (Limited Access) ~ State Highways c=t:.J]= County Primary (Paved) County Primary (Unpaved) County Local (Paved) = County Local (Unpaved) City Road (Major) City Road (Minor) Other Road © MOOT Car Pool Lot w Expressway Rest Area ~ Expressway Exit Number Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-9 �r Traffic Counts The number of vehicles that travel on a roadway segment on average per day is a useful indicator, over time , that is very helpful in traffic planning . Changes in traffic counts help guide establishment of priorities for road improvements, as well as assisting with the evaltJation of impacts of new development and projecting future traffic conditions. Of course, the highest volume roadway in the Tri-Communities is the freeway. MOOT 24 hour average daily traffic for I-196/US-31 in the Tri-Community area was 21,300 vehicles in 2002. This volume is likely to grow significantly over the next twenty years as the south belt freeway segment is completed and as western Ottawa Cour ty continues to develop. The primary significance of these changes will be steadily rising noise levels along the freeway. It will be very important for the Township and Village to retain and enhance the thick natural tree buffer along the freeway, if nearby homeowners want to be able to enjoy outdoor conversation. While M-89 is a primary arterial which provides access east/west within Allegan County at the southern border of Saugatuck Township, it does not carry much traffic. In 2002, average daily traffic on M-89 was 3,000 vehicles in 24 hours. This is far less than many other primary arterials in the Tri-Communities. The 1989 Plan listed only eight traffic count locations in the Tri-Community area and these counts ranged in age from 1959 to 1987. Three were very low volume counts on streets with little traffic. More recent data was not available from the County Road Commission for this Plan update. As a result, in order to establish a baseline for future traffic changes, on August 6-8, 2004 traffic counts were taken in 19 locations. The results are listed on Table 6-1 and depicted on Map 6-4. Older counts are also listed. The August 2004 traffic counts cannot be characterized as average daily traffic because they were taken during a peak summer weekday and weekend. Thus, they should be viewed as peak summer traffic. They provide an excellent basis for tracking future traffic changes. Because of the dearth of earlier traffic counts, few observations can be made about changes in traffic volume. The most significant observation is the growth in traffic on Blue Star Highway (BSH) north of the Y. The Washington St. traffic and BSH traffic merge northbound (and split southbound). While it is unfair to compare traffic growth here to a 26 year old count (1978, which is about 1/3 of the current level), anyone living in the area knows traffic in this area is increasing . New homes in the Township (rather than an increase in tourists) probably account for most of the growth in traffic on BSH in this area. This is because most new residents commute to jobs, school or expanded shopping opportunities in communities to the north and east of the Tri-Communities. To better understand traffic growth in this area , the Township should ask the County Road Commission to count traffic both east and west on 134th and on Old Allegan Road in the summer of 2005. Counts are likely to be in the range of 2,000 vehicles per day if the counts on Wiley Road are a comparable measure. New development in the Village and Township on west Wiley Road has increased counts there nearly 10 times in 20 years. At the south end of BSH in the Village, traffic counts have remained about the same as in July 1987. This suggests that residents of new development are relying largely on north BSH for local arterial trips (and not driving south to get on the freeway sooner, even though that is a greater distance). The absence of other roads parallel to BSH Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-10 �r leaves no opportunity to spread local north/south trips on other roads, and the Lake (on the west) and extensive wetlands (on the east) makes another bridge crossing of the Kalamazoo River unfeasible. Table 6-1 Tri-Community Traffic Counts Map Location 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Location Blue Star Highway between th 54 Street and Exit 41 Blue Star Highway south of Holland (Washin!=)ton) Street Blue Star Highway south of Allegan Street Blue Star Highway north of Lake Street Blue Star Highway between Bridge and Lake Street NB Blue Star Highway between Bridge and Lake Street SB Blue Star Highway south of 129th Street Blue Star Highway south of Exit 36 Butler Street north of Hoffman Street Center Street east of Union Street Center Street at Blue Star Highway Center Street east of Ferry Street Wiley Road east of Summer Grove Development 130m Avenue east of 66m Street Park Street north of Campbell Park Street south of Perryman Park Street north of Perryman Lakeshore Drive south of Tranquility Lane Lakeshore Drive south of Wiley Washington west of Blue Star Highway August 2004 24 Hour Combined AM & PM Average for FridaySunday 14,567 Older 24 Hour Traffic Counts 5,319 (1978) 8,840 9,303 10,070 8,187 10,137 8,908 10,575 & 8,256 (two days in July 1987) 5,462 2,983 2,816 Not a 2004 count location 4,580 10,861 (1985) 2,178 285 (1982) 2,183 3,539 3,216 1,316 682 834 6,061 Nevertheless, traffic volumes generally across all three communities are still not very large relative to existing road capacity. However, future residential growth, largely in the Township, will continue to add vehicles to existing county primaries, and especially to Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-11 �BSH . Rising volumes on north BSH will likely also result in increased pressure on the Township for more commercial development. Which commercial uses are allowed , and the degree to which they duplicate existing commercial uses (such as the grocery store, pharmacy and hardware store) will have a lot to do with the continued viability of the local service dimension of the existing business districts in Saugatuck and Douglas. Photo 6-3 Traffic has Grown on Blue Star Highway Source: Aaron Sheridan Speed Limits Vehicular speed limits are very low in the downtown areas of Saugatuck and Douglas. The speed limits are generally 20-25 mph on local streets. The speed limits on Blue Star Highway within the Tri-Community area change four times along the corridor. Blue Star Highway's speed limit is 50 mph on the north side of the City of Saugatuck. Traveling south , Blue Star splits, one arm turns into Washington Road heading into downtown Saugatuck. The other arm continues to bypass the City, but the speed limit decreases to 35 mph. It continues to be 35 mph south past the City of the Village of Douglas, to the intersection of 129th Street and Blue Star Highway, when the speed limit increases to 45 mph . South of the I-196/US-31 intersection the speed limit on Blue Star Highway increases to 55 mph. Speed limits on paved County roads are generally 55 mph . Crash Locations A review of crash data from 2000-2003 for the City of Saugatuck and City of the Village of Douglas indicated that there were 21 crashes with injuries reported and no fatalities . The data included all roads within the City and Village. The road with the highest number of injury related crashes was Blue Star Highway with six crashes with injuries reported for the three year period . Higher crash severity is expected on higher speed roads, particularly with numerous driveways. Low speeds on local roads within the City should keep the crash severities low. Crash data did not specify the type of crash (e.g. if it was multi-vehicle related, pedestrian or bike related or related to alcohol or drug use). The mix of pedestrians, bicycles and automobiles in downtown areas of Saugatuck and Douglas should be period ically reviewed based on more detailed crash reports to ensure safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-12 �r There is currently a lack of crash data available for Saugatuck Township roads. Without documentation, it is difficult to determine if there are any problems. The Township could request a copy of every crash report prepared by the Sheriff's Department or State Police within the Township . • Blue Star Highway Blue Star Highway seNes as a primary arterial. It is important to the Tri-Community area, not only because it is a gateway to visitors entering the community but also for local travel between communities. Several issues are important. First, there is a lack of aesthetic on the corridor. Over 74 % of people responding to the public opinion suNey noted that the appearance of the highway was of high or extremely high importance. Setbacks vary on developments; there are no sidewalks, and no uniform landscaping. Weak regulation of strip commercial development in the past has allowed haphazard placement of signs and driveways. While considerable effort and money has been put into improving the entryways into both Saugatuck and Douglas, the Douglas entryways still fail to fully capture the visitor's attention in a positive, friendly way. Second , access to commercial and industrial establishments along arterial roads should be better controlled on Blue Star Highway. Wide driveways and open shoulders lead to an elevated risk of crashes. There are no designated pedestrian traffic areas or bike paths, causing pedestrians to use the shoulder, unsafely. The Township has paid to pave the shoulders, and these are often mistaken for actual lanes, thus posing a safety hazard. A boulevard could improve appearance, safety and traffic control and should be one of the alternatives examined if capacity improvements are considered . Specifically, right turn arrows should be painted on the pavement in the turn lane at Blue Star and Washington Street in the north Township. There is no cooperative maintenance arrangement between Saugatuck and Douglas for Blue Star Highway and the County Road Commission. Photo 6-4 Blue Star Highway Needs Better Access Management Source : Aaron Sheridan Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-13 �r Map 6-4 Tri-Community Traffic Count Locations ~ 111dJ •h••Jlf l AKt I OWN l WP !!t"•"'"' I 5 1 (f) ~ ( ,/ I 8 • 28 . I 25 27 ! Source: Allegan County G/S, Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. and Traffic Data Specialists, Inc. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-14 / ri' . �Lakeshore Drive Lakeshore Drive provides a scenic link between areas along the Lake Michigan coast. Lakeshore Drive was closed off in some areas in the mid-1980's because of severe bluff eroSJon. The road is currently a dead end in this area, with no plans to reconstruct it, due to the high costs and inevitability of shore erosion. Lakeshore Drive should continue to function as a limited access road for those accessing residential property. A nonmotorized path connecting Lakeshore Drive where it has been washed out would be a welcome addition in this area. However, the private property/easement question must first be resolved. Transit The Interurban is the area's public transportation system and is funded in part by a 1 mill assessment. The service was started in May 1980 as a two-year experimental project and was initially funded at 100% by the State. Following the experimental period, some of the cost burden was borne by the Tri-Communities. The system had seven buses and in 2003 there were approximately 46,000 riders. The Interurban is governed by a board consisting of members from all three communities. The system is demand responsive with no fixed routes or schedule. Intercity bus service, provided by Greyhound, can be accessed in nearby Holland and South Haven. Photo 6-5 Interurban Vehicle Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Non-motorized Transportation The City of Saugatuck and the City of the Village of Douglas are walkable communities that are suited for pedestrians and bicyclists. This atmosphere should be protected and promoted by expanding dedicated pedestrian and bicycle paths, particularly with the tourist population that utilizes the community in the summer months. However, comprehensive trails between popular destinations have yet to be constructed in the Saugatuck/Douglas area. Minimally a non-motorized path between Saugatuck and Douglas would give visitors access to each downtown area without getting into their automobile. Currently, the closest regional non-motorized trail is the South Haven to Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-15 �r Kalamazoo bike trail. Trails from Douglas to the Oval Beach and from Saugatuck to the Dunes State Park and other points north should also be planned and constructed . Trails should be designed for all-season use so cross country skiing and snow shoeing would also be available. Air The Tri-Communities are served by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, which is within 50 miles of the region and is served by 11 major airlines with 150 flights per day. Gerald R. Ford International Airport has grown dramatically over the last few years, in 2002, the airport serviced just under 2 million passengers. It was the first airport in the nation to implement 100% baggage screening on all flights . The Tri-Communities are also served by the Kalamazoo/Battle Creek International Airport, which is located in Portage, about 60 miles from the region as well as the South Bend, IN airport also located some 60 miles away. In 2002 the airport served over one half million passengers with 63 daily arrivals and departures on six major airlines. POLICE, FIRE AND EMERGENCY SERVICES Police Police protection for the Tri-Community area is provided by the Allegan County Sheriff Department and the Michigan State Police, and by local departments in Saugatuck and Douglas. The State Police maintains the Saugatuck Team post at the Saugatuck Township Hall on Blue Star Highway. The facility is staffed with 4-5 officers. The Allegan County Sheriff Department operates a satellite post in Fennville which serves the area. The State Police and the Sheriff respond upon request to calls in all three jurisdictions. The Township also has a constable who performs bar checks and serves zoning violations. The Saugatuck-Douglas Police Department has 8 full-time officers including the Chief of Police. The Department has 6 police cruisers and a motorcycle. Police offices are currently located at 47 Center Street, Douglas. Fire Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township are included in the Saugatuck Fire District. This district is managed by a five member Fire Authority. Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township each appoint one person to the board. These three then appoint two other people from the area at large, subject to approval by the three communities involved. The Saugatuck Fire District has 25 personnel, including 3 fulltime. There is one fire station located in Saugatuck Township near the intersection of Blue Star Highway and 134th Avenue . The Township building houses vehicles, offices and a meeting room with 9,600 square feet. The Fire District maintains 3 pumpers, 1 Rescue Command Center, 3 tankers, a 65 foot aerial water tower and a 40 foot fire boat. The Tri-Communities fire department is on fully automatic coordinated aid with the Graafschap, Ganges and Fennville fire departments. Emergency Services Ambulance services are provided by the American Medical Response (AMR). The West Michigan division of AMR is based in Grand Rapids with operations serving Kent, Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-16 �r Ottawa and Allegan Counties with bases in Grand Rapids, Holland and Fennville. AMR has 27 advanced life support units, 122 full-time and 52 part-time personnel. The Saugatuck Fire District maintains a first responder unit and a medical unit. The first responder unit answers some 500 calls per year . • Hospitals The nearest hospital to the Tri-Communities is Holland Community Hospital, 9.4 miles from Saugatuck. The Tri-Communities are also served by Zeeland Community Hospital, 14 miles from Saugatuck and South Haven Community Hospital which is 18.6 miles away. In addition to the hospitals, residents can obtain emergency services at the Douglas Clinic, Intermediate Urgent Care Clinic, 14 miles from Saugatuck in Zeeland, and at the Allegan Emergency Medical Services in Allegan, which is 19.8 miles from Saugatuck. SCHOOLS Three school districts serve the Tri-Community area; Saugatuck, Fennville, and Hamilton school districts. (See Map 6-3). Approximately half of Saugatuck Township, and all of Douglas and Saugatuck, are served by the Saugatuck district, with the southern portion of the Township being served mostly by the Fennville district and the extreme northeast portion of the Township served by the Hamilton district. The Saugatuck school system operates facilities in two locations. Douglas Elementary School accommodates a 3-yr. old pre-school of 30 children; a 4-yr. old pre-school with 40 children; grades K through 5 with an enrollment of 402, Saugatuck Middle School accommodates grades 6 through 8 with an enrollment of 195, and Saugatuck High School accommodates grades 9 through 12 with an enrollment of 256. Total enrollment is approximately 823 students. High school and middle school growth rate has been 5% in the last 2 years, 5% in the last 5 years and only 1.3% over 1O years. Middle school and high school capacity would be reached with the addition of 100-150 more students. There are no expansion plans. The Fennville system has a lower and upper elementary schools (PK-5), a middle school (grades 6-7) and a high school (8-12), with an enrollment of approximately 1,500 students. Enrollment has declined nearly 10% per year over the past few years, with a loss of over 200 students in the past two years. Voters in the Fennville district narrowly passed a $26 million bond issue in June 2004 for a new elementary school and renovations to the middle school, a levy of 5.81 mills. For an enrollment summary see Table 6-2. The school districts serving the area appear to have some capacity for accommodating increases in the school age population . Furthermore, the part of the Tri-Community area served by the Saugatuck school district is that which is most suitable for new growth. Table 6-2 Enrollment in Schools Serving the Tri-Communities School District Fennville Hamilton Sau atuck Pre-School Elementary High School Total 686 Middle School 249 Incl. in Elem en tar Not listed 70 553 1,488 1,131 402 630 195 928 256 2,689 823 Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-17 �r Photo 6-6 Saugatuck Middle/High School Source: Aaron Sheridan Photo 6-7 Douglas Elementary School Source: Aaron Sheridan Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-18 �. Map 6-5 Tri-Community Public Facilities and School Districts 1 Two pumphouses 2 Vacant block 3 ½ Vacant street 4 & 5 Vacant lot 6 Library 7 Fire District & Police Departmem,--,,---~8 DPW Barn " 9 Saugatuck Township Hall 10 Saugatuck Riverside Cemet 11 Douglas Cemetery 12 Douglas North Cemetery 13 Saugatuck Township Fire District 14 Saugatuck City Hall 15 Public Restroom 16 Saugatuck High School 17 Waterwell 18 Township Dog Park 19 S.S. MemoriaJ... Roadside 20 Sunset Parko,, 21 Township @ erw, (located 01:,\ltem property) ~ 22 River Blulf\tark 23 Douglas ~ age 24 Douglas @emen Sa ui.:atu t k ·1·.-i-( '011111111 nilks .,L.~ . ~ool o1strict IAKt H'\'NW_l - --· ···~ -, ~ I I I I Public Facilities and School Districts \1 ,1 l'(;\I\ ( Ot \ f \ , \11( 111(;\I\ I I ' I I -1- ' •• I ' } ,- I PW Mt1t1K.lp~tl l ~gr1td 1::::J ,, ..... 1,,H,;,lk";Jl(l-,<1.... SuchOfl log4'nd h1t,!'-•.t•1',._ .JAr,JW ~L Ro.'ltl t-illty .,.... ,, ....,. ....... , - ,- "'.:J t..u-nd - - , , :, (.,,.•,tyl'MNlt !l'(,.,~fJ 1,o1.,itr1·,.ri,.11v(ll11J-1,....,I - , , •• t.,1,~al(J'ifl,NII ni••, I 1,,.,-,lt•1•~• .. J1 1.,,Ll,1•• ,:,,.,...... l~Alll lh._lffllr,1 '\ 'l•IIII •,o~ .. 1-..t ♦ , ••,,..,_, .. .,~I ,..,,,h,,.,.1 I , \2 I 33 34 ,,~ ---- r '~I I I OANGUlr I I ..!.!i'!:l.h.L I ~ L_T I" -l Source: Allegan County GIS Department and Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-19 --- li"'o-4i1-•1..,._.. """ ... ~ ,.,1_.,,,._.,_•. lt,,w,1,'fll•l l,"-f.111t"' ,,,..,...,..,t,1 .. ~k1- .. ,,,~.,olllll•1 ♦,.-: .... •• , .... ,..,,1.·,>rt,.~1-0,, .. ,,_~ __ ,.,,,, .....,,,.."' * ..... w*r ~-. <tl' .,... ~ ""9'_.l\ofl itr'ltff, �. SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL PA 641 of 1978 requires that every county prepare a solid waste management plan. The plan must be approved by the County Planning Committee, the County Board of Commissioners and by at least 2/3 of the municipalities in the county. The Allegan Cou'nty Solid Waste Plan dates from 1997 (and was approved by the DEQ in 2000) and covers a ten year planning period . An update process was to begin in 2002 but is on hold upon direction of the state. The current Plan remains in force. Characteristics of the solid waste stream include: • County generates an estimated 241 tons per day (TPD) of municipal solid waste (MSW), a category which includes residential, commercial, and some industrial wastes, but does not include construction and demolition debris or industrial process wastes (such as foundry sand, sewage sludge, or paper sludge). • Based on a 2002 County population estimate of 109,336, this calculates to about 4.4 pounds/person/day. Of the MSW, about 55% is estimated to be residential (133TPD , 2.43Ibs/person/day) • and 45% commercial (108 TPD, 1.97Ibs/person/day). • Adding the C & D and Industrial Process waste brings the estimated generation to 326 TPD, or 5.96 lbs/person/day. • It is estimated that about 32% of this total generation, 105 TPD, is being recycled or composted, leaving a landfill total of 221 TPD. (MDEQ's annual landfill receipt reports consistently indicate much less Allegan County waste, the equivalent of 135 TPD in 2003. Resource Recovery does not believe it is that high as some of the waste might be co-collected with another county's and counted in its totals). • In terms of residential recycling, Saugatuck City collected 48 tons curbside and 334 tons drop-off in 2003. Saugatuck Township collected 111 tons curbside. • Most of Allegan County's waste goes to landfills in Ottawa County and a lesser amount to Kent County. Some even goes to Watervliet in Berrien County and also to St. Joseph County. At present, there is sufficient capacity within the region and Resource Recover does not foresee a need to site any new facilities in the near future. Kent County has been purchasing land in Dorr Township with a long term intention (10-12 years) of expanding the South Kent Landfill, which sits right up against the county line into Allegan. Source: Allegan County Solid Waste Plan The goals and objectives of the plan focus on reducing the waste stream through separation and recycling, using private haulers for waste collection, recovering energy from the solid waste stream and providing the public with opportunities to develop solutions for solid waste disposal problems. Each governmental unit maintains its own recycling. A recycling center, funded by tax dollars, is currently in operation at the Saugatuck City Department of Public Works Garage on Blue Star Highway and is available to Saugatuck residents only. Douglas and the Township maintain a curbside pickup policy on a regularly scheduled basis. Allegan County Resource Recovery maintains the facility, which collects newspapers, plastics, glass, aluminum and brown paper bags . Pickup of metal appliances and tires is also possible by contacting the center. The recycling center was started in 1984. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-20 �r Brush and Leaf Pickup Beginning each spring, curbside brush and leaf pickup is held during the second full week of each month in the City of Saugatuck. Brush, leaves and yard waste may be placed out for collection; any other items will not be picked up. Yard waste on the roadside at any other time is considered littering and is punishable by citation. City residents may, at any time, take brush and leaves to the storage yard behind the Department of Public Works garage on Maple Street. This area is for yard waste drop off only. Photo 6-8 Saugatuck Public Works Department Building Source: Aaron Sheridan Saugatuck and Douglas hold a large item and yard waste pickup in the spring . This service is available the first two full weeks of May of each year. During this time, City crews will pick up the following items only: household items like couches, tables , and carpeting, unbagged leaves, brush and limbs cut into 4 foot sections and piled separately. Items which cannot be placed out for pickup include stoves, refrigerators, air conditioners, etc., household hazardous waste, tires, large amounts of construction materials and garbage. Household hazardous waste can be disposed of at the Allegan County Health Department (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and the Wayland Area Ambulance center (one day a year), by appointment only. The South Kent County Landfill and the Grand Rapids area Goodwill Stores accept household electronics waste (TVs, computers, VCR's, fax machines, radios and computer games). The Saugatuck Township Landfill (public), located in Sections 1O and 11, was closed in 1984. Placing a new landfill in the Tri-Communities is not feasible due to many environmental and practical obstacles PUBLIC FACILITIES The City, Village and Township own a number of buildings and other facilities. Those not related to recreation are listed below in Table 6-3 and are shown on Map 6-5. Recreation facilities are discussed in Chapter 7. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-21 �r Photo 6-9 Saugatuck Township Hall Source: Aaron Sheridan Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 6-22 �Table 6-3 Tri-Community Public Facilities N"me Location Use 3461 Blue Star Memorial Hwy. Twp offices, State Police Saugatuck Township Township Hall Saugatuck Riverside Cemetery Douglas Cemetery Douglas North annex cemetery Fire Station City of Saugatuck City Hall th 135 & Blue Star 130m South side 130th North side Blue Star Hwy. Burial Burial Burial 102 Butler City offices 401 Elizabeth Street Blue Star and Apple St. Blue Star and Apple St. Maple St. Maple St. School Water Water Village Hall 86 W. Center Street Village offices Douglas Elementary School 261 Randolph Street School School District Offices 201 Randolph Street School Administration Vacant lot Library (Saugatuck-Douglas) DPW barn Corner Ferry & Center Gravel storage Mixer & Center Sts . Library, office, fire barns Water & Center Sts. Barn (launch ramp currently closed) DPW barn Well housing Gerber, South, None Fermont, Randolph, Spencer Middle and High School Maintenance bldg. Sand & salt storage Pump House #1 Pump House #2 City of Village of Douglas City Two Pumphouses & pumps 1/2 vacant street ends on Kalamazoo River & Lake Public works Source: Saugatuck Township, City of Saugatuck, and City of Village of Douglas City John : f:\winword\Tri-Communities\final\CHAPTER 6 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 6 PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 6-23 �Chapter 7 RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE INTRODUCTION This chapter discusses recreation facilities and programs and open space in the TriCommunities. This includes the administration of recreation programs, existing resources and planned-for parks, bike paths and other recreation nee,ds. It also discusses open space as a recreational and amenity asset of the communities. Parks, recreation, and open space are essential to the quality of life of area residents, and are an important component of the local tourist economy. They enhance property values, as well as physical and psychological well-being. Parks and open space define the character of the Tri-Communities, create the scenic atmosphere which stimulates tourism, and provide the basis for popular local leisure activities. Photo 7-1 The Tri-Communities are an Active Recreation Destination Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-1 �r Recreation needs are regional in nature and plans must view local recreational offerings as part of a regional recreational system. Local governments, schools, private entrepreneurs, the County, and the State each have a role in serving local and regional recreational needs. The Tri-Communities have a variety of types of public and private recreation resources, including small parks, nature areas, golf courses, waterfronts, beaches and waters for boating and fishing. There is also a variety of open spaces that includes very small parks, larger parks, cemeteries, undeveloped beach areas, undeveloped farmlands, floodplains and woodlands . Some of these open spaces are publicly owned but many are in private ownership. ADMINISTRATIVE STRUCTURE The City of Saugatuck's parks are maintained by the City through its Department of Public Works. Park planning is done by a committee of three City Council members, who are aided by the City Manager and overseen by the full Council. Douglas parks are maintained by the Village's Department of Public Works under the Village Council's Parks and Buildings Committee, which reports to the Village Council. The Township formed a Township Park and Recreation Commission in November 1970, which is an independent governmental entity charged with provision of parks and recreational programs to area-citizens. The Commission has six elected members, and is staffed by a part-time maintenance person. Representatives from both Douglas and the Township may be elected to sit on the Commission. The Saugatuck Public Schools also maintain athletic and recreational facilities and the responsibility for planning for these facilities rests with the Athletic Director, Physical Education teachers, Athletic Booster Club and the school board. The most recent Recreation Plan was adopted in 2002 and was prepared by an ad hoc committee of eight representatives of Saugatuck, Douglas, Saugatuck Township and Saugatuck Public Schools. The 2002 Plan was based in part on a survey conducted for the 1995 Recreation Plan and interpretation of public sentiment since the 1988 survey. Allegan County prepares and periodically updates a countywide parks and recreation plan. County parks are administered by a ten-member County Parks and Recreation Commission whose members include the Chairs of the County Road Commission, the County Planning Commission, the County Drain Commissioner, two County Commissioners, and five members appointed by the County Board of Commissioners. The Commission meets on the first Monday of each month. It sometimes provides financial assistance for local recreational efforts which advance the County Recreation Plan. AREAWIDE RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES Recreation can be separated into four main categories: physical, social, cognitive, and environmentally related recreation. The first category focuses on sports and various physical activities. Social recreation looks at social interaction. Cognitive recreation deals with cultural, educational, creative, and aesthetic activities. Environmentally related recreation requires the natural environment as the setting or focus for activity. Each of these categories in some way relates to the others. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-2 �r Physical Recreation Intramural athletics are popular for children and young adults in the area and are offered through the summer recreation program. Activities include softball. Baseball, youth footl!>all, volleyball, soccer, bowling and others (see Table 7-1 ). The elementary school has a newly expanded playground and Kid's Stuff Park. Playgrounds are also found at River Bluff, Schultz, and Beery Parks and the Saugatuck Village Square. Aerobic fitness classes are offered at the Community Church. Walking, hiking, biking, boating, golfing, swimming, and cross country skiing are also popular, and enjoyed by a wide range of age groups. Photo 7-2 Soccer Recreation Program Photo 7-3 Summer Swimming Program Source: Scott Kierzek, Community Recreation Director Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-3 �• Table 7-1 Summer Recreation Programs Saugatuck Recreation Programs ,. Soccer • Youth Baseball/Softball • Youth Basketball • Adult Basketball • Youth Football • Punt, Pass, Kick • Volleyball • Sanchin-Ryu (martial arts) • Swimming • Adult Water Aerobics • Fun Fitness • • • • • First Aid CPR Infant/Child CPR Hunter's Safety Babysitting Community Events • Mt. Baldhead Challenge • Las Vegas Night • Beery Field Ice Rink • Ski Club Photo 7-4 Vintage Baseball League Team-Douglas Duchers Source: Saugatuck Douglas Recreation Commission The area hosts a team that participates in the Vintage Base Ball League. The Douglas Dutchers plays home games at Beery Field. The team was established in 2003 and captured the Silas K. Pierce Cup in tournament play in Grand Rapids. The team plays opponents across Michigan and out-of-state. Social Recreation A variety of local clubs and activities provide social recreation for people of all ages. Festivals, community education programs, and intramural sports provide an opportunity to socialize. Senior citizens activities are organized through the New Day Senior Citizens Club of Douglas, St. Peter's Hall, and various area clubs. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-4 �• Cognitive Recreation The Tri-communities are rich in cognitive recreational pursuits. Festivals, art workshops , local theater, historic districts, an archaeological site, summer day camp, and community education programs provide cultural, educational, and aesthetic enjoyment. The Saugatuck Women's Club, the Oxbow, Douglas Garden Club, and the Douglas Art Club are among the local clubs which organize cultural activities. The following facilities provide intellectual /cultural opportunities: Intellectual/Cultural Recreational Facilities Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Saugatuck Saugatuck Women's Club, Saugatuck Saugatuck/Douglas District Library, Douglas Saugatuck - Douglas Historical Society Museum, Saugatuck Photo 7-5 Saugatuck Women's Club Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Environmentally Related Recreation Area lakes, the Kalamazoo River, and state and local parks provide area citizens with unique outdoor recreation opportunities. They provide a location for a variety of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, swimming, nature study, camping, hiking, cross country skiing, and nature walks . These areas also serve the cognitive needs of area citizens and tourists by their scenic beauty and relaxing affect. In fact, the most valued attribute of area water bodies and open space to area citizens, as identified in the 2004 Public Opinion Survey, is not physical recreation, but the scenic view they provide. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-5 �• - RECREATION INVENTORY Map 7-1 identifies parks and recreational facilities in the Tri-Communities . Table 7-2 contains an inventory of outdoor recreation facilities in the Tri-Communities. There are also three privately owned eighteen hole golf courses in the area. • Clearbrook Golf Club & Restaurant, Saugatuck Township • West Shore Golf Club, Douglas • The Ravines, Saugatuck Township Photo 7-6 Ravines Golf Course, Saugatuck Township Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau ,.,.. Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-6 �• Table 7-2 Inventory of Outdoor Recreation Facilities Location Size (acres) "0C Ill 0 ~:::, 0 E 0 i5 cC ftl ;z Ill ~ 11/5 Ill Cl) :aftl I- .!:? Cl) c- ·-u=. Q. (!) "0C :::, e tll ftl >. a: River Bluff 27 X X Sundown 0.4 X X Douolas Beach 1.5 H. Beery Field 1.2 X X Howard C. Schultz Park 20 X X X X Union St. Launch Center St. Launch Saugatuck Village 2.5 X X Souare Frank Wicks Park 0.5 Willow Park 0.2 X Cook Park 1 X Spear St. Launch <1 Mt. Baldhead 100 X Oval Beach 50 X Tallmaoe Woods 100 Old "Airport'' 154 Douglas Elementary 8.6 X X X School Sauoatuck Hioh School 12.7 X X 63'" St. Launch X Blue Star Highway 0.5 X Roadside Park Wade's Bayou Memorial Park• <1 Veterans Walk Park Tannery Creek Outlook <1 Douglas Downtown Park 1.5 <1 Mize Rose Garden 0.5 Coohlin Park Peterson Nature 9 Preserve Interurban Trail 0.35 Tails & Trails Dog Park 5.0 Source: Saugatuck Douglas Area Park and Recreation Plan • Details not available ~ <( tll C '.8ftl u C :::, ..!!! f! Q. I- X X j !m tll C ·e E 'i tn X X E 8 -&! Ill tll ._ C a:: ~:a Cl>= Ill J: :::, tn X X X Ill J: X X X X X X f <( e Ill § . <( C gi - I fl :::, ftl s m z X 0 a:: 1"0 CC 0 .l! Otn tll C i.:it: tn i J: 0 X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-7 X �' t ' Map 7-1 Tri-Community Recreation Facilities 'L .t S au ga111 ck -•~.••'~~ l '·I T ri-('ommu ni li(•s ,...Yi',,.- I • Recreation Facilities "'1"'""''" I -~ t '- ~ -•--· ~'"'"'-'"'-'-'- - - - .... '"""", ! ~ .• \LI l"<,\J\ ( 01 , I\, \11( Ill(, \I\ u "! I I .1s .. I j I 4 13" - ~ ..~ 1 ... 7• ~.. . ,. 10- 3, ._2 2 H § .. ◄ 1 o OliGIA~ 1'91M,"\ .~ ~ .>:-' I' [ ·S:l ~ ~ 20 ~ -, .'7 2 \ _8 I u ·i 't 31 ·;! ' 34 G•NOIST \. LI' r 1 River Bluff 2 Sundown 3 Amelanchler 4 Douglas Beach 5 H. Beery Field 6 Howard Shultz Park 7 Union Street Launch 8 Center Street Launch 9 Village Square 10 Frank Wicks Park 11 Willow Park 12 Cook Park 13 Spear Street Launch 14 Mt. Baldhead 15 Oval Beach 16 Saugatuck High School 17 Tallmage Woods 18 Old Airport 19 Douglas Elementary School 20 63rd Street Launch 21 West Wind Campground 22 Township Dog Park 23 B.S. Memorial Roadside Park 24 Wade's Bayou Memorial Park 25 Veterans Walk Park 26 Tannery Creek Outlook 27 Mize Rose Garden 28 Coghlin Park 29 Peterson Nature Preserve 30 Interurban Trail ' tj "--f Source: Allegan County G/S Department and Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-8 11, l II .~ I ,,j, I M1mlclpnl lr,gt'lld c:::J J, •f'•J.. '""' ' '"·,........... , Suction lrgcnd c.._.,t,,.,.,u... , ...,,,., __,,,... Road t.egc-nd - - ·.1~!- _ ... ,. '"Y'"""•~f r.,.,.,,.~1>i..-... -v11•,..,.,,, fU.I·, f't~-.>i, jtlnf,._t) - - 1,_,. •• ,1,-c.,t(l',11 • .,-lj 1..... ,1,..,,,110,,-....... 1, ,~,~ u .,!f.. (;.1, U -,~" lld,,•..,4,-1 ••'t"•-~"-1~-"""- rK111-,; N-J__.1~•• "'"' ...••h••••... ·••••· •-·i ♦ ,l~.1 f1-,... 1 l••<M1,, l ....... ,c--_.,.,.,.l.,.OIN/i--4,•·:-in.,ft~l,.,A,...,J...,:t, ,J\•• ••-.f•••""'f'~',•1f· ,.C••-r""°1~'1'W'll~,11,.-,,'<,1 . . . f .... ., N w*• ,,,,r * ~,., . . ~ ~•°'.,.,. ,.6\e.\01. .\\H ........I • �• This is much higher than typical for such a small population (the standard is 1 golf course per 10,000 people), and reflects the impact of tourism on local recreational facilities. A discussion of planned improvements for Tri-Community parks and recreation facilities is shown in Table 7-3. Table 7-4 includes a capital improvements schedule of planned park and open space acquisitions and improvements. Table 7-3 Planned Improvements in Tri-Community Parks Community/Entity Tri-Community Area Park/Property lmprovement/Acciuisition Dredging the Kalamazoo River Area Parks Lake Kalamazoo and Lake Michigan access from Marina slips and boat launches Brochure to provide residents and tourists information on park locations and facilities Ice rink, sledding hills, toboaaan area Building repairs, grounds improvements and exhibit development Winter Recreation Historical Museum City of Saugatuck Denison Property Mt. Baldhead Oval Beach Wicks Park Cook Park Coghlin Park Bicycle/Walking Path Peterson Nature Preserve Acquire 161 acres of woodland and dunes (in the City and the Township) is top priority Maintenance of picnic shelter, replacement of restrooms, paving the gravel parkinq lot Develop walking/biking path from Park Street to beach, construct additional shelter/pavilion on the beach and improve existing ticket booth/entrance gate Maintenance to Gazebo Add more picnic tables Family-centered green space in central city Develop walking/bike path from downtown to the Peterson Nature Preserve, through preserve, on lnteruban Trail to North Street, to Maple Street and back to downtown. 10-year Development Plan Saugatuck Township Recreation Proqrams Bike/Hiking Trails Denison-North Expand existing programs Create a network of trails State acquisition of 239 acres Saugatuck Schools Schools Construct outdoor track, outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts, lights for athletic field, cross-country course Table continued on next page . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-9 �• Table 7-3 (Continued) Planned Improvements in Tri-Community Parks Community/Entity City of the Village of Douglas Park/Property Improvement/Acquisition Douglas Beach Schultz Park Recreational Maintenance Building Wade's Bayou Memorial Park Union Street Launch Ramp Harold Beery Field Entire Village Replace stairs and add observation deck Expand boat launch area, add T-ball field Construct Remove existing garage/storage facility, construct picnic shelter and restrooms Improve/rebuild existing launch ramp Replace existing bleachers, pave parking area Bike Paths Source: Saugatuck Douglas Area Park and Recreation Plan Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-10 �• Table 7-4 Planned Recreation Projects and Acquisitions Planned Improvements Fiscal Year City of Saugatuck Denison Property Acquisition 2002-3 Cook Park Improvements 2002-3 Coughlin Park Design Project 2002-3 Coughlin Park Improvements 2003-4 Mt. Baldhead Improvements 2004-5 Oval Beach Park Improvements 2005-6 Wicks Park Improvements 2005-6 Village Square Park 2006-7 Improvements Ongoing Citvwide Bike/Walking Path Saugatuck Schools Outdoor Track 2002-3 Outdoor Basketball Courts 2003-4 Tennis Courts 2004-5 Lights for Athletic Field 2005-6 Cross-Country Course 2006-7 Non-motorized pathways 2006-7 2006-7 Softball Fields/Tennis Courts Saugatuck Township Denison Acquisition 2002-3 {dependent on funding) General 2003-5 improvements/expansion of existing facilities Non-motorized pathways 2005-7 City of the Villa~ e of Douglas Douglas Beach Project 2002-3 Schultz Park Improvements 2003-4 Recreational Maintenance 2004-5 Building Wade's Bayou Memorial Park 2005-6 Union Street Launch Ramp 2007-7 Harold Beery Field 2006-7 Estimated Cost Funding Sources Under negotiation $5,000 $25,000 Dependent on Design $150,000 $150,000 $10,000 $150,000 City/MDNR City City/MDNR City/MDNR City/MDNR City/MDNR City City/MDNR To be determined City/MON R/MDOT $250,000 $100,000 $120,000 $120,000 To be determined To be determined $30,000 School/MDNR School/MDNR School/MDNR School/MDNR School/MDNR School/MDNR School/MDNR To be determined Township/MDNR To be determined Township/MDNR To be determined Township/MDNR $25,000 $45,000 $90,000 Village/MDNR Village/MDNR Village/MDNR $52,000 $12,000 $28,000 Village/MDNR Village/MDNR Village/MDNR Source: Saugatuck Douglas Area Park and Recreation Plan Note: Some costs are estimates and not all costs have been calculated. It should be noted that nearly all projects in Table 7-4 are listed as at least partially dependent on grants from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, (Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund). It may be helpful if other sources for some projects can be found as the Trust Fund is a competitive program and the Tri-Communities may only get a single project funded in a given year or longer period. RECREATIONAL NEEDS AND USE The 2004 Public Opinion Survey highlighted those recreational facilities that residents feel are adequate or inadequate in the Tri-community area. Table 7-5 lists these. "' Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-11 �.. Table 7-5 Community Opinion on Recreational Facilities, 2004 Recreation Facility %Response Adequate Boat launching facilities Transient boat docks Boat slips (rental) Boat slips (condo) Marinas Swimming beaches Boat service Pump-out faci lity Fish clean ing stations Campgrounds with public access Parks Public restrooms Designated boat mooring sites Designated no wake zones Other public access • % Response Inadequate % Response Not Sure 50 .3% % Neither Adequate nor Inadequate 5.7% 20.8% 23 .1% 29 .7% 40 .5% 40.2% 50.4% 75.4% 40 .9% 25.9% 18.6% 9.9% 11% 13.4% 9.4% 7.3% 11 .9% 13.2% 15.2% 28.2% 14.7% 7% 13% 10.6% 11.6% 11 .7% 14.9% 32 .2% 33.8% 39.4% 27.1% 6.7% 35.6% 49 .2% 51.2% 20.7% 15.3% 31 .1% 32 .9% 58 .6% 41 .7% 19.2% 12.1 % 16.7% 16.7% 19.8% 32 .9% 22 .2% 9.4% 8.9% 41 .8% 41.4% 12.2% 15.4% 31 .1% 21 .6% 18% 15% 45.5% Non-Motorized Trails and Bike Paths Residents placed highest priority on additional bike paths, cross country skiing routes , and hiking trails. These needs are currently partially served by non-motorized trails in the Oval Beach/Mt. Baldhead area. The 2002 Saugatuck - Douglas Parks and Recreation Plan , identified bicycle trails as a high priority, prepared a map of potential locations and listed them in a schedule of capital improvements to achieve this objective (although a cost was not determined). These improvements have not been implemented to date. The 2004 Tri-Community Opinion Survey also identified expanded bike paths as highly desirable, and about 61 % of respondents supported bike lanes or paths even if it meant paying for it with higher taxes. Those who attended a Town Meeting in May of 2004 were asked to identify important destinations they would like included in bike path plann ing. A wide variety of destinations were identified , especially the Lake Michigan beaches, the downtowns of Saugatuck and Douglas, Laketown Township and the City of Holland . Residents frequently commented that they didn't want bike lanes added to existing roads if it meant the removal of trees. In 2002, the Saugatuck Township Park and Recreation Commission prepared a map of potential and/or desired bike path locations. Those routes are the same as those in the 1989 Comprehensive Plan , and are shown in black dashed lines on Map 7-2. More recent public input suggests potential add itional routes, shown in red on Map 7-2. The regional bike path system wou ld connect with Saugatuck's chain ferry to afford bicyclists east/west access. Th is connection runs down Holland Street and across Francis Street to the waterfront and will be served by city streets, without the need for additional right-of-way. At this juncture, bicyclists may ride the chain ferry to Saugatuck's Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-12 �.. eastern border. Once on Saugatuck's eastern side, bicyclists could follow Saugatuck's proposed bike path system down through Douglas and south out of the Township . Bike path right-of-way would also extend north to Goshorn Lake along Washington Road , thereby connecting with Laketown Township . Another future extension could extend the system east along Old Allegan Road into Manlius Township. This is a scenic route, although somewhat hilly. Bicyclists wishing to pass through Saugatuck and on south through Douglas would need additional right-of-way from Lake Street to the bridge, thereby connecting with the Douglas bike path network. Douglas in turn would extend its bike path south on Blue Star Highway to connect with the Township system. Map 7-2 shows this proposed regional bike path network. The 2004 community opinion survey results indicate that residents would support (60.5% support or strongly support, 19.8% neither support nor oppose and 16.4% oppose or strongly oppose) bike lanes if it meant an increase in general property taxes . A network of trails and bike paths would improve quality of life for existing residents and serve as an attraction to visitors as well. With growing state and national concern over obesity, a network of trails and bike paths would provide more exercise opportunities for citizens close to home. The more variety and opportunity for trails, the greater the likelihood citizens will use them regularly. Photo 7-7 Interurban Trail Source: Aaron Sheridan Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-13 �) } Map 7-2 Proposed Tri-Community Bike Paths Sau ga tuck Tri-Com III uni ties • ~ : M , ' ~ "'" r· ~ ' Proposed Bike Paths Al ,l.l-;GAI\ ('()l !r-il"\', I\ U( 'tllGAf\ I I Municipal Legend c::J Junsd!Chon BOt11ldi-tf1es ' Section Legend Scctt00 OOt.indar~ Roa d Legend - - lxpressway - - Stair High-N3y -~ ~ Counly Primary (PA,ed) Coun1y f'flmary (Unpa"8d) --County Local (Paved) C.ounty l ocal (Unrave<t) C.ty Major C,ty M,nor ~ -~ ~ UnClassd1ed .!".•..!.!:!- ~ ~ t~an~ N,Jlalµhk¥"'if)rn,:-.,,v--,..,,t"'-'l>Nf'I M...n<.1J ...lll0tR1..o/i@SllfOCS';it,llst,t"1trot'l1/0tn ld.• M;ip,.. Tl'\)bt.t'v~oiw...-fc,at....,,""-t', f'11.bc.1,..J•oclWJtl'I l!tt.'VGl,,lll"•·• e:..1et•s..oc'tltdl'(ltolho-n<>sl1tu'(II " I 28 33 25 27 k ' • • Proposed Bike Paths (1989 Comprehensive Plan and 2002 Recreation Plan • • Additional Potential Bike Paths ~- 36 34 • ;,enair,'Y.>tog•arnt ·--, ;. ' (;ANO:[Sl!l,11) ~ - l'UM~ ,s ,,~·•\ • ),•(~.,~-'.; Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-14 . ' w I ,......_c_,.i.-,~~-- ... - - - - · - - . . -t,1 .... - ~ ' �.. Waterfront Open Space Viewing the water has long been among the most popular waterfront activities. Other waterfront activities include boating, swimming, fishing and nature study. Swimming is popular on Lake Michigan, boating on Kalamazoo Lake and River, Lake Michigan and natu•re study primarily on the wetlands areas of Kalamazoo River. In order for viewing to take place, the public needs to have access to the water's edge. Views of the water are available from Blue Star Highway, local streets along Kalamazoo Lake, several parks in downtown Saugatuck, from restaurants along the Kalamazoo River in downtown Saugatuck and from selected other sites. Schultz Park in Douglas and Sundown Park in Saugatuck Township also provide visual access to the water. However, viewing platforms may be a valuable addition along some of the extensive Kalamazoo River wetlands as there are heavily used by migratory waterfowl, are rich with diverse wildlife and are close to Saugatuck and Douglas citizens. Photo 7-8 Restaurants are Among Water Viewing Sites Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Senior Citizens Center Senior citizens in the area have expressed a desire for a senior citizens center to serve the social and recreational needs of the area's elderly population. The 2004 Survey results reflect partial support for a senior center. Thirty-five percent of Tri-Community respondents felt that a senior center deserved high priority and another thirty-six percent Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-15 �.. neither supported nor opposed it. RECREATION AND LOCAL SPENDING Acco,rding to the 2004 community opinion survey, following was the response to the question of whether the respondent would support the additional recreation-related activities even if it meant an increase in general property taxes. See Table 7-6. Table 7-6 Support for Recreation-Related Services if Increased Property Taxes Required Services Bike lanes/pathways Community Recreation Center Senior Citizen Center Community Pool Parks and Recreation Better Water Quality % Support Additional Property Taxes 60.5% 12.9% % Oppose Additional Property Taxes 10.5% 30 .2% Neither Support nor Oppose % Don't Know or No Opinion 19.8% 32.3% 3.2% 4 .7% 35.1% 22.7% 36.3% 5.9% 29.1% 50.9% 43.8% 17.2% 22.4% 27.8% 4 .8% 4% 62.5% 10.5% 22.1% 4.9% Source: Tn-Commumty Survey, 2004 The greatest support among recreation-related topics was for better water quality with 62.5 %, bike lanes/pathways with 60.5% support and parks and recreation at 50.9%. When citizens express a willingness to pay higher taxes for a service, that is very significant. However, specific proposals would need to be prepared with broad community support for the details before anyone could reasonably count on such support for higher taxes. OPEN SPACE PROTECTION Recreation is important to the Tri-Communities and the visual experience of the community is tied to the recreational experience. Residents like to live in the TriCommunities, in part, because it is a uniquely attractive location. Tourists visit and spend money in the Tri-Communities based in part on the visual experience. Natural features and open spaces are important components of the Tri-Communities, contrasting with the concentrated, developed areas of the City of Saugatuck and the City of the Village of Douglas. The compact, strong identities of the City and Village are enhanced when natural, open spaces surround the two communities. Water is one of the natural features surrounding the City and Village and helping to give them form and identity. Wetlands, woodlands, farms and parks are other existing natural features that currently contribute to natural open space. The extent to which open space continues to be a part of the Tri-Communities in the future depends on several factors. These include: • The degree to which views of the water remain. If waterfront development effectively walls off views of the water from surrounding streets, a very important open space attribute will be lost and the sense of naturalness diminished. The acquisition and use of a portion of the waterfront for public use and access can help preserve the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-16 �.. • • • waterfront as a community open space. Regulations that require new development and redevelopment to provide some space on waterfront sites can also serve to help maintain the water as a significant natural feature of the community. The conversion of undeveloped land to a developed use. This appears to be happening somewhat rapidly in portions of Saugatuck Township, primarily for residential development. Protection of sensitive lands, such as wetlands, dunes and steep slopes from development. Sensitive lands can be protected by purchase, purchase of easements or development rights, transfer of development rights, donation and regulations . Protection from development of the most visible open spaces. The most visible open spaces tend to be those along roadways and on ridges. These can also be protected by scenic easements and other purchase, transfer or donation programs, design guidelines and regulations. Photo 7-9 Protected Open Space Adds Value to the Community Source: Aaron Sheridan Many communities are organizing open spaces, natural features and recreational facilities into a greenspace or green infrastructure system. Definitions Greenspace - Undeveloped or minimally developed land such as parks, farmlands, wetlands, woodlots, natural areas, plant and wildlife habitat, trails, river or recreational corridors, community gardens, pocket parks, vegetation buffers, tree-lined parkways and similar areas with natural or planted vegetation. Greenway- (1) a linear open space established along either a natural corridor, such as a riverfront, stream valley, or ridge line, or over land along a railroad right-of-way converted to recreational use, a canal, a scenic road or other route; (2) any natural or landscaped course for pedestrian or bicycle passage; (3) an open space connector linking parks, natural reserves, cultural features, or historic sites with each other and with Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-17 �.. populated areas; and (4) locally, certain strip or linear parks designated as a parkway or greenbelt (Charles Little, author of Greenways for America,1990). ~egional greenways connect communities and major habitat areas. Local greenways provide significant connections within a community. Neighborhood greenways provide minor connections and tie people to the larger system. Without trails, greenways are buffer strips serving as visual separators and wildlife corridors. Green Infrastructure - "Our nation's natural life support system, an interconnected network of natural areas, conservation lands, and working landscapes that support native species, maintain natural ecological processes, sustain air and natural resources , and contribute to the health and quality of life for America's communities and people.*** Green infrastructure is an interconnected network of conserved natural areas and features (including wetlands, woodlands, waterways, and wildlife habitat), public and private conservation lands (including nature preserves, landscape linkages, wildlife corridors, and wilderness areas), private working lands of conservation value (including forests and farms) and other protected open spaces (including parks). It is green space that serves multiple purposes and is strategically planned and managed at the local, regional and state levels." (Mark Benedict, The Conservation Fund). [In contrast to gray infrastructure of roads, utility lines, communications and water systems.] Also see "Greenspace". Two advantages of the greenspace or green infrastructure approach are: • It raises the consciousness of the residents regarding natural resources and the place of those resources, recreational facilities and open spaces in their lives and the fabric of the community. The result of that raised consciousness can be a greater commitment to the implementation and management of a greenspace system. • A greenspace system creates valuable connections or links within the community. Some of these connections will serve the recreational (and occasionally the transportation) needs of the community. Linked open spaces can create a visual web of nature that enhances the appearance of the community and improves quality of life. Linked natural areas serve as wildlife corridors to help sustain a diverse population of birds and other animals. Protected open space along waterways helps protect water quality. Map 7-3 shows the location of potential elements of a greenspace system in the TriCommunities. Protection of the elements shown on this map can help create a greenspace system. Identifying gaps in the greenspace system can provide information to local officials and property owners regarding how to help complete green connections. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 7-18 �, t ~ ' Map 7-3 Tri-Community Greenspace Elements Saugatuck Tri-Communities II - GREENSPACE MAP ALLEGAN COUNTY, MICHI GAN Municipal Le gend Cl Jurisdiction BouOOaries Section Legend L J Section Boundaries Greenspace Le gend • .ti - Wetlands - Floodplain Woodlands - Preserved Lands Parks Vacant Lands (Pubtlcly Owned) ~ j l - ~ ~ Cemeteries Courses i=J Goff - Water8offer(1001t) -WET1.Af,DS . Combined ,.._1ional Wefands lrn,ento,y w,d1996L.-idl..lse Flo:x>f>LAIN - fedefal EmetoencrMfflagementA.g,ency 100Ye•Roodplaln. WCXD..ANOS - 19911 land Use.. All olt'lef fe.al!IU a,e del1neeted fllOm lall pu:e! boundaries wl -===~ -:""...=:=::..~... John f:\winword\tri-commun ities\final\CHAPTER 7 RECREATION final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 7 RECREATION final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 7-19 �.. Chapter 8 WATERFRONT INTRODUCTION This chapter discusses the Kalamazoo River, Kalamazoo Lake and Saugatuck Harbor. It covers use of these waterbodies, ecosystems associated with the River and Lake, water quantity and quality and opinions about them. Saugatuck was the first settlement in Allegan County. Its natural protected harbor along the Kalamazoo River and proximity to Lake Michigan gave it a ready means of water transport, essential to the commerce of the day. Throughout its history, land use activities along the Lake Michigan shoreline and the riverfront have continued to dominate the economic life of the Tri-Community area. Lumbering, boat building , basket making, fruit transport, and even large Great Lakes passenger boats have, at different times, relied upon the River connection. Tourists have always been attracted to the area, but tourism is now the number one economic activity. Today's waterfront activities are dominated by tourist and pleasure craft needs, especially sailboats, powerboats, charter fishing boats and other tourist boats. Consequently, how the waterfront is used will be of crucial importance to the future of the Tri-Community area. Photo 8-1 Kayakers About to Enjoy Kalamazoo Lake Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau The primary issues concerning proper future use of the waterfront involve competition between economic development and environmental protection. Waterfront lands represent the highest value lands in the Tri-Community area, and local officials are therefore concerned about the potential tax base associated with use of waterfront lands. In order to finance the service needs of local residents, the Tri-communities must balance taxable and nontaxable land uses. This presents a dilemma. Although waterfront lands have high revenue generating potential, a major attraction of both the Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo River waterfronts is their scenic, natural shorelines Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-1 �.. composed of forested sand dunes and large wetland areas. Should these natural areas be greatly damaged or destroyed through inappropriate development, then the "goose that laid the golden egg" will be dead . It is essential that the natural beauty of the waterfront be maintained along the Lake Michigan shoreline, the Kalamazoo River from the channel to Saugatuck, and from the Blue Star Highway bridge inland . Limited add itional development along the waterfront on Lake Kalamazoo and the Douglas side of the bayou east of Blue Star Highway may be both desirable and necessary. However, such development must be undertaken carefully to maintain the delicate balance between economic development and environmental protection. Photo 8-2 Blue Star Highway Bridge Source: Aaron Sheridan It is both necessary and possible to manage the waterfront for a variety of purposes. Yet it is always difficult to manage for multiple uses. Some individuals value land management to retain the necessary habitat for birds, fish and wildlife . Others feel it should be managed to maximize surface water use, or for intensive waterfront dependent activities like ship building or power generation . Based on some of the technical data presented below, existing use information , citizen opinions, and the goals and objectives presented at the beginning of this Plan, the waterfront in the TriCommunity area can, and should, be managed to accommodate a wide range of land uses and activities. This Plan seeks to define a balance between competing uses. It places protection of the natural environment as first and foremost in making future land use decisions along the Lake Michigan and Kalamazoo River waterfronts . The ultimate goal is to minimize disruption of the natural environment so that new development and redevelopment is in harmony with the environment, rather than in conflict with it. Alteration of existing natural features should be very limited , and with mitigation to provide the same values and functions nearby. Watersheds of the Kalamazoo River Basin The Kalamazoo River extends from south of Homer in Hillsdale and Jackson Counties to its outlet at Lake Michigan in Saugatuck Township (see Figure 4-1). W ith the exception of lands adjoining Lake Michigan (which drain directly into the Lake) and a small area in the southeast comer of Saugatuck Township, all land in the Tri-Community area is part Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-2 �.. of the Kalamazoo River Basin. Eight small watershed areas lie within the Tri-Community area and discharge into Lake Michigan via the Kalamazoo River (see Map 8-1 ). These include Goshorn , Peach Orctiard, Tannery, Silver and "Cemetery" Creeks, as well as the Morrison Bayou at the eastern end of the Kalamazoo River as it enters the Township . Most of Douglas and Saugatuck also drain separately into the Kalamazoo River and Lake Kalamazoo. Slopes in the area are generally less than 10 percent though locally they may be in excess of 20 percent. Runoff erosion is taking place in the highlands, contributing sediment to backswamp areas and Lake Michigan. Photo 8-3 View from Tannery Creek Outlook of Kalamazoo River and Distant Wetland Areas Source: Aaron Sheridan Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-3 �, - Map 8-1 Tri-Community Watersheds Watersheds 5 \I I I(, \'i ( Ol " I \ ', \ll( ' III G.\ , I Mill Municipal Legend C ,h1risd,,..1ton Ao11nd:1nr-s Section Legend s,~:(l r,n ft.ol1r1ctane'o Contour Legend* !• MP!Pr Coolow~ Elevation Ranges .. 1000 lo 1()~,() 1r.s)t ■ W.O lo 1000 f<•et Ir) 900 to 9'..0 kl:l n M ti',() to [JO() foci HOO lo Bf.O 10<'1 ■ to BOO 1t~,1 11,J roo to l!O foot tf f,'.,ll lo '/00 fool ■ r.oo tn /50 f!'<,t I f,! ~1 to fiOO ,.__,ei no • :;;; ··.,(',(, 1.'.•ll'f!o.l $1.'.ff~ C11_1~_ ,i.:toG:.aJ &.-"li"e·, 1u~., .s •· Sr,:•c(1 ~ , talit.ed d9la' t·k>-·"••'.J;,n mo, td g,e·..-•1t1IM 1,.: ~1 •• ,-,,,.·11:, wtl1rdof vo;! '1~ ~~~: .•·;, ~,h ~ • • • • • Kalamazoo River Basin • Small Watershed Areas "~ "2 ~~ ·· -- ~.,. 'II~• Q ."> •◄ c;,....'\il C•" Source: Allegan County GIS, Allegan County Drain Commission and Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-4 ' �... The flow of water in the Kalamazoo River has been recorded for over seventy years. Both flood-level flows and very low flows have occurred at various times. The level of Kalamazoo Lake is tied to the level of Lake Michigan, which also fluctuates. Stream gauges at various places along the Kalamazoo River measure water flow and water quality. Data gathering from the gauge at Saugatuck ended in 1986. The nearest flow gauge that currently collects data is at New Richmond near Lake Allegan. Flow at New Richmond was 3, 180 cubic feet per second in March of 2004. The mean monthly flows, in cubic feet per second, to Lake Michigan, as estimated by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources are shown in Table 8-1. Table 8-1 Mean Monthly Flow of the Kalamazoo River, 2004 Jan. 1,620 Feb. 1,740 Mar. 2,370 Oct. 1,180 June 1,500 Nov. 1,500 Dec. 1,620 Flow in cubic feet per second. Source: Kalamazoo River Watershed Public Advisory Council in The Kalamazoo River: Beauty and the Beast. Remedial and Preventative Action Plan for the Kalamazoo River Watershed Area of Concern. Exceedance flows based on recent daily flow statistics from USGS. Daily mean flow statistics for April 1, 2004 based on 2 years of record in cu ft/sec. in 2 locations: Table 8-2 Exceedance Flows of the Kalamazoo River, 2004 Location AlleQan Plainwell Current Flow 1,990 cu ft/sec 1,480 cu ft/sec Minimum Flow 1,770 1,370 Mean 1,940 1,445 Maximum Flow 2,110 1,520 50% exceedance 1,940 1,445 Exceedance flows indicate the percentage of the time that water quantity is greater than (exceeds) the volume indicated. In the above table, flow of the Kalamazoo River at Allegan exceeds 1,940 cubic feet per second 50% of the time. PRIMARY ECOSYSTEMS The Tri-Community area has three basic ecosystems, two of which parallel the waterfront. The first ecosystem is comprised of hardwoods holding the sand dunes in place along the Lake Michigan shoreline. These woodlots are inhabited by small game such as fox squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, deer, wild turkey, and opossums. This ecosystem is comprised of fauna common to most of Michigan, but its balance is easily upset by the disruption of its shallow organic soils. Any ground cover that is damaged or removed should be quickly replaced with cover that will hold and prevent sand from blowing or rapid wind erosion may occur. Michigan's most famous ghost town, Singapore, once a thriving lumber town, lies beneath these shifting sands near the mouth of the channel. Iii, The second ecosystem is the marsh-wetland ecosystem that covers the area along the Kalamazoo River, Silver Lake and Goshorn Lake, and the connecting tributaries. This Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-5 �• I,,......,__ area is covered with marsh grasses, low shrubs, poplar trees, spruces, some white pine, and other softwoods. The cover is inhabited by common Michigan marsh dwellers such as frogs, turtles, ducks, blackbirds, and snakes. The marsh ecosystem is also populated by muskrat, mink, mallard duck, black duck, teal, wood duck, blue heron, Canadian geese, and mute swans. Golden eagle and osprey used to frequent the area. The marsh ecosystem is very sensitive to changes in water quality and disruption of vegetation. Great care must be taken to limit siltation and disruption to vegetation when working in this ecosystem. The third ecosystem covers the rest of the Township and is predominantly agricultural/forest with birds and wildlife common to this dominant ecosystem in Michigan. Under the state Wilderness, Wild, and Natural Areas Program (Part 351 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act of 1994), the DNR is charged with identifying, dedicating and administering wilderness, wild and natural areas. Within the Saugatuck region, the DNR has dedicated the Saugatuck Dunes Natural Area to protect the unique dune ecosystem of open dunes, blowouts, interdunal wetlands and wooded dunes, Pitcher's Thistle occurs with in the area and is listed as a threatened species by both the state and federal government. The Saugatuck Dunes Natural Area is within Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Sensitive dune ecosystems also occur in the dune areas on either side of the Kalamazoo River mouth at Lake Michigan. This area is planned for protection but details have yet to be finalized. Management would likely be the responsibility of the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township and the State Park. The entire Kalamazoo River, including the Saugatuck/Douglas area is designated as an area of particular concern by the DNR. Areas of particular concern are those having scarce resources, unusual scenic beauty, unusual economic value, recreational attractions, or some combination of the above. They are only located in coastal areas. Altering the environment in an area of "particular concern" could have a significant impact on the quality of coastal and Great Lakes waters. The Kalamazoo River from Calkins Bridge Dam at Lake Allegan to about one-half mile downstream from the Hacklander Public Access Site (in Section 23), has been designated as a "wild-scenic river'' under Michigan's Natural River Act, Public Act 231 of 1970. Land use restrictions have been imposed to retain its natural character within 300 feet of the River's edge. See Map 8-2. WATER QUALITY The Kalamazoo River watershed includes many types of land uses and the River flows through several large developed urban areas including Kalamazoo and Battle Creek. When it reaches the Tri-Community area, the quality of this water is not good, but is improving. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-6 �Map 8-2 Kalamazoo River Wild-Scenic River Segment LOWER KALAMAZOO LEGEII.C N Oes,gnatecf /\atural Rlv&r ,,, w...,.,,..,....,,.,.,,, ___. _ ---------·----· -. , Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources An 80-mile stretch of the Kalamazoo River from the City of Kalamazoo to Lake Michigan, along with three miles of Portage Creek in Kalamazoo was placed on the National Priorities List under the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation Liability Act (CERCLA) in August, 1990. CERCLA is commonly called "Superfund". The official site name is the Allied Paper, lnc./Portage Creek/Kalamazoo River Superfund Site. The river was placed on the Superfund list because of adverse health impacts from eating fish by humans and wildlife and the tremendous volume of PCB waste in the river environment. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) estimates that there are over 200,000 pounds of PCB's (a persistent toxic chemical) located in some six plus million (6 million) cubic yards of river, floodplain, prior impounded dam areas and Lake Allegan. Over 95 percent oft-he total contaminated sediments are found in Lake Allegan (50 percent) and areas upstream to east of the city of Kalamazoo. The levels of PCB's are lower in the river sediments downstream of Lake Allegan, yet higher in the water column. Levels of PCB's in fish have not declined significantly in the last two decades. These contaminated sediments continue to erode from the riverbank during storm events, primarily at the four former impoundments upstream of Lake Allegan. They are further disturbed by a large number of carp and suckers stirring up the bottom sediments, along with boat traffic in shallow areas of the river and at Lake Allegan. US EPA has identified the potentially responsible parties that caused the contamination as Georgia Pacific Corp. , Weyerhauser Co. and Millinium Holdings, Inc. Under the Superfund law, these companies are responsible for paying the costs of the remedial actions and to complete cleanups of the contamination. MDEQ was the lead agency in charge of the process from 1990 through June of 2001 at which time the "agency lead" was transferred to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA). In Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-7 �1998 over 150,000 cubic yards of contaminated PCB waste was removed from Portage Creek in a US EPA successful emergency cleanup without any recontamination of areas downstream. t A Final Record of Decision was made at the Rockwell International Corporation national Superfund site in Allegan by US EPA in 2003 with some remedial cleanup actions currently taking place . The basic water management goal is the elimination of the pollution threat to surface and groundwater resources. The Kalamazoo River is designated by the DNR to be protected for recreation (partial body contact), intolerant fish (warm water species) , industrial water supply, agricultural and commercial uses. Downstream from the Kalamazoo Lake, the river is protected for cold water anadromus fish species (trout and salmon). Kalamazoo Lake and Goshorn Lake are designated to be protected for recreation (total body contact), and intolerant fish (warn water species) . Action to implement water management goals has been slow but attempts to involve the public and take specific action have been made in recent years . The 2004 Public Opinion Survey results reveal that citizens in the Tri-Community area feel that the water quality of the Kalamazoo River and Lake is important, with about 63% responding that they support efforts to improve water quality even if it requ ired an increase in general property taxes . Water quality is measured at various points on the Kalamazoo River and for various water quality measures. However, there has not been a consistent testing program for water quality in the Saugatuck/Douglas area for the past 15 years. Water quality testing stations are located upstream of Lake Allegan, primarily in response to the high input levels of toxic materials, nutrients and sediments in the major urban areas upstream of Lake Allegan . As part of the EPA National Sediment Inventory Program, fish from the Saugatuck portion of the Kalamazoo River are periodically sampled to test for bottom sediment contamination . These fish samples plus those taken by the US Fish and Wildlife Service and the state have led to fish advisories for PCB contamination . Fish Advisories: • From Battle Creek to Morrow Pond Dam: • Carp , Channel Catfish, Smallmouth Bass: PCB's, women & children should only eat once a month, smallmouth bass - once a week. • From Morrow Dam to Allegan Dam: • Carp, Catfish, Suckers, Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass: PCB's . .. Cannot Be Eaten. All other species can be eaten once a week by men and cannot be eaten by women . • Below Allegan Dam: • Carp & Catfish should never be eaten due to PCB's. • Smallmouth & Largemouth Bass can be eaten once a week by males aged 14 & up .. .Can never be eaten by women . • Northern Pike should never be eaten . • All other species can be eaten by males (unlimited) and once a month by women. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-8 �• Lake Michigan • Brown Trout: Larger fish no consumption at all, smaller fish OK except for women and children • Carp and catfish: no consumption : Chinook Salmon: Unlimited consumption except for women and children one meal per month and only six meals per year for fish over 26' • Coho Salmon: : Unlimited consumption except for women and children one meal per month and only six meals per year for fish over 30' • Lake Trout: One meal per week for fish 18-22", only one meal per month for women and children of fish 10-22" and no consumption for fish over 22" • Rainbow Trout including Steelhead: women and children only one meal per week of fish 10-18" and only one meal per month of fish over 18" • Smelt: women and children only one meal per week • Sturgeon: no consumption of these fish • Walleye: Only one meal per week of fish over 22" and one meal per month for women and children for fish over 1", one per month for fish 18-26" and only six meals per year for fish over 26" • Whitefish: only one meal per month for fish up to 22" for women and children and no consumption for anyone for fish over 22" • Yellow Perch: unlimited consumption for the general population but only one meal per week for women and children for fish over 8". The Kalamazoo River is listed as one of 43 Areas of Concern by the International Joint Commission under the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement for the Great Lakes. The river's current impaired uses include the following: Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-9 �Table 8-3 Kalamazoo River Area of Concern Impairments Use Impairment • Restriction on fish and wildlife consumption Degradation of fish and wildlife populations Bird or animal deformities or reproductive problems. Degradation of the benthos . Restrictions on dredging activities . Explanation of Impairment Fish consumption advisories since 1977 because of PCB concentrations in fish tissue. River sediments are the current source of PCBs . Warm water fishery impaired because of habitat loss and poor water quality. Reproductive success reduced in some bird and mammal populations due to PCBs in food chain. Introduced species have reduced populations of some native plants and animals . Nesting failure of bald eagles; high PCB concentration in eggs. PCB concentrations in fish, waterfowl, piscivorous mammals and raptors at levels known to cause reproductive impairment or deformities. Bottom dwelling communities and habitats are moderately to severely degraded in many areas because of the accumulation of excess sediments, low oxygen levels and sediment contamination . Sediments contain concentrations of PCBs which exceed USEPA dredge spoil guidelines . Scope of Impairment Action Required From Battle Creek to the mouth of the Kalamazoo River at Lake Michigan. Contaminated sediments remediation Most of watershed experiences some degree of fisheries impairment. From Morrow Dam to mouth of the Kalamazoo River. Watershed-wide. Erosion control ; habitat restoration; Contaminated sediments remediation. Public education on the control of exotic species. Allegan State Game Area . From Morrow Dam to mouth of the Kalamazoo River. Contaminated sediments remediation . Throughout the watershed. Erosion control; reduction in nutrient inputs; contaminated sediments remediation . Kalamazoo River downstream of Morrow Pond . Contaminated sediments remediation. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-10 �Table 8-3 (Continued) Kalamazoo River Area of Concern Impairments Use Impairment • Restrictions on body contact. Loss of fish and wildlife habitat. Degradation of aesthetics. Occasional spills or runoff events cause odor or visual aesthetics problems. Explanation of Impairment Swimming and other full body contact activities were not advised in 1998, but later reports suggest body contact for most activities is OK, with questions remaining regarding activities that stir up sediments. Wetland losses have eliminated important habitat for wildlife . Channel straightening , damming and alteration of removal of riparian vegetation alters flow, temperature and other important features. Variable Scope of Impairment Action Required Concentration of fecal bacteria exceeding full body contact standards result from storm water runoff from livestock waste and septic systems. At and immediately downstream of Superfund units. Studies underway to determine if full body contact should be limited in other areas . In some tributaries, localized and occasional bacteria problems due to livestock waste and septic systems. Habitat restoration, and efforts to prevent further habitat losses. Throughout the watershed . Continue and improve regulatory and nonregulatory pollution prevention efforts. Source: US EPA Efforts initiated in the '?O's to identify and require extensive treatment of pollutants prior to their dumping into the River have already improved the quality of the water. As the nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen are removed from wastewater entering the River, less new plant life will be stimulated and more oxygen will be available for fish. In addition to the EPA Superfund site program sites, there are sites identified under Parts 201 (contaminated sites) and 213 (leaking underground storage tanks) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, PA 451 of 1994. These are sites where runoff from contaminated land-based sites can degrade the quality of soil, groundwater or surface waters . A total of 44 Part 201 sites (currently one in Saugatuck and one in Douglas) and 49 Part 213 leaking underground storage tanks (currently 6 in open status, 4 in closed status in Saugatuck and 2 each in open and closed status in Douglas) were identified in Allegan County. (Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, Remediation and Redevelopment Division, 2004) Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-11 �The Federal Water Pollution Control Act established the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit program. Under these laws, any public or private facility which will emit any point-source discharge into the water must first receive a NPqEs discharge permit. The permit program sets forth limitations and monitoring requirements to protect water quality and meet treatment standards, and establishes strong enforcement actions for violations . The Surface Water Quality Division, MDEQ administers NPDES permits . However, sedimentation and nonpoint sources of pollution will remain a problem. In contrast to pipes that discharge directly into a waterbody, nonpoint sources of pollution include those pollutants that do not originate from a single point-such as fertilizer and pesticide runoff from farmers fields and petroleum based pollutants that wash off parking lots and roadways . The most obvious pollutants are the physical litter and debris that are carelessly dumped into the River or Lake and which typically wash up along the shore. Stronger efforts to improve water quality will have a positive affect on tourism , recreation, and future growth and development of the Tri-Community area. All sources of pollution affect water quality, and hence the utility of the water resource . While the TriCommunity area must rely on outside agenci:es to enforce pollution control laws upstream, some efforts can be undertaken by Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township to improve water quality and prevent further pollution within the Tri-Community area. These will be discussed further later in this Chapter. While most pollution sources occur far upstream of Saugatuck/Douglas, toxic materials and nutrients make their way downstream to the Tri-Communities and into Lake Michigan . Nutrient pollution, primarily phosphorus, is recognized as a problem in the upper Kalamazoo River watershed . The DEQ, in cooperation with stakeholders in the Kalamazoo River watershed , developed in 2001 a cooperative agreement to reduce the total daily maximum load (TMDL) of phosphorus. This agreement seeks to reduce nonpoint source and point source phosphorus to 8,700 pounds of phosphorus a month from April to June and 6,700 pounds per month from July through September by working with NP DES permit holders and nonpoint sources. The agreement expires in 2010. The DEQ will continue to monitor phosphorus loads. Ongoing discussions are underway by the affected communities , the MDNR, MDEQ, various environmental groups, and Allegan County Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Council on ways to restore the river and increase recreation and tourism potentials in Allegan and Kalamazoo Counties. These meetings are focused on removing what's left of the mostly dismantled MDNR Trowbridge, Otsego and Plainwell dams and the city of Otsego dam . The dams cannot be completely removed until several million cubic yards of contaminated PCB paper waste are removed from the former impounded floodplain sediments immediately upstream of the partially dismantled dams. Because the US EPA and the companies that caused the contamination have not yet completed the river cleanup , Allegan County and the MDNR are prevented from implementing the fishery and recreational plans for a free-flowing river from the City of Allegan to Kalamazoo. Successful toxic sediment cleanups have and are taking place at other sites in Michigan and the Great Lakes similar to the Kalamazoo River including the Little Lake Buttes des Mortes on the Fox River in W isconsin and the Pine River in St. Louis, Michigan . These cleanups are being accomplished through wet and dry dredging techniques that do not re-suspend the toxic sed iments back into the river. Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-12 �No actions or discussions are in the works concerning removal of the Cal kin's Dam at Lake Allegan or the City of Allegan Dam. The .Kalamazoo River Watershed Council exists to help coordinate management of the watershed and to educate people in the watershed about management issues. For more information, go to : www.kalamazoo river@hotmail.com. The Watershed Council is organizing a river clean-up program. The program began with a focus on the portion of the River in Calhoun County, but is expanding. The clean-up may extend all the way to the mouth of the River in Saugatuck. Bacterial Pollution The Allegan County Health Department regularly tests Lake Michigan beaches, including some of those in the Saugatuck/Douglas area. The three communities contribute to the cost of water quality testing . Testing in past years has revealed levels of e coli high enough to close some beaches. Testing in 2003 was at six sites on the Kalamazoo River, eight sites upstream from Saugatuck/Douglas on the river, six county drains in Saugatuck Township, four creeks and streams that run into the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, Oval Beach, Douglas Beach and Mueller Beach near the 126th Avenue Township Park. While one test resulted in levels exceeding 300 colonies per 100 ml on one occasion at Veteran's Park, tests were generally well in the safe zone. Other samples at streams had somewhat high levels following rains, but then the rates dropped quickly to safe levels. Some drains were so clean that testing was stopped at those sites. LAKE LEVELS The natural level of the Great Lakes goes through periodic changes that are based predominantly on precipitation and evaporation within the entire Great Lakes Basin. Since a century peak in 1986, Lake Michigan has fallen and risen and fallen, creating both high water and extremely low water conditions . Low water in the early part of this century created both wide beaches and difficult boating as the level dropped to within half a foot of the record low. Recent water levels are shown in Figure 8-1. The Kalamazoo River, Kalamazoo Lake and Lake Michigan are interconnected . Thus, water levels on the River and Lake Kalamazoo are largely dependent on Lake Michigan water levels. Consequently, land uses adjoining the waterfront should be based on the vagaries of fluctuating Lake Michigan water levels . This has not always been done as was evident by extensive shore erosion and flooding during the last high water period . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-13 �Figure 8-1 Lake Michigan Recent and Projected Water Levels, 2003-2005 2004 2003 2005 "" • l l - - - - - - - - - - - - + - - - - - - - - - - - + - - - -- ----1 I.I LEGEND - ,...'€-, - - - ......... - - - - · - ------ ----- _.. __ .' Source: US Army Corps of Engineers When water levels are high, "no-wake" zones, which are always in effect from the channel to Mason Street in Saugatuck, are extended to cover all of the Kalamazoo Lake shoreline and parts of the River east of Blue Star Highway. When a "no-wake" speed is In effect, then all motor boats and vessels must limit speed to a slow "no-wake" speed when within 100 feet of: • rafts except for ski jumps and ski landing floats • docks • launching ramps • swimmers • anchored, moored or drifting boats • designated no-wake zones. "No-wake" means a speed slow enough that the wake or wash of the boat creates a minimum disturbance. Owners and operators of boats are responsible for damage caused by wakes . HARBOR Map 8-3 is the existing harbor map (June 1987) distributed by the National Ocean ic and Atmospheric Administration. It depicts water depth for the shoreline along Lake Michigan , and the River through Kalamazoo Lake. Channel depth is maintained by periodic dredging to a depth of 13 feet to Main Street in Saugatuck. (Dredging at the mouth of the channel has occurred every few years for many decades and will again Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-14 �occur in 2004.) The depth then drops to 20-27 feet for the next 500 feet. Between that point and Tower Marine , the water depth is about 7 feet. Most of the rest of Lake Kalamazoo varies between 1 and 4 feet in depth with not more than 2 feet being the most common . The Douglas shoreline, east of Blue Star Highway is only 1-2 feet in depfh except for a small area running NW-SE from the center of the bridge and connecting to the Point Pleasant Yacht Club. Photo 8-4 The Harbor is Home to Many Boaters and Marinas Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau This natural harbor is the principal attraction for nautical tourists which flock to the area during summer months when the marinas are used to capacity. Hundreds rent dockage by the season. Many live on their boats for weeks on end. The demand for dockage appears to be greater than the supply, despite the huge number of slips available (see Map 8-4). In 1976 there were 8 marinas with approximately 800 slips. In 1989, there were 26 legally operating marinas with 966 slips. In 2004 the MDEQ indicated that there were 36 marinas with 1, 127 slips, of which 28 marinas with 930 slips had active or pending permits with the DEQ. Another 249 slips were in 7 marinas for which the permit applications were closed pending additional information. See Table 8-4. There are also a number of slips maintained by private residences for their own personal use. Marina permits are required for any commercial activity, so as few as two slips could require a marina permit if they are rented , or if the property is owned by more than one person. Permits are issued for a three year period by the DEQ. On peak summer weekends the number of boats on the lake could be two to three times the normal level. This presents one of the most serious problems jointly facing the Tri-Community areahow to deal with surface water use conflicts . Kalamazoo Lake has a total surface water area of 184 acres. Acreage available for recreational boating is reduced by the dockage which extends into the Lake hundreds of feet and by the shallow water at the edge, which extends at least to the pier line of marinas on the south side of the lake, resulting in a beatable area of about 133 acres, unless the Lake is low, which reduces the beatable area even further. Yet, on summer weekends the River is a constant highway of boats moving in and out of the Lake. Recreational sailing, fishing, swimming, sailboarding and water skiing on Kalamazoo Lake are limited by fluctuating water levels, silt buildup, shallow water and "No Wake" zones. Those activities can also take place on Lake Michigan when conditions permit. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-15 �Map 8-3 Saugatuck Harbor Chart SAUGATUCK HARBOR MICHIGAN uce<i A•solutlO~'fll fifi!»I• r19h1 MapTet:lr,I BIUl~F!!E'f NOT FOR AA IGA TffiN ,,n f Source: NOAA Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-16 �Photo 8-5 Cruise Ship Entering Saugatuck Harbor Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Cruise ships used to come directly to Saugatuck in 2000 and 2001 (such as the 90passenger Levant), but low Lake Michigan levels with resulting shallow harbor depths made that impossible in since then . The channel from Lake Michigan up the Kalamazoo River is dredged, but with dramatically lowered water levels and deposition of river silt, the cruise ships had to skip Saugatuck. Cruise ships brought many tourists to Saugatuck. A portion of the Great Lakes cruise ship tourist market still makes its way to Saugatuck via coach from the docks in Grand Haven. Shallow-draft cruise ships, those requiring only about 8' of draft (water depth), operate on the Great Lakes, and one stops in Holland. Many Great Lakes cruise ships require twice that draft. Because a large percentage of Great Lakes cruising passengers are seniors, mooring the ship off shore and tendering passengers to port is not a viable option. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-17 �Map 8-4 Marinas in Saugatuck/Douglas 8 Marinas 1 Ship'n Shore 2 Point Pleasant 3 Sergeant Marina Condo 4 Tower Marina 5 Skippers Cove/Miskotten 6 Waterside Condo 7 Deep Harbor Deve 8 Saugatuck Yacht Club 9 Douglas Marina & Boat Club 10 Casa Loma 11 Gleason's Marina 12 Saugatuck Yacht Service 13 Coral Gables Marina 14 Windjammer Marina Condo 15 Landings of Saugatuck Inn 16 Singapore Yacht Club 17 Walker's Landing 18 East Shore Harbor Club 19 Back Bay Marina 20 Bridges of Saugatuck 21 Saugatuck Shores Condo 22 Main Street Docks - City of Saugatuck 23 Heron Bay Condo 24 Dockside Marketplace 25 Riverview Marina 26 Tower Harbor Marina Condo r,I ' . ' I 7 I Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-18 . .r· '·'1 �Table 8-4 Saugatuck/Douglas Marinas Slips Broadside Dockage (Lineal Feet) Mooring Buoys 12/31/ 2004 0 349 .5 0 Closed N/A 148 0 0 Kalamazoo River Issued 12/31/ 2004 15 82 0 Kalamazoo Lake Issued 12/31/ 2004 47 0 0 Pendinq N/A 320 600 0 Issued 12/31 / 2005 12 100 1 Closed N/A 6 0 0 Issued 12/31/ 2004 12 0 0 22 150 0 23 0 0 28 0 0 12 90 0 9 0 0 Status Expiration Date Kalamazoo River Issued Saugatuck Kalamazoo Lake 201 Washington St. Douglas 31 Butler St. Saugatuck Marina' Name Marina Address City of Village Water Body Ship'n Shore Motel & Boatel 528 Water St. Saugatuck Pier Marina 855 Lake St. Point Pleasant Marine Sergeant Marina Condo. Assn. Tower Marina Skippers Cove Bill Enery Inc. Waterside Condo. Assn. Naughtin's Marina Saugatuck Yacht Club Douglas Marina & Boat Club Casa Loma 216 St. Peters Dr. 419 Lake St. 685 Lake St. Saugatuck 515 Lake St. Saugatuck 19 Water St. 833 Park St. 16Wall Street 405 Park St. 650 Water Street Douglas Saugatuck Douglas Saugatuck Douglas Saugatuck Gleason's Marina Saugatuck Yacht Service Coral Gables Marina 868 Holland St. Saugatuck 220 Water St. Saugatuck Jack Hedglin 807 Lake Saugatuck 335 Culver St. Saugatuck 726 Water Street Saugatuck Windjammer Marina Condo. Landings of Saugatuck Inn & Marina Saugatuck Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo River Expired Issued Issued Issued Issued 12/31/ 1998 12/31/ 2004 12/31/ 2004 12/31/ 2004 12/31/ 2004 Issued 12/31/ 2005 86 0 0 Issued 12/31/ 2004 3 265 0 Closed N/A 16 0 0 Kalamazoo Lake Issued 12/31/ 2004 12 0 0 Kalamazoo Lake Issued 12/31/ 2004 10 0 0 Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo Lake Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-19 �Table 8-4 (Continued) Saugatuck/Douglas Marinas Marina • Name Singapore Yacht Club West Shore Marine, Inc./ Singapore Harbor LLC Singapore Yacht Club East Shore Harbor Club V&L Properties Back Bay Marina Bridges of Saugatuck Coral Gables Dock Foundry Wharf Saugatuck Shores Condos Ferry Store Main Street Docks Heron Bay Condo Dockside Marketplace Riverview Marina Shore Harbor Marina Tower Harbor Marina Condo Total Slips 841 Park Saugatuck Saugatuck 455 Culver Saugatuck 220 Water St. Saugatuck 483 Park St. Saugatuck 555 Lake St. 116 Riverside Drive 102 Butler Street PO Box 986 PO Box 369 868 Holland St. 0 0 Issued 12/31/2 005 81 0 0 Closed N/A 50 0 0 Expired 12/31/1 999 54 0 0 Closed N/A N/A N/A N/A 12 0 0 8 0 0 Kalamazoo Lake Saugatuck Holland 51 Issued 40 Butler St. Saugatuck 12/31 /2 004 Kalamazoo Lake Water Body Saugatuck Mooring Buoys Status City of Village 40 Butler St. 971 Lake Street 379 E. 26th St. 643 Lake Street Slips Broadside Dockage (Lineal Feet) Expiration Date Marina Address Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo Lake Kalamazoo River Issued Expired 12/31/2 005 12/31 /1 996 Closed N/A 29 0 0 Kalamazoo Lake Extend 12/31/2 000 9 90 0 Saugatuck Kalamazoo River Expired 12/31/1 994 16 0 0 Saugatuck Kalamazoo River Closed N/A 0 145 0 Saugatuck Kalamazoo River Pending N/A 10 0 0 Issued 12/31/2 006 6 0 0 Pending N/A N/A N/A N/A Saugatuck Douglas Kalamazoo River Kalamazoo River Saugatuck Kalamazoo River Issued 12/31 /2 005 34 0 0 800 Holland St. Douglas Kalamazoo River Closed N/A N/A N/A N/A 219 Ferry St. Douglas Kalamazoo River Issued 12/31/2 005 38 0 0 1,179 Source: M1ch1gan Department of Environmental Quality, 2004 Notes: Closed- File was closed due to incomplete information or a duplicate file; Extend- MOP expiration was extended indefinitely due to staff shortage; Pending- Permit application review is pending resolution of other violations or submittal of additional information from marina owner/operator; Saugatuck Yacht Club also has a launch ramp. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-20 �Photo 8-6 Marina in Lake Kalamazoo Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau MARINE SAFETY The Allegan County Sheriff's Department, Marine Unit, maintains strict control of the waterways. From Memorial Day to Labor Day officers patrol Kalamazoo River and Kalamazoo Lake. One hundred and ten hours were spent patrolling Lake Michigan alone in 2003 . Most patrols occur between Friday and Sunday, and about half of the Department's budget goes to patrolling the Saugatuck area. In the summer of 2004, 8 tickets were issued on Kalamazoo River and Lake, and 8 were issued on Lake Michigan. 22 complaints were received for Kalamazoo Lake and River, and 20 on Lake Michigan. There were no reported accidents on Kalamazoo River and Lake and only 1 on Lake Michigan. The most common violations are inadequate life preservers on board and lack of current registration . Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-21 �EXISTING LAND USE ALONG WATERFRONT Existing land use is described in detail in Chapter 5. All land uses along the waterfront are oriented to the water. The bulk of the waterfront in the Township from the channel to the City is undeveloped as single family residential. The Saugatuck City and Douglas waterfronts are predominantly residential , commercial and marina. The balance of the waterfront, which lies in the Township, is in a natural state with some areas of residential development (such as along Silver Lake). There are no industrial activities along the waterfront. A number of small parks are located along the waterfront, but there are few public access sites and, except for Shultz Park, these provide little space for transient parking . High Water/Low Water When Great Lakes water levels are high, erosion along the Lake Michigan shoreline increases. The impacts of erosion are clear along Lakeshore Drive, where part of the road has been was~ed away. Many high value homes will be threatened by additional erosion in this area. Virtually the entire Saugatuck City and Township and Douglas Village coastline is designated as a high risk erosion area by the DEQ. See Map 4-7 in Chapter 4. There are hundreds of homes within this area. Photo 8-7 Residential and Recreational Use of the Kalamazoo Lake Shoreline Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Erosion along the River and Lake Kalamazoo also increases with higher Lake Michigan water levels. Many bulkheads and similar shore protection devices were installed to minimize the effects of the most recent high water level. Raising some of the land and structures would be necessary if lake levels remained high for lengthy periods. On the positive side, the south shore of Lake Kalamazoo becomes more attractive to marina development when water levels are high since it is very shallow in this area. Likewise, when water levels are below average, some existing dockage is unusable. See Figure 82. The Lake Michigan Potential Damages Study (US Army Corps of Engineers, 2002) found that extensive areas of Kalamazoo Lake could be exposed if the level of Lake Michigan dropped to a potential low below that recorded in recent history. This low level may be possible according to physical evidence and hydrologic calculations. This Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-22 �potential low is about two feet below recent low levels that have been a problem for area boaters. Fluctuating lake levels are part of a natural system. The costs and implications of trying to artificially manage the entire Great Lakes Basin to maintain even Lake levels is not known, but waterfront land use decisions in the Tri-Community area should be made based on the assumption that Lake Michigan water levels cannot be artificially maintained. Figure 8-2 Potential Low Water in Saugatuck Harbor Source: US Army Corps of Engineers, 2002 The yellow line represents the potential shoreline at projected lows on Lake Michigan . At that level, hundreds of boat slips would be "high and dry." The yellow line is not a predicted low level, but is believed possible, given evidence of lake levels that occurred prior to settlement by people of European origin. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-23 �Acquisition and Development of Public Lands Along the Waterfront About half of area residents (51 %) support increasing public access to Lake Kalamazoo. (Tri-Community Public Opinion Survey, 2004) While the survey didn't distinguish between public boating access and public pedestrian access to the shoreline, both should be considered. There are only two viable public boat launching ramps , but there are launching opportunities at private marinas for larger boats. Both pedestrian lakefront access and boating contribute to the local economy by boosting the tourism draw of the communities. Pedestrian access to the water is very important in enhancing the nautical ambiance of Saugatuck and Douglas. Due to the topography of the area around Lake Kalamazoo, and the relatively shallow depth of the Lake, providing boat launch ramp access is somewhat difficult. During the recent low water periods, use of the existing ramps was limited . At either extreme of Lake Michigan water level, either high or low, both existing ramps would be unusable. (Lake Michigan Potential Damages Study, 2002) This makes lift-type launching facilities, such as those at some marinas, and frequent channel dredging useful to promoting boating . The 2004 Community Opinion Survey found that 50% of respondents believed that boat launching facilities were adequate, while 21 % thought them inadequate. Photo 8-8 Boat Launch Ramp Sites are Difficult to Provide Due to Shoreline Topography and Shallow Depth of Lake Kalamazoo Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau The City, the Village and the Township each continue to try to acquire park space along the Kalamazoo Lake and River waterfronts. The City of Saugatuck recently acquired and dedicated Coghlin Park in order to help provide more pedestrian access. A committee of local, university and state officials began meeting in 2004 to try to improve and expand boating in Lake Kalamazoo and the Kalamazoo River. Among the concerns of this committee are the location of a dedicated spoils site for dredging material removed to make boating more feasible on Kalamazoo Lake, and finding a permanent funding source for recurrent dredging that is needed to maintain boating and reduce flooding potential. A spoils site must be carefully located to prevent groundwater contamination from the dredged materials. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers may be a Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-24 �potential source of funding . The Committee's recommendations will be included in the Comprehensive Plan Update as appropriate. The 2004 Community Opinion Survey found mixed opinions regarding boating related facnities . These results are shown in Table 8-5. Table 8-5 Tri-Community Boating Related Survey Responses 50% 30% Neither Adequate nor Inadequate 6% 10% Somewhat to Very Inadequate 21% 28% 23% 32% 41% 11% 15% 34% 40% 13% 7% 39% 50% 41% 26% 9% 12% 13% 13% 12% 12% 27% 36% 49% 19% 15% 15% 51% 19% 17% 22% 42% 41% 12% 15% 31% Facility Somewhat to Very Adequate Boat Launching Transient Boat Docks Boat Slips (rental) Boat Slips (Condo) Marinas Boat Service Pump-out Facility Fish Cleaning Stations Designated Boat Mooring Sites Designated No Wake Zones Don't Know or No Opinion Source: 2004 Tri-Communities Public Opinion Survey, conducted by Western Michigan University (WMU) . WMU Percentages rounded to the nearest percent. It appears the boating-related facilities most in need of improvement are fish cleaning stations, pump-out facilities and designated boat mooring sites. The shallow nature of Lake Kalamazoo may severely limit expansion of mooring sites. Note that the relatively high number of "No Opinion or Don't Know" responses may come from the non-boating and non-fishing part of the population. Limiting the Intensity of Development The primary future development of waterfront lands in the City will be redevelopment of existing parcels. In the Village it will focus on further development along the South Shore of Lake Kalamazoo. In both areas it will be critical that new development is neither so dense, nor so high as to block existing public views of the waterfront or further "wall the Lake with structures." Both Saugatuck and Douglas have revised their zoning ordinances to limit the height of construction along the waterfront to 28'. It will be critical that all three communities agree to a common approach to waterfront development, embody that in land use plans, and then implement those plans. To some extent, uniform densities, setbacks, and height regulations will be valuable, especially around Lake Kalamazoo. This is especially true with regard to regulations over "bigfoot" homes Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-25 �on existing lots. Additional development around Silver Lake needs to remain at a very low density in keeping with the septic limitations of the land and the limited recreational value of this shailow waterbody. The eastern end of the Kalamazoo River should likewise receive little new development in keeping with its Natural River designation. Retaining Visual Access, Aesthetics and the Character of the Area As has been emphasized throughout this Plan, the natural beauty of the waterfront has much to do with the attraction of the Tri-Community area. Local deveL)pment regulations should be reviewed and revised if necessary, to insure that new development complements, rather than detracts from this natural beauty. Old vessels should not be permitted to lie beached along the shoreline, because this also detracts from the beauty and character of the waterfront. Dredging a proper channel (if permits could be obtained) and re-floating along with restoration of ship rooms for transient lodging, with the old Frankfort ferry now docked adjacent to ( and a part of) a motel in Manistee, would be a big improvement. Photo 8-9 Tourism Depends in Part on Retaining Views of the Water Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau Several vistas have public values that deserve protection. These include the entry into and exit from Lake Michigan on the Kalamazoo River, the view from Mount Baldhead , the view of Kalamazoo Lake from both ends, and approaches to the Kalamazoo River Bridge. Development pressure continues to foster the building of condominiums along the waterfront, limiting public viewing of the lake from existing rights-of-way. Yet there is strong public opposition to "walling off' the waterfront so zoning ordinances should be reviewed to ensure they adequately prevent unwanted development. Any future development along the channel should be set back sufficiently to maintain the broad open views that are presented to boat travelers entering or leaving the Kalamazoo River. The view from the top of Mount Baldhead should be improved by careful selective pruning of dead or dying trees blocking good views of Saugatuck and Lake Kalamazoo. The curve going northbound on Blue Star Highway in Douglas just before crossing the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 8-26 �bridge is the only good panorama of Kalamazoo Lake. A public turnoff, the acquisition of a scenic easement, or the concentration of new development on the western portion of those undeveloped lands should be initiated to protect that important view. In addition, the land adjacent to the west side of the bridge in Douglas should be selectively pruned to improve the view to travelers crossing the bridge (northbound) until a project that protects views could be established there. SURFACE WATER USE CONFLICTS There is no question that Kalamazoo Lake and River are heavily used in season. Resolution of surface water use conflicts will require joint intergovernmental planning for a uniform approach to regulation. The first step is to establish the carrying capacity of Lake Kalamazoo and the River to the channel mouth . Carrying capacity refers to the physical capacity and intrinsic suitability of water to absorb and support various types of use. Such an analysis is typically performed by an inventory of existing surface water use during weekdays and peak weekends . Data is then examined to match the size of the waterbody and its capacity to assimilate various mixes of use. Such an analysis would probably reveal there is not much excess capacity for new boat slips in Kalamazoo Lake and River. Without an analysis of carrying capacity, it is impossible to determine an appropriate number of new boat slips or resolve related surface water use conflicts. Some time or surface zoning could be established in conjunction with the DNR if desired . For example, water skiing, jet skiing , fishing, sailing , etc. could be limited to particular parts of Lake Kalamazoo or Silver Lake or to particular times of the day. Another option could be a harbor patrol paid for by all three governmental units. More Information is necessary to establish the need for regulation. If surface water use is regulated , each unit of government would need to agree to a common regulatory approach. A Harbor Committee is looking at the issue of surface water capacity in 2004. Surface water use conflicts may grow more acute on Lake Kalamazoo if existing dockage is extended much further into the Lake. Such extensions should not be permitted as the surface area available for various recreational uses will be too drastically reduced . Existing no-wake zones should also be more rigorously enforced . For a more complete analysis of possible harbor regulation , see the McKenna Report starting on page 84. RECOMMENDATIONS TO GUIDE FUTURE USE In seeking to balance economic development with environmental protection , the concept of carrying capacity should be a major consideration . If the carrying capacity of land or water is exceeded, then activities cannot be undertaken without unacceptable impacts on users, the environment, or both. Impacts can include increased trip times, decreased safety, pollution, loss of open space, and many other considerations. The key is prevention of overuse by limiting intensity of use on adjoining lands and regulating surface water use. Environmental protection must be a leading principle in making future land use decisions along the waterfront. Environmentally sensitive areas such as sand dunes, wetlands, high risk erosion areas, floodplains, and key woodlands should be protected from unnecessary destruction . Development should complement rather than destroy these areas and their values . By doing so the environmental quality of the air and water will be Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-27 �improved, wildlife habitat will be preserved, scenic values will be protected, and the character of the area will be maintained . Some new intensive shoreline development will be desirable and necessary, but the balance should not be disproportionately on the side of new tax base as it has been for the past three decades . • Opportunities to enhance the waterfront should be seized. Parks and open spaces should eventually be linked with other public places. Additional access to the waterfront should be acquired when available, and existing access via street ends and parks should not be lost through neglect or inaction. A new public marina with deeper water access is one possible approach to improve public access, and could be constructed if resources are available and the cost could be spread among local citizens and other users (such as through grants or user fees). Visual access from public thoroughfares and walkways should be maintained in all new waterfront development. Protection mechanisms, like the Natural River designation, should be recognized for the ancillary benefits they bring to the community. A local "Friends of the River" organization could be instituted to annually adopt and clean up the shoreline to remove floating debris, other waste, and downed timber that become lodged there. A special effort to maintain the character of Lakeshore Drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline should also be initiated. Maintaining vegetation is critical to both the stability of shoreline areas and to a natural visual character. Street trees along Lakeshore Drive (and along many other streets in the community) are of a very advanced age for their species (primarily Silver Maple) and are dying off. Replanting is long overdue. A comprehensive stormwater management plan and wetlands protection plan should be instituted as part of a broad water quality protection program that is based on the small watersheds that feed the Kalamazoo River Basin. The Natural Resource Conservation Service should be asked to assist in preparing nonpoint pollution guidelines to help guide farmers in land management practices that help keep the River clean . NEED FOR INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION Each of these recommendations requires a strong degree of intergovernmental cooperation. Watercourses, like the environment, do not respect jurisdiction boundaries. The future quality and desirability depends on governmental units through which they flow playing an active and supportive role in protecting and improving water quality. To advance this goal, the jointly appointed waterfront committee should be re-instituted or its responsibilities shifted to the Planning Commissions of the three communities or a joint planning entity if one is instituted . As an alternative, the new Harbor Committee may be suitable to take over these responsibilities if it shares the concerns and recommendations of this Chapter. John f:\winword\tri-communities\final \CHAPTER 8 WATERFRONT final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 8 WATERFRONT final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 8-28 �Chapter 9 GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT TRENDS INTRODUCTION Growth and development trends reflect past settlement patterns in a community and provide a basis for estimating future development patterns. Growth rates are one aspect of change. These show wh ich areas are growing at a faster rate. Resi-:iential construction permits show where most of this residential development is taking place and provide insight into residential preferences. Land subdivision trends show the rate at which small lots are created. Rapid land subdivision carves up agricultural land and other open spaces for residential use and thus permanently transforms the rural character of an area. Inefficient land subdivision takes large amounts of potentially developable land out of use as long "bowling alley lots" or "flag lots" are created . Population trends may be used to project future population, which is used to estimate future land use needs and settlement patterns in a community. And finally, a "build out" scenario may be created based upon the vacant or buildable sites in an area to get an idea what the area might look like if it were developed according to current zoning and use requirements. A more complete discussion of these issues is included below. Growth Rates The population of the Tri-Communities has grown since 1970. The rate of growth has varied each decade since 1970, and each of the three communities grew at substantially different rates from each other each decade, and the population of Saugatuck City has both increased and declined during that time. Between 1990 and 2000, the Township's population growth rate was 27%, a lower rate of growth compared to 40% for the period of 1970-1980. Still, the 1990-2000 rate was higher than that between 1960 and 1970 (11%) and between 1980 and 1990 (7%). The growth rate in the Village was 17% between 1990 and 2000. This was lower than the 35% growth rate between 1970 and 1980, but higher than the 9% growth rate between 1980 and 1990. The City went from a 19% growth rate in the 60's to only 6% growth in the ?O's, to a decline of 13% in the 80s but an increase of 12% in the 90s. See Chapter 2: Demographics. The Tri-Communities as a whole increased by 20% between 1990 and 2000, or nearly 800 persons. This is a substantial rate of growth for an area the size of the Tri-Communities . It is important to note that while the Township's population increased by 27% from 1990 to 2000, the number of households increased by 30% (394 households). This reflects a national trend of smaller household size (number of persons per household , not smaller dwelling sizes), requiring a greater number of homes for a given number of persons. Continuation of this trend will place additional growth pressure on the Tri-Communities in general and Saugatuck Township in particular. Only Saugatuck City had an increase in household size with a resulting greater increase in population than housing. However, this trend was only very slightly different than that of the Village and Township and may reflect a growing interest in the City as a desirable place for families. It is already a desirable place for seasonal homes, which increased by about 80 units between 1990 and 2000 in the Tri-Communities. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 9-1 �The City's slower growth rate is due in part to a shrinking supply of vacant or developable land and in part to a higher proportion of seasonal residents and elderly in small households. The Township's large supply of land has translated into high growth rates. The Village continues to have a high rate of growth (17% between 1990 and 2000, or 174 persons), and also still has land available to develop. Photo 9-1 Saugatuck City Attracts Many People but Space is Scarce Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau The 2004 Community Opinion Survey found that respondents thought the ideal population of the Tri-Communities was no larger than 1.5 times its present size, even though there is land available for it to grow as much as 2.9 times larger than at present. 52% of the respondents thought that Saugatuck City should remain the same population, 43% thought the City of the Village of Douglas should be no larger and 27% thought the Township had reached its ideal population. Slightly more respondents (28%) thought that the Township had an ideal population about 1.5 times larger, or about 3,600 persons (up from the 2000 Census population of 2,376). Another 16% thought the ideal Township population was twice its present size and 17% didn't know or had no opinion. Fewer than 10% thought the Village or City ideal population was twice its present size, while 22% thought the City should be 1.5 times larger, and 28% of Village respondents felt it should be 1.5 times larger. If the City, Village and Township were all to grow to 1.5 times the present population, then the City would add 533 residents, while the Village would grow by 607 residents and the Township by 1,188. This would bring the total Tri-Community population to 6,341 persons. There is no question that both the Village and the Township could accommodate this projected growth with currently available undeveloped land . However, in order for the City to, the average population per household would have to rise or apartments would Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 9-2 �have to accommodate most of the new persons as there is insufficient undeveloped land to accommodate that many people (except on the Oxbow Peninsula where undeveloped, privately owned land is planned for long term preservation, not residential development). This preference for a limited population poses particular challenges for the Township. A very rough buildout analysis revealed that the Township population could increase by nearly 2.9 times if it were fully developed according to current zoning . See Table 9-1 . A buildout analysis starts with the acreage area of different zoning districts, minus unbuildable lands (such as wetlands). Rough acreage measurements were made of Saugatuck Township's major residential zoning districts. Agricultural lands were included in this calculation as there remains very little agricultural land in protection programs such as PA 116. Excluded is the area for road rights-of-way (roughly calculated here at 15% ). Another roughly 40% is deleted in consideration of land that has severe limitations, such as steep slopes, soils not suited for septics, sizes or shapes that are not easy to maximize development potential, poor or no access, deed restrictions or owners who don't desire to sell such as lifetime farmers, or open space owners. Based on the resulting acreage figures for each zoning district, the calculation then determines the number of potential dwelling units according to permitted density, and multiplies this times the most recent population per household size. In this analysis the buildout factor is only as reliable as the acreage measurements are accurate. Table 9-1 Buildout Analysis of Saugatuck Township Area in Acres Subtract 15% for Road Rights-of-Way Estimate of Buildable Area in Acres•••• Density Potential Dwelling Un its A-1 5 ,010 4 , 259 2 ,555 767 A-2 R-1• R-2 R-3 R-3B .. R-3B Critical Dunes Overlay Total Acres 4 ,086 947 608 314 665 71 3,473 805 517 267 565 60 2 ,084 483 310 160 339 36 1 du/2 .5 A 25% 1 du/2 .5 A 1 d u/0 7 SA 1 du/1 .5 A 2 du/A 1 d u/1 A 1 du/2 A 11,701 9 946 5 968 Residential Zoning District Tota l Population at 2 .2 persons per household ... 834 644 207 320 339 18 3 128 Population 6,882 (about 2 .9 t imes current 2 ,376 4 ,506 2000 Po ou latio n Pote ntia I populat ion Source: Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. *Note: The R-1 district density ranges from 1 dwelling unit per 20,000 sq. ft. to 1 per 40,000 sq. ft. depending on percent of site placed in open space and presence or absence of public sewer and water, so an average of about 1 dwelling unit per 0. 75 acre was used for this calculation. **Note: The R-3B district density ranges from 1 dwelling unit per 30,000 sq. ft. to 1 per 65,000 sq. ft. depending on percent of site placed in open space and presence or absence of public sewer and water, so an average of about 1 dwelling unit per 1 acre was used for this calculation . ..*Note: The potential buildout population was calculated using an average 2.2 persons per household. While the average population per household differs between the three communities, the buildable acres estimate is not exact enough to try to distinguish between community's household size, which can also change over time. The figure of 2.2 persons is closest to that of the Township, which has by far the majority of undeveloped land in the Tri-Communities. •••• Potential buildable acres after 40% reduction of maximum potential due to parcels with septic limitations, access issues, odd parcel shapes, deed restrictions, unwillingness to sell, lifetime farmers, etc. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 9-3 �There is a gap between an "ideal" population (as expressed by respondents to the community opinion survey) for the Township of 3,564 (a 1.5 times growth increase, amqunting to an additional 1,188 persons) and the "buildout" population of 6,882 residents (a 2.9 times growth increase, amounting to an additional 4,506 persons). The difference between the full time resident population and seasonal resident population of our community is an element not considered in this "ideal" versus "buildout" analysis. Seasonal households were included in the buildout calculations of total potential households and therefore total potential buildout population. If seasonal households were taken into consideration, the buildout "full time" population woulc1be reduced to 5,782, (a 2.4 times increase, amounting to an additional 3,406 persons).This reduction is based on data from Table 2-3,"Seasonal Housing Units" showing 16% of the homes in the township are seasonal as of year 2000. Since this trend is on the increase due to the summer resort nature of the Saugatuck area, it is probable the seasonal population percentage will increase as the Township grows and therefore further reduce the total "full time" population below 5,782. Photo 9-2 Maintaining Rural Character in Saugatuck Township is Important to Residents Source: Aaron Sheridan This poses a dilemma for the Township. If the Township continues to allow the existing zoning density it will, over time, greatly overbuild, relative to the desires of 58% of its residents. If it greatly reduces permissible density and large landowners have come to expect that their land value is based on current density (not a much lower density), there will likely be very unhappy landowners and there may be both political and legal ramifications of such a change. This is compounded by the fact that citizens at a Town Meeting in May 2004 were evenly split over whether density should be reduced, in order to better meet a desired, lower expected population, in the area north of the Kalamazoo River or the area south of it. On the other hand, reducing residential development density in areas currently farmed is completely consistent with public desires to preserve farmland and open space, and will reduce or delay the need to provide utilities or other public services to these areas any time soon. Encouraging more clustering of new Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 9-4 �development will preserve more open space, but won't in and of itself reduce overall dwelling units and will put more pressures on farmers to convert land out of agriculture sooner. Absent a determination to greatly lower zoning density and manage existing large acreage parcels for agriculture or forestry, or a major effort to purchase • development rights of existing farmland using the fledgling County PDR program, or protect the land through donations or conservation easements, the rural lands of the Township will eventually yield a population about 2.9 times the present population. A voluntary effort on the part of new rural residents to not maximize density on their land could also aid in reducing the eventual population in the Township, if a significant proportion of rural residents followed such a course. It will be possible! to reduce the visual and environmental impact of new development through PUDs, clustering and vegetative buffering, but a greatly enlarged population will still require increased school, recreation, police, fire, health care, road maintenance and improvement and utilities services. Generally new residential development does not return as much in new tax revenues as it costs in new public services. Thus, the new residents, when accommodated at a low density could create fiscal stress as well as social stress if they "chew up" open space and create more public service costs than they pay for. These public service costs include school expansion, police and fire, recreation programs and roads. While a large portion of road improvements are paid for by the County, the Township supports a millage (renewed in August 2004) in order to increase road maintenance above the level provided by the County, and would likely need to be increased if low-density residential development were to continue according to present zoning. This is a difficult issue facing many rural townships that is easy to ignore as market demand is low enough that future public service costs won't be borne by current tax payers. The Plan acknowledges the issue and the Township Planning Commission will continue to explore the ramifications and the viability of various alternatives over the next few years. A new solution may emerge from further analysis. Photo 9-3 Residential Construction Takes All Types: New Cottages at Summer Grove Source: www.summergrovecottages.com Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 9-5 �Residential & Commercial Construction Building permit data presented in Chapter 3: Economics (See Table 3-7) showed that new residential construction was taking place at a rate that would result in the ideal ' population being reached in the near future. The average rate was about 86 dwelling units per year in the Tri-Communities . Most of these occurred in the Township . If the Township portion of new residential construction only averaged about 62.25 per year (as it has in the past four years: 62 in 2000, 65 in 2001, 71 in 2002 and 51 in 2003), an ideal Township population 1.5 times the present would be reached in about 1O years. Construction activity in the City and Village also includes rebuilding, which would not necessarily increase the population at a rapid rate. However, it is not unreasonable to assume the Village could reach a population 1.5 times the present population within 1015 years if the West Michigan economy continues to hold up. Commercial development largely follows residential development, so the pressure to convert land for new commercial development will largely follow new housing construction . This is especially true in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas (which would also feel pressure for more businesses if tourist growth was rapid) . Out on Blue Star Highway and at the freeway interchanges, there is already pressure for more business development, and as traffic volumes increase, it will go up. However, local zoning can largely control the type, amount and location of new commercial development. But it is hard to control the rate. Premature commercial development is a blight on the community, yet it is often hard to determine when a proposal is premature. For that reason , local business zoning along the Blue Star Highway and at the interchanges should be periodically examined to ensure it represents what the community wants to see happen there. POLICY IMPLICATIONS If development were to proceed under existing zoning, as reflected in the build out scenario, then the Tri-Communities would gradually turn into a suburban enclave, complete with a long commercial strip from the north freeway interstate exchange of Blue Star Highway to the south freeway interchange in Douglas. This is problematic in light of the 1988 and 2004 Public Opinion Surveys which revealed the vast majority of respondents have the following preferences: • maintain the scenic, small town/rural character of the area; • limited, well-planned and attractive strip commercial development; • small commercial shopping centers at the interchanges; • preserve open space along the waterfront and in the Township in general and along roads in particular. These results suggest the need to again reevaluate current zoning and regulatory policy. Evaluation of zoning and regulations following the preparation of the 1989 Comprehensive Plan led to changes in Township zoning that have reduced the potential number of dwelling units from about 17,000 to about 7,300. It may be necessary to shape the residential policy in the Township even further. Policies to achieve the public's development objectives are included in Chapter 1, and the Future Land Use Plan in Chapter 10. Regulatory tools, such as zoning , subdivision regulations, and site plan review will ultimately need to be amended to implement the policies of this Plan. John f: \winword\Tri-Communities\fi nal\CHAPTER 9 GROWTH AND DEVEL TRENDS final.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 9-6 �Chapter 10 FUTURE LAND USE INTRODUCTION Good land use planning is essential to the future quality of life in the Tri-Communities. Actual future land uses are difficult to predict and guide to achieve desired results. A future land use map and plan expresses local and use goals and policies and provides a land use scenario which a community may use as a physical guide. Goals and policies, in turn, drive land use and development decisions. The Future Land Use Map accompanying this chapter depicts generalized future land use in the City of Saugatuck, the City of the Village of Douglas, and Saugatuck Township and anticipates community land use needs for the next 25 years. These future land use arrangements are based on a variety of sources, including a survey of area leaders, the citizen opinion survey, a series of Town Meetings, joint workshops of members of all three planning commissions and governing bodies, and information in this Plan, with an emphasis on border issues. Proposed future land use is based on analysis of each existing land use, impacts of area trends, projected future land use needs if current trends continue, and the relationship of land use activities to the natural resource base. All proposals are intended to be consistent with the goals and policies presented in Chapter 1, which were originally created in 1989 with substantial public input and then updated as a part of this planning process. A few key planning and design principles were used to evaluate alternative land use arrangements. With slightly different trends and projections, application of the same principles could lead to different conclusions and differences would be related to the amount of particular land uses more than their location or relative relationships to adjoining uses. Likewise, there are many areas in which alternative land use arrangements would be satisfactory providing they remained in keeping with these basic planning principles. Consequently, it is crucial that this plan be regularly reviewed and updated at least once every five years to insure its continued relevance in planning for future land use needs. PLANNING AND DESIGN PRINCIPLES The Future Land Use Map (see Map 10-1) depicts generalized land use, which is implemented through the mapping of zoning districts and applied during the site plan review process. The following planning and design principles are the technical foundation in support of the proposed land use arrangements graphically depicted on the Future Land Use Map. These principles are consistent with the goals and policies in Chapter 1 and should remain the basis for reviewing any subsequent changes to the proposed Future Land Use Map. These planning principles are: • Protection of public health and safety • Conservation of natural resources • Environmental protection • Minimizing public service costs • Efficiency and convenience in meeting land use needs • Insuring compatibility between land uses. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 10-1 �Map 10-1 Future Land Use Map Legend Rural Low Density Single Family Residential/Agricultural Medium to High Density Single and Multi-Family Residential Mixed Use Residential/Commercial Waterfront Mixed Use - Commercial Industrial Greenspace,Preserve Highway Buffer Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 10-2 �Often a land use decision based on one principle also advances another. For example, prevention of filling or construction on floodplains protects public health and safety, conserves natural resources, protects the environment and minimizes public service costs. It may also create a valuable buffer or open space between uses and help insure compatibility. Protection of Public Health and Safety Key situations in which this principle is applied include: • Avoiding construction in areas which present natural hazards. In the TriCommunities, these include areas too close to the Lake Michi:gan shoreline at high risk from erosion from coastal wave action ; floodplains; saturated soils and wetlands; soils not well suited for support of foundations or safe disposal of septic wastes; and steep slopes. Avoiding construction where an intensive land use activity is not adequately • serviced by all weather public roads; and • Avoiding construction in areas with soils contaminated by hazardous and/or toxic waste . Conservation of Natural Resources Failure to consciously protect nonrenewable natural resources exposes a community to unbridled destruction of those resources which are the foundation for an area's character and quality of life. Conservation of natural resources usually focuses on: land , water, minerals, certain soils (such as prime farmland) , wetlands, sand dunes, areas supporting an abundance and diversity of wildlife, and unique forested lands. Areas where the land and the water meet are the most important. Indiscriminate land subdivision frequently reduces the size or alters the shape of land, thereby compromising the resource value and production potential of those lands. This occurs frequently in prime agricultural areas and once lost, these lands may never be reclaimed for food production purposes. If widespread , such losses can dramatically alter the character of an area. These changes reflect lost opportunities - usually higher public service costs and gradual degradation of an area's tourism potential. Environmental Protection This principle aims at preventing pollution, impairment or destruction of the environment. While there is considerable overlap with natural resource conservation issues, environmental protection measures focus primarily on air and water quality, and the impact of activities where the water meets the land . Environmental quality is best preserved by planning for appropriate land use activities in and near sensitive environmental areas, and managing development accordingly. Minimizing Public Service Costs Public service costs may be minimized by encouraging new land uses where existing infrastructure is not used to capacity and where expansion can be most economically supplied . This also results in compact settlement patterns, prevents sprawl, and is favored by taxpayers because it results in the lowest public service costs both for construction and maintenance. Efficiency and Convenience in Meeting Land Use Needs To be efficient in meeting future land use needs, communities must make better use of existing infrastructure and plan for infrastructure expansion in a manner which keeps the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 10-3 �• costs low and does not create huge areas where infrastructure will not be fully used for many years. It also means locating future land uses so that travel between activity centers is minimized. For example: building schools, neighborhood commercial activities, day care facilities, fire and police protection, etc. near the residential areas t they serve. This saves municipal costs on initial road construction and future maintenance, reduces everyone's gasoline expenditures, and conserves fossil fuel supplies for future use. Insuring Compatibility Between Land Uses A central objective of land use planning is to locate future land uses so that they are compatible with one another. This prevents future nuisance situations between adjacent land uses, such as loud sound, ground vibrations, dust, bright lights, restricted air flow, shadows, odors, traffic, and similar impacts. A few obvious examples of incompatible land uses include factories, drive-in establishments, or auto repair facilities adjacent to single family homes. With proper planning, land uses can be tiered to buffer impacts and orderly development can occur. Examples include: commercial service establishments on highway frontage with backlot wholesale, storage, or office uses abutting a residential area; or single family residential uses adjacent to park and recreation areas. DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVATION AREAS The Future Land Use Map for the Tri-Communities was prepared by first identifying conservation areas and then examining the suitability of remaining lands for various development purposes. Quality farmland is a diminishing resource, and as long as farmers wish to farm, farmland is desired to be protected from conversion to other uses or from impacts by other uses. Other natural resource areas include sand dunes, wetlands, floodplains, streams, creeks and drains, the Kalamazoo River, Lake Kalamazoo, and areas at high risk of erosion along Lake Michigan. These areas are proposed for very limited future development in keeping with their fragility and importance in buffering Lake Michigan storms, filtering and storing water during periods of flooding, draining stormwater from land, providing habitat for a wide range of plants and animals, and for their wide ranging open space values. Destroying these resources would destroy the essential qualities which continue to attract residents and tourists to the area. If conserved and wisely used, waterways and farms will become a natural greenbelt system that continues to enhance the area for years to come. Local zoning ordinances should be reviewed to ensure they include adequate conservation practices. PRESERVATION OF COMMUNITY CHARACTER Community Character: The image of a community or area as defined by such factors as its built environment, natural features and open space elements, type of housing, architectural style, infrastructure, and the type and quality of public facilities and services. Moskowitz and Lindbloom . The Latest Illustrated Book of Development Definitions, Rutgers University, 2004, p 83. The character of the Tri-Communities is largely a product of its natural environment, nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River and defined by steep, rolling dunes to the west and lush orchard country and farmland to the east. The area is best known as a resort community with a strong appeal to artists and artisans. The predominant land use in the Tri-Communities is agricultural (3, 11 O acres), followed by single family residential (2,242 acres). Prime farmland is generally concentrated in the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 10-4 �south central part of the Township . The rural areas of the Township are the southern agricultural , northeast, and riverfront-dunes areas. Residential areas in the TriCommunities vary widely in character between the rural areas of the Township and the urbanized areas of Saugatuck and Douglas. While single family homes are the , predominant residential land use in the area, multiple-family housing can be found in both the City and in the Village. RESIDENTIAL Residential use will continue to be the predominant developed land use in the TriCommunities. The existing residential areas in Saugatuck and Douglas provide a rich and interesting mix of housing sizes, styles and ages. The challenge in the next twenty years will be maintaining the older housing stock and ensuring that the growing ranks of part-time residents and absentee owners does not result in housing deterioration. The preservation of neighborhood character should be done by maintaining scale, context and materials of the community. Residential development in the Township is planned to be low-density single family homes with 1 or more acres per lot. This includes areas of the Township both north and south of the Kalamazoo River and all of the area east of the Interstate except for a large section of land north of Old Allegan Road on the west side of 63 rd Street, which is planned for industrial use. Rural residential is planned at 2.5 acres or more. New residential construction in the Township should be encouraged on soils capable of safe septic disposal. The best locations for concentrations of such housing are northeast of Saugatuck and southwest of Douglas. Downtown Saugatuck features larger, older homes that contribute to the downtown 's charm, many of which have been converted to profitable bed and breakfast establishments. Most of the City's year-round residents live above the steep ridge ("the hill") which separates the waterfront area from the rest of the City. The Kalamazoo Lake shoreline is partially lined with condominiums along Lake Street, which has diminished the scenic view of the Lake over time. The policy is to encourage viewing easements and single family residences. Approximately 25 blocks of long-established neighborhoods surround the center of the City of the Village of Douglas. There are also concentrations of homes along Lakeshore Drive, Campbell Road, 130th Street and Water Street. Many of these established neighborhoods consist of 100-year old homes mixed with homes that are less than 30 years old. Some modern subdivisions on larger lots also exist on the west side adding to the rich variety of home sites in the Village. As depicted on the Future Land Use Map, residential character in the City of Saugatuck and the City of the Village of Douglas is desired to remain medium to high-density single and multiple-family residential. This is largely characterized by 2-4 dwelling units per acre with a few pockets of lower and higher density. Permitted density is as established in each zoning ordinance. COMMERCIAL There will continue to be four primary commercial areas within the Tri-Communities. Commercial uses in downtown Saugatuck are primarily oriented to tourists and seasonal residents. Downtown Saugatuck will continue to serve as the major center for Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 10-5 �commercial tourist activities. This should be encouraged. However, the downtown area should not be permitted to expand outside the area presently zoned for downtown commercial use. Appropriate measures should be instituted as necessary to mitigate imp~cts of the city center on adjoining residential areas. Downtown Saugatuck and the Douglas Village Center are characterized by compact building arrangements which limit parking spaces. Parking is problematic in downtown Saugatuck and in the Douglas Village Center, especially during peak tourism months. Heavy pedestrian traffic also exacerbates parking and access problems. The buildings and parking on many properties are poorly designed, so any opportunity to improve design, safety, and function should be seized. Another commercial center is located along Blue Star through Douglas. This commercial area along Blue Star from the bridge south to the freeway interchange should be encouraged to continue to redevelop with a primary focus on local commercial services, with some tourist oriented businesses, and a secondary focus on highway related uses near the interchange. The present commercial zoning of Blue Star south of the Douglas interchange should not be expanded , but small areas representing existing commercial establishments at the freeway and M-89 interchanges should continue to be recognized. Expanding commercial in these areas will , over time, only detract from more appropriate commercial areas in Saugatuck, Douglas and along north Blue Star Highway. Lastly, the area along north Blue Star Highway between Clearbrook Drive and the 1-196 freeway interchange (Exit 41 ), which is presently developed for a variety of land uses, should be encouraged to be mixed use residential and commercial. Highway servicerelated commercial should serve the immediate interchange area. General business uses like drug stores, banks, and hardware stores should be encouraged in the general business area in Saugatuck and Douglas and not in interchange areas. Allowing general business establishments to spread will increase the number and length of trips for local residents, will require all trips to be by motor vehicle, which causes a corresponding waste of fossil fuels, and it increases the potential for existing businesses in the City and Village to fail , since the "critical mass" of general business opportunities in a single location is not present. INDUSTRIAL A small number of industrial land uses exist in the Tri-Communities. Less than 1% of the total land area is devoted to industrial uses. Office furniture manufacturing is the major industrial activity. The Haworth facility in Douglas is located along Blue Star north of Wiley Road . A small industrial area exists along Blue Star in Douglas near Exit 36 that should continue to be developed for light industrial uses. If a large light industrial concern , or industrial office facility were to be interested in a location in the area, the land between 1-196 and 63 rd Street at the northern freeway interchange (Exit 41) should be considered . This land is well-suited for light industrial activities as it could be efficiently served with sewer and water. Moreover, its location near the freeway would provide good visibility for the companies that locate there, along with easy access to the north interchange. Due to its proximity to the freeway, trucking could occur with little impact on residential and commercial uses. The Tri-Communities is located 180 miles from Detroit, 150 miles from Chicago and 36 miles from Grand Rapids along a major interstate highway. This is an advantageous location for small scale, light industrial development. Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 10-6 �AGRICULTURAL In the agricultural areas of the Township, farmers are encouraged to farm their land as long as they desire to do so. Should farmers decide to stop farming and develop their lanq , low density single family residential homes in clusters with at least 50% permanently preserved open space should be encouraged to preserve the rural , low density character of the Township. Agriculture is a major contributor to the economy and rural character of the Tri-Communities, providing a contrast with the more intensely developed areas of Saugatuck and Douglas. Agriculture should be continued as long as it is economical to do so. WATERFRONT MIXED USE Most of the non-wetland shoreline in Saugatuck and Douglas has been developed. The balance is in private ownership. The waterfront should continue to be maintained and where necessary, redeveloped with a mix of single and multiple-family residential uses along with waterfront-related commercial developments such as marinas and other ship/shore activities. Condominiums line the shore of Kalamazoo Lake along Lake St. and block a scenic view of the lake. New development along the shore should preserve a view of the lake from the public right-of-way and consist of single family residences . Further, waterfront zoning should be consistent across all three governments. Much of the City's downtown waterfront has an excellent system of interconnected public and private walkways providing shoreline access. This magnifies the attraction of Saugatuck as a tourist haven. Public boat access is more limited, and parking for car and boat trailers is scarce. Private marina space is also limited and expensive. Additional public waterfront properties should be acquired as pocket parks to enhance the recreational potential of the water. The S.S. Kewatin stands as a symbol of the area's shipping history - a local historical landmark. The steamship is moored in Kalamazoo Lake and draws thousands of tourists every year. It should not be allowed to fall into disrepair. If the Kewatin cannot be adequately maintained in the future, then it should be removed so it does not become a blight on the shoreline. Mooring of other large vessels along the Kalamazoo Lake shoreline should be prohibited , as this would block the limited public access to the waterfront. GREENSPACE AND PRESERVE The northwest corner of the Township, along with the most of the land in Saugatuck west of the Kalamazoo Lake should be preserved for public open space and the portion that remains in private ownership should be maintained for low intensity uses (like the art colony and church camp) . The City of Saugatuck has been working with conservation groups since 2003 in an effort to purchase 413 acres of beach and dune land on property formerly owned by shipbuilder Frank and Gertrude Denison. If the Denison property is sold to conservationists, the plan is to add 161 acres on the south side of the Kalamazoo River to the city of Saugatuck's Oval Beach. The 252 acres on the north side of the river would become part of Saugatuck Dunes State Park. The City, Village and Saugatuck Township, where all of the property is located , have stood behind the acquisition. It is in the public's interest for the deal, as it stood during the creation of this Plan, to go through . The Denison property is largely sand dunes with some coastal wetland , and is a haven for at least five populations of rare species. Those species are the pitcher's thistle , a plant listed as threatened both by the state and federal governments, the zigzag , bladderwort and the prairie warbler, Blanchard 's Cricket Frog and the Virginia Meadow Beauty. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 10-7 �The Ox-Bow summer school of art and artist's residency is also located near the City and Township border on a 15-acre campus near sand dunes, marshes, a quiet lagoon, and dense forests. The central hub of the school is a 19th -century inn that houses students and provides space for classes and dining. The campus has been kept largely natural and provides numerous recreational opportunities, such as canoeing, biking, and hiking. As such, the Ox-Bow campus fits nicely with the surrounding greenspace/preserve area denoted on the Future Land Use Map. Similarly, the Presbyterian Church Camp occupies a large dune parcel south of the Oval Beach. While activities at the camp are changing to more year around activities, as long as the overall intensity of use at the site remains low, it is a compatible use. A strong effort should be made to acquire an easement across the camp property for a walking/biking path from Campbell Road in Douglas to the Oval Beach. HIGHWAY BUFFER The Tri-Community area is unique in that it is one of the few areas in Michigan that still has a substantial amount of natural vegetation lining 1-196 and the north section of the Blue Star Highway from the bridge to Exit 41. These forest stands provide noise buffering for abutting land uses and provide for an aesthetically pleasing highway that enhances the character of the community. Retaining and protecting this natural highway buffer even as adjacent properties are developed should be strongly encouraged. John f:\winword\tri-communities\final\Chapter 10 Future Land Use final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\Chapter 10 Future Land Use final.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 10-8 �Chapter 11 ZONING PLAN INTRODUCTION This Chapter opens with a general description of a zoning plan. It is followed by a brief explanation of the relationship between this Joint Comprehensive Pla•1 and the zoning ordinances of the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the City of the Village of Douglas. The intent and key dimensional standards of the zoning districts in each zoning ordinance are briefly described. WHAT IS A ZONING PLAN? A "zoning plan" is another term for a "zone plan" which is used in the Michigan planning and zoning enabling acts. Section 1(a) of the Township Planning Act, PA 168 of 1959, as amended, requires that the comprehensive plan prepared under that act serve as the basis for the zoning plan. Section 7 of the Township Zoning Act, PA 184 of 1943, as amended, requires a zoning plan be prepared as the basis for the zoning ordinance. The zoning plan identifies the zoning districts and their purposes, as well as the basic standards proposed to control 'the height, area, bulk, location, and use of buildings and premises in the Township. It must be based on an inventory of conditions pertinent to zoning in the township and the purposes for which zoning may be adopted (as described in Section 3 of the Township Zoning Act). Section 6 of the Municipal Planning Act, PA 285 of 1931, as amended, calls for a plan that includes a zoning plan for the control of height, area, bulk, location and use of buildings and premises in the City or Village. Section 1 of the City and Village Zoning Act, PA 207 of 1921, as amended, requires that land development regulations and zoning districts created through the act be made in accordance with a plan. This Plan fulfills that purpose for the City, Village and Township. RELATIONSHIP TO JOINT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN This Joint Comprehensive Plan sets forth the vision, goals and policies for growth and development in the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the City of the Village of Douglas for approximately the next twenty years. It includes a specific strategy for managing growth and change in land uses and infrastructure in the Tri-Communities over this period, and will be periodically reviewed and updated at least once each five years. This chapter presenting the Zoning Plan, along with the rest of the relevant parts of this Comprehensive Plan, is intended to guide the implementation of and future changes to the zoning ordinances of each jurisdiction. Existing permitted uses of land, including density, setbacks and other related standards are as established in each zoning ordinance. DISTRICTS AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS Following are the general purposes and characteristics of zoning within the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the City of the Village of Douglas. The specific purposes of each jurisdiction's individual zoning districts and permitted land uses are listed in the specific district provisions of their respective zoning ordinances. The Section references indicate where detailed ordinance language for each district is located within each zoning ordinance. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 11-1 �CITY OF SAUGATUCK Commercial Districts The. following zoning districts Section 155.023 Section 155.024 Section 155.035 Section 155.036 Section 155.037 Section 155.038 Section 155.039 are considered "commercial districts." Ll-1 Blue Star District C-1 City Center Commercial District C-4 Resort District C-2 Water Street Commercial District C-2 Water Street East District C-2 Water Street North District C-2 Water Street South District The basic purpose of these districts is to provide opportunities for regulated commercial or office activities serving both local and tourist markets. Minimum lot sizes range from one-quarter acre to one acre in size in the Ll-1 Blue Star District, which serves as a transitional zone between residential and commercial districts. The C-1 City Center Commercial District is designed to promote and preserve the Central Business District character of the city and permits intense retail and commercial uses. The C-4 Resort District provides compatible zoning for existing and future hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts. The C-2 Water Street Commercial Districts provide an area for waterfront retail and commercial land use, provide for a less intense commercial use than the City Center District and promote visual access to the Kalamazoo River. Residential Districts The following zoning districts Section 155.025 Section 155.026 Section 155.029 Section 155.030 Section 155.032 Section 155.033 Section 155.034 Section 155.039 are considered "residential districts." C-4 City Center Residential District R-1 Community Residential District R-2 Lake Street District R-1 Maple Street (MS) District R-1 Park Street North District R-1 Park Street South District R-1 Park Street West District R-3 Multi-Family Residential District The principal purpose of these districts is to provide for a range of residential dwelling types at various densities within individual zones tailored for specific uses. Minimum lot sizes range from 8,712 square feet to 21,780 square feet. The C-4 City Center District is a transitional zone intended to serve as a buffer between the high intensity City Center Commercial District and the low intensity Community Residential zone. It is not intended to be static but rather to adjust with the development needs of the community. The R-1 Community Residential District is designed to protect and promote low density singlefamily residential uses and development in the city. The objective of the R-2 Lake Street District is to enhance low density single-family land use and promote visual access to the Kalamazoo River. The R-1 Maple Street District promotes single-family residential land use in a low density setting and preserves the rural character of the district and its natural resources. The R-1 Park Street North and South Districts are designed to preserve and protect residential water front land uses along Kalamazoo Lake and River, while the R-1 Park Street West District protects the natural environmental features of the area such as dunes and open spaces through the encouragement of larger lots. Density in this District is intended to be less dense than other residential districts in the city to preserve the character of the land in the District. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 11-2 �Cultural/Community District The following zoning district is considered a "cultural district." Section 155.028 Cultural/Community District • The purpose of this district is to provide for development of cultural and community facilities. The range of uses provided for by this district is intended to further enhance the social, cultural and economic synergy of the City's downtown area. Any development in this district must include Community Center and Cultural/Performing Arts components. Conservation and Recreation District The following zoning district is considered a "conservation and recreation district." Section 155.027 Conservation and Recreation District This District is designed to maximize preservation of existing environments by permitting only low density residential uses. It is a restrictive zone, intended to permit development after in-depth review in order to protect and enhance the natural resources, amenities natural habitats of wildlife, public recreation areas and to protect public health, safety and welfare. The purpose of this District is to provide a natural undeveloped area for the benefit of public recreation and utilization by large numbers of residents and visitors. The minimum lot size for single family residences is 2 acres; however, the maximum lot coverage is 15%. At the time this Plan was being formulated, the City Planning Commission was going to prepare a special subarea plan for the Oxbow Peninsula. Some changes to this Plan and to the City Zoning Ordinance may be necessary at the conclusion of the preparation of that Plan. Mixed Use District The following zoning district is considered a "mixed use district." Section 155.031 Neighborhood Marine District The purpose of the Neighborhood Marine District is to promote utilization of the waterfront property with mixed residential and commercial land uses. The goal of the District is to encourage larger lot development in order to preserve and protect visual access to the waterfront. Land uses in the District that emphasize water access and usage are desired after appropriate review. The minimum lot area within this district is 17,424 square feet. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 11-3 �Table 11-1 City of Saugatuck Zoning District Regulations R4 City Center Res. R1 Community Residential R2 Lake Street R1 Maple Street R1 Park Street North R1 Park Street South R1 Park Street West R3 MultiFamily Residential Ll-1 Blue Star C1 City Center Commercial C4 Resort C2 Water Street C2 Water Street East C2 Water Street North C2 Water Street South Conservation & Recreation Cultural/ Community Neighborhood Marine s.f. Minimum Lot Area Minimum Lot Width Maximum Lot Coverage Front Setback Side Setback Rear Setback Maximum Building Height 8,712 s.f. 66 ft. 25% 25 ft. 7 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. 8,712 s.f. 66 ft. 25% 25 ft. 7 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. 8,712 s.f. 66 ft. 25% 25 ft. 10 ft. 25 ft. 28 ft. 15,000 s.f. 80 ft. 25% 50 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. 8,712 66 ft. 25% 50 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. 15,000 s.f. 100 ft. 25% 50 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. 21 ,780 100 ft. 25% 50 ft. 10 ft. 25 ft. 28 ft. 15,000 s.f. 80 ft. 25% 50 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. 1 acre 150 ft. 25% 50 ft. 15 ft. 25 ft. 35 ft. N/A 66 ft. N/A 0 ft. 0 ft. 0 ft. 28 ft. 15,000 s.f. 66 ft. 50% 15 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. N/A 132 ft. N/A 0 ft. 0 ft. 15 ft. 28 ft. N/A 66 ft. N/A 0 ft. 7 ft. 10 ft. 28 ft. N/A 66 ft. N/A 0 ft. 0 ft. 0 ft. 28 ft. N/A 132 ft. N/A 0 ft . 10 ft. 15 ft. 28 ft. 2 acres 200 ft. 15% 100 ft. 50 ft. 50 ft. 28 ft. 50,000 s.f. 198 ft. 60% 25 ft. East-1 Oft. West-0 ft. 0 ft. 28 ft. 17,424 s.f. 132 ft. 35% 25 ft. 10 ft. 15 ft. 28 ft. =square feet, ft. =feet SAUGATUCK TOWNSHIP Rural Districts The following zoning districts are considered "rural districts." Section 40-136 A-1 Agricultural Zoned District Section 40-181 A-2 Rural Open Space Zoned District The A-1 Agricultural Zoned District is that area of the township where farming, dairying, forestry operations and other similar rural-type land uses exist and should be preserved Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 11-4 �and/or encouraged. Large vacant areas, fallow land and wooded areas are included. The A-2 Rural Open Space Zoned District is that area of the township where crop farming and forestry operations and other similar rural uses exist and should be preserved and/or encouraged, while providing opportunities for residential development • at overall densities which reflect a more rural living environment than may be provided in other residentially zoned districts in the township. The minimum lot area for parcels in both districts with dwelling units or non-farming units is 2 ½ acres. Residential Districts The following zoning districts Section 40-226 Section 40-271 Section 40-316 Section 40-328 are considered "residential districts." R-1 Residential Zoned District R-2 Riverside Residential Zoned District R-3 Lakeshore Residential Zoned District R-38 Lakeshore Transition Zoned District The R-1 Residential Zoned District is that area of the township where predominantly single- and two-family dwellings, together with a minimum of other residentially related facilities and activities primarily of service to the residents in the area, should be preserved and/or encouraged. The R-2 Riverside Residential Zoned District is that area of the township bordering the Kalamazoo River and its tributaries where controls are placed upon the use and development of areas adjacent to such river and its tributaries within the township and upon construction activity within such river and its tributaries. The R-3 Lakeshore Residential Zoned District is that area of the township where controls are placed upon the use and development of areas adjacent to the shoreline of Lake Michigan so as to preserve the shoreline as a natural resource to prevent and/or control erosion and to maintain the aesthetic qualities of the area. The new R-38 Lakeshore Transition Zoned District accommodates moderate densities of new residential growth and requires development to incorporate significant elements of preserved open space. Minimum lot sizes range from half an acre to one and a half acres within the Township's residential districts. Commercial Districts The following zoning districts Section 40-366 Section 40-416 Section 40-466 are considered "commercial districts." C-1 General Commercial Zoned District C-2 Local Commercial Zoned District C-3 Interchange Commercial Zoned District The C-1 General Commercial Zoned District was established to accommodate businesses desiring to take advantage of the area's seasonal traffic patterns. It provides diverse corridor locations for businesses that cater directly to tourism and peak travel associated with an increased summertime population. The C-2 Local Commercial Zoned District was established to provide areas in which the Principal Uses of the land are devoted to businesses serving the day-to-day needs of the local, nontransient population. This district allows a wide range of service and retail uses, but is not designed to support large commercial operations or those specifically oriented toward the tourist or regional trade. The C-3 Interchange Commercial District is located near the freeway interchanges along major arterials. It was established to provide areas for specialized sales, service and hospitality businesses that cater to highway travelers. The C-3 Districts primarily serve regional markets and are vehicle oriented in terms of their dependence upon high visibility and proximity to automobile traffic. Minimum lot sizes range from 65,000 square feet to 120,000 square feet. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 11-5 �The Township Planning Commission will review the current area zoned commercial on north Blue Star Highway with an eye to possibly making the following changes: • dropping the uniform 500' width of the commercial district to instead conform with parcel boundaries of properties that front on Blue Star Highway; • possibly adjusting the range of commercial uses permitted so as to not unintentionally promote duplication of businesses and services already adequately being provided in the City or Village. • possibly adjusting provisions that permit mixed commercial and residential use to provide a wider range of mixed uses and encourage more residential and less commercial use than present zoning permits. Industrial District The following zoning district is considered an "industrial district." Section 40-521 1-1 Industrial Zoned District The 1-1 Industrial Zoned District is designed to accommodate those manufacturing, assembling and fabricating businesses and related commercial activities or uses which are not likely to cause adverse effects or nuisance to adjoining properties. The minimum lot size for the 1-1 district is 30,000 square feet. Table 11-2 Saugatuck Township Zoning District Regulations A-1 Agricultural A-2 Rural Open Space R-1 Residential R-2 Riverside Residential R-3 Lakeshore Residential R-3B Lakeshore Transition Residential C-1 General Commercial C-2 Local Commercial C-3 Interchange Commercial 1-1 Industrial s.f. Minimum Lot Area Minimum Lot Width Maximum Lot Coverage Front Setback Side Setback Rear Setback Maximum Building Height 2 ½ acres 165 ft. 30% 40-50 ft. 10-15 ft . 30-50 ft. 35 ft . 2 ½-5 acres 20 ,00040,000 s.f. 30,00065,000 s.f. 150 ft. 30% 40-50 ft. 10-15 ft. 30-50 ft. 35 ft. 100-125 ft. 25% 40-50 ft. 10-15ft. 30-50 ft. 35 ft. 100-150 ft. 25% 40-50 ft. 10-15 ft. 30 ft/75 ft. from River 35 ft. 20,000 s.f. 100 ft. 25% 40-50 ft. 10-15 ft. 30 ft. 35 ft . 30,000 65,000 s.f. 100-150 ft. 25% 40-50 ft. 10-15 ft. 30-50 ft. 35 ft. 85,000 s.f. 250 ft. 40% 70 ft. 20 ft. 20-50 ft. 35 ft. 65,000 s.f. 200 ft . 40% 70 ft. 20 ft. 20-50 ft. 35 ft. 120,000 s.f. 300 ft. 40% 70 ft. 30 ft. 30-50 ft. 35 ft. 30,000 s.f. 100 ft. 50% 75 ft. 15 ft. 25 ft. 35 ft. =square feet, ft. =feet Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 11-6 �CITY OF THE VILLAGE OF DOUGLAS Residential Districts The following zoning districts are considered "residential districts." •section 4.01 R-1 Residential District Section 5.01 R-2 Residential District Section 6.01 R-3 Neighborhood Conservation District Section 7.01 R-4 Harbor Residential District Section 8.01 R-5 Multiple Family District Section 9.01 R-6 Mobile Home Park District The principal purpose of these districts is to provide for a range of residential dwelling types at various densities within individual zones tailored for specific uses. Minimum lot sizes range from 7,920 square feet to 20,000 square feet. Generally, where public sewer service is provided, the minimum lot size is 7,920 square feet; otherwise, minimum lot sizes range from 15,000 square feet to 20,000 square feet. The general intent of these districts is to provide opportunities for new residential development in a manner consistent with existing residential uses in the area, and which makes efficient use of Village sewer and water service, and that preserves the traditional character of the Village. Commercial Districts The following zoning districts are considered "commercial districts." Section 10.01 C-1 Village Commercial District Section 10.10 C-1A Village Center Commercial District Section 11.01 C-2 General Commercial District Section 11.10 C-2A Special Commercial District The C-1 Village Commercial District is intended to provide for retail and service establishments on Center Street west of Blue Star Highway and is designed to promote automobile-oriented shopping with on-site parking. The C-1A Village Center Commercial District provides for small retail and service establishments designed to promote convenient pedestrian shopping and stability of retail development by encouraging a contiguous frontage and preserving the traditional character of the Village center. The C2 General Commercial District provides for retail and service establishments which meet the general consumer needs of the Village, while the C-2A Special Commercial District provides for commercial uses along with highly restricted light industrial uses. Minimum lot sizes range from 4,000 square feet to 30,000 square feet. Industrial District The following zoning district is considered an "industrial district." Section 12.01 L-1 Light Industrial District This District provides for a variety of light industrial uses, including manufacturing, processing and assembling establishments. The basic purpose of the L-1 District is to provide suitable locations for high tech and light industrial development with minimum lot sizes of one half acre. Public Lands District The following zoning district is considered a "public lands district." Section 13.01 PL Public Lands District Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 11-7 �The purpose of the Public Lands District is to provide adequate land resources for the purposes of administering and performing necessary public services by the City of the Village of Douglas and other public agencies. Land in this zoning district is intended sol~ly for public buildings and uses. The minimum lot size is 20,000 square feet. Table 11-3 City of the Village of Douglas Zoning District Regulations Minimum Lot Area R-1 Residential R-2 Residential R-3 Neighborhood Conservation R-4 Harbor Residential R-5 Multiple Family R-6 Mobile Home Park C-1 Village Commercial C-1A Village Center Commercial C-2 General Commercial C-2A Special Commercial L-1 Light Industrial PL Public Lands 12,000 s.f wl sewer; otherwise 15.000 s.f 7,920 s.fwl sewer; otherwise 15,000 s.f SF: 7,920 s.f wl sewer; 15,000 s.f wlo sewer TF: 15,000 s.f SF: 7,920 s.f TF: 10,000 s.f MF: 20,000 s.f SF: 7,920 s.f. TF: 15,000 s.f MF:20,000 s.f Minimum Lot Frontage Max. Lot Coverage Front Setback Side Setback Rear Setback Max. Building Height 100 ft. 35% 35 ft. 7 ft.I 18 ft. comb 25 ft. 28135 ft.* 75 ft. 35% 35 ft. 7 ft .I 18 ft. comb 25 ft. 28135 ft.* SF: 66 ft. TF: 100 ft . 35% 25 ft. 7 ft./ 15 ft. comb 25 ft. 28135 ft.* 35% 25 ft. 35 ft. 28135 ft.* 35% SF: 35 ft. TF: 35 ft. MF: 25 ft. SF: 66 ft. TF: 80 ft. MF: 100ft. SF: 66 ft. TF: 80 ft. MF: 100 ft SF: 7 ft./15 ft. TF: 7 ft./15 ft. MF: 20 ft./20 ft. SF: 7 ft./18 ft. TF: 7 ft./15 ft. MF: 20 ft./25 ft. SF: 25 ft. TF: 25 ft. MF: 50 ft. 28135 ft.* Min . 10 acres per park NIA 60% NIA NIA NIA 28135 ft.* 6,600 s.f. 50 ft. 80% 25 ft. 5 ft./ 10 ft. comb 5-25 ft. 28135 ft.* 4,000 s.f. 20 ft. 80% 0 ft. 5 ft./ 10 ft. comb 5-25 ft. 28135 ft.* ½acre 100 ft. 50% 10 ft. 5 ft./ 10 ft. comb 5-25 ft. 28135 ft.* 30,000 s.f. 150 ft. 50% 25 ft. 15 ft./ 25 ft. comb 25-35 ft. 28135 ft.* ½acre 100 ft. 50% 25 ft. 15 ft./ 25 ft. comb 15-25 ft. 45 ft. 20,000 s.f. 100 ft. 35% 40 ft. 15 ft. 25 ft. 28135 ft.* SF = Single Family, TF = Two Family, MF = Multi-Family, s.f. = square feet, comb = combined, Ft.= feet *MAX BUILDING HEIGHT IS 28 FT. MEASURED FROM THE AVG. GRADE OF THE FRONT ELEVATION TO EXCEED 35 FT. WHEN MEASURED FROM THE AVERAGE GRADE OF THE STRUCTURE. AND NOT PLEASE REFER TO VILLAGE ZONING ORDINANCE FOR DETAILS WHICH MAY AFFECT THE APPLICATION OF ABOVE STANDARDS . John f:\winword\tri-communities\final\CHAPTER 11 Zoning Plan final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 11 Zoning Plan final.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 11-8 �Chapter 12 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION INTRODUCTION This chapter briefly examines several intergovernmental cooperation issues. First are issues related to the Tri-Communities. Second are issues related to land use policies of jurisdictions abutting Saugatuck Township. TRI-COMMUNITY INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION ISSUES This Plan serves to guide the City of Saugatuck, City of the Village of Douglas, and Saugatuck Township in their efforts to manage land , cultural and community resources. All three communities participated in creation of the Plan; all three will benefit by implementing the Plan; and all three communities are responsible for the Plan's implementation. Following are five recommendations to guide implementation. 1. The completion of this second joint Plan recognizes the importance of the milestone in the intergovernmental relations between Saugatuck, Douglas and Saugatuck Township that began with the creation of the first joint Plan in 1989. However, it should also be viewed as only one stage in an ongoing planning process. Constantly changing social and economic trends will require periodic updating or amendments to this Plan, which should be revisited at least every five years. When updated more frequently, the effort is usually not as extensive. Revisions to the Future Land Use Map in Chapter 10 should be made whenever it no longer serves as a useful guide and support for land use decision making. The same is true of the policies portion of the Plan. 2. While the Tri-Community Planning Committee that was set up to develop this Plan expects to disband upon completion of the Plan, it is recommended that a Joint Planning Committee (3 representatives from each community) be established to serve as a coordinating and oversight body to insure that the proposals in this Plan are implemented and that any actions of a single entity contrary to this Plan do not go unchallenged. If special committees such as the joint Harbor and Waterfront Committee are created, they should be formally included in the arrangement; otherwise, their functions should be absorbed by the Joint Planning Committee. The Joint Committee should meet at least quarterly or at the call of the chairperson and report its minutes promptly to the governing body and Planning Commission of each member jurisdiction. 3. This Plan is intended to serve each jurisdiction singly and the three communities together. The credibility of this Plan will depend on whether the subsequent actions of individual local governments are consistent with it. It could and should be modified as necessary upon approval by the planning commission and the governing body proposing modifications relating to provisions affecting future land use, planning, and zoning located within the geographical area of that governmental entity. All amendments and changes of this Plan should be reviewed by the Joint Planning Committee and the individual Planning Commissions to provide input, until such time as a Joint Planning Commission is formed-if the communities do so. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 12-1 �Photo 12-1 The Spirit of Cooperation is Important to the Tri-Communities Source: Felicia Fairchild, Saugatuck Douglas Visitors and Convention Bureau In the end however, since the individual communities will carry the primary burden of implementation. it is important to review the basic tools they have to undertake the substantial tasks laid out in this Plan. In addition to regulatory tools, capital facilities, and management tools, there are also a host of funding sources that may be available to assist with particular projects. It is almost always safe to say that joint proposals involving two or more jurisdictions have a greater chance of receiving funding in competitive grant situations than any one of the communities alone. As a result, the TriCommunities are encouraged to work together in their efforts to secure financial assistance to implement the proposals in this Plan. 4. Three separate jurisdictions control land use in the Tri-Community area and now that it is legal to create a Joint Planning Commission (PA 226 of 2003, MCL 125.131 et seq.) this Plan recommends seriously exploring the pros and cons of creating a Joint Planning Commission and single Zoning Ordinance for the Tri-Communities. Until this is thoroughly examined, there will only be supposition and conjecture to guide discussion on this important topic. Perhaps there will be cost and time efficiencies to both communities and applicants, perhaps there won 't, perhaps there will be no loss of "local control," perhaps there will. These are important issues that deserve a careful examination as one of the first steps in implementing this Plan . 5. The public opinion survey revealed a slight majority would favor creation of a single consolidated unit of government if there were demonstrable fiscal benefits. This is up considerably from public opinion fifteen years ago. Without a formal study, the issue will always lie just below the surface and may prevent taking advantage of important opportunities that could come along in the future. Similarly, it may reveal a dearth of practical benefits and the idea may be put to bed. But without a formal analysis, the pros and cons will never be known. ADJOINING JURISDICTION ISSUES In addition to cooperation among the Tri-Communities, there will need to be continued cooperation with adjoining jurisdictions. The Tri-Communities are surrounded by Laketown Township to the north, Manlius Township to the east and Ganges Township to the south. Filmore Township is diagonally northeast of Saugatuck Township and Clyde Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 12-2 �Township diagonally to the southeast. Lake Michigan is to the west of the TriCommunities. The above-mentioned communities were each asked to provide master plans and zoning ordinances at the start of the Plan update process and the documents provided were reviewed for content that might affect the Tri-Communities. Future Land Use Plans from the communities that provided them date from the early 1990s. Filmore Township and Ganges Township did not provide copies of their plans or zoning ordinances. A composite Allegan County zoning map prepared by the Allegan County Geographic Information System (GIS) Department was used to evaluate the potential for land development in those communities. ~ All of the surrounding townships are relatively undeveloped and rural, especially in the border areas. All of the plans provided by neighboring jurisdictions cite the preservation of rural character as a primary goal, which is also a goal of the Tri-Communities. The adjacent communities state in their plans that they intend to accomplish this goal through zoning to limit residential density to a range of from about 1 dwelling unit per acre to 1 dwelling unit per nearly 40 acres, and by strictly limiting the amount of commercial and industrial development permitted. The adjacent community plans generally express the belief that commercial and industrial land uses do not contribute to rural character, do not protect environmental quality, and that existing and planned infrastructure could not accommodate it. Unfortunately, full development at 1 dwelling unit per acre also does not retain the degree of naturalness that residents of surrounding townships describe as rural character, and so dramatic change can occur around Saugatuck Township with the settlement of large areas at a higher-than-envisioned density. This will also place further public service demands on the Tri-Communities as those populations travel to or through Saugatuck/Douglas for shopping and recreation, and will further diminish the natural regional landscape character residents of the Tri-Communities favor. Adjacent communities may want to follow the lead of Saugatuck Township in performing a buildout analysis to examine the relationship between existing zoning and the likely as opposed to desired ultimate population of the community. This may lead to further refinement of zoning and related policy that does result in greater preservation of rural character. Alternatively, they may wish to encourage landowners in their community to participate in Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) or Transfer of Development Rights (TOR) programs, or other conservation easement programs. The preservation of agriculture as an economic activity was also a goal of several of the surrounding communities. It is uncertain if, in the years since the plans were prepared, preservation of agricultural activity remains as important. In Saugatuck Township, public sentiment appears to be shifting from the protection of agriculture to the protection of open space, whether or not that includes agricultural activity. It is possible that residents in adjoining jurisdictions may also have shifted their preference in a similar direction, although perhaps to a lesser degree as agriculture appears to remain more active in the adjacent communities. Agricultural activity needs to be examined in the larger regional context, as Allegan County is an important agricultural producer in Michigan. • Portions of the Allegan State Game Area lie about a mile east from Saugatuck Township, and about two miles south, with the remainder of it extending up to a dozen miles beyond to the east and southeast. The Game Area is protected, undeveloped land in public ownership, managed for public recreation, including hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing and hiking. The Kalamazoo River passes through the Game Area before reaching the Tri-Communities. The Game Area is an important regional open space that also serves the Tri-Communities, and could be a valuable part of a regional greenspace Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 12-3 �system and a popular destination for trail connections. As the Tri-Communities plan for greenspaces and bicycle trails they should consider links to the Game Area. While surrounding communities generally discourage industrial and commercial uses, there are a few industrial sites adjacent to Saugatuck Township. One is in Section 12 of Manlius Township and the other is along M-89 in Ganges Township. Immediately across M-89 from Saugatuck Township in Ganges Township, there is significant road frontage zoned industrial and commercial, which could, if fully developed as zoned, impact the land in the southern portion of Saugatuck Township that is zoned very low density residential. Saugatuck Township should encourage Ganges Township to guide development of those properties in a manner that lessens the impact on Saugatuck Township, or to reduce the area zoned industrial and commercial. As zoned, a strip of industrial and commercial uses could develop, which could create traffic safety and congestion problems along M-89. Clustered commercial and industrial development, with managed access could result in development of that area of Ganges Township with fewer negative impacts on both communities. Just to the south of Saugatuck Township is Hutchins Lake, which straddles the border between Ganges and Clyde Townships. While a small lake, it has substantial residential development surrounding it, and there is concern about nutrient pollution entering the lake. A portion of the Hutchins Lake watershed lies in Saugatuck Township and Clyde Township states in its plan that Saugatuck Township should participate in a Hutchins Lake watershed overlay zone to protect water quality. Saugatuck Township is interested in coordinating protection activities with Clyde Township for Hutchins Lake. Photo 12-2 Kalamazoo River Water Quality is a Shared Responsibility of the Tri-Communities and Other Adjacent Jurisdictions Source: Aaron Sheridan The Kalamazoo Lake Water and Sewer Authority has an agreement with Laketown Township to provide public water service in excess of what it currently receives. While water lines extend only a short distance into Laketown Township, the water capacity available to Laketown Township could result in a greater amount or density of development just across the boundary from northern Saugatuck Township than would be possible without this service. The Tri-Communities, all members of the KLWSA need to Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 12-4 �work together with Laketown Township to make sure that the capacity available to Laketown is used in ways that compliment land uses in the northern end of Saugatuck Township . The• Kalamazoo River flows into the Tri-Communities from Manlius Township and many other communities upstream. Activities in the Kalamazoo River watershed influence the quality of river water when it reaches Saugatuck and Douglas. While parts of the Kalamazoo River are designated as Natural River, and sections flow through the Allegan State Game Area, both of which provide some degree of protection for the River, past activities and a lack of clean-up of polluted sediments lowers the water quality of the River in the Tri-Communities . The Tri-Communities should take an active role in continuing to push for proper clean-up of the upper reaches of the Kalamazoo River, as well as working with those communities to implement best management practices that would help prevent sedimentation of the River and other types of pollution. The TriCommunities may also want to seek the reestablishment of a water quality monitoring station in Kalamazoo Lake. Since a lack of funding for such a station is likely why it was removed, the Tri-Communities may want to consider funding their own monitoring station in order to keep track of potential contaminates that come from upstream. John f:\winword\tri-communities\final\CHAPTER 12 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPTER 12 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COOPERATION final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 12-5 �Chapter 13 STRATEGIES FOR IMPLEMENTATION INTRODUCTION The previous twelve chapters have presented background information, analysis, goals, and policies, associated with a generalized Future Land Use Map to guide decisions on land use, capital improvement and intergovernmental issues for the next twenty years. There are many explicit and implied recommendations. There is more to pursue than can be undertaken all at once. Yet, the initiatives proposed in this Plan will not implement themselves. It will take continued support and commitment for many years. The first section of this chapter examines ingredients for successful Plan implementation. The second section focuses on key recommendations that should be given priority for implementation. There are also some policies that are much more important than others to always keep in mind when decisions are being made. The third section presents a brief description of key strategies that must be pursued at every opportunity in order to successfully implement this Plan. ELEMENTS OF SUCCESSFUL PLAN IMPLEMENTATION Central Ingredients The central ingredients to successful Plan implementation will be: • Commitment by the Joint Planning Committee, each Planning Commission, the City Council, the Village Council, the Township Board of Trustees and staff of the each jurisdiction . • A citizenry better educated on the vision in this Plan. Information about desired residential development patterns, the fiscal and land use constraints of extending urban services, property rights, open space preservation, natural resource protection and new tools to improve and then sustain the quality of life in the TriCommunities need to reach citizens or they may not understand why and how local decision-making is directed to implementing this Plan. Focusing on Priorities As the body principally responsible for preparing and maintaining a land use plan for a community, but one which also has substantial responsibilities in review of proposed developments for zoning compliance, it is easy for a Planning Commission to become distracted with ongoing tasks or ad hoc, controversial issues. Still, the Commission needs to prioritize its tasks relative to implementation of this Plan. Time needs to be set aside for high priority items. These include the preparation of an annual report and work program for the next year, drafting updates to the Zoning Ordinance, assisting with the preparation of a capital improvement program, and the five-year Plan update. These are discussed below. • Annual Tasks An annual report on all activities undertaken by each Planning Commission with a special focus on actions taken to implement the Plan should be made to the governing body. A proposed work program that identifies priorities and projected expenses for the next year should also be prepared and submitted in time to be included in the annual Tri-Commun ity Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 13-1 �budget process. The Planning Commission should also assist the governing body with the preparation and annual updating of a capital improvement program. Each of these activities are prescribed by the Municipal Planning Act and/or the Township Planning Act. • PRIORITY RECOMMENDATIONS TO BE IMPLEMENTED Neither a new Joint Planning Committee nor the individual Planning Commissions can be expected to implement all of the measures listed in this Plan alone. Many of these can only be accomplished with support from the respective governing bodies and with help from other agencies or groups. It is essential that discussions bElgin with each of these entities so that they understand the goals, find agreeable common ground where there are differences and obtain a commitment to a common action. All Three Jurisdictions Together • Public acquisition of the Denison property on both sides of the Kalamazoo River is the top priority for the Tri-Communities. • Protection and maintenance of the Kalamazoo River and Lake Michigan, including protection of water quality and dredging of Kalamazoo Lake (which requires selection of a spoils site and petition to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for project approval and funding assistance). Governing Body Priorities The following activities should be the key priorities of the governing bodies of the City of Saugatuck, City of the Village of Douglas and Saugatuck Township: • Creation and support of a continuing1Joint Planning Committee per the recommendation in Chapter 12. • Support the efforts of the Joint Planning Committee and each Planning Commission to implement this Plan. • Authorize and give serious consideration to the findings of a special study of the pros and cons of creating a Joint Planning Commission to serve all three jurisdictions and a single joint Zoning Ordinance per the recommendation in Chapter 12. • Consider initiating a study to determine the benefits/feasibility of consolidating the three governments. Planning Commission Priorities The following activities should be the key priorities of the Joint Planning Committee and each Planning Commission for the next five years: • Enlist the support and involvement of residents to achieve community goals and educate the public regarding the benefits of growth management and the vision, goals and policies of the updated Comprehensive Plan. • Inform through newsletters and periodic town meetings. • Post draft documents on the web and ask for review and comment. • Review all current ordinances or regulations to note those sections that are not in conformity with the plan and make public the results of that review, whether in a report or such other manner as the commission deems appropriate, which will form a baseline document against which to measure progress. • Update the respective Zoning Ordinances to be consistent with this Plan. • Update other land development regulations in each jurisdiction (such as land division and subdivision regulations) as necessary to be consistent with this Plan. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 13-2 �• • • • • • • • • • • • • Develop a Tri-Communities Greenspace Plan in conjunction with each Park and Recreation Commission. This Plan would prioritize lands for open space preservation and greenway trails, identify and implement tools for acquisition of title or development rights from willing sellers and set up funding mechanisms for implementation. It would detail how to ensure the establishment of connected open space as abutting properties are developed. Prepare additional sub-area plans to provide greater detail to desired development in each sub-area, such as is being done in Saugatuck for the Oxbow Peninsula, and may be desirable along the waterfront and along Blue Star Highway. Use this Plan in the analysis and review of proposed rezonings, zoning text amendments, site plans, and new or amended master plans of adjoining jurisdictions submitted for statutory review and comment. Closely coordinate land use policies with those of neighboring communities. Share key draft documents with adjoining jurisdictions for review and comment. Be sure to comment on draft documents of adjoining jurisdictions when presented for that purpose. Monitor neighboring jurisdiction and County agency decisions and periodically inform other local governments and the County Board of Commissioners on the status of efforts to implement this Plan. Join efforts with others outside the Tri-Communities to modernize planning and zoning enabling legislation and to authorize or use new tools to better manage growth and preserve open space. Develop and promote design guidelines by the Joint Planning Committee and each Planning Commission that illustrate how to protect rural and scenic character and open space values on private residential, commercial, public and institutional properties. Examples include the design guidelines for the Grand Traverse Bay Region Development Guidebook that illustrates a preferred development approach that protects scenic quality, open space, water quality and sensitive environments. Create residential development standards that set aside open space and employ vegetative buffers along roadsides and where there are sensitive environments, greenways and potential trail and wildlife corridors. These standards should be adopted as part of site plan review, cluster ordinances, conservation subdivision ordinances, site condominium ordinances and planned unit development ordinances. Create an aggressive tree planting and replacement program in all three jurisdictions along all public roads so that a new tree canopy will be in place as the many post-mature trees along public roads die off. Assist with preparation of an annual capital improvements program in each jurisdiction to guide the location of future public facilities consistent with this Plan. At least once each five years, this Plan should be thoroughly reviewed and updated by the Joint Planning Committee and each Planning Commission with support from each governing body. Saugatuck City Specific priority recommendations in the City of Saugatuck include: • Complete preparation of a sub-area plan for the Oxbow Peninsula in cooperation with Saugatuck Township. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 13-3 �• • • • • • Examine zoning along the waterfront with an eye to permitting limited mix use and more public views of the waterfront without increasing building height. Coordinate waterfront zoning changes with those of the City of the Village of Douglas and Saugatuck Township. Establish uniform height standards and maintain side yard setbacks. Where the opportunity exists to acquire property for public parks (even if just pocket parks), do so. Promote marina development on Kalamazoo Lake, especially the remaining undeveloped shoreline, as an approach to improving boating access instead of converting waterfront lands to residential, which would restrict access. Add groundwater and wetland protection to site plan review standards. Photo 13-1 Preparation of an Oxbow Peninsula Sub-Area Plan is Important for Long-term Preservation Photo by Aaron Sheridan City of the Village of Douglas Specific priority recommendations in the City of the Village of Douglas include: • Complete a comprehensive reexamination of zoning district boundaries and permitted uses in a manner consistent with this Plan. • Coordinate waterfront zoning changes with those of the City of Saugatuck and Saugatuck Township. • Establish uniform height standards and maintain side yard setbacks. • Where the opportunity exists to acquire property for public parks (even if just pocket parks), do so. • Add groundwater and wetland protection to site plan review standards . Saugatuck Township Specific priority recommendations in the Township of Saugatuck include: • Examination of the zoning boundaries and appropriate range of permitted uses, including mixed uses of property along Blue Star Highway. Pay special attention to not inadvertently undermining the integrity of existing local businesses in the City of Saugatuck and the City of the Village of Douglas. Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 13-4 �• • • • • • • Examination of the permitted density in rural residential and agricultural parts of the Township with an eye to possible changes to reduce permitted density or which result in permanent protection of large amounts of open space so that overall development density in these areas is much lower than would occur at buildout under existing zoning . Coordinate waterfront zoning changes with those of the City of Saugatuck and the City of the Village of Douglas. • Establish uniform height standards and maintain side yard setbacks. • Where the opportunity exists to acquire property for public parks (even if just pocket parks), do so. Add groundwater and wetland protection to site plan review standards. Promote marina development on Kalamazoo Lake , especially the remaining undeveloped shoreline, as an approach to improving boating access instead of converting waterfront lands to residential, which could restrict access. Where there are pristine creeks and no public storm water facilities, consider density below 1 dwelling unit (DU)/2.5 acres unless significant mitigation measures are required (more than storm water detention, such as filter traps , cleaning , rain gardens, etc.) Obtain base line traffic counts from the County Road Commission on County Roads. Prepare sub-area plans for the Interstate Highway interchanges. KEY STRATEGIES TO BE IMPLEMENTED While the above priority initiatives are being implemented, the matters that come before planning commissions and governing bodies month-to-month will permit many opportunities to implement key policies in this Plan (see policies in Chapter 1). Following are key strategies that should be implemented at every opportunity through local zoning , subdivision regulations and capital improvement programs. Many may first require updates to existing Zoning Ordinances. Most of the following strategies focus on preservation of the existing character of the Tri-Communities: • Protect the natural environment of the area. • Protect the visual quality of and visual access to the waterfront. • Preserve farmlands that farmers want to preserve. • Continue to support farmers that enroll land in PA 116 or who choose to participate in a county, state or national PDR program. • Promote use of cluster zoning with at least 50% open space in agricultural areas. • Encourage the use of land in accordance with its character and adaptability through the use of appropriate planning and zoning techniques. • Zone land presently used for continued low density/intensity use until utilities are available. • Preserve connected open space with each new development proportionate to the size of the development and the use of adjoining lands. • Do not strip zone or spot zone . • Do not zone land for high intensity use outside existing urban service areas or areas planned for utility expansion within the next few years . • Encourage the majority of new development to locate in areas where public utilities can be most efficiently and cost effective ly provided. • Zone land at densities that promote use of public utilities where they are Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June, 2005 13-5 �• available (usually 4 dwelling units/acre or more). Provide an adequate level of public services and facilities to protect the public health, safety and welfare , and to ensure a high quality of life for residents. • Require connection to public sewer and water wherever feasible. ~ Require the developer to pay for extensions of public sewer and water except the portion of the cost of lines that are oversized for access by other properties. • Use capital improvement programs to provide public services to areas already developed but not presently served, and pay for with special assessments. • Require all new development to have connected streets, sidewalks or trails or planned connections if adjoining land is not developed. Photo 13-2 Preservation of Scenic Viewing Areas is Very Important to Improving Quality of Life as with this Opportunity Along Tannery Creek Photo by Aaron Sheridan • • • Ensure that all new development is of high quality. • Be upfront with developers that nothing less than good design and the use of quality building materials is acceptable. • Provide bonuses for high quality design (increased density, approval for mixed use, fast track approval, etc.) where feasible and not counter to the achievement of other public objectives. Maintain or improve the character and stability of all existing single family neighborhoods and multiple family and manufactured housing communities by: • Adopting and implementing uniform property maintenance codes. • Participating in county low-interest home repair and improvement programs. • Encouraging blocks to create self-help home improvement projects for their neighbors in need. Provide a balanced range of affordable housing types at varying densities. • Ensure more land is zoned for residential use, but presently not used for residential use, in varying densities, where public utilities are present or could be Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 13-6 �• • • • quickly provided. Encourage high quality commercial development to locate adjacent to existing commercial development and only where planned and zoned for it. • Do not prematurely zone land for commercial use. •• Maintain a range of commercial zones and zone into the classification most compatible with adjoining uses. Reserve land well suited for industrial use and resist rezoning to another classification. Identify and protect important historic structures. • Inventory historic structures and pass and thereafter implemem an historic preservation ordinance. Preserve the capacity and function of the existing arterial and collector streets and minimize the conflicts between their functions by regulating land use, building setbacks, and driveway openings, and where appropriate, by requiring the development of front or rear access service drives. In addition: • Expand access management regulations to be consistent with the Michigan Access Management Guidebook prepared by MOOT for local governments. • Encourage the Allegan County Road Commission to adopt access management regulations. • Keep zoning density very low on land adjoining gravel roads until/unless the road is paved (see How Much Development is Too Much, available from the Huron River Watershed Council). • Keep new housing set back at least 300 feet from the interstate highway and require the planting and maintenance of a very thick vegetative buffer between homes and the highway. Photo 13-3 Maintaining Quality Streets and Preserving their Capacity is Important for Access by Residents and Visitors Photo by Aaron Sheridan • Be sure that all future rezonings are consistent with this Plan and if not when proposed, then the Plan needs to be amended first (can be done concurrently). Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 13-7 �• Be sure that future zoning text changes related to specific districts (e.g. permitted uses in commercial zones along Blue Star Highway) and other key standards are consistent with this Plan . • John f:\winword\tri-communities\final\CHAPT 13 key strategies final.doc C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\CHAPT 13 key strategies final 6 2 05.doc Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan Update June,2005 13-8 �BIBLIOGRAPHY Listed below are some of the key reports, studies, plans, and data sources which were used as references in the preparation of this plan. Other data sources are referenced throughout the plan. DEMOGRAPHICS U.S. Census, Current Population Reports, East North Central 1986 Population and 1985 Per Capita Income Estimates for Counties and Incorporated Places, Series P-26, No. 86-ENC-SC (also referenced for economic data). U.S. Census of Population and Housing, 1990-2000, Summary File 3A for Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, the Village of Douglas, and Allegan County. ECONOMY Michigan Department of Career Development, Office of Labor Market Information - LAUS Data, 2003 Real and Personal Property SEV, 1995-2003, Michigan Department of Treasury, State Tax Commission. • Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau, Saugatuck Michigan, 2004 The Economic Impact of Travel on Michigan Counties, prepared for the Michigan Travel Bureau by the U.S. Travel Data Center, July 1988. Travel and Tourism in Michigan: A Statistical Profile, First Edition. Research Monograph# I, Michigan State University, Travel, Tourism and Recreation Resource Center, 1986. Michigan Employment Security Commission, Bureau of Research & Statistics, Detroit, Michigan. HISTORY . Joe Armstrong and John Pahl, River & Lake: A Sesquicentennial History of Allegan County, Michigan, published by the 1835 Committee, 1985. National Park Service, U.S Department of the Interior. U.S. Secretary of the Interiors Standards for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings. Michigan Bureau of History, State Historic Sites, 2004. MASTER PLANS City of Saugatuck Comprehensive Plan, prepared by the City of Saugatuck Planning Commission in cooperation with the Saugatuck City Council, with assistance of Planning and Zoning Center, Inc., 1989. Saugatuck Township Comprehensive Plan, prepared by the Saugatuck Township Planning Commission in cooperation with the Township Board of Trustees, with assistance of the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. , 1989. �,,- • Village of Douglas Land Use Plan, prepared by the Village of Douglas Planning Commission in cooperation with the Village Council, Coastal Zone Management Program, Land and Water Management Division, Department of Natural Resources, and with the assistance of the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc., 1989. Land Use-Village of Saugatuck, prepared by the Saugatuck Planning Commission with the assistance of the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission, 1979. NATURAL RESOURCES Allegan County Drain Commission, 2003. Allegan County Land Information Services, 2004. Lake Michigan Potential Damage Study, US Army Corps of Engineers, 2002. Michigan Groundwater Survey, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, 2004. Michigan Resource Inventory System Database, Department of Natural Resources, 2004. Soil Survey of Allegan County, Michigan, United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, March 1987. Western Michigan University Geographic Information Systems Department, 2004. Wetland Protection Act 451 of 1994, Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. OWNERSHIP Land Atlas and Plat Book, Allegan County, Michigan, Rockford Map Publishers, Inc., 19871989. Saugatuck Township Plat Book, Township Treasurer's Office, Saugatuck, Township. PUBLIC FACILITIES A Feasibility Study on the Utilization of a Single Ground Storage Reservoir, Saugatuck, Douglas Water System, prepared for Kalamazoo Lake Sewer & Water Authority by Holland Engineering. Inc., January 18, 1983. A Parks and Recreation Plan for Allegan County, Michigan, prepared for Allegan County by Williams & Works, Inc., 1986. Allegan County Solid Waste Plan, prepared for the Allegan County Board of Commissioners and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources by the Allegan County Planning Commission. PA 641 solid Waste Planning Committee and the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission, 1997. EPA Lakewood Management Plan, EPA National Sediment Inventory Program, 2000. .. Facilities Plan for Wastewater, prepared by Williams & Works, April 1976. �- Joint Water Agreement, Kalamazoo Lake Water and Sewer Authority, 2001. Saugatuck-Douglas Area Parks and Recreation Plan, prepared by the Tri-Community Area Parks and ,Recreation Commission, with the assistance of the Saugatuck Public School District, February 1985. Little, Charles, Greenways for America, John Hopkins University Press, 1990. Recreation Plan, prepared by an ad hoc committee of eight representatives of Saugatuck, Douglas, Saugatuck Township and Saugatuck Public Schools, 2002. Saugatuck Township Area Utility Service Study, prepared by Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc., March 1988. The Kalamazoo River: Beauty and the Beast. Remedial and Preventative Action Plan for the Kalamazoo River Watershed Area of Concern, Kalamazoo River Watershed Public Advisory Council, 2004. Village of Douglas Water Supply Contamination Problem Evaluation and Recommendations, Wolverine Engineers & Surveyors. Inc., July 1, 1987. Village of Saugatuck Streets and Public Utilities Condition Report, May, 1984. Waterworks Reliability Study for Kalamazoo Lake Sewer and Water Authority, prepared by Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr, & Huber. Inc. , March, 1987. ZONING City of Saugatuck, in cooperation with the Sauguuck-Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau. Saugatuck 10-Year Strategic Development Plan, 2002. City of Saugatuck Zoning Ordinance, as amended through November, 2004. Saugatuck Township Zoning Ordinance, as amended through November, 2004. Village of Douglas Zoning Ordinance, as amended through November, 2004. OTHER Hartman, David. Tri-Community Public Opinion Survey, 2004 . Michigan Land Use Leadership Council, "Ten Tenents of Smart Growth," Michigans Land, Michigans Future, 2003. Moskowitz, Harvey and Carl Lindbloom, The Latest Illustrated Book of Development Definitions, Rutgers University, 2004, p. 83. Warbach, John and Mark Wyckoff. Grand Traverse Bay Region Development Guidbook. 3 rd Edition. New Designs for Growth and the Traverse Bay Region Chamber of Commerce, 2002. Wyckoff, Mark, Michele! Manning , Kris Closson and Elizabeth Riggs. How Much Development �• is Too Much? Huron River Watershed Council. 2003 . Wyckoff, Mark and Michele Manning. Michigan Access Management Guidebook, Michigan Department, of Transportation, 2001. C:\Evan\Tri Comm Final 6 2 05\REFERENCES.doc • • � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wyckoff Planning and Zoning Collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Planning & Zoning Center (Lansing, Mich.) (Organization) Wyckoff, Mark A. Description An account of the resource Municipal master plans and zoning ordinances from across the state of Michigan, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2020s. The bulk of the collection was compiled by urban planner Mark Wyckoff over the course of his career as the founder and principal planner of the Planning and Zoning Center in Lansing, Michigan. Some additions have been made to the collection by municipalities since it was transferred to Grand Valley State University. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960/2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Subject The topic of the resource Michigan Comprehensive plan publications Master plan reports Zoning--Michigan Zoning--Maps Maps Land use--planning Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-240 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Tri-Community_Comprehensive-Plan_2005 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tri-Community Planning Committee, Saugatuck City Planning Commission, City of Village of Douglas Planning Commission, Saugatuck Township Planning Commission, Saugatuck City Council, City of Village of Douglas Council, and Saugatuck Township Board of Trustees Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2005-06 Title A name given to the resource Joint Comprehensive Plan Description An account of the resource The Joint Comprehensive Plan for the City of Saugatuck, Saugatuck Township, and the Village of Douglas was prepared by the Tri-Community Area Planning Committee, each community's planning commission, the Saugatuck and City of Village of Douglas City Councils, and the Saugatuck Township Board of Trustees, with the assistance of the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc., in June 2005. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. (consultant) Subject The topic of the resource Comprehensive plan publications Saugatuck (Mich.) Douglas (Mich.) Saugatuck Township (Mich.) Allegan County (Mich.) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/e4b1e174a6ca053c3cbb2af502fecdc9.pdf 528dedff048f45a29a331f7f7366f067 PDF Text Text ,,,,... BACKGROUND ,,,,... FOR PL v\TINDSOR NNING TOv\TNSHIP, MICHIGAN �.,.. \VI~SOR TOWNSHIP _.....:......:;:.B:,::O~A~RDu r Ivan Harris Doroth ' Supervisor ?,-larch, 1\)61 """'" T-•• ,_d o1 ,,,,.,,,,,, °'"" ~•~-••"'' om•"'" .,.i ,o, Ed ward~ Jacl·s arsh , T rustee " on, Trustee 1nwrcsted c,t1zcns ~ ',=>W·>•~T•U "~ F-"" c=m"'''® uw• ,1ou""' "'.,,mu""""~"'"' Gontlorncn. n,d,,,""'' >'>< . Y Hull Cl H 11 . • erk E lizabeth , · o 1day , T reasurer Crarrv M Pl,,.,,., ,wd> '" tiWI ,,1,n=I'"" ,1 • , ,1 • ol p«llm,,.,, ,wd1"• wWci> 6"> «o= I><• ,~="'""'~ < NO'""""'°" ,~,pllod" , ID< ..,.. Garry l\Iarsh Su as of April 1967 Eugene N ' pervisor emeth ' T rustee ' as of April 1967 ' ,..,, ~•" .,. ••""""""'.,,. ,,,,, ,, "'" ,os~" ,1 "'" • "''tt' ,,m,u"' , , Wmd> " ,mm w ,,, ,., ,_,,. C ,mm'"'"' •'"' ,.,1n11o•I ,.,,,~ " p ,,_w • R•"""' p-••'""~ t yenr, •""'°' ""'' ,bll d W Tol-C""'b ,oou- ' , "'" , p '" "''"'"' . ""'" -'®• Tl< ,wdl<' c,mP" '"""" P-"' ,,.,,= -• ",tt»''"'"' "" ««• ""'" n, ,,.~, ,_,.,, <cnmcSl m. '®"'"'' "'"'"' "' '°"" ,. ' ·=-" """ ""' ,~~"" """ ~ .... • ~•m" '"'"'"" tr••~, _,, e'1w•~• , , """"' w "" •"'"" """' w~• " , _ , . , I omc• "''"" '""• AL" ,,,.oowd u , !o«"'' o! In<"" '"""''°' .,..u""', ,.,i.w o! •= fa•"'" =' mil••"" ID ®""'",odd~ """" •· "'"' •' ,, ""' ,.,.,.,.. .i,1,, o{ dov_loprncnt UI Ill futur•. Tob> i, i.,!O w ~• ,_,., , - " ,op"" In ,,,,'ldlo& • "'"" ,..,,,., w ,.,..ii,, "'1 will,,., o,MI rok = o,mm"'" ,u •~•,,.,11n1 '" "'""'' 1-'•"''"" """"" • pn>ll• ,nd '" d<~ lop· ,...,.lo', - ,n m,01"'• d,~l~" ,cl, mo••• Ip wm••"" u ''" ,ma, S, oq!~ wble0 U '"""" d wlID ,h,o """' ,.,, """ i,,d1<l<!na1' who d " " • - " ' " o{ ,ur community, U,e 5 tudy ..,,. I< ts '°"""' mw""""' i,p="' •""'"", nlso rccoinrnended. PLANNING COMMISSION Robert Ad Herman Dall ams' Chairman mann v· Dorothy Hu.Ii ice Chairman Mac L 1' Secretarv occwood . Leo Fulton Res~<:tfullY submitted, ~'{,~c? ,~ ~~,,._ WINDSOR TOWNSHIP • RobOrt '£. Adams, Chatrma:o Windsor Township l'lai..,in& Coil'- iss\on i.----------------------- Ronald J · Sw , an Lloyd NI. Eddy l ... - �......,,'I fROM THE LIBRARY QFj f.lannjng ~ Zoning Center, Inc. ----- ·--·· , - BACKGROUND FOR PLANNING _] DSOR TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION _] TOWNSHIP OF WINDSOR, MICHIGAN - March, 1967 --- -- -- - The preparaLion of Otis document was financiall)' aided through Federal grant from the Urban Renewal Administralion of the :l Department of Housing and L'rban Development under th~ Urban Planning Assistance Program nuthorized by Section 701 of the ~hlllsing Au of 19:i4, as amended. administered I>} the ~Iichigan Department of Commerce. TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION - - - - L A N S I N 6 - M I CH 16 A N - - - - �r ,.. ERRATA Page 32 32 Right column, first paragraph, first sentence: strike "six" and insert seven. Table IIIm include: Lansing* ... $66. 47 / 1, 000 of assessed valuation *Does not include city taxes 42 Add #15 Windsor Manor Subdivision, located at the northwest corner of Canal Road and Windsor Highway. 46 Left column, last paragraph, first line, first figure should be 1949. 62 Left column, first paragraph, fourth word should b e ~ - 63 Include the 25 acres adjacent to and west of the area annexed to the City of Lansing, into the Lansing School District. .... ..... ,.. .. .. . r r "" �ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Windsor Township Planning Commission and the staff of ihe Tri-County Regional Planning Commission greatly appreciate the help they have received from the following individuals and agencies in the compilation of this report: J Township and Village Administrative Officials Superintendent of Holt Public Schools Eaton County Road Commission Eaton County Drain Commission Michigan Water Resources Commission U.S. Soil Conservation Service, in cooperation with the Michigan Agricultural Extension Service . Eaton County Agricultural Extension Service . As the above are but a few of ihe many who have contributed their time and efforts, we wish to extend our appreciation to all in the community for their cooperative assistance. ~,e, Sincerely, Wm. C. Roman, Executive Director Tri-County Regional Planning Commission WCR/cak �.... TABLE OF CONTENTS I. Introduction II. Summary Ill . Background Introduction Regional Setting History Physical Features IV. Population Introduction Metropolitan Relationship P opulation T rends Existing Characteristics Population Estimate P redicting Future Population V. Economics Introduction Metropolitan Trends and Influences Characteristics of the Labor Force Agriculture Township Finances VI. Land Use Introduction Methodology Definitions Existing Land Use Patterns and Trends Land Use Analysis Land Use Related to Zoning Problems of Existing Development VII. Traffic and Major Streets Introduction Inventory Community Facilities and Utilities VIII. Introduction Public Facilities Public Utilities and Service Areas IX.. The Planning Phase Formulating the Plan The Citizen's Role in Planning Appendix x. ; i iii 1 1 2 2 .. a. >- I --- ' -.- --... I -..,,- ' 12 12 13 16 19 21 23 23 25 29 31 35 35 36 37 38 45 48 - I -r -,... ' ' ~ ..... ,. ..... ~ ,. .,... 49 50 61 61 69 74 74 .,,,. ,... .,,, �UST OF FIGURES Page No. Figure No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 The Planning Process Regional Setting Topography Generalized Soils Rivers, Drains and Flood Plains Area Cone of Depression Scenic Areas and Woodlots Regional Growth Trends Regional Population Trends Age-Sex Composition Population Distribution Population Projections Future Population Township Revenues Percent Distribution, Property Tax Revenues, Eaton Rapids School District Percentage Distribution of Expenditures Land Use Components Existing Land Use Subdivision Activity Existing Zoning Functional Street Layout Functional Street Classification Traffic Volumes and Capacities Traffic Volume Increases Major Pavement and Right-of-Way Widths Public School Districts Township and Village Public Facilities Natural Gas and Electric Transmission Lines i 2 3 6 9 10 11 14 15 17 20 22 22 32 33 34 37 39 42 47 51 53 56 57 58 63 66 73 • �-__....7 UST OF TABLES Table No. Ia II a II b II c III a III b III c III d III e III f III g III h III j III k III m III n IV a IV b IV c IV d IV e IV f IV g IV h IV j Va VI a Page No . Interpretation of Soils Drainage Characteristics Population Trends Income Characteristics, Windsor and Larger Units Population Estimates Place of Employment Employment Trends, Tri-County Area General Employment Categories Employment by Industrial Classification Manufacturing Employment Employed Labor Force Characteristics, Windsor and Larger Units Male Employment by Occupation Female Employment by Occupation Employment by Major Industrial Classification - 1966 Township Revenues - 1965 Property Tax For School Districts Township Expenditures - 1965 Dwelling Unit Types Subdivision Characteristics and Inventory Commercial Land Use by Location Commercial Uses Industrial Uses Recreational and Institutional Land Uses Undeveloped Land Area of Zoning Districts Land Use Related To Zoning Maintenance Responsibility by Governmental Unit Township School Characteristics Existing Land Use Totals Population Charges by Decade 5 15 18 22 24 24 25 25 26 27 28 28 29 31 32 33 38 40 41 41 43 44 45 46 46 59 62 Appendix A Appendix B ....I 'T ... ,,,,,,. �INTRODUCTION Promote good design and protect valuable land uses. To be efficient and effective , every local government needs a guide for growth and development. A comprehensive development plan serves as this guide. It provides the framework for numerous daily decisions in terms of an ultimate civic goal -- a better, more attractive and orderly community. Michigan Law states that: Preserve and enhance economic and social values. Inherent in the approach used to formulate a comprehensive development plan is the ''planning process. " "The purpose of plans ••. shall be to promote public health, safety and general welfare; to encourage the use of resources in accordance with their character and adaptability; to avoid the overcrowding of land by buildings or people; to lessen congestion on public roads and streets; to facilitate provision for a system of transportation, sewage disposal, safe and adequate water supply, recreation and other public improvements; and to consider the character of each township and its suitability for particular uses judged in terms of such factors as the trend in land and population development." "'~ c mulat! >n of facts • p u • 1 rnns I of tr ls and latin hi•ll• ;,, ynthesl rmination desired tionships ••• extracted from Township . Planning Commission Act (Act 168, P.A. of 1959). T In accomplishing this purpose, a comprehensive development plan should do four things for the community: J-.ff Guide the physical growth and economic development of the community toward determined objectives of public policy. C tu l >r i J \ n lhe P .lll Gro.phi< pre ent U,m <>f propo I dcveloJ ment I'igure 1 Provide a harmonious and efficient allocation and arrangement of land uses. B ·s -~ �Ll This involves research and survey, analysis, synthesis, plan formation and implementation. Once developed,, the plan is then implemented by various effectuating devices, such as zoning, subdivision control and capital improvements programming. To facilitate this process, the following text presents information on existing factors and trends, along with future considerations, including population projections, economic influences and land use considerations. This report presents the background for the formulation of a Comprehensive Development Plan for Windsor Township, Michigan. ii �SUMMARY When analyzing any block of data, certain conclusions may be drawn and particular problem areas may be outlined. It is the mtent of this summary to briefly note the significant findings and problems encountered in, this, the inventory phase of the comprehensive planning program. It is estimated that future populations will approach 3,850 by 1970, 4,900 by 1980, and 6,200 by 1990. The median school years completed for Township and Village residents was 11. 1 in 1960, which is slightly higher than the 10. 3 national average. In 1966 there •were approximately 1,012 residences in the Township with an average of 3 . 53 persons per household. Background The median family income increased significantly in Windsor Township over the period 1960 to 1965. In 1960 it stood at $5,711 while in 1965 the median income was $7,385. Windsor Township is located on the southwestern edge of the Lansing metropolitan area. Topographically, the Township is suited to virtually all types of development. There are, however, some areas in which soil composition will impair septic tank development. Consequently, the use of these areas must be of a lesser intensity than commercial, industrial or high density residential. Approximately 53% of the employed Township labor force worked in the City of Lansing in 1960. Of those working in manufacturing, 71 % were involved in the manufacture of transportation equipment. The Grand River is the most significant natural feature in Windsor Township, comprising 90% of the Township's surface water. Unfortunately this body of water has been tainted by pollution, as have its tributaries. The tributaries or drains themselves are less than adequate and will require improvement to provide for full development potential in the Township. Other physical problems consist of flood potential and the implications involved in the lowering of the water level underlying the whole metropolitan area. Agriculture is declining in importance as an employment endeavor . In 1959, 86% of all farm operators in Windsor Township worked 100 days or more off the farm. The number of agriculturally used acres has decreased approximately 2,500 acres since 1959. In addition, trends evidence larger farm sizes, fewer number of farms, and an increased dependence on speciality crops. Land Use Population and Economics Only 9% of the 21,176 acres in Windsor Township is developed. Approximately 70% is used for agricultural purposes and 21 % remains vacant or unused. Residential uses are Windsor Township has grown from a population of some l,334persons in 1920 to over 3,570 in 1966. iii �by far the most prevelant, comprising 31 % and 58% of the developed acreage in Windsor Township and Dimondale respectively. The construction of a new freeway facility west of the Township, in the future, could have a marked affect on traffic volumes on US-27. As listed in the 1960 Census, approximately 25% of the dwelling units in Windsor Township were deteriorating or dilapidated. Since 1960, an estimated 100 homes have been constructed within the planning area. A total of six subdivisions have been developed since 1960 to accommodate the majority of these homes. The street network as a whole is adequately fulfilling its function and is serving present traffic demands. Most commercial activity in the Township is located in the Village of Dimondale or along US-27. No major shopping concentrations exist at the present time. Public Facilities and Utilities. There are two elementary schools in the planning area, whose combined enrollment totaled 510 students in 1966. The majority of these, 472, attended the Dimondale Elementary School which is in the Holt School District. The Township and Village have many recreational opportunity areas, most of which are adjacent to the Grand River. Transportation uses, i.e. , streets and highways, account for over 63% and 22% of the developed acreage in the Township and Village respectively. Public sewage and water service are not yet available, however, both are in the planning stages and will provide service to the Village of Dimondale. The new sewage treatment plant will have a tentative design capacity of 150,000 gallons per day, to service an estimated 1,500 persons. Problems, although not yet severe, include mixed land uses, public service needs, strip commercial development, and a lack of public recreational space. Traffic and Major Streets Windsor Township contains 91. 5 miles of streets and highways. Of major importance in terms of traffic volumes and function are 1-96 and US-27. These facilities carry respective average daily volumes of 6,500 and 11,000 vehicles. Problems include an uneconomic fragmentation of school districts, the need to capitalize on areas of recreation potential, pollution of the Grand River, the implication of the Lansing area cone of depression, less than adequate provision for solid waste disposal and the lack of recognition that water and sewer problems cannot always be solved equitably, merely through local effort. A majority of the traffic entering the Township has no destination within it. The major portion of traffic merely passes through the Township on its way to larger urban centers. iv �BACKGROUND �The same physical or natural influences will also guide development in Windsor Township. Thus, if the future growth potential of Windsor Township is to be properly assessed, a discussion of the Township's setting within the Region and its relationship to the Lansing metropolitan area must be presented. In addition, a summary of historical development and an analysis of the physical elements which will influence potential growth are presented as a background for the information contained in the various other subsections of this report. REGIONAL SETTING BACKGROUND Windsor Township is located in the central part of the State of Michigan in close proximity to the center of the Lansing Tri-County area of Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties. The Township is bounded on the north and east by the rapidly urbanizing Townships of Delta and Delhi, and on the south and west by predominately rural Eaton Rapids and Benton Townships. The City of Lansing, the major trade and industrial center of the Region, penetrates Windsor Township to the north along its eastern boundary. The potential growth and development of an area is greatly dependent upon its relationship to surrounding areas and its natural physical character. One has only to look at the Tri-County Region's historical development for an illustration of those physical assets which attract and influence growth direction. Lansing, once confined to a relatively small area in the center of Lansing Township, has been experiencing a rapid outward expansion. This growth, however, has not occurred without some constraints imposed by nature. Areas of well drained soils and permissive topography have experienced higher growth rates than those areas possessing various physical limitations. The planning area is a community basically dependent upon Lansing for its source of employment, cultural activity and trade and is tied directly to Lansing by US-27 - M-78, the main arterial through the Township. Due to its close proximity to Lansing, the Township is progressively changing from rural to urban in character. 1 �primarily upon agricultural and logging activities for their livelihood. _,,_ Thomas J. Sloan settled in section 17, Windsor Township, in 1844. By 1856, his settlement had grown to include a sawmill, general store, two blacksmith shops and a wagon shop. The settlement soon became known as ''West Windsor, 11 but was also referred to as "Sevastopol, 11 after which its post office was named in 1849. The largest settlement to occur at this time was first settled by Isaac Dimond in 1850. In 1851, he opened a sawmill on the Grand River and laid out the village plat of ''Dimondale." By 1880, the Village of Dimon~ dale contained seven stores, two millinery shops, a planing mill, a grist mill, sawmill and several maching shops. -.- - ... J I T Today, Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale are considerably larger, wi1h a combined population of over 3,550 residents. However, future growth pressures will require perceptive planning and rigid controls to retain the pleasant atmosphere which the community now possesses. h gure !.! HISTORY PHYSICAL FEATURES Windsor Township at one time a part of Oneida Township originated in its present form in Feburary, 1842. The first settlement in Windsor Township was established in October, 1837 by Orango Towslee. At that time a large portion of the Township was known as "Old Maid Swamp"; remained unsettled and served to limit early growth for many years. Much of the early development which did occur, however, relied Topography Much of the topography in central Michigan is an asset, not a deterrent, to development. In ~a sense., less than 1% of the total area in the Tri-County Region presents development proplems due to extreme topographic 2 - - �, vu • .l!'!'---- 6 ).'_ = . '3!', 1/" 36 v " ~ /_ '>c :,,; WINDSOR TOWNSHIP I .......... ~ TOPOGRAPHY Figure 3 0 .5 Scale in miles TRI-COl/NTY REGIONAL PLANNING COM?oUSSION 535 Cllpport St., Lansing, Michigan n.~n:a.............. u.... ._... ,al Ill ..,__. ■ r..i.r.JP9't... .. A<lml.MAU.U- 111 . . o.,,., i-i,..udlfrt.nti.ws.,,.-i, adardootl.-- i-mc11.Mu-l'.....am~-\Mldll)ll..,.Uri,:,10lel . . Kcm-.t,C'I"' &•4 . . . - - - - - • ........lolnd . . M JtJpa ~ I .t ("-BSfta �population pressures from the Lansing metropolitan area, Windsor Township is steadily changing from a rural to an urban character in many areas. variations. Windsor Township possesses very little topography too severe for building construction. The topography of the Tri-County Region and Windsor Township is the direct result of a catastrophic event which took place about one million years ago. The geologic time period named for this event is called Pleistocene, or "Ice Age. " During this time, great glaciers of ice moved across Michigan with thicknesses in excess of 300 feet. These great sculptors of land advanced and receded four times during this period. Each time the melting ice left behind more glacial debris than before. Erosion resulting from the meltwaters of the glaciers formed the hills, valleys, lakes and streams which constitute the present topography. Although gentle topography is conductive to building construction, other developmental problems may arise from land being too flat. For instance, sanitary sewer and storm drainage systems become very costly to install and operate if insufficient natural gradient necessitates mechanical pumping for proper operation. Thus, surface drainage problems may be accentuated in areas of flat terrain. Also, excessive water accumulations during the spring thaws may cause localized ponding and the flooding of basements where insufficient runoffs exist. Due to this possibility of ponding in many of the flat areas of the Township, surface drainage will be required to make such areas usable for development. The "Old Maid Swamp" in the northwest portion of the Township is a result of this glacial process. Soon after the glaciers melted, this area was covered with water. Since this time, the lake has disappeared, leaving a large area of mucky soils behind. In summation, the topography of Windsor Township is conducive to all types of development. Due to the rolling nature of the terrain, particularly along the Grand River, Windsor Township possesses some of the best potential residential areas in the Lansing metropolitan area. Generally~ the area of Windsor Township, slopes gently from west to east. The highest point is Cunningham Hill in section 18, with an elevation of 990 feet above sea level, while the lowest point of elevation is approximately 835 feet above sea level where the Grand River leaves the Township in section 2. Figure 3 portrays the topography of the Township. Soils Approximately 75% of the land area in the Tri-County Region is in a medium or high fertility range. However, many of these good loamy soils are being encroached upon by urban developmentj particularly in those townships surrounding the City of Lansing. As a result, large acreages of productive soils are being isolated by urban or suburban development. When this occurs the tax assessment on the land becomes too great to continue cultivation of the soil. Consequently, the land The predominately flat land in the area has contributed to a wide range of development. Originally, the Township was primarily agriculturally oriented. Even today a majority of the land is used for agrarian purposes. However, due to increases in technology and 4 �Like many of the suburban areas of Lansing, Windsor Township has experienced some scatteration of growth. Part of this development has occurred on soils where the operation of individual septic tanks are somewhat problematic. If this trend is allowed to continue, serious health problems may result. The installation of a township operated sewage disposal system will definitely eliminate this health proglem. In addition, such a system would aid in concentrating the pressure for development near the present urban areas and decrease pressure for decentralized growth . is either sold to a land developer who converts the land to an urban use which will produce a higher economic return, or is left unused. Fortunately, this has not yet become a serious problem in Windsor Township. Of particular nore, the internal drainage capacity of soils (permeability) must be carefully evalua ed in planning for residential , commercial 11 or industrial development. Generalized drainage characteristics of soils in Windsor Township are shown on Figure 4 and are described in Table Ia. Besides permeability, stability is another attribute of soils which has to be considered whenever a structure is being erected. Extensive commercial, institutional and industrial development requires a highly stable soil base to withstand the weight of such buildings. Therefore, two of the primary development concerns with regard to soils in Windsor Township are: TABLE la INTERPRETATION OF DRAINAGE CLASSIFICATION Number of Months Per Year Water-Lo!l&!!d Well Drained Septic Tank QQeratlon 1. The soils suitability for supporting construction of buildings. Frost Heaving Stabillt_y Good None Good Good Moderately Well Drained 2 Fair Some Somewhat Poorly Drained 6 Bad Severe *Good Poorly Drained 10 Bad Severe •Poor Organic (Muck or Peat) or Alluvial 12 Very Bad Very Severe 2. The soils' ability to support individual sewage disposal systems as a community sewage disposal system is not available. Although test borings and percolation tests normally will be required to provide specific data for these concerns , some generalized observations can be made from the presented "Generalized Soils Map." For example, a large area of organic and poorly drained soils appears in the area of the "Old Maid Swamp" in the northwest portion of the Township. Also, two similar areas occur in the southern portions of the Bad NOTE: *Finely textured soils In this category will be very unstable. 5 �J WINDSOR TOWNS HIP GENERALIZED SOILS A B • C D ■ E F WELL ORA INEO MODERATELY WEL OMEWHAT L DRAINED POORLY D POORLY DRAINED RAINED ORGANIC - MUCK AND ALLUVIAL PEAT Figure 4 D oF..iiiiii~-.5 Scale In miles I April 1966 TRI-COUNTY 535 Clippert REGIONAL p LANNING COMMI St . ' L anslng , Michigan 5.SION �J name but a few. It is the responsibility of the decisionmaking people of Windsor Township, however, t.o preserve and maintain this valuable natural asset for future generations t.o enjoy. Township. Because water does not move through these soils at a desirable rate, septic tank use should be carefully controlled. Approximat.ely 15 t.o 20 percent of the Township consists of soils which are undesirable for septic tank operation. Most of the streams and drains wi1hin Windsor Township flow directly int.o the Grand River. Portions of the "Old Maid Swamp" and the King Drain in 1he southwest portion of the Township flow west int.o the Thornapple River drainage system. This system again, however, even1ually joins the Grand River near the City of Grand Rapids. The Township drainage pattern may be seen on Figure 5. Because of potential soil problems, where septic tanks are cont.emplated in any area of Windsor Township, careful determinations should be made t.o assure lot sizes which are sufficient t.o: 1) accommodate the septic tank and tile field; 2) provide successful absorption of the septic tank effluent; and 3) give adequate protection t.o the water supply. In general, if small lot development is t.o be permitted, central sewer and water service is an extreme necessity from the public health standpoint. Presently, according t.o the Eaton County Drain Commissioner, most of the drains in Windsor Township are inadequate. Many drains will have t.o be enlarged and dredged to accommodate potential w-hanization. Corrective measure should be initiated in the near future, as the growth potential of the Township may be affected. Surface Water Unlike much of the lower peninsula of Michigan, the Tri-County Region has a severe deficiency of surface water. Only six-tenths of 1% of the total land area in the Region is covered with water. Consequently, it is no surprise that Windsor Township has only one significant natural water body -- the Grand River. This natural feature constitutes approximately 90% of all surface water in the Township. Another problem attributed to surface water is occasional flooding. Although usually a periodic consideration, extensive damage to life and property can occur when development exists within flood plains. RainfaU in the Tri-County Region is moderately heavy, averaging approximately 31 inches per year. Although major flooding has occurred only twice in the Region since the turn of the Century, once in 1904 and once in 1947, the Grand River has reached flood stage in Lansing 33 times since 1902. Fortunately, flood conditions are not as severe in Windsor Township as they are in the Lansing area, in that river banks are fairly high throughout most of the Township. Some flooding, however, does occur where small tributaries enter the main branch of the river. As stated, the Grand River, which originates in northern Hillsdale County, is by far the most significant natural feature within the Township. This water body can prove an invaluable asset t.o the residents of Windsor Township, in that it provides a ready-made atmosphere for desired residential development, recreational activities and unspoiled natural beauty, to 7 �L ... The Lansing metropolitan area, including Windsor Township, is indeed fortunate to be located on one of the best bedrock aquifers in the State of Michigan; the Saginaw Formation. The most productive strata of this bedrock are the thick layers of sandstone. The wells tapping this bedrock water source in the Greater Lansing Area average 543 gallons per minute. For example, a 14-inch well located on Wise Road in the southwestern portion in the City of Lansing, produces 600 gallons per minute. In addition, the City of Mason operates a 10-inch well in the Saginaw Formation producing 495 gallons per minute. Areas which may possibly be subjected to periodic inundation by flood waters in Windsor Township are also shown on Figure 5. It should be stressed that these are judgments as to areas which may become flooded and are not necessarily areas which have actually been flooded in the past. As a minimum, until more accurate flood plain data becomes available, careful consideration should be given to development proposals within these outlined areas. It is gratifying to report that a study is now in progress by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to determine the exact areas where flooding may occur along the Grand River. One of the chief problems associated with the development of additional groundwater supplies in the Lansing metropolitan area is the interference between proposed well fields and existing well fields . Well interference results when the pumping action lowers the water level in the aquifer. This process causes a cone of depression around the older established wells, as indicated in the following sketch (Figure 6). Groundwater The domestic water used by residents of Windsor Township is obtained from private fresh water wells located in the glacial till, as the community does not possess a municipal water system. The pumping capacity of wells tapping this water source has not as yet been determined, however, they may vary greatly, in that a well situated in sand or gravel will be able to pump water at a faster rate than a well located in a clay or loamy subsoil. As new wells are drilled, the cone of depression becomes greater until the wells located in the center of this cone are forced to discontinue operation (see illustration, Well A). When this occurs, the dry wells must either be drilled deeper at their present location (Well B) or drilled on the perimeter of the cone in order to reach a new water source (Well C). Both alternatives can be very costly to the community operating the well. The mineral content of the fresh water is generally high, with a predominance of iron and calcium. The hardness of water may necessitate the use of water softening devices by residents of the Township. In the future, where urbanization permits, this added expense will possibly be eliminated with the establishment of the anticipated community-operated water system. Unfortunately, the Lansing area is characterized by just such a problem. For this reason, city wells are being placed ever further outward into rural areas as is witnessed by the three city wells located in northern Windsor Township. The severity of this problem can be reduced only by greater cooperation and coordination between all township and city governments in the Greater Lansing Area. The source for a community-operated water system, if deemed desirable, would likely be deep wells drilled into water bearing bedrock called "aquifers." 8 .. ,,. ,,. ,, .., �WINDSOR TOWNSHIP RIVERS, DRAINS AND FLOODPLAINS RIVERS DRAINS and WATERBODIES FLOODPLAINS Source: Eaton County Drain Commissioner • 0 .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing , Michigan !"ho µrq,.arnu,.., of 1111• ""'" "~,i, fo,1u'1~1.0.JI) · ..i 1,1,.,.,,;1, " r ~-,.1 ,cnu,,, r - I.II l ,,..., 11..nMl""IU .\,tu,nllatr1111on of 11.. 1,.,.,.,,·tm..'llt ol :1111 l"r•"'ll llo:'wl•,r, ,w,111, 11ndi,,rlholr'IAJll"amll•'C,\9.o,tt.l:urC11J'.......,,,a111l><Jrtr t.,~1·U<J11Jel<dlll-ll1••U1& Ac.-t <>I i!JM. u ~ffll!.lltk,d, ~•""" ~IL•r, 11,c: lJ1t'll1i;iu, lk,,>;1,,_.., '1f l"--nw. ,,.,.,..,n,i: �in the vicinity of Cunningham Hill in section 18. Many of these wooded areas constitute potential sites for recreational purposes. However, if such areas are to be utilized for their recreational potential or preserved simply for their natural beauty, initial action should be taken soon. Delay regarding this matter can only result in increased costs to future taxpayers . Lansing Metropolitan Area Cone of Depression DEWITT TWP. LANs.lNG TWP WINDSOR TWP Historically, man has been able to overcome many of the adverse conditions placed upon him by his physical environment. The weapons used in this struggle have been man's own initiative and ingenuity. Consequently , our society has been able to advance and increase in number throughout the years. If the residents of Windsor possess this ancestry, the physical problems mentioned in this chapter will be solved , the Township will grow, and the people will prosper. Figure 5 It must be stated, however, that although the previously mentioned problems must be considered when developing a municipal water system for the Windsor Township area, such a municipal system may not prove economically feasible until a higher degree of urbanization has occurred within the Township boundaries. Woodlands and Scenic Areas In 1851, Isaac Dimond opened a sawmill on the Grand River in the present location of the Village of Dimondale. Due to his efforts and the efforts of other early pioneers who settled the Township and cleared trees for agricultural purposes, only scattered woodlots remain. These remaining wooded areas are primarily located near the center of square mile sections, as can be seen on Figure 7. The majority of the trees in these woodlots are deciduous rather than coniferous. The scenic areas of the Township are quite significant in comparison to the remainder of the Lansing area. These areas, as outlined on Figure 7 , extend along the banks of the Grand River and encompass lands 10 �WIND S OR TOW NS HIP EXISTING WOODLOT S Source: 1964 Aerial Photos Gt ---- - ---- - . ~ F igure 7 0 .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert st. , LBDlling, Michigan II>.....,, • n. """""nul.., ol ll'li. ....., ..-.. fl....,.,t..llr ~lllo>d ~--4,,,..i pw,1 '""" th,, l!rbou, n.--1 .W...ll>l•tnUo.m i,f IN D<1><1ru...,,11 ol 11""6\nf; and Crt.a ° " " " ' ~ I , Mc1.,r1tieU,.._,l'laMhlaA.. i.ia-r,..,.nm...,lboriaodt.,.Sc"1'°"101ofd..llw,iac Aol vf IN-4, NI - ~ • .tinlffltldn-d II) Uw: Mldll!P"' 1-....nment ol c ..... _,..,,,_ �,- POPULATION �satisfy these requirements. Thus, detailed consideration will be given to past growth trends; existing population characteristics, i.e. , age, sex, family size, education, income, etc.; residential density patterns, and population projections. ... The projection periods for this study are for five year intervals up to 1990. It must be realized that projections so far into the future are hazardous at best, especially for a small area such as Windsor Township. Many conditions could possibly arise which would have a drastic effect on the Township's population growth. Such happenings are not only difficult to predict on the basis of past trends, but impossible to foresee. Hence, regardless of the method used to estimate future population, the final statistics must be based on a wide range of social and economic assumptions. ,,. ,... ,- r ,- ,- POPULATION , The major source of population data utilized herein is from the U.S. Census of Population and Housing. whose last enumeration was for 1960. Additional information, of a more current nature, will be drawn from the recently completed land use survey of Windsor Township and the 1965 Home Interview Study, each of which was conducted by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission staff. It is felt that each of these sources is generally applicable to present day trends within Windsor Township. Population statistics, past, present and future,_ are extremely important in the development of a comprehensive plan. The reason for their importance is the fact that population generally tends to grow, bringing with it a directly related quantity of urban development. Consideration must be given to quantitative increase as well as to the qualitative character of an area to properly assess future land use needs. It is the intent of this section to analyze historic population trends, pertinent characteristics of Windsor Township's residents and to subsequently estimate the present and future population of the Township. This information will then provide the basis for ascertaining how much land must be set aside for the various land uses in the future, the level of public services which will be required and the timing necessary to METROPOLITAN RELATIONSHIP A great deal of urban growth has taken place in the Lansing Tri-County Region in the:-past 45 years. Prior 12 ,.. �a "bedroom" community for the Lansing metropolitan area. Simply defined, a "bedroom" community refers to any suburban concentration which derives a major portion of its livelihood from the central city, but is located outside of the central city's political boundaries. It is difficult to state, with any certainty, just how great the migration of urbanites to the suburbans will be. Judging from past experiences, however, suburban migration accompanied with natural increase trends should nearly double the present population of Windsor Township in the next 25 years. to the 1920's, the Lansing area was a very compact city with residential area locations based primarily upon walking distance from community facilities and places of employment. However, after 1920, the increase in private automobile ownership and improved roadways greatly stimulated development within the surrounding townships. This suburban exodus was given even further impetus by the population explosion which occurred after World War II. As can be seen from the Regional Setting diagram (Figure 2), Windsor Township is located on the fringe of this rapidly expanding suburban area. Comparisons of past growth trends in population for Windsor Township and a number of Windsor's related areas within the Tri-County Region are portrayed in Figure 9 and Table Ila. Hence, due to the vast improvements in transportation technology and its strategic location, the present development of Windsor Township is closely related to that of Lansing and its environs. This is indeed convenient for the Township residents in that a good portion of the employment, financial and cultural opportunities of the Region are contained with the Lansing-East Lansing area. POPULATION TRENDS Michigan, like the rest of the nation, is experiencing a gradual shifting of population. People are migrating from rural to urban areas. By way of illustration, 11 of the 15 counties in Michigan's upper peninsula and 15 of the 68 counties in the lower peninsula declined in population between 1950 and 1960, The majority of the population increase has taken place in the urban areas in the southern portion of the State. The Lansing Tri-County Region, including Windsor Township, is one of these areas of increased growth. Figure 8, entitled Regional Growth Trends, reflects the fact that most of the past growth within the TriCounty Region has occurred within the central fivetownship area. This area includes the cities of Lansing and East Lansing, as well as Delhi, Delta, Lansing, DeWitt, and Meridian Townships. It is pertinent to note, however, that suburban development of a lowdensity suburban character is now occurring in the adjacent areas of Alaiedon, Bath, Watertown and Windsor Townships. To further define trend areas, it can be noted that while Eaton County contains only about one-fourth as many people as Ingham County, Eaton County experienced a Consequently, Windsor Township, by its grographic location, contains the necessary attributes to become 13 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I �.... .A TI7 _, -,.. .... --, - I r ' ,- .- I ' �I .. C' I r I Yea ... ~llO 1920 1930 !94() 1950 1960 966 30<> --~ I !. 1c, ... l 01 I -:'ii 46• 2, .. L4 '> 62_ 01 f ..,11 ~.., 120 3,& 3 < I 3 *Figure& :nc- ..tde the V1:J.age o~ DiP >r.daw 11.6 I 100 : I 91) b I $0 C, I -f- ~-r I I I I I �ship and Eaton County experienced a decrease in the percent of persons 65 years of age and older. higher growth rate between 1950 and 1960. During this period, the population of Eaton County increased 24.1%, while Ingham County experienced a 22.2% increase. [ The Township experiencing the most rapid rate of growth within the Region during the past decade, was Delta Township, which borders Windsor Township to the north. Between the 1950-1960 period, Delta Township population increased by 84. 6%. Eaton Township experienced a 42% rate of growth during this same period, while five townships in Eaton County experienced growth rates of between 20 and 30%. These were Windsor, Oneida, Eaton Rapids, Walton and Hamlin Townships. Although Windsor Township has demonstrated a progressive population increase over the past four decades, the Township has experienced a slower rate of growth than most of the other fringe townships, composing the central nine-township area, (see Appendix). Age and Sex Composition r The age group distribution of Windsor Township has~ in all probability, not changed greatly since 1960. It is assumed that the families occupying the many new homes in the Township are in the 25-44 age group; an age when rising incomes permit the purchase of single-family suburban homes. The community is probably also experiencing a decrease in younger single and married couples 20-24 years old and older couples over 65. Data on age group distribution will be helpful in forecasting population, in planning for school needs, and in pointing up trends in the labor force. It also serves as an indicator of some of the economic and social characteristics of a community. EXISTING CHARACTERISTICS f Additional population groupings for Windsor Township are shown in Figure 10. Here, it can be seen that Windsor Township has a relatively small proportion of its population in the 20-29 year age grouping. This is indicative of present trends, whereby many young adults are leaving rural areas for the economic advantages offered in the more highly urbanized centers. Education and Income Windsor Township experienced little change in the percentage of persons in most age groups for the 30year period, 1930 to 1960. The most significant change which did occur, however, was in the increased percentage of children under five years of a.g e, a trend which was also reflected in the Regional population composition. It was of further interest to note that among the Regional subunits studied, that only Windsor Town- As evidenced throughout the nation, there is a significant correlation between family income and educational levels. That is, higher educational levels tend to produce greater economic returns. This same relationship appears to hold true for the Tri-County area as well. For example, the median educational level achieved by residents of 16 �v.· DSOR TOWNSHIP .\GE SEX C OMPOSITION 1960 Age Group 85 - Over 80 - 84 75 - 79 70 - 74 FEMALE MALE Senior Citizen Population 65 - 69 60 - 64 55 - 59 so - 54 45 - 49 40 - 44 P:rime Labor Force Population 35 - 39 30 - ~4 25 - 29 20 - 24 15 - 19 iO - 14 5 - ! 0 - ;) ] tu<, nt Po, ,la ] P T 3 T 1 0 2 Il':...r1c.r h L >l I r 2 •u n 1 I >pu l t1 > 3 l .~. Burv u c1f (' t m llS �) l East Lansing approaches 16 years. This area also contains one of the highest levels of family income in the Lansing metropolitan area, the median income being $7,152 in 1960. illustrates the number of families in various groups for Windsor Township, Eaton County and the Tri-County Region in 1959. r The median school years completed for the 1960 Windsor Township population including Dimondale was 11 . 1 years. Of persons over 25 years of age, 42% had attained a high school education. The Township figure was slightly higher than the State average of 10. 8 years and the national average of 10. 3 years. It was, however, moderately lower than the Eaton County average of 11. 3 years. r The 1960 Census provides information of family income for the study area. The reported median family income for Windsor Township was $5, 711, as compared to an average of $5,811 for Eaton County and $6, 1 77 for the Tri-County Region. r r ~ r Table lib F AMILY INCOME BY INCOME GROUP - WINDSOR TOWNSHIP, EATON COUNTY AND TRI-COUNTY REGION-1959 Wlndsor Township %of All In Windsor Township, the median family income was $7,385 in 1965, according to the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission's Home Interview Survey. This figure represents an increase of $1,674 over the 1960 figure, due primarily to the attainment of higher levels of education and rising economic inflation over this 5-year period. No. of Income G ~ Under 1,000 In Windsor Township, 36% of the families had incomes of less than $5,000, 51% between $5,000 and $10,000, and 13% above $10,000. Only 11 % of the incomes were below $3,000, an amount recently declared by the Federal Government as the minimum adequate yearly family income. Approximately 1 % of the families within the Township had incomes above $25,000. Table llb, Families Families % of All Families Tri- County Region %of All No . of Families Families 3% 471 4% 2,244 3% $1,000 to $1,999 18 2% 796 6% 3,743 6% $2,000 to $2,999 53 6% 949 8% 4,552 6% $3,000 to $3 , 999 115 14% 1,063 8% 5,508 8% $4,000 to $4,999 92 11% 1,407 11% 8,012 11% $5,000 to $5,999 166 20% 1,959 16% 11 , 021 15% $6,000 to $6,999 76 9% 1 , 461 12% 8 , 781 12% $7,000 to $7,999 56 7% 1,227 10% 7 , 327 10% $8,000 to $8,999 68 8% 984 8% 5,752 8% $9,000 to $9,999 56 7% 674 5% 4 , 326 6% $10,000 to $14 , 999 88 10% 1,190 9% 8,746 12% $15,000 to $24,999 16 2% 280 2% 2 ,406 3% $25,000 and over 12 1% 129 1% 851 1% 840 100% 15,590 100% 73 , 269 100% Source: 1960 U.S. Bureau of the Census. 18 Eaton County No. of Families 24 Total Families ,.. l_ The recent construction of many fine residential homes in Windsor Township indicates that the median family income is increasing. These changes may now have brought the median family income for Windsor Township closer to the average of other suburban townships and the Region. �the near future, growth will continue to take place in the northeast corner of the Township. Distribution of future population will be affected by a number of factors, among them the location of new industrial plants, the routing of streets and roads and the suitability of land for residential development. Most important, the amount of future growth and the type and quality of development that will occur will depend on decisions made by the Township government today. The Subdivision Activity Map presented in the Land Use section further emphasizes the recent growth which is occurring in the Township relative to population distribution. Household Status and Mobility In 1966, Windsor Township contained some 1,012 occupied dwelling units. Such units contained an average of 3, 53 persons including both relatives and nonrelatives. It was -found that the number of persons per household has reduced since 1960 in line with the national trend toward smaller families and the increased marriage rate being experienced throughout the country. The 1960 Census also portrays some indication of the mobility of the population. In Windsor Township nearly 58% of the families lived in the same house as they did in 1955. This figure is above the figure for the nation as a whole, which was approximately o0%. In summation, the population composition of Windsor Township is changing due to the number of people migrating into the Township from other areas. The populous of the Township today earn more money and have a higher level of education than residents of ten years ago. Also, due to improved highway facilities and its favorable geographic location, it is readily accessible to most major metropolitan areas in the State. These factors, plus numerous others, provide additional impetus to the future growth of the Township. Distribution of Population Figure 11 termed Population Distribution, portrays the spatial distribution of dwelling units in Windsor Township. As shown, the major concentration of dwelling units is found in the Dimondale area, with remaining units being found scattered throughout the Township in isolated developments or paralleling county roads . POPULATION ESTIMATE (1966) A notable change in the distribution of population within Windsor Township is occurring in conjunction with the increased trend toward suburbanization. Most of the population increase in recent years has taken place in the northeast corner of the Township near the City of Lansing. New home construction, however, is occurring throughout the Township. Trends indicate that in Before an estimate can be made for future population, a numerical assessment must be made of the current population. The means for achieving a current estimate involves a count of occupied dwelling units for 1966 from the land use survey and then an application of the number of persons per household. The survey revealed a total of 1,012 occupied dwelling units at 19 • • • • I ' J �WINDSOR TOWNSHIP HOUSEHOLD DISTRIBUTION * /'., , / · t - - - --"-~~ -/ -, ·, , '-._ I I -----j~ ------ :--------------- i / . / / ' DIMONDAL£ : :I *Each dot represents one household. I ;;:- Sou ce: 1966 Land Use Figure 11 "--~---_;,a . a ,5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Clippert St, , Lansing , Michigan n-~••dm """' ..... '>I,~-r.,."'craM'-- &ur,,dail,&klull ~ • u,._ " - - ' AdB11ai.f;U'&tl.<lft tJl U-, Df-;aMl"rila c,.. ........, • ....... r . . lirt-P..uirc~Ptvs,l'aftl_._,_t.,!IKU-'Nl1of . . ~.. M"f ot LIM, ... ~ . . . . .,,w.-od bjl It. Ui;!fi;.(llil D,,ipa"-1 tif c--m.. �- - - - The results of decreasing birth rates. and -increasing deaths -will produce. a lower rate ,of. natural-increase in the future. an estimated 3. 53 persons per household for a total of approximately 3,573 persons in 1966. This figure will be utilized in conjunction with trends in natural increase and net migration to predict the future population. Migration Throughout the world demographers and statisticians are constantly experimenting with methods for estimating future population and analyzing the many factors which · accelerate or retard growth. At present, no satisfactory method has been derived for predicting future population for small areas. Population projections for Windsor are weak because data regarding birth, death, in-migration and out-migration is available only on a countywide basis. The best results, therefore, can be achieved by using the county statistics as "indicators" for the Township area. Statistics regarding migration are as equally difficult to acquire for Windsor Township as are the rates of natural increase. However, during the last census, a limited amount of information regarding prior resident location was collected. The data presented indicated that nearly 1,200 residents living in Windsor Township in 1960, had resided in other areas in 1955. Of this figure, nearly 29% had previously resided in Eaton County, while some 71 % had previous residence in another county. During this high in-migration period, it is assumed that a low out-migration trend prevailed. Thus, if net migration remains at its present level, it can be assumed that Windsor Township will continue to experience a steady population increase over the next few years. Natural Increase Population Projections Customarily, the natural increase for any particular area is defined as the number of births minus the number of deaths. The number of births decreased during World War II and the Korean War, but quickly rose thereafter to a peak in 1957. With the scientific breakthroughs in the field of birth control, the birth rate has somewhat declined in recent years. In addition, trends indicate a slight numerical increase in the number of deaths, even though the rate of mortality is declining in Eaton County. The method of projection utilized in this report is based on the following assumptions: PREDICTING FUTURE POPULATION 1. The future rate of growth for Windsor Township will approximate 26% for each 10-year period up to 1990. 2. A slight increase in the number of deaths will continue. 21 �I I • TOW\JS~ .IP P~OJL Cf 1O\J S 3. A continuing de crease in the rate of births will prevail. t 4. Township in-migration will exceed the out-migration. .fl u 5. Further annexations by the City of Lansing of the present area of Windsor Township will not occur. ., ~ + \,) J 0 r. ,_ By using the assumptions listed, a growth factor was determined. This factor was then applied to each 10year period to obtain the succeeding 10-year period. The resulting projections are depicted graphically in Figure 12. r 0 2 V' 1. ~ Upon examination of these projections, other growth influencing factors were considered and a more precise projection was obtained (see Figure 13 and Table Ile). One should remember that this, as well as other projections, is based on continuing moderate stability of the regional, state wide and national situation. 1 O 60 •q66 191() 1980 1990 Figure 12 tJfJRE POf )UL Ar lON S Table Ile POPULATION ESTIMATES (1960-1990) Year Windsor Dimondale Total 1960 1966 1970 1980 1990 2,334 2,623 2.850 3,700 4,700 886 950 1,000 1,200 1,500 3,220 3,573 3,850 4,900 6,200 ~ C'. l1l 22 l ' �.... -- - - - ... ECONOMICS �The information contained herein was collected from the 1960 U .s. Bureau of the Census; the Township and Village offices; and a telephone employer survey to determine the number of employees working within the Township and Village boundaries. Througout the economic section any reference to Windsor Township is meant to include the Village of Dimondale as well. METROPOLITAN TRENDS AND INFLUENCES r Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale depend heavily on the Lansing metropolitan area for their source of employment. Major employers include the automobile industry, the State of Michigan and Michigan State University. I - - t----+------<..--- ECONOMICS r r As illustrated in Table Illa, approximately 53% of the planning area's employed labor force worked in the City of Lansing in 1960. In addition, 12% was employed in the remainder of Ingham County, while 31 % was gainfully employed within Eaton County. The remaining 4% worked in Clinton County, outside the Tri-County Region, or did not report their place of employment. Understanding the structure and functioning of the economy of Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale is a fundamental step in the study requisite to comprehensive plan development. Economic data collection must necessarily include such subjects as employment, government financing, manufacturing and trade characteristics, and the various trends that will affect the economic development of the Township and Village. The planning area, located southwest of and very near the Lansing urban complex, can expect to experience changes which occur within the metropolitan area. The functional role of Lansing and its contiguous fringe as a regional center of trade and employment has strengthened over the past 15 years. Its rising dominance is directly related to improvements in transportation, its strategic geographic location, and its strong role as a governmental and industrial center. This section of the study report will endeavor to provide the community with an inventory of its economic resources; to explain its position within the larger metropolitan area; and to provide a basis for estimating employment levels and land requirements for future economic activity. 23 �I Table Illa TABLE IIIb PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT Employment Trends: Tri-County Area 1956-65 Employment Area Place of Work No. of Employees % of Total City of Lansing 610 53.0 Balance of Ingham Co. 140 12.0 Clinton County 4 .3 Eaton County 354 31.0 Saginaw County 4 .3 Gratiot County 4 .. 3 Not Reported 3.1 40 1,156 100. 0% Source: Twenty-five percent sample,. u .. s. Bureau of the Census, 1960. There is every indication that motor vehicle manufacturing is growing and will continue to grow. In terms of the number of jobs gained, manufacturing was the most important single economic activity within the Tri-County area between 1956 and 1960. As Table IIIb indicates, manufacturing employment increased 17. 3% followed by state government, local government, retail trade and services, in descending order of importance. Goods Producing: Manufacturing Construction (Subtotal) 31,200 4,500 (35, 700) 36,600 4,200 (40, 800) 5,400 -300 (5, 100) 17.3 -7.0 (14. 2) Services Producing: Trade Wholesale Retail 16,000 (2,800) (13,200) 17,900 (3, 100) (14,800) 1,900 (300) (1,600) 11. 8 (10. 7) (12. 1) Trans. , Comm. , Utilities 3,400 3,100 -300 -8.8 Fin. , Ins. , Real Estate 2,700 3,500 800 29.6 Services (2 ) 8,600 9,700 1,100 12.7 Government Federal State Local (Subtotal) 23,400 (1,400) (15, 500) (6, 500) (54,100) 28,200 (1,800) (18,200) (8. 200) (62,400) 4,800 (400) (2, 700) (1, 700) (8,300) 20.5 (28. 5) (17. 4) (26. 0) (15. 3) (89,800) (103,200) (13,400) (14. 9) Total Non- Farm Ag., Forestry, Fish. Self Employed Total employment has increased at an average annual rate of 1% in the Tri-County Region with the general trend being a more :rapid rate of growth in the servicesproducing industries than in the goods-producing industries. This is not a localized trend, but one which is increasingly evident throughout the nation. Comparison Figure 1956 1965<1> Total Employed 7,000 4,700 -2, 300 - 32. 8 11,400 11,900 500 ~ 108,200 119,800 11,600 10.7 (1) Based on 11 months data. (2) Includes about 150 employees in mining. Source: Population and Economic Projections Tri-County Area, Robert Gladstone and Associates, Economic Consultants. All indications are that employment and income in the Region will increase substantially in the future. This 24 n �growth is presently having repercussions on development in the planning area and will continue to influence future growth. Table ma EMPLOYMENT BY MAJOR INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION Windsor Township & Dimondale - 1960 CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LABOR FORCE Category The labor force, as defined by the Bureau of the Census comprises all civilians 14 years of age and over, either employed, unemployed, or actively seeking work. Number of Employees % of Employed Persons Manufacturing 405 Retail Trade 186 Agriculture 130 Personal Services 88 Public Administration 80 Construction 72 Educational Services 62 Other Industries 52 Transportation 32 Wholesale Trade 28 Professional 20 Hospitals 16 Communications & Utilities 4 Mining 4 TOTAL 1,179 In 1960, the Census listed 2,185 individuals in Windsor Township 14 years old or over. Of this total, 1 , 249 individuals, or 57%, comprised the employed labor force. The remainder were enrolled in school, members of the armed services, or inmates of institutions. Within the employed labor force, 1,179, or 94%, were employed in the general employment categories listed in Table me. A more definitive classification of industrial employment is portrayed in Table ma. -- Table Ille - Number of Employees Cat.egory Private Wage & Salary Workers 767 186 Government Workers Self-employed Workers 205 Unpaid Family Workers 21 TOTAL 1,179 % of Employed Persons 6 5 4 3 2 2 1 1 1 100% Table IIId points out the significance of manufacturing, retail trade and agriculture as employment endeavors in Windsor Township. The Township and Village have about the same proportion of persons employed in these cat.egories, as does the Tri-County Region as a whole. Approximately 60% of the 1,179 persons listed in Table Illd were employed in one of these three classifications in 1960. 65 16 17 2 100 Source: 1960 U .s. Bureau of the Census. - 11 7 7 Source: 1960 U .s. Bureau of the Census. GENERAL EMPLOYMENT CATEGORIES EMPLOYED PERSONS-1960 -- 34 16 25 �I Windsor Township had a slightly higher proportion of blue collar workers in its labor force than did the Region as a whole in 1960. As indicated in Table Illf, 47% of the employed persons in Windsor Township were considered blue collar workers , as compared to 36% for the Region. Forty-three percent of employed persons in the Township were categorized as white collar workers in 1960, as compared to 48% for the Region. Table Ille is a detailed breakdown of manufaciuring employment in Windsor Township. Very obviously, the most important category is that of transportation equipment. Seventy-one percent of the 405 persons employed in manufacturing worked in the transportation equipment industry. In addition to this, 66 persons , or 16%, worked in industries very closely related to or dependent upon transportation; those being metal and machinery industries. Metals, machinery and transportation accounted for about 28% of the entire employed labor force in Windsor Township in 1960. National trends tend to indicate the probability that the white collar employment ratio has increased significantly since 1960 and will continue to do so in the future. This is partly due to the attainment of higher educational levels and technological change. The percentage of the employed labor force working in the transportation equipment industry in Windsor Township is generally higher than for the Tri-County Region. The Region has 15% in this category, while Windsor Township has 24%. ;, The Male.; Labor Force The reason for separating the male from the female labor force is that they may be employed quite differently and due to income potential and overall numbers, the male force is somewhat more significant in terms of employment components. In breaking down the statistics in this manner, several important occupational differentiations can be noted. Table Ille EMPLOYMENT IN MANUFACTURING - 1960 % of Employed Number Category Persons of Em2loyees 0 0 Furniture 7 29 Metal Industries 37 9 Machines 286 71 Transportation Equipment 2 Other Durable 9 2 Food & Kindred 8 1 4 Textile 24 6 Print & Publishing 8 2 Other Nondurable 405 100% TOTAL In 1960 there were 1,133 males 14 years of age and older residing in Windsor Township. Of this total 933, or 82. 3%, were in the labor force. At the time of the census 880, or 94.3% of these men were employed, leaving 5. 7% unemployed. This unemployment figure is somewhat higher than the 4. 6% rate for the Tri-County Region as a whole. Table illg lists, in order of importance, the occupations of the male labor force. Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census. 26 �Table Illf GENERALIZED CHARACTERISICTS OF EMPLOYED LABOR FORCE-WINDSOR TOWNSHIP-EATON COUNTY, TRI-COUNTY REGION - 1960 r ' i Labor Force Characteristics Blue Collar Workers Craftsmen, Forman & Kindred Workers, Operatives & Kindred Workers & Laborers White Collar Workers Professional, Technical, & Kindred Workers; Managers, Officials, & Properietors, including Farm; Sales Workers, Clerical Workers Windsor Township Number of % of Employed Workers Labor Force 558 47% Eaton County Number of % of Employed Workers Labor Force 8,057 45% Tri-County Region Number of % of Employed Workers Labor Force 39,297 36% 507 43% 7,604 42% 53,115 48% Service Workers Private Household Workers Other Service Workers 89 8% 1,819 10% 13,038 12% Occupation Not Reported 25 2% 567 3% 4 828 4% 1,179 100% 18,047 100% 110,278 100% I r Total Employed Labor Force Source: U .s. Bureau of the Census. 27 �The Female Labor Force Table Illh FEMALE EMPLOYMENT BY OCCUPATION Windsor Township-1960 A somewhat lower percentage of women are in the Township's civilian labor force than in that of the County, Region or State. In Windsor Township there were 1,052 females 14 years of age or older , of which 30% were in the civilian labor force. This compares to 33% for the State of Michigan; 36% for the Region; and 34% for Eaton County. Unemployment in the female labor force is higher, at 5. 4%, than for the Region as a whole, at 4. 2%. Table IIIh portrays female employment by occupation for Windsor Township. Table Illg MALE EMPLOYMENT BY OCCUPATION Windsor Township-1960 No. of Male Category Employees Operatives &Kindred Workers 221 Craftsmen, Foremen & Kindred Workers 189 84 Farmers & Farm Managers Professional, Technical & Kindred Workers 65 64 Managers & Office Proprietors 64 Clerical & Kindred Workers 52 Sales Workers 41 Laborers, Except Farm & Mine 34 Farm Laborers & Foremen 25 Service Workers 41 Occupations Not Reported 880 TOTAL % of Employed Labor Force 25 No. of Female Category Employees Clerical & Kindred Workers 80 Professional, Technical & Kindred Workers 40 Service Workers 36 Sales Workers 33 Operatives & Kindred Workers 33 Private Household Workers 28 Managers, Office Proprietors 21 Craftsman, Foremen & Kindred Workers 8 Farm Laborers & Foremen 8 Farmers & Farm Managers 4 Laborers, Except Farm & Mine 4 Occupation Not Reported 4 TOTAL 299 % of Employed Labor Force 27 14 12 11 11 9 7 3 3 1 1 1 100% Source: 1960 U .s. Bureau of the Census. 21 10 Employment Within Windsor Township This report has emphasized that there is very little basic employment in Windsor Township and that many residents commute to Lansing or other areas in the Region for employment. In order to ascertain some estimate of the number of employees working within the Township, a telephone survey of businesses and industries was conducted in 1966. It must be emphasized that this survey is not totally complete and, therefore, lends only a rough estimate of employment information. Table IIIj lists the results of this survey. 7 7 7 6 5 4 3 5 100% Source: 1960 U.S. Bureau of the Census. 28 �Table IIIj turing within the Township consisted primarily of printing and publishing firms. EMPLOYMENT WITHIN WINDSOR TOWNSHIP BY MAJOR INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION-1966 Category I ' i I The survey further indicated that the remainder of the individuals employed in the Township, about 12, were employed in contract construction, government, insurance and real estate. No. of Est.abNo. of % of Total lishments Employees Labor Force* Wholesale & Retail Trade 16 12 Services Manufacturing 5 Contract Con2 struction 1 Government Finance Insurance & Real Estate 2 TOTAL 38 85 37 35 7.2 3.1 3.0 5 5 .4 .4 2 169 ~ Windsor Township Industry and Trade There are five industrial firms in Windsor Township involved in the manufacturing process. They include two fabricated metal products manufacturers; two publishing companies and a firm manufacturing concrete pipe. These industries are generally not of the nuisance type. Three of the five industries are scattered along US-27 and the remaining two are located in Dimondale. 14.3% *Based on 1965 labor force estimate by the Michigan Employment Security Commission. ' ' I ' ' There are also approximately 28 small businesses in Windsor Township primarily involved in the sale of convenience goods or providing some type of service. These businesses, for the most part, are located in the Village of Dimondale or along US-27. The study indicated that only about 14% of the total labor force of Windsor Township was employed within the Township. As Table IIIj indicates, the largest number of persons was employed in wholesale and retail trade. Of the total 85 persons so employed, 50, or 59%, were working in eating and drinking establishments. The second largest number of employees, 37 worked in service activities, with 17 of these in education and 20 in various types of personal services. AGRICULTURE In 1960 farmland occupied approximately 86% of the Region's total land area, with only 5% of the Tri-County labor force employed in agricultural endeavors. This represented a dee,line. of some 2,300 farm employees, or a 32. 8% decline in total farm personnel over the decade 1950 to 1960. Even more important is the percentage of off-farm employment by farm operators. The next most significant employer within the Township boundaries was that of manufacturing. Manufacturing employed 35 individuals, which represented only about 3% of the total Township labor force in 1965. Manufac29 �Not only has the number of farms and the quantity of land in farms rapidly decreased, but the amount of land producing crops has also decreased. Approximately 47,000 acres of harvest and pasture land was taken out of production in Eaton County between 1949 and 1964. Since World War II this figure has been steadily increasing. In 1944, 32. 6% of all farm operators in Eaton County -worked off the farm 100 days or more. In 1964 this figure had increased to 43. 3%. Because of the immediate proximity of employment opportunities in Lansing, it is estimated that the percentage of off-farm employment is much higher in Windsor Township than for the whole of Eaton County. In 1959, 86% of all farm operators in Windsor Township worked 100 days or more off the farm.* Land being shifted out of farms in Windsor Township and Eaton County in the recent postwar period falls into three general classes: Urbanized uses - Large amounts of land have been used for highways, residential home sites and other urban land uses. Also, in 1959 nearly 17,250 acres, or 81 % of the total land in Windsor Township, were termed farmland. The 1965 land use study, contained elsewhere in this report, indicates that approximately 14, 700 acres, or 70% of the total acreage, is now in agricultural use, a decrease of approximately 2,500 acres. This acreage remains vacant or has been converted to other uses. Speculative holdings of idle farm lands - Much more farm land is being bought and held for urban uses than will be needed for many years to come. Much of this land will remain idle or in low intensity use for many years before they actually move into urban uses. In 1959 the average size of farms in Windsor Township was about 100 acres, or approximately 30 acres smaller than the average farm in Eaton County. In relation to this, it is assumed that the total number of farms in the Township has been decreasing at a more rapid rate than in Eaton County. The trend in most areas of the nation indicates a growth in average farm size in partnership with greater productivity per farm unit. Average farm size increased in Eaton County from 103 acres to 140 acres between 1945 and 1964, while the total number of farms decreased from over 3,300 to approximately 2,100 during this same period. Lower uses - Many farmers have not been able to operate their farms profitably on a full-time basis under existing cost-price relationships. Large amounts of land are being entered under the Soil Bank Conservation Reserve Program or have been partially or completely inactivated. Opportunities of better employment off the farm have been the main prime reason for this trend. In the future, large amounts of farm land in the Township and county will continue to be taken out of production for the reasons stated above. At the same time, a great deal of land in the Township is well suited for growing speciality corps. An increasing number of farms are *The 1960 U .s. Census of Agriculture. 30 l 1 7 7 7 7 7 7 �growing these types of crops and the number should increase in the future. Some farm lands not suited for urban development nor economically feasible to farm will be reverted to other uses. Although the amount of farm land will decrease in the future, the higher productivity and value of the remaining farms will continue to make agriculture an important part of tile economy of Windsor Township. for fiscal 1965 are summarized in Table lllk. Figure 14 is a generalized illustration of revenue sources in percentages. Table !Ilk CASH RECEIPTS - WINDSOR TOWNSHIP Fiscal 1965 Property Taxes: Current and excess of roll Delinquent Collection charges Subtotal State Sales Tax Diversion State Intangibles Tax Retailers License Fees (Liquor Commission) Building Permits Series "E" Bonds Cashed Fire Fund Fire Voted Fund Cemetery Fund Planning Commission Fund Grand Pointe Street Light Fund Hill & Hollow Street Light Fund Other TOTAL TOWNSHIP FINANCES As rural areas become more highly urbanized increased amounts of revenues must be expended to provide the necessary streets, schools, parks, sewers, water, drains, and other services essential to urban and suburban living. For the most part, these expenditures are the responsibility of the local governmental unit, although state and Federal governments are providing increased assistance. The concern of this subsection will be to briefly review the sources of revenues and expenditures of Windsor Township to provide a basis for estimating the ability of the Township to raise the revenues necessary to meet local public service demands. Revenue Sources $ 9,337 21,001 2,824 340 613 2,200 268 163 1,616 600 145 264 121 $39,492 Source: Financial Report of Windsor Township, dated April 2, 1966. During the 1965 fiscal year, April 3, 1965 to March 26, 1966, Windsor Township received $39,492 from all sources. Cash balances on April 3rd amounted to $12,319 making a total of $51,811 available to meet Township financial obligations. The sources of revenue 31 l $ 6, 733 427 2,177 �7 1965. The state equalized value totaled $7,423,490 in 1965, using a factor or multiple of 190. 9%. Total property taxes collected in the Township amounted to $173,402 in 1965. Figure 14 SOURCES OF WINDSOR TOWNSHIP REVENUES Fiscal 1965 l'otal ..___ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __J The amount of property tax varies throughout the Township due to differing financial obligations in the six school districts partially within Township boundaries. The property tax by school district for school purposes is illustrated in Table Ulm below. 100 Sau,•~ Taxi'---_ _ _ _ __ Property rax Special Fund!:Intangt1>le Tax Series "E ' Bonds Licenses, Permits ,1_ and Others Table Ulm □ 7.2<{ PROPERTY TAX FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTS Windsor Township - 1965 os.6% School District Charlotte Eaton Rapids Grand Ledge Holt Potterville Waverly {] 2. 7% $52. 53/1, 000 57. 31/1, 000 50. 62/1, 000 70. 52/1, 000 50. 62/1, 000 58. 65/1, 000 Amount of assessed of assessed of assessed of assessed of assessed of assessed value value value value value value Source: Records, Windsor Township Clerk. As indicated in Figure 14, by far the most important source of income is the sales tax. Fifty-three percent of the Township revenues came from this source in 1965, while 23. 6% was derived from the second greatest source, the property tax. The remaining sources of income accounted for a combined 23. 2% of total revenue for fiscal 1965. In addition, a total of $15. 63/1, 000 of assessed property value was collected for taxes other than local school dis - · tricts in 1965. This tax was uniform throughout the Township and was based on a redistrubtion as follows: County Tax Township Lansing Community College Medical Care Facility Property Tax Revenues The total assessed valuation of Windsor Township, based on 20% of the actual value, amounted to $3,888,680 in 32 $10. 85/1, 000 of assessed value 1. 91 / 1, 000 of assessed value 1. 91 / 1, 000 of assessed value . 96/ 1, 000 of assessed value 7 7 l l �Using the Eaton Rapids School District as an example, total property taxes in this district were divided as shown in Figure 15. * As illustrated, only 2. 6% of the total property tax revenue was for Township use. In 1965 this amounted to revenues totaling $6, 7 33. Expenditures Table IIIn lists the Township expenditures for fiscal 1965 and Figure 16 illustrates the percentage distribution of these expenditures. As indicated, the major expenses in 1965 were for officer salaries, street maintenance, fire protection and cemetery maintenance. In communities providing only a minimum of services , it is typical for salaries to be the major expense. *Records, Windsor Township Clerk. Figure 15 PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF PROPERTY TAX REVENUES FOR EATON RAPIDS SCHOOL DISTRICT Table Illn EXPENDITURES - WINDSOR TOWNSHIP-1965 Office Salaries Salaries $6,280 Withholding Tax 695 Social Security 834 Total Building Inspector Liquor Inspector Street Maintenance (Ea ton County) Insurance and Bond Dump Election Expenses Library Fire Fire Voted Fund Cemetery Planning Commission Grand Pointe Street Light Fund Hill & Hollow Street Light Fund Other TOTAL Schools 78. 5% Township 2.6% $7,809 773 120 2,800 800 510 183 1,450 4,094 237 5,723 2,101 131 241 J,,366 $28,338 Source: Financial Report of Windsor Township, dated April 2, 1966. 33 �l l Figure 16 PERCENTAGE DISTRIBUTION OF EXPENDITURES Windsor Township-1965 1 Total l00% Salaries 1 27. G,., Cemcocry □ Fire Street 1\Iaintenance 14.4% □ Planning Commission 9.9% D7,4% I I I Library - 05.!%1 Other In summary, Windsor Township does not have the financial capability for making all necessary improvements, such as streets, water, sewers, recreation, etc. The reasons are numberous and complex. Townships are bound by legal limitations which prevent them from raising their total revenue needs. They are also in competition with other governmental units, such as school boards and county governments for needed revenues. Finding the sources of revenue for solving these problems will be very difficult, but answers must be found if the problems of growth and change are to be met. -- 34 ,-- ' �LAND USE �Present conditions and trends also provide some of the best evidence available in attempting to predict what will happen in the future. Thus, an analysis of the present use of land will help provide a general basis for reference in working out a plan for future land use that is both realistic and farsighted. -~~ . _, \ fu conducting a land use study, the good and bad features . of past development are recognized. Planning can then build upon the more favorable features, and policies and programs can be suggested that will help to minimize the effects of past developmental errors and encourage more desirable growth patterns for the future. The existing land use information for Windsor Township was obtained from a field survey conducted by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission staff in April, 1966. Agricultural and undeveloped land use information was obtained through interpretation of 1963 aerial photographs provided by the United States Department of Agriculture. LAND USE One of the most important steps in the planning process is the collection and mapping of detailed information on existing land use. The land use map is a graphic portrayal of existing development at a given point in time. It is, therefore, a static view of what already exists and is not to be confused with the land use plan which will indicate the optimum arrangement of land uses for the future. METHODOLOGY The methodology utilized in carrying out the land use study was divided into four phases as follows : Each township develops its own distinctive pattern of land uses according to its geographic location, its topography, and its own individual economic and social character. The early location of a commercial establishment, the routing of a railroad or highway, and many other factors often have an important effect on the shape of the existing land use pattern. Collection: Detailed land use data was acquired during February of 1966 by field survey teams from the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission and by the utilization of aerial photographs obtained from the U .s. Department of Agriculture (dated April, 1963) . 35 �Commercial: Establishments supplying commodities and services to the general public. These include retail consumer goods, personal and business services and necessary storage and parking facilities incidental to these uses. Mapping: The field data was transferred in detail to a township base map to be later utilized in the processing phase. This information was then generalized in map form for presentation in this report. Aerial photography was used during this stage to determine the use or nonuse of land in areas inaccessible to the field team. Industrial: Land activities concerned with the manufacturing, processing, fabrication or bulk storage of goods or materials. Such includes the mechanical or chemical transformation of inorganic substances into new products. Also included are establishments which are involved in the extraction of materials from the land, such as mining or quarrying and such other endeavors as heavy repair and warehousing. Processing: The processing stage involved the measurement of mapped information and a detailed tabulation of the various use categories within the planning area. Analysis: This final phase involved a study of the processed information and a written and graphic portrayal of it for presentation in this report. Institutional: All lands used by Federal, State, county, township, city, educational or semipublic institutions for the purpose of providing for the social, cultural, religious and health needs of the community. Such uses of land include township buildings, schools, churches, hospitals, cemeteries, etc. DEFINITIONS The following categories were utilized in the presentation of existing land uses within Windsor Township. The categories, as delineated on the Land Use Map, are defined as follows: Recreational: Land devoted to active or passive recreation. Included are open spaces which are developed or intended for public or semipublic recreational use, whether publicly or privately owned. Such lands include golf courses, parks and playgrounds. Residential: Areas where dwelling units, other than commercial residences, their accessory buildings and open space, occupy the major portion of land. Excluded are agricultural lands and other uses not associated with the dwelling, even when under the same ownership. Transportation: Lands used for the conveyance of passengers and freight, including rights-of-way and terminals. 36 -- �Utilities and Communications: This category includes lands used for the collection and distribution systems of utility and communication facilities. Examples are water treatment plants, sewage disposal plants and radio and television transmission towers. D• VI LOP~D L\ D WJNDSOJi IO\\NSHJP LC l l DI C' DI.MONDA'~ ,,:'ln tr. I Agricultural: Lands used primarily for the production of food, fiber and/ or other saleable vegetation. Included are field crops, woodlots and tree nurseries. rranspnrtatrnn 50.4 Undeveloped: All land which is vacant, unused or unuseable, including derelict land as well as water features. EXISTING LAND USE PATTERNS AND TRENDS Graphically illustrated, Figure 1 7 portrays the various percentages which each component of land use now occupies within Windsor Township. The total land area of Windsor Township, including the Village of Dimondale, encompasses approximately 21,176 acres of land. Of this total area, slightly less than 1, 900 acres, or 9% of the Township area, has actually been developed. As can be seen, by far the largest amount of developed land is devoted to streets and highways. This can be explained primarily in that I-96 runs through the Township and by the fact that the Township is still comparatively undeveloped. The majority of Windsor's growth in recent years has been concentrated in Dimondale, the northeast corner of the Township near the Lansing City boundary, and along US-27. New homes, however, are developing throughout the Township, with the greatest increases since 1960 occurring in sections 2, 3, 10, 13, and 23. The remainder of the Township is still predominately agricultural in nature, with single-family residential developments scattered throughout. Appendix A presents a tabular summary of the various land use subclassifications, while the Existing Land Use Map (Figure 18) gives a graphic portrayal of land usage within Windsor Township. Windsor Township's close proximity to the City of Lansing, the recently constructed interstate freeway, 37 �Table !Va its desirable natural assets and the quality of existing residential development indicate that a steadily progressive rate of growth and expansion is emminent for the future. DWELLING UNIT TYPES 1966 Type Single-Family Nonfarm Multiple Family Trailer Farm Dwellings TOTAL LAND USE ANALYSIS Residential Uses Windsor* No. % 545 73. 3 20 2. 7 5 0.7 173 23. 3 743 100. 0 Dimondale No. % 263 97.7 4 1.5 1 0.4 1 6.4 269 100. 0 *Township figures do not include the Village of Dimondale. As indicated on the Land Use Map, residential development in Windsor Township is primarily in the form of scattered single-family units developed on large area lots. Structural Condition Tabulated residential uses account for approximately 2. 6% of the total Township area and over 31 % of the developed land of the Township and occupy nearly 537 acres. The 1960 Census portrayed housing conditions in the Township and in the Village of Dimondale to be generally good. Data presented, indicated that 77% of the housing units were in sound condition, while 18% were deteriorating and 5% were dilapidated. Of the 537 acres used for residential purposes, 532 acres are occupied by single-family, nonfarm units; 1. 3 acres by two-family units and 3.4 acres by multiple-family structures. ,, 'i Definitions of the various structural conditions are as follows, according to the U. s. Census Bureau: I . I Sound: Housing which has no defects or only slight defects which are normally corrected during the course of regular maintenance. In Dimondale, residential land uses occupy over 101 acres of land. This is approximately 18% of the total land within the Village, or about 58% of the developed area. Again, almost all land devoted to residential land use is in single-family developments. Multifamily dwellings encompass only about • 6 of an acre. Deteriorating: Housing which needs more repair than would be provided in the course of regular maintenance. It has one or more defects of an intermediate nature that must be corrected if the unit is to continue to provide safe and adequate shelter. Table !Va represents a cross-section of dwelling unit types compiled from the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission's, Land Use Survey of February , 1966. i• ,.. .. ... 38 - �1966 EXISTING LAND USE Windsor Township ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Residential Commercial Institutional Recreational Industrial Agricultural □ Unused or Forest Figure 18 0 s Scale In mllee January 1966 TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing , Michigan wu ft1111aeta!ly 11.ldc:d \lll'!IIIP • Te.i.ral sra,,t fr'0111 1h11' Utt.n Ren-al Adm,ni.lr•tlon of 1ho 0,-,,."""'111 ol llowlni and Urt-,, D,,..,.kipfiitllt, The pntp0nollon ol lhl.l map Iha Urim, PlaMlnf AHlaWICIO Pn,.:nm uth<>rl.Md by tiutuOfl 701 o( ._, Haualq Act 111 19", a, adm1nl ■t11n1d b~ lll<f M1cl!,p11 Otps,rUrlCIJII ¢ C11m-r01-, und,u- •-ftded, �Table !Vb Dilapidated: Housing which does not provide safe and adequate shelter. It has one or more critical defects or has a combination of intermediate defects in sufficient number to require extensive repair or rebuilding, or is of inadequate original construction. SUBDIVISIONS Windsor Township Date No. Platted Lots Original Plat 11 1859 404 Red Fern Acres 1 1941 18 Assessors Plat 1-4 1948 28 Assessors Plat 2-4 42 1948 Trails End 5 1954 13 Vans No. 1-6 1955 31 Saier 11 1959 26 Maple Heights 3 1960 15 Grand Dale 12 1960 24 Grand Point 3 1961 47 Hilliard 5 1961 7 1961 .:Jlill N .Hollow 12 8 Hill N Hollow 6 1962 16 Grand Pointe No. 1-11 1962 48 Although over 100 new homes have been constructed in the Township since 1960, plus an undetermined number in the Village of Dimondale, precautions must be taken to assure the containment and eventual eradication of blighted structures. Subdivision Activity The original plat for Dimondale was laid out in 1859, however, not until 1948 were any other subdivisions developed. In that year, two additions were made to the original plat of Dimondale. Between 1950 and 1960, three small subdivisions were developed, totaling 70 lots. Since 1960, six subdivisions have been developed, totaling 165 lots. Such recent subdivision growth tends again to emphasize Windsor Township's growing importance as a suburban residential area. Average Average Lot Lot D~pth Width 66 160 70 670 70 200 75 200 165 275 80 132 105 175 120 260 100 180 120 90 100 180 100 90 250 130 Source: Subdivision Study, M.E. T.R.O. Data Program, Spring, 1965. Evidence that Windsor Township is developing into a large lot suburban · type · community is indicated by the fact that the average lot width is 95 feet with an average depth of 225 feet. These lots are somewhat larger than those in most suburban subdivision developments now within the Region, which average about 70 by 125 feet. As of April, 1966, 14 subdivisions had been developed in Windsor Township. Table IVb lists these subdi visions, along with pertinent descriptive data, while Figure 19, entitled Subdivision Activity, graphically portrays this growth. Although no major subdivision development problems have occurred to date, experience in surrounding townships indicates that as Windsor Township continues to expand, 40 �Table IVc serious sewer and water problems may become prevalent. As a result, the Township will eventually have to provide the costly facilities needed to adequately service such new development. COMMERCIAL USES BY LOCATION T:Y_2e Dimondale Retail Business 7 Business Office 4 Professional Office 2 Vehicle Sales & Svs. 4 Commercial Rec. 1 TOTAL 18 Commerical Uses Present commercial enterprises in Windsor Township are limited to a few retail establishment.s in Dimondale, scattered service and recreational facilities along US-27, and three or four other business establishment.s dispersed throughout the remainder of the Township. No major shopping concentrations exist at the present time. Commercial uses occupy approximately 29 acres of land in the Township. This amount.s to only • 1% of the total Township area, or 1. 7% of the developed land. In the Village of Dimondale, 4. 3 acres of land are occupied by commercial uses. These establishment.s occupy only • 8%. of the total land in the Village, or 2. 5% of the number and location of establishments by land use categories, while Table IVd is a detailed listing of the quantity of land used for each commercial subcategory. US-27 11 Rest of Twp. 2 1 6 18 2 1 5 Total 20 5 2 12 2 41 .,... Table IVd COMMERCIAL USES* Type Retail Business Business Office Professional Office Commercial Recreation Vehicles Sales & Service TOTAL Retail business account.s for almost 50% of all commercial uses in Dimondale and the Township. Except for the businesses in Dimondale, most of these establishment.s are highway oriented to serve passing traffic. Vehicle sales and service is the second largest category. All of these businesses, except two, are service stations. Acreage 8.2 1.3 .2 14.4 9.4 33.5 % of Total 24.5 3.9 .5 43.0 28.1 100.0 *Township figures include Village of Dimondale. 41 Industrial Uses - Approximately 45 acres in the Township are used for industrial purposes. This is only 0.2% of the total Town- - . .-, - �,...... SUBDIVISION ACTIVITY Windsor Township TllVIE PERIOD ■ • ■ ■ 1. Before 1940 1940 - 1950 1950 1960 After 1960 Asse ssors Plat No. 1 2. Assessors Plat No. 2 3. 4. 5. 6. " 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 0 Grand Dale Grand Pointe Grand Pointe No. 1 Hilliard Hill 'n Hollow Hill 'n Hollow No. 1 Maple Heights Original Plat Redfern Acres Saier Trails End Van's .5 Scale in miles August 1966 TRl -COUNTY REGIONAL P LANNING COMMJSSION 535 Clippert St . , Lansing. Michigan n-. l"'"ll,!nlll~, 01 ll'I,~ m;11, ,.,. hll,,o,,~11, , .. ~,I th1••1.;l ,, 1.,,,,.,,,i,j 1(1'1"- I,• II~ l ,, • .., 11,,... \\.,I ,\,lml'O,<<r~11,m "' IIK I}. •• .,,,,,,.~, ,., ....... ,... •I I • '"" ,~ ••'l'-'!•111""'· !IIKI< ~ ~ .., l rh.iJ l'l"''"rti: .1 .... ,~~ ..,.-,, 1• ...... r: .... ,u,h••~.., I , ..... ,~ ... "' ,, u,,, 11,~ ... , A,I •>I l!M-1, •~ 1" ,n,1, ~,hn,~1~1, :,,.,, In,!., M"~"~ Oq~ _, Ill ~\·•-IA•'-• - ------ - - �Table !Ve ship area, or 2. 6% of the developed area. The T~wn.ship has eight industrial establishments which are located along US-27 with the exception of mining activities and an auto junk yard. ,- r r INDUSTRIAL USES* Classification Nonmanufacturingl Quarrying & Mining 2 Nondurable 3 Durable4 TOTAL The greatest amount of industrial land (27 acres) is used for sand and gravel excavation. Three quarry sites are presently active. Durable manufacturing, (permanent products) occupies about 14 acres. The Township has two businesses in this category. One is a concrete pipe manufacturer and the other manufactures aluminum window and door frames. Other industrial establishments classified under nondurable manufacturing and nonmanufacturing include a printing firm, heating and road oil service and an auto junk yard. Together these uses occupy only about four acres of land. % of Total 31. 0 23.0 3.0 43.0 100.0 *Township figures include the Village of Dimondale. 1 Industrially related use, not involved in the production process. 2 3 Five industrial establishments are located in Dimondale. Together they utilize nearly 18 acres of land which amounts to 3. 2% of the total land area• or 10 • 0% of the developed land in the Village. All but one of these industrial uses is classified as nonmanufacturing. They include an auto junk yard, a gasoline and oil storage area, and several heating and plumbing contractors. The only other industrial activity is a small machine shop. r Acreage 19.4 14.4 1.9 26.9 62.6 4 sand and gravel extraction. Production of food products, etc. Generally long-lasting goods, metals, machinery, .etc. Recreational and Institutional Uses Recreational and institutional land uses occupy about 23 acres of Township land. This is only O. 1 % of the total land area, or 1. 3% of the developed land. Table !Ve illustrates the quantity of land used for each subcategory within the general industrial classification. Almost all institutional land within the Township is being used for cemeteries which cover about 20 acres. West Windsor School, which occupies slightly over 2 acres, is the only other major institutional land use in the Township. 43 - - - -- - - - - - ----- - �,-- Transportation Dimondale School, covering some six acres, comprises the main institutional land use in Dimondale. Other public land uses in the Village include the Township and Village Hall, the fire station and the library. Dimondale also has a small park covering about 4 acres connected to the Dimondale School. Island Park, although used for recreational purposes, is not publicly-owned and was not designated as recreational land for the purposes of this study. Street and highway rights-of-way, combined with railroad rights-of-way, use a greater amount of land in Windsor Township than all other developed uses combined. Nearly 1,086 acres of land are used for transportation which is 5.3% of the Township area, or 63.2% of its developed land. Street and highway right-of-way widths total 1,039 acres and railroads 47.0 acres. A large percentage of this land is occupied by I-96 and the interchange at US-27. As the Township continues to develop, the percentage of land devoted to roads will become much less, but the large amounts of land used for streets and highways make it imperative that adequate planning be accomplished if waste and inefficient use of land is to be minimal. Table IVf presents a generalized listing of the various recreational and institutional uses in the Township. Table IVf RECREATIONAL AND INSTITUTIONAL LAND USE* Type Acreage Parks 4.1 Open Space Special Purpose Public Administration .7 Education 7.8 Religious 2.3 Cemeteries 20.3 TOTAL 35.2 % of Total 11.6 In Dimondale, streets occupy 38 acres, which is 6. 9% of the total land area of the ToWDBhip , or 21. 9% of the developed land. 2.0 Agricultural and Undeveloped 22.2 6.5 57.7 100.0 Although increasing amounts of land are continually being developed for urban uses in Windsor Township, agricultural uses still occupy by far the largest percentage of land. Agricultural land occupies approximately 1., 393 acres, or 69. 8% of the total land area of the Township. Included in this category is land used for field crops, permanent pasture, livestock grazing, truck crops, nurseries, orchards , and woodlots. A large percentage of the land in Windsor Township is forested. Woodlots occupy about 2,407 acres of the agricultural land or 11. 7% of the total land area. *Township figures include the Village of Dimondale. There are no localized neighborhood playgrounds to accommodate very young children within the study area. Although the elementary schools do provide some playground facilities, other provisions should be made for playgrounds and adult recreation in areas of proposed future development. 44 -- r �Table IVg In Dimondale, nearly 141 acres, or 25. 6% of the total land area is still devoted to agricultural uses. Of this land, 50 acres, or 0. 9% of the total area is forested. - - UNDEVELOPED LAND* Undeveloped land, or idle land, totals about 4,512 acres, or 21. 9% of the Township area. Included in this category are vacant lands , unused cropland, unusable land, and land covered by lakes and streams. A large amount of land in Windsor Township, once used for agricultural purposes, is now vacant or unused. About 4,171 acres, or 20. 2% of the total Township area is in this category. This category also includes vacant land within subdivisions and bordering single-family homes. % of Total 92.1 4.0 3.9 100.0 LAND USE RELATED TO ZONING As urban areas have developed, it has become evident that economic and social forces cannot be the sole determinants of how land is used. Long-range community-wide goals also must be considered. A small amount of land, some 188 acres, is classified as unusable. For the most part, the land in this category consists of low lands that would be unfeasible to reclaim except at very high costs. Various tools employed by governments to control land use are the Master Plan, Zoning Ordinances and Subdivision Regulations , to name a few. Each ofthese means complement each other, and all must be used if effective control is to be achieved. Briefly, zoning can be defined as the technical and legal tool with which the community may shape and regulate its growth and development in order to provide a desirable community environment. Through zoning, the public seeks assurance of: Undeveloped land in Dimondale totals 236 acres, or 42. 8% of the Village area. Most of this land consists of vacant lots in residential areas rather than vacant agricultural land. The Grand River occupies about 33 acres, or 5. 9% of the total land as it flows through the Village. 1. Protection of property values. Table IVgoutlines, by acreage and percentage, the undeveloped land figures for Windsor Township. 2. Control of population density. 45 - Acreage 4,374.6 187.9 185.5 4,748.0 *Township figures include the Village of Dimondale About 153 acres of land are covered by lakes and streams. The Grand River accounts for a large amount of this area. In addition to the river, there are four small man-made ponds in the Township. - Type Vacant & Unused Crop Land Unusable Lakes & Streams TOTAL �..., r I Table IVh 3. Control of hazardous areas such as flood plains. AREA IN ZONING DISTRICTS District Residential R-lA Residential R-1 Small Farm SF Commercial C Agricultural A TOTAL 4. Control of exposure to adverse environmental influences such as traffic, noise, smoke, dirt, and lack of ventilation and sunlight. 5. Provision of convenient areas for commercial and other service facilities. 6. A more efficient environment, in terms of municipal service costs, private transportation costs, and costs of utility extensions. Acres 1,585 1,308 4,299 34 13,399 20,625 r % of Total 7.7 6.3 20.8 0.2 65.0 100.0 Table IVj lends a comparison of the present land use with the existing zoning districts. 7. Maintenance of aesthetic harmony in land and building development. Table IVj - 8. Protection of the economic base and provision for its expansion, growth and development. LAND USE RELATED TO ZONING District Residential Commercial Industrial *Agricultural Enactment of the zoning ordinance alone is not enough to insure community achievement of these goals. Zoning must be based on a Comprehensive Development Plan for the community. Windsor Township adopted its first zoning ordinance in 1959. This ordinance has since been revised to eliminate certain discrepancies and inconsistencies. A new zoning map was also prepared and has been approved by the Township Board and Planning Commission. However, revisions to the Zoning Ordinance and the new Zoning District Map were designed to improve the ordinance only on an interim basis. Acreage Zoned 2,893 34 17,698 Acreage Used 537.0 29.1 45.1 14,534.0 *Includes small farms district. r Comparison of these charts, the zoning map and the existing land use map, illustrates that the zoning is, for the most part, a reflection of current land use in Windsor Township. 46 r I �ZONING DISTRICT MAP* Windsor Township R-lA Single-Family R-1 Single Family ■ Small Farms ■ Commercial D Agricultural Figure 20 ~ 0 .s Scale in miles "TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSIO N 535 CHppert St. , Lansing , Michigan t'11<, 1•n:11~nu.- "' 1111& nuip '"'u. 11-. .. u, 111,••<1 lhroui'h ., t<:<k·ral .:r•nl from 111,; \JfbM fle.w,..•1 ,\(l..,,nt•tOlh>II uf W., 0..'¢1,tn1e"' 01 rr ... a,nc nnd l"rt•1• O.,vc,k>p.mo:nt. lll>llur lhe- l,rbi:m Pluo>u,1, ,\,....._ 1•,v,,.171n1 .....U,.,r,.<MI .., '""(V<WI fill ot vie Hwfln,: Acl of lart, u ,.._.•••1<:Rd 1>1 ""' .\lor,ua:,,, °"llllrlm<!nt or c-""'"""• ,....,.~..1. �Again it is emphasized that the revised zoning is of an interim nature. The districts were not designated on the basis of a Comprehensive Development Plan, but rather on current need. A new ordinance and Planning District Map will be developed as part of the current planning program. and water facilities will occur. Also, problems of streets, schools, police and fire protection, and rubbish and garbage collection will increase proportionately. Commercial Development Existing commercial establishments in the Township and in Dimondale are not adequate to serve the growing population. As Windsor Township continues to grow, additional commercial facilities will be needed. Strip commercial development along US-27 could become a major problem. This type of development along major streets and highways creates a traffic hazard by increasing the turning movements of vehicles which frequently cause accidents. In addition, commercial establishments located in this manner detract from the aesthetic quality of the area. PROBLEMS OF EXISTING DEVELOPMENT Scattered low-density residential and large lot subdivision developments are forming a pattern for the type of development which could continue to occur in Windsor Township. Such development, although in many respects providing amenable living conditions, presents many problems. Mixed Land Uses Lack of Recreational Space Pre.sently, property owners do not have adequate control of the type of development that will occur on surrounding land. Too much residential development is being located in areas better suited for other purposes. Much of the Township, particularly in the southwest portion, is ideally suited for agriculture and should be preserved for this purpose. Other areas should be reserved for the commercial and industrial uses that will be required as the population expands. At the present time, there are no publicly-owned recreational areas in Windsor Township. Dimondale School allows its play fields to be used for general recreational purposes, but additional park space is needed in the Village of Dimondale and the Township. All of these problems emphasize the need to control and direct future growth so that the community will have high development standards without unduly burdening citizens with unnecessary and unreasonable taxes. Proper decisions made at his time by Windsor Township officials will bring about the desired orderly growth and development of the Township. Need for Public Services It is very difficult to support a desirable level of public services in areas of scattered development. As population expands, problems of providing adequate sewer 48 �TRAFFIC & MAJOR STREETS �pend heavily on vehicular accessibility. Paved roads, on the other hand, tend to serve higher volumes of traffic which result in or have been caused by more intensive land use activity. The limited access facility is, of course, the exception in that only interchanges (or access points) offer development potential. To rephrase the above discussion; traffic volumes and land use activity are strongly interrelated. Any change in one will affect a change in the other, which will in turn place a new demand on access streets. The creation of a new shopping center will increase traffic volumes on the streets that provide access to it, while conversely, significant increases in traffic volumes on a previously little travelled road will bring about the development of commercial activities whose success depends on their ability to be seen by passing motorists. Both cases will result in the need for street expansion and improvement. Obviously, a decrease in traffic volumes along any given highway will, in all probability, have a marked effect on the vitality of commerce whose very existence depends on larger traffic volumes. TRAFFIC AND MAJOR STREETS The extent and condition of the Windsor Township transportation network is perhaps one of the most critical determinants of its future growth. To accelerate growth, people must have access to the Township. Without this access, growth is retarded and the Township remains static. Transportation serves people who are engaged in activities of all sorts ; working , playing , shopping, living , etc. It is no wonder , then, that we find transportation routes connecting the land uses which generate such activities. This movement by people and goods between activities , or places of activity, is caused by a transportation land use relationship. For example, where there are no roads , we can expect no activity that will generate traffic o Where roads are unpaved , we can expect to find a few residential land uses , perhaps farmsteads or activities that , again , do not de 49 By analyzing this relationship in more detail, we find that certain types of land uses generate a greater amount of traffic than others. For example, in the Tri-County Region, each residence generates an average of six vehicle trips per day. 1 Although such information is not yet available for local commercial areas, studies throughout the country indicate a much higher trip generation figure for a commercial use than for a residential use. This , then, suggests the need for a different type of transportation link than would be necessary to serve residential areas. 1 1965 Home Survey , conducted by National Analysts , Inc. , under contract with the Tri- County Regional Planning Commission. �. .. Expressway: Moves through traffic at high speeds and volumes to and from freeways and other major traffic generators with full or partially controled access. An understanding of the transportation system in Windsor Township and Dimondale is necessary before planning for future growth and expansion can be initiated. This is the purpose of this section of the report. In so doing, an inventory and an assessment will be made of the existing street system, its present condition, its function, and the problems that exist or might be expected to develop in the future. Such information is a very important element in providing the basis for future planning. Freeway: Moves through traffic at high speeds and volumes between major traffic generators with fully controled access. .... .,. These terms represent a classification of streets and highways according to function. Figure 21 on the following page is a schematic view of a functional street layout. Definitions The following definitions are offered to provide a better understanding of the functional hierarchy of streets and highways and of the terminology used throughout the remainder of this section. 7, INVENTORY Major Streets and Highways Local Street: Provides direct access to individual abutting properties. There are 91 miles of streets, roads and highways in the entire Township transportation system. This portion of the report will deal only with those facilities designated in Figure 22; the major streets consisting of three very important major highway facilities and several lower class thoroughfares which also play a significant role in the movement of traffic throughout the Township and Village. For the purpose of this discussion, the Michigan classification system will be used as follows: Collector Street: Collects and distributes low speed, medium volume local street traffic and moves it to and from arterials; also, provides direct access to individual abutting properties. Minor Arterial: Moves through traffic at moderate speeds and volumes to and from major arterials, expressways and other traffic generators; also provides direct access to abutting properties. Parkway: Moves noncommercial, pleasureoriented traffic at moderate speeds between and through scenic areas and parks. 1. State Trunkline 2. County Primary 3. City or Village Major 4. County Local 5. City or Village Local Major Arterial: Moves through traffic at moderate speeds and high volumes to and from expressways, freeways and other major traffic genera tors. 50 r-i �r a I' - ..::- - ---- r r I r r - State Trunklines Muskegon. It traverses the northeast portion of the Township and is connected by an interchange to US-27. This interchange has already gretaly influenced growth in the Township by drawing the new State government complex to the area. Rigid control will be necessary to protect remaining areas around the interchange from indiscrete development practices. This facility is of freeway design and function and in 1964 carried an average of 6,500 vehicles per 24-hour day. Interstate 96 provides a direct link between Windsor Township and Lansing, Detroit , Grand Rapids and US-27 (M-78) is the most heavily traveled highway facility in Windsor Township. It serves as the major Since this is a discussion of major streets and highways, only the first three categories, comprising 31. 5 miles, or 35% of the total system, will be discussed. County local roads consist of all remaining county roads and subdivision streets within the Township, while Village locals are the remainder of streets in the Village. 51 �. its more localized function. It is expected that M-99 will retain its present function in the intermediate future, as the State has no current expansion plans for this facility. route between Lansing, Charlotte and other significant urban centers in Michigan. Commercial establishments are scattered along US-27 and are predominatly of the "intercept" type. Better stated, they are at their particular location for the purpose of attracting and intercepting passing traffic. Such activities are strongly transit oriented, consisting of auto and trucking service facilities. County Primary Streets Seven major streets function to connect the state trunkline system with Dimondale. The majority of residents in Windsor Township and Dimondale generally travel on one of these routes to reach either Dimondale or a trunkline facility for movement out of the Township. These streets are divided into two groups according to whether they are intensively (high volume) or extensively (low volume) used. Average daily traffic volumes determine the intensity of use . During the period 1958 to 1964, traffic increased approximately 22% on US-27. This amounts to an additional 2,000 vehicles per day; however, this increase cannot be expected to continue indefinitely. A new limited access freeway facility is in preliminary planning stages. It will connect with I-496 in Delta Township and pass west of Windsor Township. This facility could conceivably reduce traffic volumes on US-27 and thereby influence existing development along this route. Intensive Use : Such facilities consist of Waverly Road , Holt Road, Creyts Road and Windsor Highway. With the exception of Waverly Road , all carry traffic from Windsor Township's interior to the trunkline routes. The section of Waverly Road between M- 99 and Jolly Road accounts for the highest volume (2,400 vehicles per day) of traffic on roads in this category. Waverly serves an arterial function by collecting local traffic from Delhi Township , Windsor Township and M-99 for direct access to shopping and working areas west of Lansing. The third state trunkline in Windsor Township is M-99. This is the primary travel route between Eaton Rapids and Lansing. Although it does not car;ry as much traffic as the other two state trunklines, it did show a higher precentage increase during the period 1958 to 1964 (see Figure 24). Traffic leaving Dimondale on Holt Road generally uses M-99 to enter downtown Lansing or leaves M-99 at Waverly Road for trips to the shopping area at Saginaw (M-43) and Waverly Roads and the Oldsmobile plant on West Saginaw. Commercial land uses are much less prevalent along M-99 than along US-27 . This consequence is directly attributable to the relatively low volumes of traffic utilizing this facility in combination with Extensive Use : Extensively used roads include Vermontville Highway , Davis Highway and Canal Road . Unpaved surfaces and low traffic volume s suggest that these are the "minor" streets in the Windsor Township major street system . Such roads channel low volumes of traffic , generated by scat52 . ... ... T - - - �WINDSOR .,- TOWNSHIP I ( ( TIO TAI C' LASSI r'H A TIO OF ~'IA TOR S I FT A -·-·I 1111 II II C 11 1re ..... 0 'F} .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing, Michigan l1w UNP,,l'llUun llll lh1" map ...,.. hnaa~lh anl,,~I lhr""idl " f<.'dt-ral ,:r<&nc lro9 II>!! CrlllUi R....., ... I \dmlnL MUtlal ol lh~ 0..•pcu1m,.•,11 "illo ..•11111,1'ndl 1buDll¥0<.lop-•11t, \IDllur 1M loruui rbM1111t A u • • - ITOSo-.111 ,llllM>ru....i 1.. ...,... ,l<lft JOJ ,,( 11,,., ~ 1.1111' Ac:1 of 1»-t, M• ;imcall/d, lldnru•11v.n.-d tn !Ill, >lld!IP11 U.l);Ut111t1111 er cv.,ua.. rft•. �tered residences, onto roads carrying relatively higher traffic volumes. As Figure 23 indicates, US-27 is the most heavily travelled route in the Township, carrying an average of 11,000 vehicles per 24-hour day. Other major carriers of traffic are I-96 and M-99 which have respective average volumes of 6,500 and 3,500 vehicles per day. One very important implication can be drawn from these figures. The major share of traffic which enters Windsor Township has no destination in either the Township or Village. All three major highways serve to route traffic through, and not into, the planning area. Village Major Streets l 7 7, l ----, These consist of Bridge, Jefferson, Washington and East Streets within the Village of Dimondale. Such facilities serve as the major links in the Village circulation system and carry fairly high traffic volumes due to the nature of the activities they serve. Traffic utilizing these streets is generated by retailing, worldng and service facilities in the Village. Figure 24 shows the percentage increase in traffic volumes over the period 1958 to 1964. This is a rough indication of which roads have been increasing in use and importance •. The largest percentage increase occurred on Windsor Highway between Canal Road and Dimondale. This stretch experienced an increase of 600 vehicles, or 150%, during the 1958-1964 period. The most consistent increase occurred on US-27 south of I-96; however, I-96 has greatly retarded a similar increase north on US-27. This relatively small percentage increase suggests that people are placing less reliance on US-27 in entering and leaving Lansing since the completion of I-96. This trend will be more exaggerated south of I-96 when the new freeway is constructed west of Windsor Township. The classification used above is one in which money from the State of Michigan "Motor Vehicle Highway Fund" is distributed for maintenance of the street and highway network. Figure 22, on the other hand, represents a classification based on the function of highway facilities. Those roads having no designation are of lower classification and serve as local streets. The functional system is based on the type of service performed by the street, its length, designspeed, volume of traffic and access control. The general definition of each class is outlined in the introduction to this section. Traffic Volumes and Capacities Traffic volumes and capacities, as portrayed in Figure 23, show the number of vehicles using major streets in Windsor Township and the largest practical capacity that each facility can handle over a 24-hour period. This information is most essential in evaluating the existing transportation system. Generally spealdng, no street or highway in Windsor Township or Dimondale is carrying traffic in excess of its maximum practical capacity. M-99 is approaching capacity and may require widening and resurfacing in the future; however, no plans are yet forthcoming. 54 �• Street Righ-of-Way and Pavement Widths Commuting and Travel Patterns Only I-96, US-27 and M-99 have right-of-way widths in excess of the 66 foot minimum county standard. Each of these facilities necessarily requires more space to adequately provide for access control, future expansion and clear vision in the interest of safety. Figure 25 is illustrative of right-of-way and pavement widths throughout Windsor Township and Dimondale. Automobiles comprise 75% of all registered vehicles using streets and highways in the Tri-County Region. In addition, the automobile is the prime means for getting to work throughout the Region and generally, suburban areas rely more heavily on the auto than do totally urban areas • According to the 1960 Census, 65% of the employed labor force commuted to Lansing or to other areas in Ingham County to their place of employment. This indicates a strong dependence on US-27, M-99, Waverly Road, and to some degree, I-96, for getting to work, and a strong northeastern direction of traffic flow out of the Township. Approximately 30% of the employed labor force commuted to areas within Eaton County or worked within Windsor Township. The pattern of movement resulting from those commuting to areas within the County, is one which is characterized by dispersal over several streets, roads and highways , generally in a southerly direction. Pavements are predominantly two lanes in width, varying from 16 feet on Davis Highway to 24 feet on Waverly and Creyts Roads and Windsor Highway. In addition, there are two four-lane facilities traversing portions of the Township. Interstate 96 consists of two 12 foot concrete lanes in each direction, east and west, divided by a 70 foot median strip. The other facility, US-27, also having four lanes, or a 48 foot wide travel surface, is divided by a median ranging from 26 to 36 feet in width. Bridge Street in the Village of Dimondale ranges between 36 and 44 feet in bredth consisting of two traffic lanes and some on-street parking. Major traffic generators,which attract a high percentage of vehicular traffic to the Lansing area, include major shopping facilities; employment centers such as Oldsmobile, Michigan State University and downtown Lansing; and several scattered trucking terminals. These activities will continue to have a major influence on travel patterns in Windsor Township as suburban growth radiates outward from Lansing. In fact, the proportion of residents commuting to Ingham County should increase as less dependence is placed on agricultural endeavor and as the urban-oriented suburban population grows. Nearly every traffic facility in the major street network has been provided with an improved surface. Exceptions are Canal Road, Davis Highway, Windsor Highway west of US-27, and Vermontville Highway west of Canal Road. Each of these and nearly all of the local or minor streets and roads are of gravel construction. The three state trunklines have concrete surfaces and the remaining facilities in the major street system are of bituminous or seal coat construction. Generally spealdng, a road -is considered to be in poor condition if its surface is less than adequate to handle present traffic demands. Windsor Township has few such areas due to its predominantly rural nature. 55 ;:: :r I �ir ( 100) WINDSOR TOWNSHIP TRAFFIC VOL'CMES AND CAPACITIES .... ""'"I ( 0000) VOLUMES * 0000 CA PAC I TIES ...., *Average daily traffic volumes (24 hours) SC Lill E OllSELEC.rED rr. conrn l!EOICN. r r w•11e1•Tw <ut .. Figure 23 T 110,111•• m l T I ...,.. ,., 0 T .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing, Michigan I L_ ....,,. n. prup,,ra110t1 Ill lllla --.i wu .,_,.II, 11~lo."11 ltlr...111! .1 fQnl rrn,,1 ,..,_ 1.11,, l r\- ""--1 l.dm!llt•~•II- 01 11M, 0..·l'l'rUr,,'fll uf 11,,...,~.. 11nd t·rrau, Dlrwlapllwt,c, """"' i . ' - ~ ri-""" .\u,aw.o,, ,.,...,,,. " " ' ~ - +.t , . , . _ 101 "' - ...,,.. . . ,UI of ltd-4, .., ~--i..t, ..........., ......... V.: ).11<11,_ U.-~•--•1 OI c--•co,, :: �WINDSOR TOWNSHIP 1RAFFIC VOLl. ME INCREASES OF PERCF!\iT IN~RE:..ASE none or '; very l,tt l e C) 20 - 50 c=> c:> CJ 50-80 80 - 1•0 ....., 110 - 140 c=) ·40-170 c==) ,....., 22 so n r r r Ji.l.. rn IN\ T rR R '\_ 'ff It ) I ,.J ~1 I L~ Y t II l CT> • nu c<7 DI co . >rr " 0 .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lanalng, Michigan -7 I n., pn,partilGfi "" u.i. ~ ..,.. 11-••II) ~M,'11 llrni,oi&li ....,on.I - · (,- i,.., Ur'bM R-.1 .\d"'lnlau,,u,.. 'OI ~ 0.,.,..,1....._..., ..a 11, .. 1·,ban ...iur 1M Lr.... l•i..-..,.: -"Jia1•- l'f'OIP'llll! ,...uw,r,wd t,• ~·,-,loll Tl)I of Ilk: Hw. 111111. Art or 1&4, :aa a.mellllctd, .clm111111.,n,G '" u.., Mi<'i1lp11 fl•:11<1nmc,n1 or c....,,...,r~. ~.,,h ~- n.,..,.....,,_..,,, �1 WINDSOR TOWNSHIP PAVEMENT AND RIGHT- OF- WAY WIDTHS IT ! ,-- (0000) 1 0000 R IGHT - OF-WAY WIDTH PAVEMENT WIDTH !J) .._,. \.D N smJRC!' STRtET INVF'iTuRY SL MMAHY !'OR ~LECTED STHl:.E rs AND I IOHWAYB IN THF l1U C-Ol,l/TY ltEGJON. Figure 25 1 1 ,. C 0 .5 Scale in miles TRI- COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISfilON 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing, Michigan i Tho: ,m,;panUoft of 11:tia ~ ,r,u 111,aac:1.111~ oi.i,..t 111.,_11h a t'c:Gtnl v-1 r,_ 11,c, Url-..i nc-.1 ~nktr1U<M ot t.t.: O..')lllrt-•,u vi u,,...,"► Mid r,i.n Ot:,.-.,~ 11 •, Olndur Ille" i,;rt.,, i'tan.1111( AHlt- !'ro,.o,n\ .111tlwri~"" ........ 101 ol IIH,, Ho.tfllljl Att 11-1" l(ltl-&, a. a ~ . lllttnlRlfli.•n,d 1.. IN" J11 ..:11,1111,11 D,:,-:inmcM GI Cumm.,rc.:. ,-.Klft �r r rr T T 1f T. f Table Va Government Responsibility MAINTENANCE RESPONSIBILITY BY GOVERNMENTAL UNIT 1965 - 1966 Three different governmental levels are directly responsible for constructing and maintaining streets and highways in the planning area. These include the Village of Dimondale, Eaton County, and the State of Michigan. A fourth, the Federal Government, also provides funds on a matching basis for highway construction. Such projects and funds are administered by the State of Michigan. Windsor Township is not directly involved in construction and maintenance, except as part of the County, but it does have the power to regulate land uses adjacent to these facilities. Participation by five separate governmental entities emphasizes the importance of transportation at all levels: local, State and Federal. 12.7 1 Eaton County 16.0 2 12.7 58.0 3 74.0 Michigan Major* Minor** TOTAL Dimondale Total 2.8 4 31.5 1.95 4.7 59.9 91.4 !state Trunkline County Primary 3 County Local 4 Village Major 5 Village Local All streets and highways in the major street system shown in Figure 22 are eligible for Federal aid for construction. In addition, the State has full responsibility to maintain the three state trunkline facilities and allocates a share of the Motor Vehicle Highway Fund to Eaton County and Dimondale for maintenance of their respective primary and local systems including those facilities not a part of the major street network. Such allocation of funds is made on the basis of population and road mileage from state weight and fuel tax revenues. Table Va represents a breakdown of the miles of streets for which each governmental unit is responsible. *The major street system as portrayed in Figure 22. **All other Township and Village facilities. Source: Michigan Department of State Highways, Eaton County Road Commission, Tri-County Regional Planning Commission-Transportation Inventory, 1966. Conclusions The importance of the existing traffic arteries in Windsor Township cannot be stressed enough. They provide the linkages between internal land use activities as well as important state and regional centers. They are the lifeblood of the community and must be preserved as such. 59 �l 111111 Few problems are evident regarding this network of transportation facilities. Probably the most problematic area in the Township is that along US-27. This area had the potential to be developed for nuisance and marginal commercial land uses, which in all probability would have been of little or no aesthetic or financial benefit to the community. Foresight brought the adoption of an improved zoning map in November of 1966 which removed the probability that uncontrolled commercial development might occur. One or two points along US-27 in Windsor Township are recognized by the Department of State Highways as critical traffic hazard areas. These are areas where large numbers of trucks make numerous entrances and exits onto this major highway facility and are in direct conflict with high speed traffic movement. Future development practices will require the restriction of certain types of intensive development along major highway facilities. It will, among other things, require that residences are backed onto major trafficways and that businesses and industries be accessible by service drives to limit the number of potentially dangerous access points. The present system of streets and highways poses no problem to development of the Township and if a proper balance is maintained between trafficways and adjacent land uses, regarding function and demand, no significant problems should occur. T 60 �r r G G COMMUNITY FACILITIES & UTILITIES �.- . ,..., A township hall, city library, or muni9ipal auditorium would fall in the first group, with the second group comprised of elementary schools, neighorhood parks, etc. Such facilities, regardless of function, should be located where they are economically, aesthetically and conveniently most advantageous to their users. School The study data portrayed in this section was acquired from the Land Use Study and from interviews with various Township, Village and school personnel. For the purpose of this report, "Public Facilities" is meant to include government, police, fire, education, outdoor and spectator recreation (whether publically or privately owned) and cultural facilities. COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND UTILITIES "' .- ~ ,..... In order to conduct daily governmental activities and furnish the essential public services to the citizenry of the community, public buildings and facilities are required. The provision of these important community assets requires both space and structures adequate in size and composition to allow the proper performance of their respective functions. Of paramount importance is their location. With regard to location, public facilities may be categorized as follows: PUBLIC FACILITIES Education The public school is often the most important facility in the community. There are two reasons for this. The first is that the school serves the educational function so necessary to the upbringing of young children and secondly, the school is a localized center for community and neighborhood social and recreational activity. 1. Those that serve the entire community and are consequently most advantageously located near its center. Due to the basically rural nature of Windsor Township and a 1962 merger which combined the Dimondale and Holt Public School Districts, the planning area has only two elementary school facilities in operation. All junior and senior high students now attend the Holt junior and senior high schools located in Delhi Charter 2. Those that serve sections or neighborhoods within the community and are therefore dispersed in strategic neighborhood locations . 61 �- I intend to purchase a new elementary school site in the northeast corner of Windsor Township in anticipation of future growth adjacent to Lansing. The Holt School District also anticipates the need for a new junior high school in the northwest part of Delhi or the northeast sector of Windsor Township. Present plans call for the enlargement of existing senior high facilities in Holt rather than building a new senior high school elsewhere in the district. Township. Table VIa presents a description of existing elementary school facilities in Windsor Township. Table Via SCHOOLS IN WINDSOR TOWNSHIP Data Grades Year Built Last Addition Site Size Number of Classrooms Enrollment 1963 1964 1965 1966 Capacity Dimondale West Windsor Elementary Elementary K-4 K-6 1951 1890 1966 13 acres 1 acre 2 19 365 343 361 472 590 =..., I I I Recreation Many factors tend to increase the demand for outdoor recreation facilities. Population growth, more leisure time, higher incomes, increased mobility, and changing social patterns have influenced the demand for a greater variety and quantity of such facilities. Windsor Township and Dimondale have the potential to develop many fine recreational sites and, in fact, have attempted to cultivate one of their more advantageous_ opportunity areas to meet these changing demands. An island park was developed in 1962, on the Grand River, in the Village of Dimondale. The island itself was created as a result of milling activity on the Grand River in years past. A millrace was excavated to provide a controlled power source, thereby separating the parcel from the once contiguo~s land to the east. The island has great historical significance due to the function it once served and the landmarks that remain. 54 46 35 38 60 Source: Holt School District Records. A portion of six different school districts lies within the boundaries of Windsor Township. This is probably the most significant problem facing education in the planning area today. Referral to Figure 26 gives one a picture of the degree to which school district fragmentation has occurred. This pattern can result in a serious diseconomy in the provision of school facilities as well as in administration. This park is owned by the Lansing Board of Water and Light and is maintained by them in cooperation with the Village of Dimondale. In 1962, a bathhouse, horseshoe courts, barbecue grills, and other park facilities were installed to take advantage of this man-made phenomenon. At the present time, no major school construction is anticipated within Windsor Township by any of the six school districts. The Holt Public School District does 62 -= r �. - 1/4..NSI G H D LEDGE WINDSOR TOWNSHIP I' Public School ERVILLE Districts HOT P TTERVILLE " - . - EATON RAPIDS CHARLOTTE May 1966 r Figure 26 EA TON RAPIDS 0 .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing, :M ichigan lt>o.· 1•n11"'r•U"'1 ..r 1111& "'"'' w,ia ftnntKCia1h ""bl \h,,..,~t• a r.,il.n,l ,u-An\ £">111111,, \'rlt<ul lltu.ew~I A.rhn1t,1•u-nuoo ol !.lw,, o,.p«,nn,m '" ll"'-'••ni,: 11 ,id L'tloan 0,.•\ •l,\1m.o11t, lllldo.•r UIII Vrt,,M l'!Ji111ti.i,. , ..1,i.:u- 1,,...,,.,.. ~"u~»izod 11, "<><"1.1Qfl 101 .,t IN· 11.... ,~ A,·1 OI L&;;t , u llhll>n<lo'<I, .., ... u,l•t..•,u,J I l,h,.• ~l ..·ht,c,n D I . ~ <>I C:arruno ~<:>:. �.The Grand River, with its flood plain, affords an excellent opportunity for park and recreational development. Unfortunately, not enough is known at present about the amount and location of land in Windsor Township that is susceptible to flooding. The Corps of Engineers is currently making a detailed study of such areas. However, it is anticipated that there will be a considerable amount of land that should be protected from intensive development which can best be made available for recreation use. The Village of Dimondale has quite a tradition to build upon, regarding the pitching of horseshoes. In 1965, the Michigan State horseshoe finals were held on the Dimondale municipal courts located behind the Village fire hall. In 1966, Dimondale became the site of the National Horseshoe Tournament and each year about three state open tournaments are held for members of state and local horseshoe associations. Horseshoe pitching is not merely a seasonal attraction. Ray's Recreation, on M-78, has indoor courts for winter competition, including league play. This activity could conceivably be an important factor in the provision of recreational facilities for the future growth and development of the Village of Dimondale and Windsor Township. As development in the Township accelerates, there will be increased pressures to use these flood plains more intensively. Already some development has taken place in these areas, causing a twofold problem. The first is the potential for flood damage and the second is the private use of land which is better suited to public use. There are no improved parks elsewhere in the Township. The nearest facility, other than Island Park, is Grand River Park in Delhi Charter Township. There are also excellent facilities in Lansing, Charlotte and Eaton Rapids, which can be used by Windsor Township residents. The remaining recreation facility located within the planning area is the school playground and athletic field. As development increases there will be a demand created for large community parks. Such assets not only provides visual variety and interest to the community, but also afford space for both active and passive recreational activities. Such activities include organized games, picnicing, water sports, hiking, and nature study. In addition to the public recreation facilities available in Windsor Township and Dimondale , there are also two private facilities. These include a driving range and minature golf course on M-78 and a gun club on Gunnell Road. In essence, a much more detailed study is needed to determine the recreational requirements of the Township as well as the potential and availability of certain areas for community purchase and citizen use. Consideration should be given, now, to the means which could be used to preserve natural opportunity areas such as those mentioned in this report. Such preservation is necessary to insure their availability when increased population creates the need for them. Other natural features having high recreative development potential are the Grand River, the gravel pit on Davis Highway near 1-96 and a swampy forested area west of the King Drain in the southwest corner of the Township. f 64 �I -, I Fire and Police Protection (2) Township Hall, (3) Village Hall, (4) a library, (5) a sanitary landfill, and (6) an open dump operated by the Village. The extent of fire districts, the size of local service areas and the location of fire stations is strongly influenced by the recommendations of the National Board of Fire Underwriters. This Board sets standards for administrative organization, equipment and the location of fire protection facilities for the purpose of fire insurance rating. The ratings are obtained by evaluating seven different items and assigning deficiency points to each one relative to the seriousness of its deficiency. Paramount among the seven items is the availability of a public water supply system and the presence of full-time personnel. According to the National Board of Fire Underwriters, Windsor Township and the Village Dimondale have a fire rating of 9, with a rating of 10 being the lowest possible. Lansing, having the most efficient fire department in the Region, has a rating of 3. Lower numerical ratings generally mean lower fire insurance costs. The United States Post Office which serves the area is located in Dimondale on Bridge Street. The building contains 1,220 square feet of floor area and employs three persons. 7 The Dimondale Village Hall is located next to the fire station on Bridge Street and the Windsor Township Hall is situated on the corner of Jefferson and Bridge Streets. The Township Hall was one of the first buildings constructed in Dimondale. It was built before 1900 and has 1,620 square feet of usable floor space. Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale jointly operate a library located on Bridge Street. Support of the library is from the local tax funds of the Village and Township, a penal fund, and some state aid. At present, the library contains approximately 6,000 volumes and is a member of the Tri-County - Central Michigan Library System. The local library is complemented by library facilities at the Dimondale Elementary School. The Township and Village fire station is located on Bridge Street next to the Dimondale Village Hall. The building was constructed in 1954, having 650 square feet of floor area, on a site 0.13 acre in size. Personnel and equipment are comprised of 18 volunteer firemen, two pump and ladder trucks and a rescue car. Fire loss in 1963 totaled $7,256 for the whole of Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale. Police protection is provided by Eaton County. The sanitary landfill and Village dump will be discussed in the section on public utilities. Figure 27 is illustrative of all public facilities within the planning area. Other Public Facilities r Additional public facilities located in Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale include (1) a post office, r 65 �r ,- ,- ,- T �\ " WINDSOR TOWNSHIP TO\VNSHIP AND VILLAGE PUBLIC I'ACILI:IES (I p I I ,A., [ ·,, '- ,/ / - -- · }"------- ;-------------/ :I / / I : I ~ OOIOPWAL E I I I I I II ----+----~---...... I -...L. I I I I I I Figure ,. JO -- l. V1l:r ge • ollC d tt dispo. a s:tt 2. .:\1uni<'ipa L'OUT'U:: :J. \ illage 11 ,mi fi t• dep, rtn t.1 t '±, Libran 5 • I. lar J I • r 6. Windso · 1 ~n lup II 11 1 • Dunondale I leme tt.ry School and :Jla\>ground 8. West Windsor Elementary &chool ~- Township sanitar} landfill .,, 27 D 0 .5 Scale in mile s 1--------1» 9 TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Clippert St. , Lansing , Michigan Tt.. pnJl)<tn.U""I af lb .. map 11,......,.,, "'1lt ruw.clal.l) ~•l a Fttderal O"Ml Inna U. UrhRD R<11H1Wal luin'UnLatnoUoo 1>! Ihle il<tl>llrimunl ol lklwlll)o; am! Urbln. OeWl\Qp""'nl, undolr !ho Ur1.iml l'llwa.sn, AHl.ilWloe rro.c.-.m nulhorllt,lld ~ &ctlon 7111 or th<! llw11,_ Act of ltL4, ,u IIJn<!lllled, admt.nl•U!rod by 1h11 llldugnll DeplU'DtMIIII of C1»t1111V"'°'. �STATE SECONDARY COMPLEX be minimal except for the Police Academy, Civil Defense and Health Department. Location and Size . ,- The State secondary complex will encompass an area of approximately 340 acres just west of the US-27 1-96 interchange in Windsor Township. To date, all major land purchases have been transacted and site plans are being completed by the appropriate State agencies. Development Plans If funds are appropriated, development could begin in Function ., I The complex will initially (earliest stages) serve as the location for the Michigan Liquor Control Commission's warehouse now located on Hosmer Street in Lansing; a Historical Commission warehouse; the Department of State Highways Sign Shop, also located in Lansing; and upon acquisition of funds, the Michigan State Police Academy. The State Police facility will be an academy for recruit training and will include rifle ranges, a driving range, communications center for civil defense, a heliport, and other facilities necessary for such an operation. At least 17 functions have been mentioned as possibilities for location in the complex, including the State motor pool, State Health Department (now on Logan), and certain Conservation Department functions. The entire complex, with the exception of the Police Academy and Health Department, will have a relatively low employee per acre ratio due to its major emphasis on storage or warehousing and maintenance. In general, the State secondary complex will not be a decision-making office center; the State Capitol Complex in Lansing will retain this primary function. It is expected that visitors will 67 the fall of 1967. The phasing has not yet been formulated as to construction dates, and there is no predetermined completion date. Construction will be carried out over an indefinite time period depending on legislative action and appropriations. It is anticipated, however, that a sewer outlet will be needed within the next two years. Transportation The major transportation problem in the immediate vicinity of the State complex is that of truck traffic making entrances onto and exits from US-27. This problem could become acute, in that traffic volumes are heavy in this area, and move at high speeds. A study is presently underway by the Michigan Department of State Highways to determine traffic generators and volumes along US-27. This study may result in the provision of traffic signals at strategic locations to regulate vehicle flows. Utilities The present thinking regarding the provisions of sewer service is that the complex could be connected to the Delta Township sewage treatment facility by a 24 to 30 inch line. This line, if accepted, would be immediately installed by the State at a cost of approximately $508,000 �I to be partially repaid as further development occurs and subsequently connects to the new facility in southern Delta Township. The proposed sewer line would follow Carrier Creek and tie into existing facilities at St. Joseph Highway in Delta Township. Its available surplus capacity at the proposed secondary complex will approximate 3 to 3 1/ 2 million gallons per day; enough to service an estimated 30,000 additional population. The possibility of establishing a sewage district or authority has been mentioned. Such a district could conceivably provide an equitable and desirable solution to the new problems now confronting the Village of Dimondale as well as those of the State complex. The possibility of forming an authority should be explored cooperatively by all parties involved; Dimondale Village, Windsor and Delta Townships and the State of Michigan. An immediate possibility would be the use by all parties involved, of the Delta Township treatment facility. The Village could connect at the State secondary complex thus taking advantage of the excess capacity available at that point. The Delta Township treatment plant is a secondary system having a capacity of approximately one million gallons per day. There are several possible alternative solutions for sewer and water utility service to the State complex. These alternatives should be fully explored to obtain the most desirable services for the total area as well as the State complex. The immediate needs of the Village must be dealt with within a relatively short period of time, as the village is currently under orders from Michigan Water Recources Commission. The recent announcement of the State Secondary Complex proposal in Windsor Township affords an excellent opportunity to consider alternative solutions for solving this major utility need, both for the immediate and long-range future. To persue the cooperative solution described above would be a step toward such a possible long-range solution. It has been indicated that the most desirable solution may also involve the dumping of all sewage effluent from the metropolitan area downstream from the City and its suburbs, meaning northwest of Lansing. This location offers a stream character which is more conducive to the addition of sewage effluent due to rapid water movement and, therefore, greater oxidation of wastes. ..... ...... ,.,- Although no agreement has yet been reached, water for the complex will probably be supplied by the Lansing Board of Water and Light. -,,, r 68 r r �T - PUBLIC UTILITIES AND SERVICE AREAS The primary purpose and function of public utility systems is as follows: Procurement, treatment , storage and distribution of potable water. Collection , treatment and disposal of domestic and industrial wastes and collection and discharge of surplus surface runoff waters. In addition, the City of Lansing has three 18-inch dia- Collection, treatment and disposal of solid waste. - - Presently, all water supplies for Dimondale and Windsor Township come from groundwater sources. For the most part, private wells penetrating these sources are very shallow, obtaining water from the surface or glacial till. In some cases they have not been adequate to meet the needs of existing development. Qne subdivision in the Township, Grand Pointe, has a single well which serves all residences in the area collectively. This water is not treated and some difficulty has been encountered in operation. This facility might best be placed in Township responsibility to assure adequate and continuous service for area residents. meter gravel wall wells in operation west of the Grand River in Section 2 of Windsor Township. These wells are between 100 and 120 feet deep and pump on the average of five million gallons per day. The river acts as a partial source of the water, since water is supplied to the well field through infiltration from the river bottom. Supply and distribution of power and fuel. Means of communication. Although each element of this utilities network exerts some influence on the present and future rate, direction and pattern of urban development, water availability and sanitary sewer systems are the most influential. In the near future, a public water supply system will be constructed to meet the demands of urban growth. Such a system might be expected to offer the following benefits: Increase the possibility of attracting new industry. WATER SUPPLY Provide sufficient water for all users. A continuous supply of high-quality water is a vital necessity for modern living. All activities, whether they are residential, commerical, industrial, or public, have certain unique and basic water requirements. Development, irregardless of type, occurs where water is available. Improve water quality through treatment. Improve fire protection potential and therefore reduce fire insurance rates. 69 �I The State Department of Wat.er Resources is requiring that plans be submitted for a water system by August 1, 1967 and that construction begin not lat.er than June 1, 1968. The Village has made application for a Federal grant to satisfy this need. Preliminary plans call for two wells, a storage tank and a distribution system. Provisions are being made to include developed portions of Windsor Township in the project at some future da t.e • plans are now in the development stage. It is anticipated that the system will be a package secondary treatment facility involving some form of activated sludge treatment. The new facility will tentatively have a capacity of 150,000 gallons per day. Initially, the system will serve only the Village of Dimondale, however, provisions are being made so that the system can be ext.ended into the developed portions of Windsor Township in the future. - Dimondale has applied to the State Wat.er Resources Commission and the Farmer's Home Administration for loans to construct both the sewer and water systems. If these loans are approved in the near future, construction of both systems can be anticipated very shortly aft.er the August 1 deadline for water and sewer plans. Major consideration should be given to the State secondary complex to be developed-n ear the US-27 and I-96 interchange. This new development could have a major influence on future growth and, therefore, utility needs. The complex itself will also require public services and cooperation between the State, Village and Township could prove beneficial to all. SEWAGE DISPOSAL The provision of an adequate sewage disposal system is one of the most important services required for healthy urban living. Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale are not now served by public sewers and therefore rely on individual septic tank and drain field systems. This means of sewage disposal is usually effective in rural areas where residential densities are very low, however~ it has resulted in serious health problems in the Village. Here, dwellings are close together and each individual lot must serve as both a source of water and as a disposal field for sewage effluent. Another consequence of this method of sewage disposal is the pollution of the Grand River and this has resulted in State Wat.er Resources Commission involvement. The multitude of individual sewage systems is indirectly feeding into and changing the character of the river. STORM DRAINAGE Due to the relatively low degree of urbanization in Windsor Township and past subdivision practices, very little artificial storm drainage has been provided. Areas having storm sewers are Hill and Hollow and Grand Pointe subdivisions and portions of the Village of Dimondale. Further study will be necessary to determine the adequacy of present facilities and subsequently delineate areas of deficiency and need. In recognition of these problems, the State Department of Wat.er Resources is also requiring that Dimondale construct a public sewage disposal system. Preliminary 70 1' �SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL to a properly managed sanitary landfill by 1968 or be closed for future use. The Village does carry on a refuse collection program, however, garbage is collected by a contractor. Refuse disposal has become, and is ever increasing as, a vital concern in most urbanizing communities today. Average figures for waste disposal approximate four pounds per capita per day and a community having a population of 5,000 must, therefore, expect to dispose of ten tons of solid waste each day. • r Until now, few problems have been encountered in refuse disposal. Existing disposal sites are, however, being overloaded and mismanaged and improved techniques are needed. A solution to this problem must involve a coordinated intercommunity effort to allow both economical and continuous operation of sanitary landfill sites. Solid waste consists of garbage and rubbish, the first being animal and vegetable wastes; the second, tin cans, glass bottles, metal articles, and combustible materials, such as paper and cloth. The primary consideration in refuse disposal is that of health and sanitation. Refuse serves as feeding and breeding places for rodents and troublesome insects, including mosquitoes and roaches. In addition, poor storage and disposal operations may result in fire hazards, water pollution and air pollution problems to a community. POWER, FUEL AND COMMUNICATIONS Windsor Township receives all electricity and natural gas from the Consumers Power Company which, by the way, serves all the Tri-County Region with natural gas and is the second leading producer of electricity in the Region. As Figure 28 indicates, the entire southern portion of the Township is lacking in natural gas service. Little demand is anticipated in this area, however, should a sufficient demand occur the Consumers Power Company has the capability to meet such needs. At this time, Windsor Township does not have a public refuse collection and disposal system. All such service is handled on a private contractual basis. The Township does, however, operate a modified sanitary landfill for disposal of refuse by private citizens. This facility is located on Scott Road, south of Rossman Highway. Generally speaking, the landfill is less than adequately maintained and is characterized by incomplete cover, groundwater problems, and limited space. Telephone service is provided throughout the Township and Village by the Michigan Bell Telephone Company, which serves approximately 87% of all such service in the Tri-County Region. Available to the residents of Dimondale is an open dump located in the northern part of the Village on Cretys Road. This is an unlicensed facility, being used merely to fill in a low area. According to Act 87 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1965, this disposal site must be converted The availability of electricity, natural gas and telephone service imposes no particular limitation on future development. They may be provided easily to virtually r 71 �I any part of 1he Township. The only problem in the provision of such service is the relatively higher cost involved in serving dispersed dwellings and subdivisions, than is encountered in serving fairly compact settlements. The overall result is higher utility costs for all users. Of the three, only one has much potential to influence growth in the Township. It is conceivable that the availability of natural gas lines might promote growth in areas presently accessible to such service. 7 ......,. In summary, every attempt is being made to solve the pressing utility problems in the Township and Village, however, one last consideration is necessary to the discussion of utility systems. This is the recognition that water and sewage problems are extremely complex and interdependent. Sewage treatment, stream pollution, water service and a dwindling groundwater supply are problems common to the whole Lansing metropolitan area and, therefore, are not easily solved at the local level. While one government unit is wholeheartedly trying to solve the water and sewage problem, another may be making little or no effort in this direction. Intergovernmental coordination will be necessary at the metropolitan or regional level to equitably distribute water benefits and effectively and uniformly treat sanitary sewage to preserve surface waters in the Region. Water and sewage are unmistakably regional problems requiring coordinated regional solutions. -. 72 T T �WINDSOR TOWNSHIP Ga. and Elecyric Transmif'!sion Lines --E' ctr Sub I 1gure 0 tI ,J .5 Scale in miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMLSfilON 535 Clippert St., Lansing, Michigan 11W11~n.U.. lllf Uti. . - , . - ~ ) •1-tlo.>d lh,_.,, s l"edoQ.l ~ from\M" !Jffl;ID R _ . f Adlml>JJltnlil'e lllf !,ho, ~ ~ U,..._.Qld l"rt,,u,.Dt•w};,pml,~I, Pluab::ls" .U.Ulw,a, l"ftlV .........~ ti, i...ei.1... l'tll ol' Ille H-1rlc Aitl of IIIU, .. Aflldlducl, .:IIIWll•ldR<l .., IA,- U1dupa Do!pa""""'nl ol ('_ _ ...,,._ und.sr ibo IJ....,.,. �PLANNING PHASE �THE CITIZENS'ROLE IN PLANNING The development of a comprehensive plan is a major concern to the Windsor Township Board of Trustees and the Planning Commission. These, however, should not be the only interested parties involved in planning for the community. The Township and Village consists of over 3,500 citizens for whom the plan is being formulated and upon whom it depends for success. Citizens 1 interest and participation, are of utmost importance to public understanding, acceptance, and support of the planning proposals set forth in the plan document. There are many areas in which citizens can aid in guiding desirable growth in the future and make other very valuable contributions to the planning process: FORMULA TING THE PLAN 1. Forming citizens committees to aid and cooperate with local officials in the decision making process. In essence, the comprehensive plan for Windsor Township will evolve from an evaluation of planning proposals based on the several studies contained herein. Preliminary proposals will be formulated by the staff of the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission,as the initial step. These proposals will then be reviewed in depth with the members of the Township Planning Commission to arrive at a realistic set of policies to be presented to interested citizen groups for further suggestions and improvements. During this phase, a program of citizen education and orientation will be carried out to increase public knowledge, understanding, and support of the comprehensive planning program. '7 2. Helping to formulate community goals and objectives. 3. Soliciting and encouraging broad citizen interest in the planning process. 4. Participating in the hearings on the plan to insure that it reflects community wide, rather than special interests. 5. Supporting the plan after adoption to insure that the community interest is being served. After the preliminary work is completed the plan will be presented for public hearing before the Township Board and the Planning Commission prior to adoption. 74 �. 6. Cooperating with the governing body in plan enforcement. 7. Protecting the plan from indiscrete or piecemeal change which will cause the disintegration and subsequent ineffectiveness of the document. ,....., ,-- l 8. Backing financial support for plan effectuation, when needed. r Planning for the community will not terminate when the plan is completed. Planning is a continuing process. Periodically, new data must be collected, analyzed, and integrated into a revised plan to assure that it will not perish due to obsolescence. Citizens' interest and participation should also be a continuing process. The Township belongs to the citizen and his interest in his community is vital to its proper development. r r - ,---,· ..... 75 �I 7 n 7 7 i I n 7 7 n n 7 i7' II II II II APPENDIX �r APPENDIX A I EXISTING LAND USE TOTALS - 1966 DIMONDALE vVINDSOR TOWNSHIP I I I I I I I I I I I I !..,and Use Residential Single-Family Two-Family Multiple-Family Acreae:e 536.7 532.0 1. 3 3.4 P ercent of Total 2.6% Percent of Develoned Area 31.2% Acreae:e 101.4 100.8 Percent of Total 18. 4% Percent of Deve looed Area 58. 3 % 0. 6 Total Acreae:e 638.1 632.8 1. 3 4.0 Commercial 29.2 - o. 1% 1. 7% 4.3 0.8 % 2. 5% 33.5 - Industrial 45. 1 0.2 % 2. 6% 17.5 3.2 % 10. 1% 62. 6 Institutional 22.6 0.1 % 1. 3 % 8. 5 1. 5% 4. 9% 31. 1 Recreational - - -4.1 o. 8 % 2. 3 % -4. 1 - Transportation 11086.2 5.3 % 63.2 % 38.1 - 6. 9% 21. 9% 12124.3 TOTAL DEVELOPED LAND 12 719. 8 8. 3 % 100. 0% 173.9 - 31. 6% 100. 0% 1 1893.7 141393.0 11,986.2 2,406.8 69. 8 % 141. 0 91. 3 49.7 25.6% 141534.0 12,077.5 2,456.5 41512.2 21. 9% 235. 8 42. 8 % 42748.0 Agriculture Field Crops Woodlots Undeveloped Vacant & Unused Cropland Unusable Lakes & Streams 4,171.4 187. 9 152. 9 TOTAL UNDEVELOPED LAND 181 905. 2 TOTALS 201 625. 0 203.2 4,374.6 187.9 185. 5 32.6 91. 7% 376.8 68. 4% 192282.0 100. 0% 550.7 100. 0% 212175. 7 �APPENDIX B NUMERICAL CHANGE IN POPULATION BY DECADE - 1900-1960 I I I I I 1900-1910 1910-1920 1920-1930 1930-1940 1940-1950 1950-1960 Alaiedon TownshiJ2 -217 - 59 115 121 354 584 Bath TownshiJ2 - 44 -149 161 593 1,178 928 Watertown TownshiJ2 -123 -140 125 23 366 423 Windsor TownshiJ2 -491 - 32 279 257 344 480 Dimondale Village 19 185 59 170 92 Eaton County -1,169 -1,122 2,351 2,396 5,899 9,561 Tri-County Region 10,316 27,103 38,448 18,922 52,748 54,790 Eaton County -3.8 :.3_3 8.2 7. 6 17.6 24.1 Tri-County Region 10.7 25. 3 28.7 11. 0 27.7 22.4 I I r I r (· r r PERCENT CHANGE IN POPULATION BY DECADE - 1900-1960 1900-1910 1910-1920 1920-1930 1930-1940 1940-1950 1950-1960 Alaiedon Town~hiQ -18. 5 - 6.2 12.8 12.0 31. 3 39. 3 Bath Town§hiQ - 4.1 -14.6 18. 5 57.4 72.4 33.2 Watertown TownshiQ - 9.2 -11. 6 11.7 1. 9 30.0 26.7 Windsor Townshi12 -32.8 - 3.2 28.6 20.5 22.8 25. 9 Dimondale Village 5. 6 51.4 10.8 28.1 11. 9 �I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I r, \N IN R£ l () RI lO Ml SIO NTY \I Pl .E l lll () n Yim A. an, I ,n ' ,1 ., Herbe ) ~· p 11 ~ l ' t' \ Wt' IA ) ~ r d Joi.ue l () • £ k u m1s.ng- Jr. A . l Ric luuc J Car Il1'CnV\ Ila 1.e?a& • P rt t rrc 'ka, ... le I u rd rr K l t �...- TRI COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION ,,. Ll 535 N. Cl"ppert, Laming, Michigan 48912 � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wyckoff Planning and Zoning Collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Planning & Zoning Center (Lansing, Mich.) (Organization) Wyckoff, Mark A. Description An account of the resource Municipal master plans and zoning ordinances from across the state of Michigan, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2020s. The bulk of the collection was compiled by urban planner Mark Wyckoff over the course of his career as the founder and principal planner of the Planning and Zoning Center in Lansing, Michigan. Some additions have been made to the collection by municipalities since it was transferred to Grand Valley State University. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960/2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Subject The topic of the resource Michigan Comprehensive plan publications Master plan reports Zoning--Michigan Zoning--Maps Maps Land use--planning Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-240 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Windsor-Twp_Background-for-Planning_1967 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1967-03 Title A name given to the resource Background for Planning Description An account of the resource The Background for Planning for Windsor Township was prepared by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission in March 1967. Subject The topic of the resource Comprehensive plan publications Windsor Township (Mich.) Eaton County (Mich.) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/83b8205059bab86e8d7b19e321f6c3da.pdf 36f3e92d56f3e56a747c4188afbc4a4d PDF Text Text 11 "'I IJ..._'J~.7 I"\. 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' ' ' 0 6 ' ' cte0 "'b""1 ot p\ann'-"~ """ to< "-' ot e>W• ,,_l)itj \1' te<'° 6 ,,_,,,ties, to I' ,tionS· , ,. , , ~• -••' "'',. , ' ,. , , a•"•\o\)11'•" -~,ni co"''°'"" ,..,, • .,,.a ,s cl'\> a 'l'.n• -Pl"'~ ~w•• ,,,..... 9-i:O'l- • -p\.,,_ etob<"c es we cott\1'('!: :oil' ,es\oentS• -q.J\n.Oso-i: rto-wns \\j slJ.b,oitte~• 1\esl'"cli" . /} J...,,1;C £,,. P" -~ ~ p,o><""' cnai'""""co""'°'ss\on 1\ob•'t · , ~1.n.dso-i: '\' 0 snil' -p\ann'-"11 -wn •"'" , "•·';; r �COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT PLAN WINDSOR TOWNSHIP PLANNING, COMMISSION TOWNSHIP OF WINDSOR, EATON COUNTY, MICHIGAN SEP TE MBER, 196 7 ~ The preparation of this document was financially aided through a Federal Granl from the Department of Housing and Urban De\'elopment, under the l"rban Plnnning Asstst.1nce Program, authorized by Section jQl of the llousing Act of 1954 , as nmendcd, administered by the Michigan [)(!partmcnt of Commerce. ~ TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION - - - - LA NSI NG - M ICHIGA N - - - - �TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE NO. INTRODUCTION PLANNING PERSPECTIVE Purpose and Scope Objectives , , • ••• • Design Considerations ••••••••• , Major Factors Affecting Development 1 2 " ... 0 • (I 3 5 DIMENSIONS OF FUTURE CHANGE Assumptions Projected Needs and Expectations O o O e O C O • (I O O e O e O (I o O 6 O 7 FUTURE LAND USE PLAN 8 Residential Commercial Industrial ••• Agricultural 12 15 17 COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN Educational Land Use Considerations Parks and Recreational Land Use Considerations ••. Utilities ••••••o•••••oeoooo• Public Building Considerations .. . .. 19 21 22 24 MAJOR STREET PLAN Principles and Standards •• Future Needs •• • ••••••••• 27 30 CARRYING OUT THE PLAN Plan Implementation • •• • The Citizen's Role in Planning 32 34 �INTRODUCTION The Comprehensive Plan for Windsor Township has been prepared to aid decision makers in shaping the inevitable physical growth of the community. It is based on the assumption that changes will occur in the Township's development pattern as a result of increased urbanization and that such change can be channeled into an orderly, economical, aesthetic, and healthy environment, if given proper guidance. The Plan is based on the attainment of preestablished community goals which have originated in the thinking of various citizens and public officials concerned with the Township's future development and welfare. The Plan actually represents a graphic portrayal of community goals and the more definitive policies and standards which emanate therefrom. These, then, provide the developmental framework for integrating new developments into the existing land use pattern. The Plan represents the second of three phases in the Township's comprehensive planning program, which includes: (1) the inventory and analysis stage; (2) the planning stage; and (3) the plan implementation stage.* Each of these segments is of equal importance in providing present and future populations with an environment in which they can live and work with the assurance that their interests will be protected. Thus, the Comprehensive Development Plan is a schematic illustration which is based upon the latest available projections, the existing development pattern, and on the desires of Township residents. It is a document which has been created for the betterment of the community and one which will have to be implemented by the community if the developmental goals it portrays are to be achieved. *Background material on natural features, population characteristics, existing land use, economic factors, and public facilities and utilities is available in the Background For Planning Study at the Windsor Township offices. �PLANNING PERSPECTIVE ��...,.,. PURPOSE AND SCOPE constant and critical r eview and revi sion as new and more detai led knowledge becomes available. As conditions evolve which are not now foreseeable, it wi ll be nece ss ary to reevalu ate Plan propos als and make appropr i ate alterati ons. Thi s should not be taken to mean that the Plan should be indiscretely amended to conveniently accommodate all requests. It should retain a, degree of rigidity or its value as a development guide will diminish greatlyo To reap the maximum benefits of the Comprehensive Plan, it is imparative that it be utilized on a day to day basis to guide developmental decisions. If it is not used thusly, we can predict with certainty, the occurance of conditions which will result in serious problems in the future. The pur pose of the Comprehen sive Plan i s to pr ovi de for the social, economi c and physical better ment of Windsor Township. It is a means for coordinating development decisions so as to avert problems and anticipate needs before thfly arise. In essence , the reason for devising a Comprehensive Plan derjves from the admission that problems exist or are likely to develop and that action must be taken now, to create and maintain a healthy environment for living, working, and leisure time activities. The Comprehensive Plan for Windsor Township contains six major sections. The first of these is the Planning Perspective which includes a statement of goals and objectives and a brief summary of the Township's existing character. The second section, termed Dimensions of Future Change, includes assumptions and a summary of projections which define those elements to be planned for in the future. Survey Accumulation of facts • Popula1Jon • Transportation • Land Use The third section of the Comprehensive Plan is the Land Use Plan. It deals with the allocation of lands and follows a sequence in each case as follows: (1) Present Situation, (2) Future Land Requirements, (3) The Plan, (4) Policy Guides, and (5) Standards. The fourth and fifth sections assess the future needs for community facilities , utilities, and streets and provides necessary policies and standards to guide their development. A graphic plan is provided for community facilities and major streets. I ;r I . ~ Ill ~ ~ ~ _ ·1esis I Determination ~tJ I ~~ l~~- Effectuation Determination of priorities and programs Every effort has been made to devise a plan which is both general and flexible. Much of the value of the Comprehensive Plan can be realized only through 1 !'Ill I Analysis Study of trends and relationships \J\ V ....-- I of desired relationships J The Plan Graphic presentation of proposed development �present and future residential, commercial, industrial and public needs. OBJECTIVES Prior to the creation of a Comprehensive Development Plan, desired community objectives or values upon which the Plan is based, must be identified. These, in turn, form the basis for more specific developmental policies or approaches needed to reach the desired objectives and outline the basic reasons for the Plan. Development Pattern - Prevent the misuse and waste of land by establishing a pattern to guide future orderly growth and development. Urban sprawl should be contained and development guided into efficient service units. Residential Areas - Provide residential neighborhoods with a quiet, safe, convenient and attractive environment. Principle objectives upon which the Township Plan has been developed are : Commerce - Encourage and provide for commercial development in locations where they are economically feasible and to provide goods and services to the community in. clean, attractive, safe and convenient surroundings. Efficiency and Economy of Development - To assure maximum benefit to the public from public expenditures and private investments in the area through the economical employment of resources, prevention of duplication and waste, and the enhancement of property values. Industry - Provide for adequate, diverse and welllocated industrial sites with room for expansion, easy accessibility and protection from encroachment by other development. Economic Prosperity - To encourage growth and diversification of economic activities, encourage optimum use of economic resources and to take full advantage of physical and economic characteristics unique to this metropolitan area. Transportation - Encourage the development of an integrated transportation network, that provides rapid, safe and economical movement of people and goods through the area. Amenity and Convenience - To guide the area's physical growth and development to assure a pleasant, desirable and attractive community in which to live, work and play; to encourage attractiveness, pleasantness, variety, diversity and amenities in our urban environment. Education Facilities - Provide balanced, well-located educational facilities to meet the needs and requirements of the people. Recreation - Provide a variety of recreational areas and facilities to serve all areas and age groups. Health and Safety - To encourage stable physical development, good living and working conditions, and freedom from hazards in the urban environment. Public Facilities - Provide adequate, strategically located public facilities to meet the existing and future needs of the citizens in the Township area. Land Uses - Provide for the highest and best use of the land for immediate and long-range needs to accommodate both local and metropolitan area functions . The land use element should provide a well-balanced land use pattern capable of meeting Coordination - Provide coordination of Township plans with adjacent governmental units and overall plans for the Tri-County Region. 2 �summation of such findings as contained in the study report, Background for Planning. Location Windsor Township is located immediately south and west of the City of Lansing, very near the center of the Tri-County Region, and is bounded on the north and east respectively by rapidly urbanizing Delta and Delhi Townships. The Township is directly connected to Lansing by US-27 (M-78) and M-99. However, I-96 serves to link the Township to such major Michigan urban centers as Detroit, Grand Rapids, Muskegon and Flint. ·-·,·-; ~.. _,. ... I ..... w- \l lll.11 ' ·, 1-:·!._. .... \ . I Most activities; cultural, recreational, service, commercial, employment, and communications; are centered in the Lansing core area. However, Charlotte and Eaton Rapids, in Eaton County, serve as subsidiary focal points for such activities. ·-·+-- ' :I • .,• • , . . . . ."' ! ! 1· ''°''" OH ' ■-- ·-1 •. ...J---- Po2,ulation Although no particular decade stands out as being a period of significant growth, Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale have grown consistently from a population of 1,334 in 1920 to approximately 3,600 in 1966. The present development pattern evidences a major concentration of population in the Village of Dimondale, with the remainder of the population being fairly well distributed throughout the Township. DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS Throughout the study phase of the planning program for Windsor Township, many important factors pertinent to a thorough understanding of the community's outstanding assets and liabilities were discovered which will have a major influence upon future community development. These factors must be given paramount consideration in the drafting of a Comprehensive Development Plan. The following is a brief 3 �Problems in the land use patte rn ar e, a s yet, not acute due to the area ' s sparce population. However, s ymptoms of several urban problems are becoming increasingly evident. The median number of school years completed by Township and Village residents was 11. 1 in 1960 , while the median income only slightly exceeded $5 , 700 . According to more recent estimates, by the Tri - County Regional Planning Commission staff, the medi--=~- family income had risen to nearly $7 , 400 in 1965. In 1966, Windsor Township and Dimondale contained some 1, 012 occupi ed dwelling units having an estimated 3. 53 persons per unit. Traffic and Maj or Streets Presently U. S. 27 is the major tr affic artery in Windsor Township , connecting the Township to Lansing, Charlotte and points south. Since a majority of the traffic utilizing thi s facility (averaging 11 , 000 vehicles per day) has no destination within the planning area, futur e volume reductions might be anticipated when the proposed new freeway facility is constructed tb bypass the Township to the west. Em-2!_QYmen t Total employment in the Tri-County Region increased at an average annual rate of 1 % over the period 1956 to 1965. Lansing City is the pr ime employment area in the Region with Windsor Township serving as one of the City's several outlying ''bedroom communities. " Approximately 53 % of the Township's employed labor force worked in the City in 1960 with the automobile industry being a major employment influence. Manufacturing, retail trade, and agriculture, were the three major employers of Township and Village residents in 1960. l i tilities and Facilities The planning area, as yet, has no public sewer or water facilities , The Village of Dimondale is presently in the process of planning for sewerage facilities under orders from the Michigan Water Resources Commission, although Federal assistance is somewhat doubtful. Construction is to begin not later than June 1 , 1968 . The sewage treatment facility presently being planned i s scheduled to have a capacity of 150, 000 gallons per day, to service an estimated 1, 500 per sons. Land Use Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale encompass approximately 21 , 200 acres of land, 90 % of which is vacant or in agricultural use. Since 1960, nine plats have been recorded, six of which are located north of Dimondale, near or adjacent to the Grand _R iver. This platting evidences a northerly direction of growth toward the City of Lansing. The new Michigan State Secondary Complex is proposed for a 340 acre site just west of the U, S, 27 1-96 interchange. This facility will serve a subsidiary function to the downtown Lansing decision-making center. As many as 17 state functions have been mentioned for possible location in the Complex. 4 �that once developed, the Complex will have a marked influence upon sun: ounding land uses and traffic volumes, Problems within the Township and Village mclude a fragmentation of s chool districts , pollution of the Grand River , and less than adequate provision for solid waste di.sposa1. A further problem presently being encountered is the excessive expenses involved in providing sanitary facilities on a purely local basis, Water - The availability of an adequate ground water supply will play an important role in the development of the Township, At present the ground water supply appears adequate, but increased competition with other governmental units in the metropolitan area could change the current water picture, MAJOR FACTORS AFFECTING DEVELOPMENT Topograpgy - Areas along the Grand River are particular ly desirable locations for residential development due to their rolling scenic character. Sewerage - The sewage disposal situation is one which poses serious implications for the future. Adequate service at reasonable construction costs and service rates could g-reatly enhance development potential. The current problems must be solved, but caution toward embarking upon a short-term solution which may disregard long-range demands must be voiced at this time. Soils - Several areas are characterized by poorly drained and unstable soils, however, the Township's prime development areas are relatively free of such severe soil conditions. Flooding - Caution must be exercised in the development of areas immediately adjacent to the Grand River, Some such areas are subject to periodic innundation and are therefore not suitable for intensive uses which are subject to severe flood damage. State Secondary Complex - The exact influence which the new State Complex will exert upon other land use developments in the near future cannot as yet be measured, as at present it is not lmown just what State functions are proposed in total, nor has the construction scheduling been completed. It can be assuredly predicted, however, 5 �I I r· I 1·. I I I DIMENSIONS OF FUTURE CHANGE I ·- ��Schools : School district annexations will provide a more logical and equitable delineation of school district boundaries. ASSUMPTIONS In projecting population into the future and therefrom allocating land uses to accommodate such population, it becomes necessary to first presuppose those conditions and happenings likely to effect this future growth. The Plan projections are based upon the occurance of the e-vents embodied in the following assumptions : Annexation : The area north of I-96 will, in all pr obability, be annexed to the City of Lansing before the end of the present planning period. Thus, in planning for projected growth, land use allocations for Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale will be i ncluded only for those areas south cf I - 96. The area assumed to be annexed, will be graphically shown as it is depicted in the Lansing City Master Plan for the purpose of accommodating the City's urban spill-over. Residential : There will be a general decrease in the number of persons per housing unit as the rate of family formation increases and birth rates decline. Thj s will result in a need for more r esidential units for a population of 6, 200 than would be needed for a similar population whose families are larger. State Secondary Complex: The presence of the new State Complex will result in the growth of complimentary uses near the subject site. Employment: The Township will continue to depend upon Lansing as its major source of employment. The planning area is likely to retain its role as a "bedroom community" to Lansing; deriving a large share of its nonagricultural economic livelihood from the City. I I I I r- Charter Township: Windsor Township will become a charter township before 1970. Transportation: The automobile will continue to serve as the principle mode of transportation throughout the duration of the planning period. PROJECTED NEEDS AND EXPECTATIONS Public Services : Dimondale and vicinity will be served by public water and sewerage services before 1970. The Grand River: The Grand River will increase in importance as a recreational asset and residential development will continue to locate along its shores. 4 mo 6 1970 1980 1190 j" �The following is a brief summation of changes which Windsor Township can anticipate by 1990, All but population and employment will receive further consideration in their respective plan subsections. Educational: School plant requirements within the Township proper, will consist of two elementary schools and possibly one junior high school. It is estimated that by 1990, there will be 685 elementary (K-6), 27 5 junior high (7-9) and 240 senior high (10-12) students in Windsor attending these schools or the senior high school in Delhi Township. Population: Based on the continuance of past trends, the rate of population growth -should approximate 26% for each ten year period resulting in respective populations of 3,850, 4,900 and 6,200 in 1970, 1980, and 1990. DIMENSIONS Employment: Since employment is even more difficult to project than population, a very general planning technique was utilized to predict the 1990 employment level for Windsor Township. The technique used is based on projections ·of both population and employment for the Tri-County Region. A ratio of employees to total population indicates that approximately 35% of the regional population was employed in 1965, and that this figure will decline to 31 % by 1990. This compares to 36% or 1,179 employed persons for Windsor Township in 1960. Assuming the ratio of employed to total population will decrease over the planning period, due to the larger number of individuals in the 18 to 24 age group pursuing higher educational levels, this ratio might reasonably be expected to approach 31 % by 1990. The Township can thus expect to have an employed labor force of approximately 1, 925 by 1990. (Based on an estimated population of 6, 200 persons, ) OF FUTURE CHANGE 1990 POPULATION 6,200 persons TOTAL STUDY AREA 21,200 acres -- 1,925 1,200 Students Employed 3 Schools Persons Land Requirements: By 1990, Windsor Township will require a minimum allocation of 1,000 acres of land for residential uses, 135 acres for industrial uses, and 54 acres for commercial uses. There are presently 640, 63, and 34 acres being used for these respective uses. Ill RESIDENTIAL 1000 7 aor .. I h COMMERCIAL 5-4 acres w... INDUSTRIAL 135 acre> �I r rr. [, r f~ I I II I I I ~Ir 1 ~ = I~'-'• FUTURE LAND USE ��rn RESIDENTIAL LAND USE CONSIDERATIONS m Present Situation ,n Residential land uses total approximately 640 acres of land in Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale. This area is comprised primarily of single family residences with 982 or 97% of the 1,012 housing units being so categorized (includes farm and nonfarm units) in 1966. Recent trends, however, evidence a growing demand for two-family, multiple and trailer dwelling unitso Projected Housing Needs There are presently 1,012 housing units in the planning area accommodating a population of 3, 573 persons. Housing needs for 1990 are estimated at 1,880 units or approximately 870 additional housing units. LAND USE PROPOSALS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Future Residential Land Reguirements In the process of planning for future community growth, it becomes essential that a logical method of projection and allocation be evolved. The method chosen by your Planning Commission is one of present developmental analysis, projected population increase, assumptions of future desired densities, projected structural needs to accommodate (where appli'cable) the expected growth, future gross land requirements, and statements of predetermined policy guides and developmental standards employed to reach the projected land allocations. This process, with the resultant findings and recommendations, are presented for each of the major Township land use functions. Based on the above estimate of 870 additional housing units by 1990 and assuming that both the proposed density desires and population projections are correct, a minimum of 360 additional acres of residential land will be required in Windsor Township by 1990. Due to the dispersed character of present residential development, it is unrealistic to allocate only 360 additional acres of land for such usage. This would result in a plan which is much too restrictive in terms of residential location, thus making the plan very difficult to implement. The land designated for residential use is far in excess of the needs anticipated by 1990. However, 8 �the presented plan has been so developed as to satisfy the concentrated growth principle in addition to providing maximum flexibility, by the establishment of a residential growth pattern. Developmental Density Areas Recommended areas for urban residential development have been divided into three basic density classifications : low, medium and high. Areas of low density development will contain from one to three dwelling units with an average of some 5. 2 persons per gross acre. Proposed locations for this density parallel the Grand River, north of the Village of Dimondale and then run west, to complement the new State , Complex. These areas have good access via existing roads, to Dimondale and Lansing, contain relatively stable soils for septic development, and possess desirable topographic and aesthetic attributes for suburban residential usage . Medium density development areas will contain from three to eight dwelling units per gross acre with an average of 17. 5 persons. Areas designated for this more dense development are located in the Village of Dimondale and around the I-96 interchange. The Village presently consists of residential development of this type and character and the intent is to expand this area as a core of more intensive land use activity. Lands adjacent to the I-96 interchange, possessing favorable residential characteristics, have also been designated as medium density areas to complement the new State Complex. Both of the medium density cores are in excellent position to receive forthcoming sanitary sewerage facilities. High density developments will contain in excess of eight dwelling units per gross acre, with an average of some 27 persons. Although specific high density areas are not shown on the plan, due to the relatively small projected land requirements, such uses should be located near major thor oughfares , As mentioned, lands designated for residential usage are in excess of expected demands. This statement should not be misinterpreted, however, as two very important variables have shaped this planning method. The first variable concerns those lands located north of I-96, As it can reasonable be assumed that this area will be annexed to the City of Lansing before the end of the planning period, and that it -wi.Ir principally accommodate Lansing's urban spillover, projected Windsor land needs cannot and should not be allocated for this area. Yet, as the exact date and area of such action cannot be predicted at this time, the Township has included this area in its plan to guide the area's future development and to avoid future urban problems as much as possible. The second unmeasurable influence is the new State Secondary Complex. A proposar of this magnitude will have a very definite influence upon the development of Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale. Yet, again , the problem of scheduling evolves, as neither an exact scheduling of construction nor a final determination of the uses to be included in the Complex have been pr esented. Therefore, the Planning Commission can again only estimate and allocate . a fair amount . of land in this vicinity for future complementary uses. 9 �,-, shopping facilities and employment centers for maximum uncongested access and convenience. Further, such areas of high density development should be placed only where sanitary sewer facilities are available. recreation areas, utilities, shopping centers and churches. Policy Guides and Standards for Residential Land Develo.2_ment 7" All types of residential development should be provided, ranging from large residential estates to high density apartments, to satisfy various housing desires. 6. Residential areas should be protected against activities which produce excessive noise, dirt and odors, or which generate heavy traffic, Policies are statements setting forth the means or approaches used to achieve the previously stated objectives. In this sense , they are considered to be a series of guides for both public and private decisions. Because they serve as guides for decisions, they are the basi c precepts or principles for the formation of a Comprehensive Development Plan. Formulated r esidential planning policies are as follows : 8. Sound and imaginative land development should be encouraged, which will allow increased density, while providing more usable open space and a more attractive residential environment. 9. Future residential growth should be maintained in compact neighborhoods where necessary community services, including police protection, fire protection, water , sewer and schools, can be most economically provided, The quality of existing residential neighborhoods should be preserved and enhanced. 1, 2. Premature subdivision of vacant land should be discouraged. Where a specific demand is evident~ land development policies should be flexible enough to be able to absorb such new development under proper provisions for public services. 10 . Residential neighborhoods should be ideally up to one square mile in area, bounded , but not penetrated by major streets, and should be served by an elementary school, playground, and small park in a central location. A small shopping center should be convenient to all homes, The peripheral major streets should be internally served by a network of collector and minor streets fitted to the terrain with careful consideration given to drainage , signt-distance, winter driving hazards, · maintenance economy, and emergency and service vehicle access. 3. All residential areas should be attractive , with well-designed and well-maintained structures, offstreet parking and attractive landscaping. 4. Local residential streets should carry only traffic having a local destination. Fast, through tr affic should be confined to major s treets and highways. lL Residential structures should not be located within flood plains of rivers and streams or in any other locations which present hazards to the safety or health of residents. 5. Each residential area should be adequately served by such facilities as schools, parks and 10 L �RESIDENTIAL LAND REQUIREMENTS - 1990 Density Types Dwelling Types & Lot Sizes Low Single Family Density 15,000 to 40,000 sq. ft. Medium Density Average DU's Per Gross Acre 1-2. 9 Assumed Pop. Dist. 60 % Population 3,600 (1.5) Av. Pop. Per Gross Ac. 3. 5 X 1. 5 Gross Ac. Per 1000 Pop. Gross Ac. Required Total Required (Inc. 20% Exp.) 192 691 830 57 120 145 5.2 One & Two Family 5,000 to 15,000 sq. ft. High Multiple Family Density 2,500 to 5,000 sq. ft. 3-7.9 35% 2,100 5 X 17.5 (5) 8+ 3. 5 300 5% 2. 7 X 27 (10) 11 10 37 11 rn �. C ~· l~L [_. No. Acres* Use Neighborhood & Community Service 3 Misc . & Highway 2. 5 Service Total 5. 5 *Number of Acres per 1000 population **Includes 20 % expansion factor COMMERCIAL LAND USE CONSIDERATIONS Present Situation Commercial land uses in Windsor Township presently occupy some -34 acres of land, nearly all of which is located either in Dimondale or along U, S, 27 (M-78) , As yet, the only concentration of predominately retail activity is that found in the Village of Dimondale as those commercial uses along U, S. 27 are primarily transit oriented, Total** 23 19 42 As shown , by 1990 Windsor Township can anticipate a need for some 42 acres of commercial land, excluding lands used for commercial recreation. This means that the 34 acres , presently classified as commercial, should be discounted to 20 acres to compensate for the existing 14 acre driving range on U. S, 27 . The Township will, therefore , require an additional minimum of 22 acres of land for various commercial uses over the duration of the planning period, :Future Commercial Land Re9!:!_irements Various land use studies throughout the Region and nation have indicated that a community presently uses approximately two acres of retail commercial land for each 1, 000 persons. However , due to ever increasing land requirements for parking, loading space and landscaping, an expanded ratio of three acres per 1,000 persons was developed as a guide to future retail land needs for Windsor Township. Other forms of commercial activity such as highway service facilities and other miscellaneous use s are also consumers of land and hence could not be overlooked. Further study evidenced that a land allocation ratio of 2. 5 acres per 1 , 000 persons should be sufficient to accommodate these additional service needs. To compensate for possible underestimation and to afford a greater choice of site, a 20 % expan.sion factor was then added to each category to arrive at the projected commercial needs figure . Commercial Plan Commercial activity areas have been divided into three different and distinct classifications in the Comprehensive Plan; ''Neighborhood Centers, " "Community Centers," and "Highway Service Centers. " Generally speaking, neighborhood centers are designed and located to serve a subcommunity within the larger Township community and function to meet day to day or week to week convenience goods and service needs. Such areas must be so located as to allow for maximum accessibility from all sectors of the Township without undue traffic infiltration into adjacent residential areas. 12 �Community centers, in addition to serving convenience and personal service needs , generally contain establishments specializing in the sale of more durable goods such as clothing, hardware , -furniture, and household appliances , to meet community-wide commercial needs which are purchased at longer time intervals, Such centers are generally larger in size than neighborhood and highway service centers and require maximum access from all areas of the Township by major arterial roadways, new developments must occur exactly where shown. These areas merely represent a projected need in a general area for commercial activity, Policy Guides and Standards for Commercial Land Develop_ment 1. Related and compatible businesses should be grouped together in suitable and properly located areas, Highway service centers function to meet the demands of passing traffic and hence should be located at strategic locations along major arterials to facilitate their observance by passing motorists. Such uses consist primarily of gasoline stations 9 restaurants , and motels , 2. Incompatible noncommer cial uses should be eliminated from commercial areas, 3. Improved accessibility and adequate parking for existing facilities should be developed in all commercial areas, Projected commercial demands as depicted on the Plan designates the Dimondale business district, the principle shopping facility in the planning area, as a community center, To take advantage of U. S, 27 , two highway service centers and one combined highway service and neighborhood shopping facility have been located along this major roadway, The designation of these areas was based upon projected population densities , convenience distances , proposed residential land allocations , and existing commercial developments, The neighborhood center,depicted north of I-96 , has been so located as to be in conformance with the City of Lansing's Master Plan for this area, It is recommended that new areas of commercial activity be Jocated in the general areas shown on the plan, as warranted by future residential growth, The areas depicted on the plan do not mean , however , that such 4 o An adequate number of shopping districts of sufficient size and scope to conveniently serve all neighborhoods of the community should be encouraged, So Commercial areas should be developed in such a manner that they do not harm adjacent residential areas. 60 The size and design of shopping centers should be determined by pedestrian and vehicular convenience, A shopper should be able to walk easily and ~af ely from the par king area to the center and from one part of the center to the other, 7 o Higher- density residential development should be encouraged around shopping centers so that more people may walk to shop, 13 �INDICATORS FOR SHOPPING CENTER SIZES AND LOCATIONS Neighborhood Center ""'I Community Center Highway Service Center Major Functions Sale of convenience goods and personal services. Convenience goods, personal services and shopping goods. Auto or traveler service facilities Leading Tenant Drug store or supermarket Variety store or junior department store. Gasoline station, motel, restaurant Usual Minimum Site Area 4 acres 10 acres 1 (+) acres Number of Stores 5-15 15-30 Undetermined Service Radius 1 to 1 1/2 miles 3-4 miles ----Passing traffic Minimum Service 3,000-5,000 15,000-40,000 ----Passing traffic Preferred Locations Intersections of collector streets Intersections of major streets Adjacent to major arterials Acres per 1,000 Persons 2.00 0.75 1 - 2. 5 ""' 14 �Future Industrial Land Reg_uirements 8. Merchant groups should be encouraged to initiate improvement programs to make their shopping centers more attractive and more efficient. Such programs could include landscaping, architectural and sign controls and the provision of off-street par king and loading. It is anticipated that the industrial land needs for the Township ' s projected population of 6, 2oo ·persons, should approach 135 acres by 1990. This acreage figure is based upon a ratio of 18 acres per 1, 000 population plus a 20 % expansion factor. 9. Strip commercial developments along major s treets should be di scour aged where inadequate depth is provided for turning movements , because of the conflicts that develop between through traffic and commercial traffic. This figure is in excess of a generally accepted planning standard which calls for appr oximately 12 acres per 1, 000 population. However , in the cas e of Windsor Township, whose economic role in the metropolitan area has yet to be defined, this figure could be low. Should more land be demanded for industrial purposes than has been allocated on the land use plan, it i s recommended that such added development be located in close proximity to the areas shown on the plan. The U. S. 27 - I-96 interchange is a prime locational determinant for industrial development, as is the southwest portion of Section 8 , which connects the Grand Trunk Western Railroad and U. S. 27 . Soils conditions in these areas are suitable for such development and residential structures are relatively nonexistent. Both of the proposed industrial areas also possess excellent access to the I-96 freeway, the proposed State Complex, and are in close proximity to areas presently being considered for sanitary sewer facilities. 10. Highway service ar eas should be located properly to serve motorists without creating traffic congestion or harming adjacent properties. 11. The location of commercial areas should be r elated to an adequate market radius, estimated customer potential, suitable location in the market radius and consideration for neighbor hood circulation patterns. INDUSTRIAL LAND USE CONSIDERATIONS Present Situation The major industrial land use activity in the Township, in terms of acre age, is that of sand and gravel exc avation which encompasses approximately 27 acre s. Based on acreage used, nonmanufacturing and the pr oduction of durable goods are of secondar y impor tance utilizi ng some 20 and 15 acr es of land respectively. Locational Re.9.uirements and Site Criteria Industry has emerged in recent years as a very desirable land use activity both from an economic and aesthetic standpoint, The re a son has been an increased 15 �2. The provision of adequate space for off-street parking and loading should be required. emphasis on good location, improved industrial practices, and more pleasing site design. Industry, itself, has had a great deal to do with modernizing their operations and it is the community's duty to compliment such practices by setting aside desirable sites to accommodate industrial uses, The following criteria was employed to locate proposed industrial areas and can also aid the Township is providing additional desirable sites for future industrial activity if needed: 3. Buffer areas, formed by some combination of off-street parking, general commercial uses or parks or parkways , should separate industrial areas from residential areas. 4. Industrial parks, with attractive site planning, landscaping and building setback and coverage controls, should be provided to attract high-quality industrial development. 1. Locations within easy congestion-free access of major highways or railroad lines. 5. Industrial nuisances such as smoke , dust, odors and noise , should be controlled by adequate zoning, 2. Large sites to provide sufficient space for potential expansion, for landscape amenities, and for on-site parking and loading. ~~n - 6. Industrial plants should be grouped together in specific areas or belts. Industrial land should not be scattered indiscriminately among other land uses because of greater public service costs and harmful effects on adjoining uses. 3. Service (or potential service) by water, sewer, fire and police protection, 4. Desirable soils in terms of stability and drainage capabilities. 7. Industrial needs should be determined in relation to overall metropolitan requirements and economic projections. 5, Protection from encroachment by other dissimilar land uses, 8, Residential land uses should not be allowed to develop within industrial districts. POLICY GUIDES TO INDUSTRIAL LAND DEVELOPMENT 1. Adequate utility services and access to needed transportation facilities should be provided in all industrial areas. 16 �Policy Guides to Agricultural Land Use AGRICULTURAL LAND USE CONSIDERATIONS L Adequate measures should be developed to protect prime agricultural land from urban encroachment. Agricultural zoning is a long-term device to maintain proper areas in agricultural production. Agriculture continues to play a significant, though diminishing, role in the use of land in Windsor Township. Some 14, 500 acres were being used for agricultural purposes in 1966. Windsor Township cannot reasonably expect all of its ar ea to develop by 1990. Therefore , several thousand acres have been depi cted on the plan for agricultural usage. As can readily be seen, some of the land set aside for this purpose is not now utilized for agriculture; nor is it likely to be so used in the future . However, due to soil conditions, lack of accessibility, and in some areas , the existing developmental character , it is recommended that these areas be retained in uses of very low intensity. 2 . Measures should be developed which would en courage the use of suitable rural land for private recreation. Areas designated for agriculture may be developed for residential uses having relatively large lots. Lots of 40,000 square feet or larger generally do not require public sewer and water service and therefore carr be located somewhat distant from service areas. This also offers the potential for estate type developments, thus expanding the range of choice among housing types within the Township. Since agriculture continues to play an important part in the use of land in the Township, those areas best suited to agricultural endeavors should be preserved as such. 17 �~ WINDSOR I p , ., I ~,, I LAND ) r,-----1=-~l,..-~-----'......,_ I USE PLAN RESIDENTIAL Medium Density I Low Density I I )""',>-, :I ,/1----7 '-,, • ¢ ):.-- :: ------------- - I I _ _ INDUSTRIAL ~~------7-- / ' )', I .~/• OlMO NDALE COMMERCIAL : - I I '~~m TOWNSHIP GOVERNMENTAL I I I I ----+------,-----1-1----" I I I I I I I I 6 .5 0 Scale in miles --·---.. . . •- ----=➔--- ~ -- TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Clippert St. , Lansing, Michigan '"''!' 1 -~ Tha prap,1,•nUoo or ll,!,; wn" lln.inclnlly :,.J<Jod Un·oug:h :, 1•'<:clc,·nl grnnl fr1>m the Url>lm Renawnl Adinlnl&t>:nUon of the Ocpn1"lmont o[ Uouslng ond Urb.1n Dcvel\>j)rnenl, undu1• the Urban Plannlng A~~l5tance !'rug,-~.,, authorized hy Section 701 of tho Housing Act of l&.54, :u; amon<led, ndminlste,-ud t,y the ~Hcl1ii:m1 0cJ)nrtmcnl or Commo,·cc. �COMMUNITY FACILITIES PLAN 1 11 �I �Future School Construction Within the Townshi2_ 2 1 '~ - - - - - - -.lJ ·~<, ,..,, ~-.} E;..,-J. . ~~- ~ -· ,...,,, The Holt School District is presently the only district contemplating new school construction within the Township during the planning period, It is estimated that with school district annexations, there will be approximately 1,200 students (K-12) in Windsor Township to be accommodated by the Holt District by 1990. This enrollment will consist of approximately 685 elementary (K_-6), 275 junior high (7-9), and 240 senior high students (10-12) whose Windsor located school plant requirement will consist of one junior high school and two elementary schools. It is anticipated that all senior high students will continue to utilize the existing facilities in Holt. Elementory School 1 Junior High Schoo I - -I #"•» .~ I (A i...,.. 11 .., ' I - ~••Jill EDUCATIONAL LAND USE CONSIDERATIONS Present School Situation l I_~ _ rn 1-·· j_LI The two elementary schools, one existing and the other a proposed facility northeast of the Grand River, should have respective capacities of 450 and 300 students, The junior high facility should have a capacity of approximately 750 students and will draw from portions of Delhi Township as well as from Windsor Township and Dimondale. Windsor Township is presently being served by seven school districts with the Holt District playing the most significant role in terms of students accommodated and school facilities within the Township, There are, however, presently only two schools located within the planning area, Dimondale Elementary School, located in Dimondale and hence the Holt District, had an enrollment of 472 in 1966, It has 19 classrooms and an enrollment capacity of 590, based on an average classroom size of 31 students, West Windsor Elementary, the second facility, is a two room school with an enrollment capacity of some 60 students, This facility, although in use, is presently not being utilized by Windsor Township students, All students from the Township who reside in the Charlotte District are being bussed to schools in the City of Charlotte, There are two alternatives for the junior high school location. Alternative one is in Windsor Township approximately as shown on the land use plan, Alternative two is in Delhi Township near the Holt and Grovenburg Roads intersection, The ~hoice .of one or the other of these sites will depend on the expediency with which a site can be acquired, and the availability of public services. Both the new elementary and junior high schools should include sufficient space for related park facilities. 19 �4. Sites should be acquired or reserved well in advance of the development of an area. SPACE NEEDS T.Y.Q_e Elementary Park Elementary Junior High-Park** Site Size In Acres 15 13 45 No. Total Acreage* 1 1 1 Recommendation 15 13 It is strongly recommended that school district boundaries be redefined to more efficiently and economically serve the needs of the Township population, Of particular concern is that area north and east of Dimondale where a more logical delineation of boundaries i s in order, 45 73 *Includes recreation space and school site **In the general area of either alternative one or two The third elementary school shown on the Plan diagram has been so placed in accordance with the City of Lansing 's Master Plan which, a s previously mentioned , encompas ses that portion of the Township north of I-96. We st Windsor Elementary is not portrayed on the 1990 Plan, in that the present plans of the Charlotte School Distr ict are to eliminate all one and two room schools sometime after 1970 and bus all outlying students to schools within the City of Charlotte. SCHOO L STA ND AR DS Poli cy Guides and Standards for School Development L A school should be centrally located in relation to the population it will serve. Type Min . 2. Elementary schools should be located so that children can conveniently walk to school without crossing major tr affic ar terials. Junior and senior high schools should be conveniently accessible by automobile or mass transit facilities , 3, Development of combined or adjoining school, park and recreational facilities should be provided in or der that they may be given maximum and efficient use and land cost may be reduced. 20 Pupil Size Ideal Max. Site Size Acres Ser vice R adiu s E l ement ary 230 700 900 5 +l / 100 Pupils 0 . 5 Mi. Junior High 750 1,000 1,500 15 +1 / 100 Pupils 1. 0 Mi. Senior Ili gh 900 1, 500 2,500 25 +1/100 Pupils 2. 0 Mi . Elementary Park Combin ation 8 +l /100 Pupils 0. 5 Mi. Jr. High Park Combination 40 +1 / 100 Pupils 2. 0 Mi. Sr. High P ark Combination 40 +l/100 Pupi l s 2 . 0 Mi. �Windsor Township has a number of opportunity areas which offer the potential to be developed as community park facilities. Of particular impact is the barren pit north of the State Secondary Complex site and any of the several points along the Grand River, particularly Island Park,, the several backwater areas and the gravel pit along the northwest boundary of Dimondale. Furthermore,, the area depicted on the plan in the southwest portion of the Township and extending into Eaton Rapids Township,, 0ffers excellent recreational opportunity. An area of thh , size and character should be preserved in the event that a regional or metropolitan recreation authority is established during the planning per iod. PARKS AND RECREATION LAND USE CONSIDERATIONS Present Situation '-~ Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale presently have but five acres of land both owned and used by the public for recreational purposes. The Dimondale School playground and the Village horseshoe courts comprise this land area. Future Recreational Land_R_~.9.uirements Local recreational needs should approach 5. 5 acres pe.r 1 ,, 000 population fot' a total of 35 acres by 1990 ,, according to generally acknowledged standards. This might be termed the minimum acreage requirements since community parks or those parks for communitywide patronage are not included. This figure also does not include lands for r P-gional parks , scenic roads, or privately owned and public..;.lly used facilities such as golf courses. The 35 acr e minimum does includ8 school oriented playground facilities,, ne1ghborhocd parks and playfields. . The Village of Dimondale also has quite a reputation to build upon regarding the pitching of hor seshoes. This activity is an important community asset and should be given a high pr jorHy in the provision of future recreational facilitiPs in order to make the Village of Dimondale the horsebhoe pitching center of :vnchigan. Flood plains,, as designated on the plan, are not necessarily proposed for parks and r ec;reati'On. These are open space area1 which should rmnain undeveloped by intensive uses to minimjz e potential flood damage ,, to maintain the hydrolic efficiency of the river , and to prepare for their potential development as recreation areas or scenic highway routes as future needs evolve. Approximately 30 acres of new facilities should be complementary to,, m: part of, the school- park system. In addition,, neighborhood parks and playfields can be provided by requiring that small land areas be dedicated to the Township o:r Village, by subdivider s 9 in the land subdivision process. In so doing,, areas can be set aside for both active and passive recreation to meet the needs of all residents,, whether young or old, 21 �UTILITIES Policy Guides and Standards for Recreational Land Use Develo2ment Present Situation A balanced system of recreation facilities should be developed and properly distributed to serve the entire community. 1. Currently, the planning area is without public water and sewer service. Dimondale is under order by the Michigan Water Resources Commission to provide such service within the next two years in order to curb further pollution of the Grand River and also to insure the availability of a safe water supply. · The Village has made application for a Federal grant to aid in satisfying these needs , but a low priority nearly eliminates this as a financial source. 2. Community active and passive recreational needs should be satisfied and provided for all age groups. 3. Neighborhood parks , in conjunction with public schools , should be developed wherever possible. 4. Sites should be acquired or reserved well in advance of tixpected development. Future Sewage Disposal Needs 5. "Open space" policies should be developed which would preserve s cenic or historic sites, reserve land for future urban use , protect irreplaceable natural resources , and maintain prime agricultural land. Two alter n atives are available to the Village to solve the sewage disposal problem. The first entails the construction of a proposed 150 , 000 gallon per day secondary treatment facility to serve a future population of 1 , 500 persons. The estimated cost of this alternative would be in the vicinity of $500 , 000 . 6. Policies should be promoted which would encourage the development of woodlots and other scenic areas as private recreation facilities . The second alternative involves the utilization of the 1,000,000 gallon per day Delta Charter Township sewage treatment plant located on the Grand River west of Lansing. No cost estimates have yet been determined for this alter native, STANDARDS FOR PARK AND RECREATION AREAS Type Ac/1000 of Area Pop. Playgrounds 1.5 Neighborhood Parks 2.0 Playfields 2.0 Community Parks 3. 0 Size Ideal Min. 4 2 Service Radius 0. 5 Mi. 10 5 15 10 o. 5 1.5 50 30 5. 0 It is strongly recommended that the second of these alternatives be pursued. The following reasons are presented to substantiate this recommendation. 22 �The proposed treatment facility is designed to serve a population of 1,500. Initially, the plant would serve the Village population of 900 persons to which another 900 will be added by 1975 accordint to plan proposals which call for a concentration of growth in the vicinity of Dimondale. This means that the plant would be operating over capacity by 1975 and that another sizable expenditure would be necessary by Township and Village residents within a relatively few years to provide an expanded facility. Such considerations should be weighed carefully in the cost comparison process. 1. Tertiary treatment is tremendously expensive and it will not be economically feasible to provide such treatment at several locations. Should Lansing elect to more perfectly treat its sewage effluent while upstream communities do not, little will be gained in maintaining a high level of water quality. Efforts should be coordinated now to prepare for a single area-wide facility where more complete sewage treatment can be economically provided in the future . As the above indicates, sewage disposal is an area-wide and not simply a local problem. Steps should be taken now to arrive at an equitable area-wide solution before the problem becomes further complicated by only immediate and temporary solutions. The expenditure of local funds to satisfy temporary need increases the overall long-term cost of providing sewer service. In some cases only the temporary solution is open to the community, demanding that it be persued. In this case , a more permanent alternative is available and it has the potential to benefit not juBt the residents of the planning area but also those of the larger metr opolitan community, It is hereby recommended that a cost comparison be made of the two alternatives , considering present, as well as future costs. It is believed that the over all cost of consolidating service would provide a much more economical solution. It is further recommended that negotiations be started to organize a sewer district consisting of Windsor Township , Dimondale, and Delta Township. This is an opportune time to begin solving the metropolitan sewage disposal problem and might pave the way for a totally unified 2. The State is contemplating purchasing sewerage service from Delta Charter Township to sel'vice the new State Complex to be located in Windsor Township. Preliminary plans have already been prepared by Delta Township to serve the Complex and to provide, in addition, a surplus capacity of three to three and one half million gallons per day at the site. This is enough to serve a population of approximately 30 , 000 persons, well m excess of that anticipated for the planning area by 1990. 3. An additional sewage treatment plan discharging into the Grand River is contrary to the long-range objectives established by the Michigan Wate:r Resources Commission to upgrade the water quality of the river. Safo total body contact is the objectiv~ and an additional sewage discharge, whether secondarily treated or not, would not aid in fulfilling this objective, 4. As the metropolitan area continues to grow, a more complete method of sewage treatment will be necessary to maintain water quality standards. 1111 23 I 'Ill �\ " WINDSOR PUBLIC TOWNSHIP FACILITIES PLAN , {) FACILITIES I I : )''·,• -, /I '· I I -~·+-- -----j'L-----+------------• e EXISTING I ' • 0 PROPOSED I I / /) : •ob<IL . SCHOOL I RECREATION and OPEN SPACE I I I I I i GOVT. CE ----+---- -..----+1---1 I I I I I I 30 ,. 6 0 ,5 ~~m~~ t - - - - - 133 TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansmg, Michigan TM pmparat.1011 o( this map wu ftnanclally alood 11,...,..p I l'\Kllral p-ant from Iha Urhlln ftcr,cwal Adnlit1LaU-11ion of 1116 Dc!11nrtm,,nt or llou1ln1 and Urban Dewlopment, under Iha Urt.n PlaMblg AulatlLDOII Proe:nm authorized b) SHUoa 701 of Iha llwalna Act of 1964, u 1.ir,ondlod, lldmlnla\Cred by the Mkl,(pn Oi!partmNI oJ Conu,..,..,.. •9 �: MAJOR uses at STREET PLAN =- a -• • ---- l �"' PUBLIC BUILDING CONSIDERATIONS metropolitan sewage disposal district consisting also of La.n:3ing, East Lansing, and Delhi Township. Present Situation Future Water Needs There are presently two centers of government within the planning area. The first being the Dimondale Village Hall, located next to the fire station and the second the Township Hall at the corner of Jefferson and Bridge Streets. The Township Hall is a very old structure which will require renovation or replacement by 1990 ,, and the Village Hall is less than adequate in size. At present, the water situation in the metropolitan area is one which evidences a gradual lowering of water levels. Increased competition between the various metropolitan subunits. will not improve this situation. Every effort should be expended to insure that a continuous water supply is available and policies should be adopted on a metropolitan or regional scale to fulfill this objective. Water and l?ewage disposal service are metropolitan (or regional) problems which cannot be solved equitably at the local level. Recommendations It is highly probable that if Windsor Township is to maintain a public building for a governmental center, a new structure will have to be constructed. It is recommended that the Village and Township jointly provide such a facility in the vicinity of the present Township Hall, to be utilized as a combined TownshipVillage Governmental Complex. This would combine an excellent centr alized location with economy in the pr ovisi on of such a facility. Provi sion might also be made to accommodate the fire station and libr ary facilities in thi s complex to minimize the number of sites and buildings requi r ed to satisfy public facility needs. This Complex might r easonably be expected to occupy fr om one to thr ee acr es to adequately provide for landscape amenities and off- street parking. Such action would require that additional land be purchased adjacent to the present Township Hall site. Solid Waste Dis2osal Needs Windsor Township operates a modified sanitary land fill which is generally less than adequately maintained and is characterized by incomplete cover , ground water problems and a lack of sufficient space. The ' Village of Dimondale utilize s an open dump, a facility whi ch must be converted to a proper ly managed sanitary landfill by 1968. Both facilities are potentially ' hazardous to the public health and safety. It is anticipated that the Township and Village will require about 0. 2 acr es of land per year for each 2 , 000 persons, with refuse compacted to an eight foot depth. This means that the area will require a minimum of 10 acres for landfill between now and 1990. It is recommended that the Township and Village cfosely comply with Phase I of the Tri-County "Solid Waste Disposal Study 11 to insur e that future needs will I be met. 24 ��~ A community's transportation network has many parts and functions, all of which must be so related as to provide for the most efficient, economical and safe movement of people and goods between various land use activities. Properly planned and coordinated, this component can make the environment more attractive, strengthen commercial and indus- trial developments and assist in implementing and stabilizing land use patterns. This section of the Comprehensive Development Plan has been developed as a guide for the future location, function, and design of major streets and highways within Windsor Township and the Village of Dimondale. 26 �point out the criteria by which each facility is so categorized. In addition, cross-sectional standards have been developed as a guide for new roadway construction and for proposed improvements to existing roadways. The presented standards were designed and approved by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Technical Coordinating Committee in mid 1966. Present Situation Generally speaking, there are but three major trahsportatioil facilities in Windsor Township; I-96 , US-27 and M-99. In terms of traffic volumes, U.S. 27 is the single most heavily traveled highway in the planning area, carrying an average of 11 , 000 vehicles per 24 hour period. Princi2_les and Standards The direction, rate and type of anticipated growth is in many ways dependent upon the adequacy of the transportation system. Streets and highways must be organized into a well-defined hierarchy according to the uses they presently accommodate and the functions they are expected to assume. For this reason, a functional classification of streets and highways is presented to FUNCTION A L TYPE Local Street Collector Street P RINCIPAL SERVICE CH ARACTER I STICS• DESIGN SPEED (MP !!l DESIGN VOLUME / LANE / HOUR ACCESS CONTROL Provides direct access to individual abutting properties 30 100 None Collects and distributes low speed, medium volume local street traffi c and moves it to 30 250 None and from arterials; also pro- vides direct access to individual ab.ttting properlies Minor Arterial Moves through traffic at moder ate speeds and volu mes to and from major arterials, expressways, and other tr affic generators; also provides dir ect access to Major Arterial E xpressway Freeway ~ 35 500-600 Rur al Rur al ,, None 50 400-600 Urban 30-40 Rural 50 Urban l , 000 Rural 900-1000 Limited control of access ; some cr ossi ngs at grade, some direct private driveway connecti ons Urban 50 Urban 700-800 Rur al 60 Rural 600-800 Partial control; some direct private driveway connecti ons Moves through traffic at high speeds and volumes to and from freeways, and other major traffic generators Urban 60-70 Urban 1, 000 Rural 70 Rural 900 - 1000 Moves through traffic at high speeds and volumes between major traffi c generator s ~ 60-70 Urban 1,500 ~ 80 ~ 100-1200 abutting properties Scenic Road Urban Moves noncommer cial, pleasureoriented traffic at m oderate speeds between and/or through scenic areas and parks Moves through traffic at moderate speeds and high volumes to and from expressways, freeways, and other major traffic generators Full or partial control; interchanges at major intersections; some cr ossings at grade ; no di r ect private driveway connections Full control; access connections with selected public roads only; no cr ossings at grade ; no di r ect pr ivate driveway connections *Developed by Tri-County Regional Planning Commission as part of the Land Use - Natural Resource - Tr ansportation Study, as designed and approved by the Tri-County Regional P l anning Commission Technical Coor dinating Commi ttee , 1966. 27 �CROSS SECTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS* T~ Right-Of-Way Width Pavement Width Number & Width of.Travel Lanes Local Street Low Density Medium Density High Density 66' 66' 66' 22' - 24' 30' - 36' 36' Collector Residential 90' 44' 2@ 12' 90' 48' 2@ 12' 48' 60' 24' - 48' 4@ 12' 4@ 12' 2 - 4@ 12' 2@ 24 1 4@ 12' Commercial & Industrial Minor Arterial Urban Urban Rural 120' 120' 120' Parking Lane Width --- ------- ----- 2@ 10' or None 2@ 12' or None None None None I Median StriQ Shoulder Width Border None None None Variable None None 21'-22' 15' - 18' 15' - 18' None None 22' None None Dependent on R/W None None 10' - 12' Dependent on R/W Dependent on R/W Dependent on R/W None 12' turning lane None I Scenic Road M11,JQI Ai:t!li:iill Urban Variable None Variable If provided, 10' - 12' Dependent on R/W None Dependent on R/W None None 10'-12' Dependent c,n R/W Dependent on R/W Dependent on R/W 120' - 175' 60' 4@ 12' None 120' - 175' 120 1 -175' 150' 2@24' 2@ 24' 2@24' 4@ 12' 4@ 12' 4@ 12' None None None 16-70 median or 12' turning lane 16' minimum 70' minimum 70' minimum EXl)ressway Urban Rural 200'-300' 200'-300 1 2@ 24' - 48 1 2@ 24 1 - 36' 4 - 8@ 12' 4 - 6@ 12' None None 70' minimum 70' minimum 10' - 12' 10' - 12' Dependent on R/W Dependent on R/W Freeway Urban Rural 300' & over 300' & over 2@ 24' - 36' 2@ 24' - 36' 4 - 6@ 12' 4 - 6@ 12' None None 26' minimum 70' minimum 10' - 12' 10' - 12' Dependent on R/W Dependent on R/W Urban Urban Rural *Developed by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission as part of the Land Use - Natural Resource - Transportation Study, as designed and approved by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Technical Coordinating Committee, 1966. �CROSS SECTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS NOTE : Var iat ions 300 in Cron - Sect io nal Standards Ref lect Oifferen<e Between Urban and Rural Street Functions ~ ~ MIN . 79' 1 ...1.. . ,..,, 24'- 36 1 . G,r:::::-J PLUS ~ ''~'""'"" 7 2s•-'•~o' 4 · 8 MOVING LANES FREEWAY I AND Si a., I>£ NO PARKING DIVIDED I J,11: LANES PAVEMENT -200'-300 i 1 r 24 -48 1 4 -8 1 ....... .,io ,. . MOVING LANES AND NO I 24' MOVING o 11 ' lurrunQ lane ,111111, PAR KI NG PAVEMENT NO PA RKI NG 1-.. . .i..Y1 ;4•- 6~r~~~. .,. . . . . for 2- 4 MOVI~ LANES AND NO PARKING MINOR ARTERIAL ARTERIAL* 90 1 ~120' 24' A ND could be 1ub1hlul ed I(,, •• 'i 1 24 -48 1 ., l,s•-10' LANE S MAJOR • DIVIDED r ~ ~ ~~ ~~-~-5• 4 "'''ti'.,"•{\,, 26'~··70' EXPRESSWAY, ~ ,,,.i, The med10n 1trip /'"~I a ,,.,~- ~~~4•-48~::ff 2 - 4 MOVING LANES AND 0-2 COLLECTOR PARKING STREETS LANES 2 MOVING LOCAL LANES STREETS LANES �ers comply with and, where applicable, construct such facilities during subdivision development. This method of providing new facilities, though offering a somewhat fragmented approach, can be accomplished at minimal expense to the taxpayer through proper land subdivision regulations. Future Needs In Windsor Township and Dimondale, all of the existing road and street network will serve as the skeletal framework for future development. Of course, the ' functions of some of the existing network will change , due to the proposed allocation of land uses, which will cause greater use to be made of previously little used facilities . In addition, some new facilities should be constructed to fulfill plan requirements. These are: - 1. The extension of Jolly Road in Section 2, west to Crietz Road and the I 96 intersection. - 2. The extension of Crietz Road from Dimondale Highway to Holt Road to reduce unnecessary traffic flows through Dimondale. Policy Guides for the Transportation Plan 1. The circulation system should be coordinated with those of adjacent communities to insure an economical and functional system. 2. Major thoroughfares should have the minimum number of intersections needed for safety and efficiency. 3. Insofar as possible, provision should be made for the separation of vehicles from pedestrians, through from local traffic, fast from slow traffic and commercial from recreational traffic. 3. A new loop collector facility in Section 10 to serve Trial's End Subdivision, Hill'n Hollow Subdivision and probable new development in the area. The use of local streets for through traffic should be discouraged. 4. Street design and parking and loading facilities should be adjusted to fit the movement, volume and character of traffic and the adjoining uses of land, both present and future. I 4. The improvement of the Canal Road - U.S. 27 intersection to complement the relocation of Canal Road through the proposed State Secondary Complex. 5. Major streets and freeways should .be so located as to bound, rather than cut through residential neighborhoods. Residential streets should be reserved for local residential traffic. The Planning Commission realizes that each of the proposed new facilities would demand large expenditures for land acquisition and construction. Therefore, it is recommended that detailed surveys be initiated to determine exact new street location. Once such locational determinations have been made, the Township should reserve such lands to insure that develop- 6. Frontage roads should be used whenever possible in commercial areas which abutt major trafficways. 7. Where appropriate, thoroughfares of scenic attraction should be provided along with landscaping and stopping places at points of interest. 30 �TOWNSHIP MAJOR STREET PLAN* EXISTING - Freeway Major Arterial Minor Arterial Collector Scenic Road *Proposed scenic route and new streets in blue D 0 .s Scale In miles TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION 535 Cllppert St. , Lansing, Michigan Tllo pNpa.rallon ol I.his ll\QP wu !lnanciallJ :tfilutl Ui....,p ~ Fedcrnl grnnt from 0.... Urbnn Reoow:il Admlnlltl'atlon or tho Dcp.,rlmllnl 111 !ltlllafnl,:'.nnd Urban De,,.,loptn0nt, 111\do.rtlM!Urbon Pl111111\ngAula1Moo J>rogn,m awthorliltdbySUcUon 701 oflheHou•hlll Act or llN'I, u amondod, tdmtn111en>d liy Iha Mld:ilpn O,,p:u·unent or Commoroe. �,., . . "" ■ CARRYING OUT THE PLAN ��constitute a direct investment of local tax moneys for plan implementation. Ado2_tion of the Plan State law grants planning commissions the power to draft and adopt comprehensive development plans. The Windsor Township Planning Commission has so acted. Now, what remains is for the Planning Commission to submit its plan, for review and comment, to the Township Board and the public, to receive suggestions for final modification. Final adoption, thereafter, by the Planning Commission will incorporate the Comprehensive Development Plan as a document of formal governmental policy. PLAN IMPLEMENTATION Zoning The Comprehensive Development Plan is a graphic statement of policy objectives concerning the future physical development of the community. Positive actions are required on the part of both public and private interests, acting in concert, so that the plan proposals can be realized. Private actions take the form of investments in homes, stores, factories, and farms pursuant to regulatory controls established by government. Public action in implementing the plan generally follows five courses: Adoption by the Township Planning Commission to give the plan official recognition as the document for future developmental guidance ; the adoption of zoning regulations ; i;,ubdivision regulations; the development of a public improvements program; and citizen support and participation. Of the four, only public improvements (streets, schools, parks, sanitation facilities and protective services) The Zoning Ordinance is the major tool available to local government to structure the land use element of the Comprehensive Plan. The Plan indicates population densities for the residential areas and general locations for major commercial and industrial areas of the community. These policies are translated into precise, although short-range, land use patterns through the application of the zoning regulations. The purpose of zoning is to regulate the use of land and byildings to protect areas of uniform development from the adverse effects of disruptive land uses of any type which would tend to lower the economic value , efficient operation, and the physical and social amenities of the surrounding properties. This applies equally to residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural land uses. 32 �The C.Omprehensive Plan and zoning should not be thought of as. one, for they are distinct legal entities with markediy separate functions. The Plan is an objective, a guide and frame of reference for future land use·, while zoning applies a specific district in the Zoning Ordinance to a specific property. The zoning of a property may or may not reflect the existing use. The .Plan should act as a guide to the actions of the Planning Commission and the Board of Trustees in reviewing and acting on zoning changes. The elements of the comprehensive plan will be thrown out· of balance if they are not coordinated in their implementation. Schools, major streets and highways, and community facilities will not be in proper relation to each other if the land associated with these features is not zoned appropriately when the time is ripe for development. The Plan is comprehensive in a way no zoning map can be in relating all the elements of urban development in ways that will allow for well-planned communities. value over the years allowing for greater economic benefits for the owners and lower maintenance costs for the community. The character of an area is set for years to come by the initial design and quality of a subdivision. Zoning works in conjunction with subdivision laws to protect the development from harmful land use encroachments adjacent to and within the subdivision which would lessen its desirability as a place to live, shop, or work. The Capital Improvement Program Public improvements are investments made by the community in facilities which will benefit all citizens. These include schools, libraries, parks, fire and police stations, sanitation facilities, streets and highways, and all of the many physical components which go into a balanced community. It is for the Comprehensive Development Plan to relate these properly to each other in their location and distribution to the other components of the Township environment. Subdivision Re_gt!lations The Capital Improvements Program establishes a short-range priority schedule of needed public improvements in accordance with bugetary capabilities. This tool should be very comprehensive in scope by assessing future needs and programming improvements for streets, storm and sanitary sewers, water service, recreational space, fire protection, and other community facility needs. It is actually a short-range plan which is utilized to effectuate the Comprehensive Plan in increments of five to six years. It outlines improvements which will be required and establishes the most desirable economical A second tool which is used to effectuate both the land use and circulation elements is the Subdivision Ordinance. This regulatory devise sets minimum standards for the division of land into parcels for homes and other uses. It is designed to insure that the economic value of sites is not impaired because of unwise land division, design and construction of substandard streets and utilities which the community will be required to maintain later at the taxpayer's expense. Well-planned subdivisions with adequate lot sizes, street widths, and utilities will increase in 33 �3. Soliciting and encouraging broad citizen interest in the planning process. sequence required to fulfill plan objectives. The Capital Improvements Program also proceeds one step further by assessing the Township's ability to pay, therefore, guiding public improvements within the bugetary constraint. It is, in accordance with State law, the responsibility of the Township Planning Commission to formulate such a program for the elected Township officials. 4. Participating in the hearings on the plan to insure that it reflects community-wide rather than special interests. 5. Supporting the plan after adoption to insure that the community interest is being served. 6. Cooperating with the governing body in plan enforcement. 7. Protecting the plan from indiscrete or piecemeal change which will cause the disintegration and subsequent ineffectiveness of the document. THE CITIZEN'S ROLE IN PLANNING The development of a comprehensive plan is a major concern to the Windsor Township Board of Trustees and the Planning Commission. These, however , should not be the only interested parties involved in planning for the community. The Township consists of over 3,500 citizens for whom the plan is being formulated and upon whom it depends for success. Citizen interest and participation are of utmost importance to public understanding, acceptance and support of the planning proposals set forth in the plan document. 8. Backing financial support for plan effectuation, when needed. Planning for the community does not terminate when the plan is completed, Planning is a continuing process Periodically, new data must be collected, analyzed, and integrated into a revised plan to assure that it will not perish due to obsolescence. Citizen interest and participation should also be a continuing process. The Township belongs to the citizen and his interest in his community is vital to its proper development, There are many areas in which citizens can aid in guiding desirable growth in the future and make other very valuable contributions to the planning process: 1. Forming citizens committees to aid and cooperate with local officials in the decisionmaking process. 2. Helping to formulate community goals and objectives. 34 ��a I a a a s .. • a » -=---=--· a c a -, C . >- W I 1 ◄ L..--""7 "1..I I ----- ------- __ ·__ _ TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION CLINTON COUNTY Alan R. Dean Reginald E. Nelson Mrs. Jane L. Smith, Treasurer Ernest Carter, Ex-Officio WINDSOR TOWNSHIP BOARD EATON COUNTY Garry Marsh, Supervisor Albert C. Boyd, Chairman Dorothy Hull, Clerk Elizabeth Holliday, Treasurer Lloyd J. Eaton Kenneth E. Fry Edward Jackson, Trustee Lawrence Van Geison, Ex-Officio Eugene Nemeth, Trustee TRI-COUNTY REGIONAL PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR STAFF INGHAM COUNTY Myles G. Boylan, Vice-Chairman Joseph P. Kiersey Mrs. Mary 0. Black WINDSOR TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Robert R . Robinson, Ex-Officio Wm. C. Roman, Executive Director Bill G, Rowden, Assistant Director Herbert D. Maier, Assistant Director Robert L. Kuelme, Chief Planner Karl R. Hosford, Senior Planner James R. Verougstraete, Associate Planner Robert Adams, Chairman Ronald J, Swan, Vice-Chairman Dorothy Hull, Secretary Mac Lockwood Lloyd M. Eddy Leo Fulton Jean Fay Larry E. Folks, Associate Planner J. Martin Frissel, Associate Planner *Fred L. Hoisington, Assistant Planner *Timothy M. Price, Planning Aid *Arthur N. Glick, Planning Aid *Joseph Albanza, Planning Aid Keith F. Pier, Planning A id Mary M. Lerg, Planning Aid *Phillip L. Schmidt, Planning Aid Ted R. Coulter, Printer Anthony J. Schifano, Delineator RobertE Lawrence, Account Clerk Carol Ann Keenoy, Administrative Assistant Barbara Connell, Clerk Typist Leona Barks, Clerk Typist *Part-time .a. �.Iii Cn-ntp11,e,ke1tA ive Devetn-pme,11,t Pf 0, 1t PLANNING IS FOR PEOPLE Planntng I■ comprebouhely tblnklDI ahead. It t■ glvlDC forelhoupt and pldance the need■, de ■ tre■ and oervice■ which will be demanded by a p-owtng populauon. For example II you are : lo A Home Buyer, you will be able to vtaualize which areaa are de■ tsna11Bd for reoldentlal u■ap and be auured of oound protecUve menu.re ■ for you.r lnveatment. A IIWltpeHmap. you will be able lo obtain an ln■ lpt u lo populaUon and Income proJecUon■ and trend■ within your ■ ale■ area. You will have more detailed knowledp of whore future needa for retall outleta are moat likely to occur and thereby be better able lo loca11B future e ■ tabllahment■• An lnduatrlallat, you will know more about the future obJecUveo of your community, It■ piano for hlghwayo, uUUty and laclllty eervlcea, and the characterllltlce of tta labor rorce. A Developer, you will be better able lo predict whore future bou■ lng type■ and demand■ will form . You will be able lo make uae of a central eouroe of Information 011 populaUon and houolng trend■, land charac11Brt■ tlc ■ and Income dt■ trll:utlon lD addition to accompanying protective ordinance ■ • An lntere ■ ted Citizen, you wUl know more about your community, lta potential and need■ and Ju■t what t■ planned for the future. The plan provide■ an underatandlng of bow the community will develop and u■w·eo the average citizen that their property value ■ and general welfare are the foremo■ t concern of the Townahtp' ■ governing body. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wyckoff Planning and Zoning Collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Planning & Zoning Center (Lansing, Mich.) (Organization) Wyckoff, Mark A. Description An account of the resource Municipal master plans and zoning ordinances from across the state of Michigan, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2020s. The bulk of the collection was compiled by urban planner Mark Wyckoff over the course of his career as the founder and principal planner of the Planning and Zoning Center in Lansing, Michigan. Some additions have been made to the collection by municipalities since it was transferred to Grand Valley State University. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960/2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Subject The topic of the resource Michigan Comprehensive plan publications Master plan reports Zoning--Michigan Zoning--Maps Maps Land use--planning Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-240 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Windsor-Twp_Comprehensive-Development-Plan_1967 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1967-09 Title A name given to the resource Comprehensive Development Plan Description An account of the resource The Comprehensive Development Plan for Windsor Township was prepared by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission in September 1967. Subject The topic of the resource Comprehensive plan publications Windsor Township (Mich.) Eaton County (Mich.) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/e0ea466048378ac0c4db52b5a4806809.mp4 6a33ec2227df4bf4309f91ee8d02fbf9 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/b03b3b680527d47fde73a85116185c51.pdf 4f5b70d038f60618c9a6ec0f78fa8988 PDF Text Text GVSU Veteran’s History Project WWII Nina Trierweiler Total Time: 34:50           (00:25) Mrs. Trierweiler was born in 1921 in Lansing o Grew up on a farm o Had six siblings o Had a sister who enlisted with her (1:26) Heard an announcement that the military wanted aides to help in the hospitals, which is why she and her sister enlisted o 21 years old when she enlisted, sister was about 23 (2:16) Before the war, she had a few jobs o Worked in hairstyling o Also worked on aircraft sheet metal in Detroit o Got another job in Detroit working on floor sections until she got married (3:48) Her husband was in the military, got transferred to California o Worked as a Motor Sergeant; managed the MACs and was in charge of the operations in them (5:31) Husband worked in the desert in California and she worked at an air depot there o The only reason they went to California was because of potential spies; ended up getting shipped back to New Jersey, then to England o From England, they sailed o Eventually went home in Lansing (8:10) When they went home, she and her sister decided to join the Army o 6 week training (8:45) Had military training and then they were told they wanted to be in the hospital in 6 weeks; the person who trained them didn’t realize this o Went through a course on how to work in a hospital o Chattanooga, Tennessee (10:08) She and her sister planned on working in the Battle Creek hospital (11:40) In the hospital there were soldiers who had gotten injured o Lived in Battle Creek during this time, there was a place to live right in the hospital o Met a lot of friends while working here (13:15) Worked in the hospital form March – November of 1945 o Heard the announcement that the war in Germany was over o Remembers cartoons relating to the end of the war �           (14:23) Her husband came back in October o Said she would work in the hospital until her husband came home (16:05) She was sent to Indiana to get her discharge o Took a train there o Mr. Trierweiler didn’t want to talk about the war a lot, but mentioned things occasionally (20:20) Remembers getting letters from her husband while he was overseas o He met a family in Holland; remembers praying with them o This family sent a letter to Mrs. Trierweiler after the war and said they appreciated having her husband there; wanted to know if he made it home o Remembers a French guy being happy that the US troops had made it (22:18) Mentions that her husband enlisted so he could choose which part of the military he wanted to serve in o Took a course in automotive repair (24:04) Mr. Trierweiler’s group was attached to different battalions (26:38) Mr. Trierweiler met a woman overseas who was defending Hitler; slapped her (27:28) Remembers a fellow student who was a veteran; had a dream that he was still in combat (28:50) Mentioned her husband and a comrade getting lost at midnight and accidentally wandering in the German area o Example of small things he talked about sometimes, but didn’t get too detailed when talking about the war (31:30) Remembers a lot of girls being there in training; took a group picture together (31:58) Moved back to Lansing when her husband returned (32:38) Remembers meat being limited at grocery stores during this time � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context TrierweilerN0839V Title A name given to the resource Trierweiler, Nina (Interview outline and video), 2008 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Trierweiler, Nina Description An account of the resource Nina Trierweiler served as a nurse's aide in the Army during World War II. She and her sister enlisted together, trained at Chattanooga, Tennessee, and were assigned to the military hospital in Battle Creek, Michigan, where she served until November, 1945. She also discusses some of her husband's experiences as a soldier in Europe Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Lamphere, Misha (Interviewer) Bassett, Jessica (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American United States. Army. Women’s Army Corps Other veterans & civilians--Personal narratives, American Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2008-02-21 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/7442af7b350efdfc631df8aa43e3f9da.pdf 2eba57fd0d42b0ebdfc29555c359fafa PDF Text Text Young Lords In Lincoln Park Interviewee: Carmen Trinidad Interviewers: José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez Location: Grand Valley State University Special Collections Date: 5/17/2012 Biography and Description Carmen Trinidad’s family arrived in Lincoln Park in the 1950s. She was one of only a few Puerto Rican families to attend St. Michael’s Church in those days, although the neighborhood had already become heavily Puerto Rican. She recalls her father’s, Cesario Rivera’s, work as a leader of Council Number Three of the Caballeros de San Juan at St. Michael’s. She also remembers the way that organizations like the Caballeros de San Juan and Damas de María started and sustained softball leagues, picnics, social dances and dinners, retreats, plays, parades, festivals, and the establishment of a credit that still exists to this day. �Transcript CARMEN TRINIDAD: I was born in Bronx, New York, and I lived in New Jersey, North New Jersey, ’til about the age of 13. However, we would come back to Puerto Rico for a year or two ’cause I lived with my grandmother and my other cousins because, of course, the parents worked, and, being that everybody was Puerto Rican, you didn’t go to a American or an Anglo-speaking home to be babysat. So, we would stay with my grandparents, and then -JOSE JIMENEZ: CT: And what town was this? In Isabela. Okay? And then, when I was 13, I came to Puerto Rico. I was in seventh grade, and my dad felt that it was time for me to come and live with him because he could offer me something better in Chicago. He had lived in New York until he got married, and -- because he went to pick tomatoes. That’s how he [00:01:00] got to New York. And then, from there, he moved to Indiana, where the steel mills were. There was some family there, and the Puerto Rican community, as such, came from Indiana to South Chicago to the North Side. That’s how they migrated, and everybody worked in the steel mill. So, my dad got married, and then he moved to Chicago. JJ: Okay. Let’s backtrack a little bit before that. CT: Okay. JJ: So, you were born in the Bronx. So, what do you remember of the Bronx at that time? 1 �CT: I don’t remember anything because I didn’t live there. I was just born there, and then I came to live in Puerto Rico -- JJ: Okay, in Isa-- CT: -- in Isabela. JJ: What do you remember of Isabela? CT: Oh, I remember -- oh, my God. That was just so awesome. I remember that we lived in a house across the street from the school, and there was, like, a irrigation canal, el canal, and water would [00:02:00] flow through there, and that was our swimming pool. We would all go, and get in there, and take a -- not a bath ’cause we had water, but it was like a pool, and we would go in there, and we’d go to school across the street. JJ: Okay. (inaudible). (break in audio) CT: Name is Carmen Trinidad. My maiden name was Carmen Rivera Perez ’cause, here in Puerto Rico, you have to use those names, not your married name. But, like I was saying, Isabela was wonderful. The school across the street had trees, almond trees, so that was our favorite thing, to go in there and collect the almonds from the trees, and then we would break them. We’d crack ’em with a rock because, of course, we weren’t gonna carry a hammer. But the school only had two classrooms. [00:03:00] The teachers’ name -- I’m telling you, I can remember like it was today -- Ms. Avarello and Ms. Ortiz. Ms. Avarello was a very rich, rich woman. Her husband owned all the sugarcane fields that were in the valley. 2 �JJ: So, there were a bunch of sugarcane fields in Isabela. CT: Yes, at that time. JJ: And Isabela is what part of Puerto Rico? What --? CT: It’s on the -- JJ: The east side, or --? CT: The west ’cause San Juan is the east. JJ: Okay, San Juan, but it’s up north, around San Juan? CT: Up north. It’s right next to Aguadilla, Quebradillas, Camuy. They’re all very close. JJ: All around there. Okay. CT: Okay? Anyway, if you went to -- the classes were divided where you went -- first and second grade went in the morning, third and fourth in the afternoon. Okay? The following year, they would go three and four and five -- you know, [00:04:00] and then the last class would go into the town to school. Okay? Because they couldn’t fit all the grades. But, sometimes, when there weren’t enough students, everybody was all put together in the same classroom. Okay? So, you might have had three, four, and fifth graders in the same classroom, but it was nice. And then, during recess, we could go home ’cause it was like a 15-minute recess, and I lived right across the street, so, of course, we went home, and our grandma used to give us coffee. Can you imagine that? We were so little, and that was the main thing. You drank coffee. And the culture at that time -because, I mean, there was no new technology. The way the culture was, you’d still drink out of a bottle, and they’d put coffee in there, and we’d come home, lay 3 �on the bed, and drink out of a Coke bottle with the little nipple on it. We used to drink coffee. JJ: In the Coke bottle? CT: [00:05:00] Yeah, can you --? JJ: (inaudible). CT: No, no, no. And it wasn’t Coke. It was coffee. My grandma used to save the bottles, and that’s how we -- that was our snack at recess. I lived in a home with my grandmother and my grandfather, and my grandfather still had tobacco plants. JJ: What was your grandmother’s name, and grandfather? CT: My grandmother’s name was Aurelia Concepción Concepción. No, Concepción Feliciano. My grandfather’s name was José Perez Concepción, and they were cousins, and my grandfather -- JJ: First cousins or third cousins? CT: First cousins. JJ: First cousins. CT: Let me tell you the history. My grandfather’s family came from Spain, his parents. Okay. He was born in Puerto Rico, and the family was connected. I mean, there were cousins. I don’t know how, where -- ’cause I really don’t know that history too much, but my [00:06:00] grandfather married his first cousin, and she died in childbirth. Okay? So, then, he married her cousin. Okay? And they had two children. When she was having her third child, she died. She was my grandmother’s sister. So, then, he married the sister. All in the family because 4 �everybody lived in a little town, and that’s why, today in Puerto Rico, you hear it said, “(Spanish) [00:06:31] las Vega.” Okay? Vega was the name of everybody who lived there. (Spanish) [00:06:37]. Everybody who lived in that little -JJ: Named after the family. CT: Right, and they all married each other, and, you know, was no big thing for cousins to marry. JJ: But this was what time? What period? CT: This was my grandparents’ time. My grandfather was born in the 1800s. JJ: 1800s. CT: When I was born, my grandfather [00:07:00] was 80 years old. Okay? My grandfather died at 110. Okay? So, he lived a long, healthy life, you know? And he always walked around with a machete, and they used to call him el varon, meaning he was manly, and everyone respected him. He didn’t know how to write. He couldn’t write his name. He just made a cross. Somehow, he was very smart mathematically. He used to do our homework for us. “Oh, how much is twelve times four?” He’d give you an answer. He had a store, and, during the Depression, he sold bread. He had this old mule, and he’d put my uncle on one side of the basket and my aunt on the other, and they’d walk up and down el barrio, selling a piece of bread for a penny, but a piece of bread at that time was a big piece of bread for a penny. [00:08:00] And he had his own cows, and we always had fresh milk, but things change, you know. JJ: So, this was a small town where you had the country right around. 5 �CT: We were in the country. That was considered country. No el pueblo. El pueblo is the city, but yeah. So, when I was 13, I came to Chicago. JJ: Okay. Now, how many siblings? How many siblings? CT: I have one sister from my mother from Isabela. On my dad’s side, which is the side that was in Chicago, I had 10, and one died, so we would have been cheaper by the dozen, you know? Minus one. But yeah. So, when I came to live -- JJ: You didn’t say your father’s name, but I think I (inaudible) -- CT: No, I haven’t said my -- JJ: Okay. What-- CT: -- dad’s name, but my dad’s name was Cesario Rivera García. Okay? And he was from [00:09:00] Caguas, and he lived in this land that we have today. Okay? When I went to live in Chicago, we were living on North Sedgwick, down the block from Lasalle Elementary School. JJ: And before we get there, though, we were talking about -- your father was a tomatero. CT: Okay. Well, I’m going to get to that. I’m gonna give you the history. Okay? I’m just letting you know, we lived in Lincoln Park. Okay? And, for the Puerto Rican community there, Lincoln Park was St. Michael’s Church, El Concilio Numero Tres. A little bit about my dad. My dad lived here in Puerto Rico, in this same land that my husband and I, Ricci and I, are living in ’cause we bought it from him. But my dad, at the -- [00:10:00] he made his first quarter, like he used to say, selling bootleg rum, caña, here in Puerto Rico. My dad never could have 6 �gone into the service because, as a small kid here, he cut his finger on one of those old-fashioned lawnmowers, so my dad was minus a part of his finger. So, he went to New York to pick tomatoes, and his story was that they were living in this -- you want to call it a barrack, like an army barrack-type thing, but they had all these beds, and all these Puerto Ricans were living there, and nobody knew how to cook. Okay? My dad did. So, my dad started making arroz con gandules, a little sopa, and all kinds of Puerto Rican good. Eventually, he [00:11:00] got tired of picking tomatoes, and he hooked up with a family member, and, from up north, wherever it was that they were picking tomatoes, he came to live in the Bronx, in New York, and his job, his first real job here in the mainland, was as a dishwasher in a restaurant. JJ: In the Bronx. CT: In the Bronx. And that’s when he met my mom. Okay? JJ: And your mom’s name? CT: My mother’s name was Ramona Perez Concepción. Then, my dad’s -- he had some family members that live in Indiana. My dad left that job there in New York and moved to Indiana, started working at the steel mills, and that was the first community of Puerto Ricans in Indiana. JJ: In what town? CT: [00:12:00] You know what? I really -- JJ: East -- was it Hammond, Indiana? CT: Somewhere -- where the steel mills are. JJ: Where the steel mills are. 7 �CT: Okay? I have no idea. JJ: East Chicago. East Chicago, Hammond. CT: East -- probably Chicago, but it’s in Indiana. Not East Chicago, Illinois. JJ: Chicago, yeah. CT: No, it’s in Indiana. It’s across the border. You cross the border, the street, and one side was Indiana, and the other side was -- JJ: So, you went straight from the Bronx there. CT: Straight there. JJ: Why did he go there? Did he know other people there? CT: Yes. He had some family members that told him, “You can work in the steel mills and make a lot more money than what you’re making --” JJ: (Spanish) [00:12:33]. CT: No, in the restaurant -- JJ: In the restaurant. CT: -- because he had already left the tomato picking. So, when he got to Indiana that he was working at the steel mills, all these men lived in boarding houses, you know, rooms, a little furnished room with a bed and whatever. JJ: Oh, they had boarding houses. CT: No kitchen privileges. So, they would look [00:13:00] for other family members or people in the community who would cook, and one of them was my stepmother’s family. So, he went to this house, and he would pay 10 dollars or whatever it was that they paid at that time. I think it was like three dollars a week to eat, and my stepmother was the cook, and that’s how they met, and he was living in her 8 �aunt’s house, and her aunt was a schoolteacher because she was bilingual at the time and spoke English. Okay? All the members of that community, their children used to go to that school, and her aunt used to be, like, the interpreter and the teacher. JJ: Okay. Can you say what happened to your real mother? That’s your stepmother. CT: My real mother stayed in New York, and she continued on with her life, and I have a sister [00:14:00] from her. Okay? My mother passed away right before we moved to Puerto Rico. But that’s how I have family in Isabela and in New Jersey that I go back to. That’s my real mother’s family. However, I spend more time with my stepmother’s family than my real family, and, as a result, they’re like my aunts. They’re -- JJ: And does she still live in Indiana, or is she --? CT: Okay. So, they moved to Chicago. All right? And my dad got a job at Wrigley’s gum factory. JJ: (inaudible). CT: Wrigley’s gum. It was on 35th and -- I want to say Ashland. I think it was Ashland. JJ: They were on the South Side. CT: Yeah, Ashland, on the South Side. But they lived up north. So -- JJ: Okay, so they lived -- CT: -- I didn’t live with them at the time. Okay? JJ: They lived up north, and then they went to work there. 9 �CT: Right. [00:15:00] He went to work on Ashland, on the South Side. JJ: Did you live on Sedgwick, or --? CT: No, they lived up north. I think it was something like Wheeler or -- JJ: Weyland? CT: Weyland or -- I don’t know. Something with a W. All right. So, then, they saved enough money -- well, first of all, my dad used to take the bus because, of course, they didn’t have enough money, but, when he went to work at Wrigley’s, he was able to buy himself a little car. That was the very first big thing they had. By that time, she had the three kids, my sister, who follows me, and two brothers. So, they saved enough money that they were able to buy a house on Sedgwick, so they were one of the first -- JJ: Sedgwick and North Avenue. CT: Mm-hmm. But, at that same time, there was another community, which was your family that lived [00:16:00] on LaSalle Street. JJ: LaSalle Street. Right, right. (inaudible). CT: Okay? Right. So, I can’t talk about that ’cause I never -- JJ: Lived there, yeah. CT: -- lived there, so I’m gonna talk about Sedgwick. So, my dad bought this house on Sedgwick, and then my mom’s family started moving to Chicago. Okay? Her sisters. And then, they got apartments. JJ: What year was this, about? More or less. More or less. CT: More or less. JJ: Rough estimate. 10 �CT: About 1956. JJ: ’56. CT: ’57. Okay? Eventually, everybody came. They all lived at my mom and dad’s house ’cause that’s the way it was. Families would come, and they all lived there ’til they were able to afford an apartment and move on. My stepmother’s name is Luz María Chévere, so it was the Chévere family [00:17:00] that moved. So, they bought a house, a building, the Chévere family, on North Mohawk. JJ: Your mom is a Chévere. CT: My mom’s a Chévere, my stepmom, which I consider like my mom ’cause I grew up with her, and -- JJ: ’Cause they were big in the El Concilio Numero Tres. CT: Okay. So, there were different concilios, okay? It started out with one, two, and three. Okay? That area became Concilio Numero Tres. Okay? So, my dad was a very, very religious person, and, of course, he joined the Concilio Numero Tres, and he was an active person. He didn’t have much school, but he was very smart. Okay? And his broken English and everything. He became the president of Concilio Numero Tres. There was a big commotion in that area ’cause all these families moved in, and they didn’t [00:18:00] know English, and priests there -- they didn’t want to give them a Mass in Spanish, and they met Father Kathrein, who was the priest that was a German priest at St. Michael’s. Somehow, he gave them the sodality hall. The church was here. There was a sodality hall. It was like a big room. It had a stage. It had chairs. And so, suddenly, the community -- 11 �JJ: About how many people would fit there, about? CT: I would say about -- pushing it? JJ: Yeah. CT: About 300. JJ: About 300, and they had, what? Folding chairs, or --? CT: With folding chairs. JJ: Folding chairs, okay. CT: Folding chairs. And so, that’s when the Mass started. Every Sunday, there was a Spanish Mass, and it was crowded, and that’s how all the people in that area joined the Caballeros de San Juan. JJ: [00:19:00] But they didn’t want to let them in the regular -- CT: At the beginning, no. They didn’t want to give ’em -- not to let them in. They did not have a Spanish Mass, just like in a whole bunch of the other churches in Chicago. Mass was Mass. You went, and it was in Latin, so what did it matter? Okay. But the instructions and the preaching, you know -- JJ: Wasn’t Spanish? CT: They wanted a Spanish Mass. JJ: So, that was one of the goals. CT: That was the first -- JJ: Goal was to get a Mass in Spanish. CT: That was the first thing that they did. Okay? It took a lot. It took people from the community joining together and demanding this from their church, from their parish, because, as you know -- 12 �JJ: Why demanding? That’s kind of a strong word. CT: It was demanding. They demanded it. It wasn’t just, “Can we have one?” They grouped themselves together and went to the church. “We want --” JJ: To the pastor? CT: “We want a Spanish Mass,” and they had to work at it, and [00:20:00] continue, and continue. Once they had that Spanish Mass and they saw how the community banded together and did things, they became suddenly a part of the parish. Okay? The Caballeros de San Juan were acknowledged. This was also the time that Don Jesus had Los Hermanos de la Familia del Dios. JJ: Who is Don Jesus? CT: Don Jesus was -- JJ: Jesus Rodríguez? CT: Jesus Rodríguez was my husband’s father’s cousin, I believe. Either they knew each other or they were related. I really don’t know, but he was also -- how do you say? Involved in getting this Mass together and whatnot. The Cardinals’ Committee had two priests, and I believe it was Father Mahon and Father Donahue. They worked at the [00:21:00] Cardinals’ Committee, and they suddenly became involved with the Caballeros de San Juan city-wide, not just at St. Michael’s. So, this is when my dad started working in the community and for the community that he lived in. Lincoln Park was a huge, big community, and it had different sections. Okay? You have to look at it in terms of -- Lincoln Park was a parish neighborhood. Okay? You had Immaculate Conception. You had St. Mike’s. I can’t even rememb-- 13 �JJ: St. Teresa. CT: Every parish had their community, and they had their community in terms of ethnicity because we don’t want to say race. Okay? Ethnicity. St. Michael’s was a German parish. Okay? But then, suddenly, it became German and Puerto Rican, [00:22:00] and any extra Latino that was around joined because we had a Cuban family that was very close and involved in that community. You had people from South America. It wasn’t just Puerto Ricans, but the majority were Puerto Ricans. So, from St. Mike’s, we had the Caballeros de San Juan, Hermanos de la Familia del Dios. Suddenly, throughout the city, baseball teams were formed from the Cardinals’ Committee. And so, there was a baseball team for the concilios. JJ: The baseball teams came later. CT: Yeah. JJ: And so, St. Michael’s was a big center for the Caballeros, or no? CT: No. Okay. Look at it in terms of -- again, I’m going to go back to the churches because you have to realize that the community [00:23:00] revolved around the church. Okay? The headquarters was the Cardinals’ Committee. Okay? The Cardinals’ Committee was formed to help the Hispanic community from Father Mahon, Father Donahue, and I can’t even -- Father Kathrein. I can’t remember all the names. Father Vanecko. I mean, all these priests worked at the Cardinals’ Committee, and all the churches led back there, all the Hispanic. Okay? So, they decided they were going to have a baseball team, so Concilio Numero One made their team. El Concilio Numero Two had their team. Three 14 �had their team. Okay? And they used to have mascots, and what they used to have were godmothers, la madrina. My husband’s sister was la madrina del Concilio Numero Tres. [00:24:00] Her dad played ball on it. I never -JJ: What does that mean, la madrina del -- CT: It’s a godmother. She was like -- JJ: (inaudible) picture taken, or --? CT: No. She was just there to look pretty, and, you know, everybody had a madrina. That was the way of giving a girl a -- JJ: A recognition. CT: A recognition, and you had mascots. [break in audio] The little kids were the mascots, (Spanish) [00:24:25] for the team, right. JJ: For they team, and they had -- CT: And they had their own little uniform. Okay? They got sponsors for the shirts from -- JJ: Businesses. CT: -- the Hispanic businesses. Okay? All right. So, you had the baseball team. Then, the next big thing that came out of this whole community, all these communities, was when -- I forget which pope decided that you were going to have los Cursillos. JJ: Cursillo, okay. CT: Okay. And that was like a big retreat. [00:25:00] I don’t know the word for it in English. I only know the word for it in Spanish, but they had it for the men. It started out for the men first. What they spoke about in there -- 15 �JJ: Any reason for that, or --? CT: ’Cause the men were the ones -- the women always stayed home, taking care of the kids and everything. The men were the ones that -- the shakers and the movers. Okay? That’s the way it was. So, it started out for the men first. The women eventually got theirs, but it started out with the men, and they went to the Cardinals’ Committee, and they had a retreat. I remember my dad being the cook for these retreats. I remember that my husband made it. His dad and other people we knew. What was spoken there stayed there. It was like a secret society, you could say, and they all had a pin. They were (Spanish) [00:25:58]. Okay? JJ: [00:26:00] And their purpose was what? I mean -- CT: To tell you the truth, it was a religious purpose. You went there, and it was, like, soul cleansing is the only word that I can -- JJ: So, it was a religious purpose. CT: It was a religious experience. I never made one. I would like to some day. Before I die, I would like to do it, but, unless you went there, you don’t know what happened there. JJ: So, they wanted just to cleanse themselves, or to try to get more people into the church? CT: It had nothing to do with getting more people in the church. JJ: Just a -- CT: That was a personal experience. JJ: Personal experience. 16 �CT: It’s like when you go to confession. It’s a personal experience. It’s spiritual. Okay? But that was one of the big things. Okay? Now, let me go back. I went to St. Michael’s Grammar School, and the people that went to Catholic schools at that time -- the parents really had to work very hard to come [00:27:00] up with that tuition money. The one blessing was that you paid the tuition for one kid, and then you had to only pay partial tuition. You know, like, 25 dollars less for the next one. So, our family, in reality, when we went to school, because there were so many of us -- I’m the oldest, and I have 10 brothers and sisters behind me. We really went to school on one tuition. Okay? So, in those days, we were lucky. Today, you pay for every kid, and you pay for your books, and you pay for everything. That’s not the way it was then. So, at St. Mike’s Grammar School, there were not too many Hispanics. Okay? And I’m not gonna say that the nuns were bad to us because they weren’t, but they were very strict, and I had never been in a Catholic school before, and I started in [00:28:00] the middle of eighth grade. JJ: Oh, you didn’t start from first grade? CT: No. Remember, I lived -- JJ: But what about your brothers and sisters? CT: They all went through -- after kindergarten, they all went through grammar school, Catholic grammar school. Every single one. JJ: At St. Michael’s? CT: They started at St. Michael’s, but then we moved out of there, and then it was Visitation, but my oldest brothers and I graduated from St. Mike’s. 17 �JJ: Okay, ’cause you started in eighth grade. CT: I started in eighth grade. It was a very difficult year because there weren’t, like I said, very many Hispanics in that school. Okay? There were in the community, but not in the school. Anyway, I made it through the eighth grade, and then, when I started in high school, that’s when all of these other kids from different areas came to St. Michael’s high school. Okay? There were other [00:29:00] Catholic schools, but St. Michael’s was divided. It had a boy’s side and a girl’s side, and the only time the girls saw the boys were either through the gym, the library, or upstairs in the labs, the chemistry and biology lab. You had separate classes. The School Sisters of Notre Dame ran the girls, and I think the Jesuits ran the boys. No, it wasn’t the Jesuits. Co-Redemptrix priests. JJ: Oh, the Redemptrix priests. I remember. CT: So, anyway, what can I say about the community? St. Michael’s sodality hall, the church sodality hall, was finally -- not given to the Hispanics, but they used it a lot. They used it for church. They used to have dances there. I mean, and these were fantastic dances. I remember going to them. I think if I -- JJ: When you say fantastic, you mean in terms of the [00:30:00] dancing? CT: In terms of the dancing, in terms of the -- they got the groups to come there to play. JJ: The different bands. CT: Right. I can’t remember the names. I don’t want to give a name that’s not the one, but -- JJ: You had dancers like José Rodriguez (inaudible). 18 �CT: Yeah. They danced. And then, this was the time when salsa first started, so, you know, it was a big thing. They had the trios that would come and play. They could actually sell liquor there, and people used to drink. They made money for their club, for the Caballeros de San Juan. Okay? And they helped with the -how do you say? Buying the shirts for the baseball team, and they used to rent Liberty Bell. There was a retreat center there, and they used to use it. JJ: Liberty Bell (inaudible). CT: They used to have all these [00:31:00] excursions, like at Holy Hill. They’d rent a bus. JJ: In Wisconsin? CT: Right. And everybody would get on this bus. JJ: Was that (inaudible) Wisconsin? (inaudible). CT: I don’t know. JJ: Or that was another place. CT: I don’t remember. I always went on the bus. JJ: But Holy Hill -- I remember Holy Hill. CT: Holy Hill, Liberty Bell -- there was another place where they had cabins, and you spend the night for retreats. I went to one of those. There were a lot of things, okay? The next thing -- JJ: They had a plane too, right? CT: Right. I’ll get to that. Okay. The next thing that I remember was that they started a domino league. Okay? And they would go to New York to play. They won trophies, and, I mean, my father-in-law was very good at it. My dad didn’t 19 �play dominoes. My dad knew nothing about dominoes, but he got them [00:32:00] people on that plane, and he got ’em to New York, and he was like the golfer. You know, somebody who did everything. And so, they had that. Then -what’s the beer company in Milwaukee? JJ: I know (inaudible) old Milwaukee, right? They got past blue ribbon. RICCI TRINIDAD: Anheuser-Busch? JJ: Anheuser-Busch? CT: Anheuser-Busch. Okay. How they hooked up with them beats me, but, every year, Concilio Numero Tres had a trip out there, and they treated you to the beer, to this huge luncheon, because they used to sponsor the parades and things like that. Okay? JJ: The Puerto Rican Parade? CT: Right. That hadn’t happened yet, but, because of the domino league and everything, they got -- I went. JJ: [00:33:00] It led to that. It led to that. CT: Yeah, it led to the (inaudible). Oh, it was fantastic. It was really a trip that everybody died to go on. Few were selected, but -- JJ: And your father -- CT: My dad -- JJ: -- Cesario Rivera was organizing that. CT: Organizing that, along with some of the other people. JJ: And the Chéveres, and the (inaudible). 20 �CT: Exactly. So, what happens? There’s this huge, big community in Chicago, and I believe there were 13 councils if I’m not wrong. JJ: About that, yeah. CT: I think there was 13. Anyway, people didn’t know how to go get a loan. Okay? First of all, they didn’t have enough collateral, but what did they do? They formed the first credit union for Puerto Ricans, Latinos, in Chicago, and it was my dad -- JJ: And it still exists today. CT: It exists but not the same way. JJ: (inaudible). CT: They were bought out. [00:34:00] Okay? But you became a socio. Okay? It’s like a (Spanish) [00:34:04], a co-op. You became a member. You had to put so much money into their credit union, and then you could go and ask for a loan. Okay? Not a big thing. They had the money saved and everything. Everybody trusted everybody in those days, and, sure enough, everybody had a member. My dad was number three. His card and his number to this day is number three. Okay? And it grew, and it grew, and it grew, and then, you know, when you get so big -- and people were lent money to put a down payment on a house, buy a car. When I went to college, I needed to have root canal done, and I needed to have fillings done. I went ’cause I was a member, and I got me a loan. [00:35:00] Okay? I paid it back. It took me a long time to pay it back, but, as a college student, I had no money. My parents didn’t have money to get me the root canal work, and it was important that I had that done, so -- 21 �JJ: And you personally knew the bankers. CT: That was the other thing. Okay? But I couldn’t go to my dad to ask him for the loan. I had to go to the treasurer and say, “I need a loan, and I need it for this,” and I had to sign papers and everything. All right. JJ: But I didn’t mean you personally, but most of the people knew the bankers. CT: Everybody knew everybody, and everybody knew you borrowed money, and they knew how much, and they knew if you paid or not. That was the thing, that, you know, you weren’t gonna be late because you lived in that community. As it got bigger, okay? They had to go through the D-- what is it? FDIC, and banking, and whatnot, and it became a legal thing, [00:36:00] and they even had -- at the beginning, their office was at the Cardinals’ Committee, okay? Then, they bought a building on Fullerton, okay? JJ: In the west -- okay, where they’re located now, or --? CT: Yes. Okay? And it got bigger, okay? So, my family was still running that, okay? In terms of the president of the credit union was my cousin, Jeanie Chévere. Okay? And she ran on Washington’s ticket in Chicago. She ran -- JJ: Harold Washington. CT: Mm-hmm. And they lost. She lost the position. She didn’t win, but he made her executive of CTA or whatever it was. So, okay. My cousin has [00:37:00] always been in politics. Today, due to the fact that she worked politics in that community and on the North Side, she was elected to be a judge, and now she’s at federal court. She started as traffic -- JJ: So, she’s a federal judge today. 22 �CT: Yeah. I shouldn’t say federal. She went from traffic court to doing the -- JJ: But is she a judge, or does she work at federal court? CT: No, she’s a judge. JJ: (inaudible). CT: I went to her swearing. JJ: And this is your -- CT: My cousin. I have pictures of who all these people are. Okay? Anyway. So, getting back to the credit union. The credit union became very large. As you had kids and they got older, you opened up an account, and you just put five dollars, ten dollars. By the time -- my sister, my younger sister, didn’t cash her [00:38:00] credit union money in until she had triplets, and she came to Chicago, and -- how was it? She came to Chicago, and she says, “Oh, Mom, it’s the boys’ birthday.” You know, there was three of ’em. And so, she took the money out of the credit union ’cause my mom was on it, and she says, “Here, this is your life savings,” and it was enough to give ’em a birthday party and have money left over. So, you can see how it -- but that was sold, and it became like a bank. It was sold. It’s no longer run by the Caballeros de San Juan. (break in audio) CT: The credit union was sold. To who, I don’t know. The building is still there, and people still have accounts there, but it’s more like a bank now. It’s not a credit union, and [00:39:00] it’s not the Caballeros de San Juan because Caballeros de San Juan -- I don’t know if they exist any longer or what. You would have to go back -- 23 �JJ: I think they became the Hermanos, the Hermanos (inaudible). CT: No. Hermanos de la Familia del Dios is something totally, totally different. JJ: So, what happened to the Las Damas, Las Damas de María of St. Michael’s? CT: Las Damas -- JJ: Do you know anything about them, or --? CT: Yeah. Yeah. Okay. I’m just going through little things that I remember. I’ll get to that part too. Okay. So, you have the credit union. You had all these trips. You have the domino league, the baseball league, and the Caballeros de San Juan. Now, they were very famous during -- they used to show movies. Where they got these movies from, I don’t know, but you would go to one of the concilios, and let’s say Concilio Numero Uno had a big dance. Concilio Numero Quatro showed a [00:40:00] movie, and you went, and you actually saw a Spanish movie. You paid your 50 cents or whatever it was at the time. JJ: A regular movie? This is not a religious movie. CT: No, a regular movie. You know, they brought in movies. JJ: So, they were using culture, regular Puerto Rican culture, with the church (inaudible). CT: Right. Right. Okay. So, then, it was the movies. JJ: So, people would pay, and they would see a movie? CT: A movie, and this -- JJ: At the hall? CT: At this hall or at a different hall from the Caballeros de San Juan. JJ: ’Cause they had halls in all the churches. 24 �CT: Right. Then -- JJ: But some of those halls were because they didn’t want ’em in (inaudible). CT: No, no, no. The halls were because they -- how do you say? It was used. It was like a hall. You go in, and you do parties, and you -- JJ: But the Mass was celebrated in (inaudible). CT: In a different place. Okay. So, getting back to the activities they did, [00:41:00] during Lent, they used to put on this big production. Okay? And it was The Passion of the Lord, and, when you talk about The Passion, it was taken right out of the Bible, and they had the spears, and they had the ketchup they would throw out, the blood. It looks really, really real, and you had the cross. People were actually dressed like them, and you had all these seamstresses making all these outfits for this play. Came Christmas time, and you had the Nativity, and it was reenacted, Mary going into labor and the baby being born. JJ: So, you had two plays -- CT: Yeah. JJ: -- a year. Two plays a year. CT: Mm-hmm. JJ: And who was part of these plays? CT: Whoever wanted to try out and be part of it. JJ: So, just any normal -- CT: Any Latino in Chicago, [00:42:00] the whole area of Chicago because everybody knew who was going to put on the play, and you’d go, and if you wanted to help or be part of it. 25 �JJ: And then, did you have professional theater people? CT: No. No. No. No. JJ: It was just anyone -- CT: This was just the community. JJ: ’Cause it looked very professional, but it was two plays a year. CT: Two plays a year. It looked professional, and I’ll tell you again, they made their costumes, or they rented them, or -- you know, it wasn’t so much what they said. It was how it was done. Okay? I remember, for the Christmas play -- I was in one of the Christmas -- I was the angel. All right? I remember the wings were out of cardboard, and they were covered, and then you sewed the material, and you put the glitter, and -- beautiful wings. I still have my picture as an angel, and it was just gorgeous, and, when you saw everything, oh, my God. It was beautiful, but it was done by the community. No outside [00:43:00] help. All right? So, they had that. Now -- JJ: So, now, who would come to see it? There was a community, but, I mean, about how many --? CT: It was -- JJ: About how many people? CT: It was, again, every president, vice president. They would go to the Cardinals’ Committee for a meeting, and everybody knew what was going on in their churches, and they’d come back and say, “Oh, there’s gonna be a dance in Concilio Numero Tres such and such a day. I have the tickets. You want them? I have the tickets for the play. How many tickets do you want?” 26 �JJ: So, they would fill up the place. CT: Oh, yeah. JJ: But I’m trying to figure out -- CT: It’d fill up -- standing room. JJ: Let’s say the Christmas play when you were there. CT: Mm-hmm. JJ: About how many people? A hundred? Two hundred? Three hundred? CT: You know, I can’t go back and tell you. I mean, I was a kid. JJ: But it wasn’t -- CT: It looked to me like thousands. JJ: Okay, (inaudible) like thousands. CT: It was always packed, and people were standing in the hall, windows, looking. I mean -- JJ: [00:44:00] Because, at that time, the Lincoln Park community had a lot of Puerto Ricans. CT: It had a lot of Puerto Ricans. Okay? And not only that, but remember, I’m going back to the church. The church was city-wide, so city-wide people would come see these plays, just like, city-wise, people would come to the dances. JJ: Now, was St. Michael’s a unique (inaudible)? CT: St. Michael’s was one of the most -- how should I say? Active councils. Okay? It was the most active council, okay? Because you had so many good people. It was Calvino (inaudible). It was my dad, my uncles, Rick’s dad, Don Jesus. There’s a lot of people. Okay? A lot. A lot of people. What else can I tell you 27 �about the community in that area? Because, again, I don’t want to speak about the [00:45:00] South Side ’cause that’s totally -JJ: Yeah, that’s a different -- CT: The Puerto Ricans moved from there -- JJ: Around what year? CT: -- to the South Side and from there up north -- JJ: Around what year? CT: I will tell you it was in ’66. JJ: ’66, they moved from there to the -- CT: South Side. JJ: South Side. To Visitation Parish, that area? CT: Right. And then -- JJ: Which is on 60 -- CT: -- from Indiana, from East Chicago -- JJ: Visitation is what? On 63rd? CT: On 55th and Peoria. JJ: 55th and Peoria, okay. CT: What happened was the people from South Chicago moved to 55th Street. They had a realtor. Okay? His name was Ernito Gómez. JJ: Ernito Gómez, okay. CT: Okay? He was the Puerto Rican realtor. He moved them there. “(Spanish) [00:45:55]. There’s a house here. It’s a perfect house for you.” JJ: [00:46:00] (inaudible). 28 �CT: Eugenio Gómez. JJ: Eugenio Gómez. CT: Okay? JJ: But he was from Indiana or from --? CT: He eventually came from the South Side of Chicago to that area. JJ: To (inaudible). CT: They were south, real far south, East Chicago. They moved to 55th. JJ: What year was that? CT: In the ’60s. JJ: In the ’60s, okay. Okay. CT: A lot of the Puerto Ricans on the North Side who knew Ernito -- like, Ernito and my dad were compadres, okay? He moved my dad. I’m telling you, he found my dad this huge, big house on the South Side, a big boarding house. He moved him there. And then, because my dad moved there, my aunt and uncle moved, and everybody moved south. JJ: So, why were people moving, though? I mean, besides the real estate guy, why did people --? CT: Cheaper. Bigger homes. Where we lived, there was only three bedrooms, [00:47:00] and then, we were 10 kids. Okay? There was no room. All right? And so, the time was good to sell. My dad should have never sold that house because, today, it would be worth a fortune. JJ: You’re talking about the house on Sedgwick? CT: On Sedgwick. Lincoln Park. 29 �JJ: So, the time was good to sell at that time. CT: Time was good to sell. JJ: So, a lot of Puerto Ricans were selling at that time? CT: They were selling and moving south or moving far north. JJ: ’66, 1966. CT: Okay. Because, remember, there was Waller School south of North Avenue, and then there was one on -- JJ: (inaudible) Franklin? CT: There was one on Armitage, another high -- JJ: The one on Armitage was Waller. Waller. CT: Waller. JJ: It was on Armitage. CT: Okay, so, which one was the one further south? Margaret went there to -- JJ: To Cooley? CT: Cooley. JJ: Cooley. CT: Okay. So, remember -- JJ: Margaret went to Cooley? CT: Yeah. JJ: Okay, Cooley -- CT: To become a beautician. JJ: Cooley High, okay. 30 �CT: Okay, so, [00:48:00] remember, you’re from Waller, and you’re Cooley, and you’re in the middle. You want to get out. The neighborhoods -- the border lines were changing. The Hispanics were afraid. Okay? You couldn’t move east ’cause that’s already blocked from you. JJ: Why? CT: ’Cause it was white. JJ: Okay, east was white. CT: Right, east -- by the lake. JJ: So, we’re talking about race and ethnicity. CT: We’re not talking about that. We’re talking about economy. JJ: Economy, okay. CT: Economy, okay? JJ: So, the east was rich. CT: East was the lake. JJ: Rich white. CT: Right. How could you move to a high rise? How could you buy a house on -what was that street called? The one before the lake. JJ: Clark Street. CT: Clark. You know? It was money. If you moved further west, okay? It wasn’t considered [00:49:00] good. JJ: Why was that? What was on the west? CT: That was ethnicity. JJ: That was ethnicity. 31 �CT: That was racial, not ethnicity. That was racial. Puerto Ricans didn’t want to move where the Blacks were. Okay? So, they had one of two choices. Either go north or go south. JJ: Okay. And that’s what they did. CT: Exactly. They either move up to the North Side, or they move to the South Side. That was it. JJ: So, they either went to Lakeview or Uptown or -- CT: Uptown. JJ: -- they went west to the Humboldt Park -- CT: Right. JJ: -- or they went south. CT: Even Humboldt Park at that time wasn’t considered to be good. Okay? JJ: Because there was not Puerto Ricans at that time. CT: No, it was Puerto Rican. It was Puerto Rican -- JJ: But it was -- CT: -- but -- economy. Remember, economy has a lot of things to do with crime. JJ: Right, so it was poor. It was poor. CT: It was poor. JJ: It was poor, okay. CT: Okay? So, you either moved north, or you either moved south. My dad moved south, not because of -- JJ: Because (inaudible). 32 �CT: -- economy or anything. It was because the house was big. A 19-room house. How could you go [00:50:00] wrong? And you have 11 kids. JJ: Nineteen rooms? That many rooms? CT: It had 19 rooms, all together. JJ: And how much was the house? CT: I don’t know. I don’t know. My parents’ financial status at that time was not shared with the kids. Anyway, so -- JJ: What did your father do before (inaudible)? CT: My dad worked at Wrigley’s gum company. JJ: Oh, yeah, Wrigley’s gum company. That’s right. That’s right. I’m sorry. CT: Okay. Okay, so, we moved south at that time, but, getting back to the Lincoln Park area, okay? Again, like I said, the church was the pillar of the community. Everything you did revolved around the church. All right? So, the Puerto Rican community at St. Michael’s suddenly became part of the church, so there was a carnival every year. Okay? And every [00:51:00] organization in the church had to have a booth, and you ran the booth, and whatever the booth made, you know, was -- how do you say? Oh, this group got so much. Okay? So, the Puerto Ricans make Puerto Rican food. They sell it there, and, sure enough, one year, they were the ones that made the most money. Okay? So, that was like a plus, but, at that carnival, everybody came, and that was one of the activities that pulled the whole community from St. Michael’s together. JJ: The whole -- all the blocks around. 33 �CT: Everybody. Whatever organization you belonged to, ’cause you had to work it, and you had a -- JJ: So, it slowly became more and more Puerto Rican at that carnival ’cause it was a yearly -- CT: No, St. Michael’s never became more Puerto Rican. Okay? It never became more German. [00:52:00] It stayed the same way it was. JJ: For years? CT: For years. Okay? Once I moved out of there, they even sold the boys’ high school and made -- the rectory. The high schools were torn down. It was sold, okay? So, the church stood, but not the school and not the sodality hall. All of that was sold. Okay? Became condos. You know, I’ve never been back there to see it, but this is what I’ve been told. Okay? At that time, one of the things was you went to -- there’s a hospital, Children’s Memorial Hospital, and, every time a child got sick, that’s the only hospital everybody knew, Children’s Memorial, ’cause the adults didn’t go to the hospital. It was the kids, [00:53:00] and that was a famous hospital to take care of the children and get them vaccinated and whatnot. They had free clinics where you could go. My dad did the grocery shopping, and he used to go to the A&P. All the Puerto Ricans went to the A&P. JJ: Right on North Avenue, or --? CT: It was right there on Sedgwick Street. Okay? Closer to North Avenue. It wasn’t that far away. JJ: Were there other businesses on North Avenue that were Puerto Rican? 34 �CT: No, I don’t remember any. To tell you the truth, I don’t remember any on North Avenue. JJ: But I know they had a theater, Puerto Rican theater. CT: Yeah, I don’t remember on North Avenue. Everybody shopped at the A&P, and you got stamps. JJ: You never went to (inaudible) on North Avenue? CT: No. Well, that’s -- when? Back in those days or now? JJ: No, no. That wasn’t in those days. CT: No. I don’t -- you know. [00:54:00] The A&P. Getting back to the A&P. JJ: Let’s get back to the A&P. CT: They gave you these little green stamps. Okay? And all the Puerto Ricans were collecting -- JJ: S&H. S&H. CT: The S&H stamps. JJ: Yeah, I remember. CT: You remember that? JJ: I remember. CT: Everybody collected the S&H stamps. Okay? And then, you went, and you cashed them in at -- Goldblatt’s, was it? JJ: Yeah, right. CT: Okay. JJ: Right. Right. 35 �CT: I got my first set of dishes when I got married from those stamps, and my dad bought -- with S&H stamps at Goldblatts, he bought me a set of dishes. I still have ’em. Anyway, long story, but, anyway, I still have those dishes, and they were from S&H, and everybody -- if you needed one stamp to fill up your card so you could get something, you would ask somebody, “Hey, you went to the store. I just need one.” You know? So, that was like a trade-off between the [00:55:00] people in the community, a stamp. The other thing they used to sell was (Spanish) [00:55:04]. I don’t know if you remember that. JJ: Yeah, (Spanish) [00:55:09]. You put them -- how do you say--? CT: There was a card, and you would open it, and, whatever that card said, you paid, and then you might get a gift. I forgot what it was called, but that was a big thing, okay? I mean, that was a really big thing. The other big thing in the community at that time, okay? And I’m talking about before I was 16 ’cause, at 16, we moved to the South Side. Okay? The other big thing in the community -- okay, you had your S&H stamps. You had (Spanish) [00:55:48]. Oh, my God. I was gonna mention something, and it just disappeared. All right. The church [00:56:00] women ’cause that’s a big thing. Okay? Most of the women stayed at home and took care of the kids if there was a lot of kids, and they would babysit for each other and whatnot. Okay? In our house, my mother never went anywhere. She went to church, and we all had to go with them, and that’s when you put on your Sunday shoes ’cause you only had two pairs of shoes. Actually, three. You had your gym shoes around the house, you have your pair of shoes for Sunday school or when you went out, you know, church, and you had your 36 �school shoes, and you had a uniform for school, and, on Sundays, everybody went to church together. And you did not misbehave because you got pinched, and [00:57:00] you had to stay awake. So, like I said, my mom didn’t go anywhere, but my dad, on Sundays -- he always wore a suit to church. Every Sunday, he was always dressed up, and, during the summer, my mom would help him make sandwiches, and -- loaves of bread, and either ham or -- and cheese and whatever. The sandwiches were -- and they would be cut in half, and they would be wrapped, and he’d take this huge, big cooler, and he’d go to Lincoln Park and give it to the baseball players. Okay? I never could figure that out. JJ: In Lincoln Park, where they played? CT: In Lincoln Park. My dad was very, very generous. That was his team from the Concilio Numero Tres, and he’d bring ’em these big things of Kool-Aid, and we never lacked for anything in our house ’cause my dad was a hard worker,[00:58:00] but I could never understand until I was older. I would say, “Man, he’s making all these sandwiches and everything and taking --” It was a matter of being a little jealous, I guess. You know, my dad was so generous to everybody. Okay? Somebody needed 10 dollars, take the 10 dollars and give it to ’em. Well, it’s like, okay, you got 11 kids. What’s the thing? Eventually, I understood what it was. He was very, very religious, very caring, very generous, and he truly cared about everything in the community, about his Caballeros de San Juan, concilio. He was president. This was his whole life. Then, the big 37 �thing in the community came back as I was talking. Okay? Was la bolita. Okay? La [00:59:00] bolita is the Chinese numbers game. I don’t know how you call it -JJ: Los chinos, los chinos. CT: The Chinese. JJ: Yeah, that’s what you call ’em, los chinos. (inaudible) CT: Yeah, la bolita. They’re the ones that roll a number or you play a number. So, my dad would go to the bolitero. He loved to do that. Okay? And he would play a number, and he never won when he -- JJ: And this is like an underground lottery. CT: Yeah, it’s a lottery. It’s the rackets. It’s like you see on TV. They’re going to the numbers people. JJ: The numbers. The numbers, yeah. CT: Okay? Anyway, my dad used to play that. Who the bolitero was -- JJ: And it was all over the community at that time. CT: All over, and everybody played. JJ: Everybody played. Everybody played. CT: I mean, from the time that you were -- JJ: It was announced on the radio too, I heard. CT: The numbers came out on the radio. Of course. You knew. I don’t know how they did it, but, anyway. So, my dad would play this, like, religiously. Okay? [01:00:00] He never won money when he had money. Okay? Never, never won when he had money. When we were most desperate, like at Christmastime, Easter, Mother’s Day, my dad always won, and he won big. I couldn’t believe it. 38 �Then, I knew what my dad was doing. My dad was giving back what he had received, and that’s what he taught us. You help other people. You volunteer. We’ve all done volunteer work. My brother Louie, he does volunteer work every year from his church. He goes to Mexico, to the Habilitad for Humanity. JJ: Habitat for Humanity. CT: Yeah, Habitat. And -- JJ: That’s your brother. CT: My brother. And he pays for his own plane ticket, for (break in audio) everything there, and he takes a week’s vacation, and he goes, and he does that. He’s done [01:01:00] it with his wife, and, lately, he’s been doing it by himself. Okay? But he learned that. All of us have done volunteer work. So, eventually, I knew, you know, but, again, it came from the community. You help the people in the community. It was very hard for us to leave that house. Okay? It was very hard for us to leave our roots because this is where everybody had grown up. Everybody had gone to school there. So, we continued. The three oldest did graduate from St. Michael’s, but then we moved to the South Side. JJ: So, this was your roots. I mean -- CT: To me, even though I only lived there, like I said, from the time I was 13 to 16, three years -- but those were the three years of my life that I remember as being the greatest. We walked to North Avenue Beach. [01:02:00] You didn’t have to worry about anybody mugging you, or robbing you, or anything. My stepmother’s mother, my grandmother, she babysat everybody. She used to take the buggies, and the old -- I was the oldest, and my cousin Jeanie. And then, everybody 39 �would help everybody, and we’d be the guards. “Come on. Let’s go. Let’s go.” And we’d carry these sacks of sandwiches and everything, and there was this lady who didn’t know how to speak much English or anything, but she risked going to the beach. Okay? JJ: And there were more Puerto Ricans? CT: There were more Puerto Ricans there, and you met everybody you knew there ’cause everybody was babysitting. (phone rings) [Ricci called Junior?]. Anyway, so -- RT: That’s your phone. CT: I know. He’s calling here, and he’s going to keep calling, so -- RT: What does he want? CT: I don’t know. [01:03:00] Anyway, so, we’d go down to the beach. Okay. We’d go to the zoo. The zoo was free. JJ: The Lincoln Park Zoo. CT: Okay? They had the little canoes in the -- you know? You were never afraid to do any of that. Okay? So, anyway, getting back to the women, like I started, there was two organizations in the church that women belonged to: Las Damas de María y Las Hijas de María, the -- I want to call the -- the Madam, you know, the older women. Once you were married, you were considered old already, so you belonged to that group. Okay? Las Esperanzas wore this green sash with a medal. JJ: That was the ones in training, or --? 40 �CT: Those were supposed to be the young girls, unmarried girls. [01:04:00] You were representing -- you dressed in white, and you had this green metal. JJ: The virginity -- CT: Virginity. Okay? JJ: The virgin -- CT: Because that was a big thing in the community. JJ: What do you mean? CT: If you got pregnant or if you had sex at that time, it was like, “Get out of the house. We don’t want to have nothing to do with you.” JJ: (inaudible). CT: (inaudible), the -- everything. So, you had to watch whatever you did. My sister and I walked a strict line. Okay? Because everybody knew my dad. Everybody. And so, if you went anywhere, they saw you, he’d know, and the only thing in this world you didn’t want to do was embarrass your dad. JJ: Your family and your dad. CT: Okay? I mean, culturally, that was the thing. So, you wore this medal, and it was such an honor because this was the Sunday. They had it on Sundays. Every Sunday was a different group. So, all the girls would -- you’d try to outdo everybody [01:05:00] with your skirt, and your blouse, and your hairdo, and then you had to put your hair up so they could see that you had your medal, and you’d walk down. It was a procession. And then, at that time, when you went to church and Mass, you had to have something to cover your head. All right? So, 41 �it was on Sundays that it was your turn. You didn’t wear that little thing. You wore your mantilla, the nicer ones you had. JJ: Mantilla? CT: Yeah, and you wanted -- JJ: A lot of girls wore the mantillas? CT: Yeah, we had the mantillas ’cause, at the time, you had to cover your head, you know? They weren’t those big, long, elegant ones, but you had one. So, that was for the young girls. The older women, I think they had blue. I can’t recall, but they also had a medal, and they dressed, and they had their groups. Eventually, they had a cursillo for the ladies. Okay? The moms went. And so, you know, we were progressing in [01:06:00] the church too. There was no birth control to use. Very few people used birth control. Okay? The church taught you rhythm. Go to the rhythm, and that didn’t work in our house because there was a lot of us. Okay? The Hispanic families were very large. Six kids, five kids. We were ten. And, again, culturally, you didn’t use birth control. All right? That’s a lot of mouths to feed. So, the females had to -- how do you say? Adjust to cooking for all those kids on whatever there was. So, I remember, in my house, we ate rice. We ate beans. We had salad, green beans, corn, and your main meats were chicken, pork [01:07:00] chops, and bistec. Okay? And, when you ate, you had one piece of meat, a lot of rice and beans to stuff you, and your salad, and the big joke was, you know -- not in my family, but in another family was you hurried up and you ate your meat in case somebody came because the 42 �parents would give your -- they’d give you something else, but they’d give your food to the adults that came. JJ: Right. Right. To the visitor. CT: To the visitors. They always had room in their homes for anybody who came to spend the night. It didn’t matter if all the kids slept in one bed, but your company had room. Not too many women were -- how do you say? Took the risks that my stepmother and my grandmother did. I admire them very, very much. My mom learned to speak English. All right? [01:08:00] But there was one rule in our house. You didn’t speak English. You had to speak Spanish. I guess, as time went on, ’cause she had so many kids, you know, the rule -- how do you say? Was -- JJ: Changed a little. CT: -- changed, okay? JJ: Adjusted? CT: The younger ones spoke English. Okay? But she never spoke English to us in the house. Never. She always spoke Spanish so you understand. We all understand it. The younger ones -- JJ: That’s pride in our culture? CT: No. That was -- why are you gonna speak English? Her feeling was, “I got to speak Spanish so my kids can understand.” Okay? So, that was one other thing. My grandmother -- she was a funny lady. She was very bright, very loving, and she loved school, and she could talk up a storm. She’d talk to you about everything. There was [01:09:00] nothing -- you know, you could talk to 43 �her about sex. And I’m not talking about -- just about, “Grandma, what is this?” And she would tell you very calmly, explain it to you. So, she went to Tuley High School. Where was Tuley? JJ: On Ashland, around there. CT: That’s where she went. She went to learn English, and somebody would take her every night and pick her up. JJ: So, she would go from Sedgwick, or --? CT: No. She lived on Mohawk. JJ: On Mohawk at that time. Okay. CT: Yeah. That would take her to school. Maybe it wasn’t -- what was the school closest on Mohawk? Anyway, she went to a Chicago public school where they taught English classes, and she had her little book. She was going to school, and I really admired her for that. She’d come back, [01:10:00] and she’d practice everything that she learned that day with all the grandkids, and we used to laugh. “She’s trying to learn,” you know, ’cause she spoke funny, but she learned. And then, after my grandfather died, she needed a certain amount of quarters from social security in order to get social security. She got a job working in this linen company on Halsted Street on the South Side, and she would take a bus all the way from the North Side to go to the South Side to work there and then go all the way back north on this bus, and, you know, somebody who’s that old and so set culturally in being Hispanic and -- to do that, you have to admire her. How many women would do that? So, okay. So, the church. The females eventually [01:11:00] began to do things. They eventually had their own meetings at the 44 �Cardinals’ Committee. So, in 1966, they decided to have a Puerto Rican Parade. That was the very first Puerto Rican Parade there was. My dad was the president of the Puerto Rican Parade Committee, the ones that did it. JJ: So, this came out of St. Michael’s, then. CT: No. Remember, I keep telling you that. The Cardinals’ Committee -- JJ: It came out of the Cardinals’ Committee. CT: Committee, which are all the churches. Okay? So, they decided they were going to have a parade. All right? And my dad became the president. JJ: But he was from St. -- CT: He was voted from -- JJ: But he was from St. Michael’s. CT: He was from St. Michael’s. There were people from all over. All right? And so, the [01:12:00] Cardinals’ Committee, the group that sponsored the parade, had a float. Okay? And it was going to be a religious float. So, we, the Rivera family, got to be on this float, representing the family. Okay? A religious family. Okay? Indirectly, they were trying to say something else, I believe, because 10 kids, you know. No birth control at the time. This is what a good family’s supposed to be. My mom’s buggies were there with the kids. Somewhere, we have a picture of that, but that was the year that there were riots. Okay? And that was the same night that I came to Puerto Rico. JJ: The Division Street riot was (inaudible). CT: The very same night. My dad took me to the airport ’cause I was coming to Puerto Rico, [01:13:00] and my dad actually went to Daley’s house when the riots 45 �occurred, and my dad talked to him and to other people that worked with the Cardinals’ Committee’s, my uncles and dad, to try to defuse what was going on. What it was, I don’t know because, like I said, I wasn’t here. I’ve seen it on TV, and people have told me what happened, but I was never near Humboldt Park where this happened. But, getting back to my dad and the community, my dad met the governor of Puerto Rico, Luis Muñoz Marín (inaudible). He knew Daley. He knew all these people in politics, and, for a person with no education, who was a tomato picker, to be so well known, okay? Was [01:14:00] amazing. Very, very amazing. He also worked for -- when we moved to the South Side, there was a problem in that community, and the problem were the gangs. JJ: So, now, we’re talking about Visitation Church. CT: Right, but we’re not gonna talk too much about that, but I’m talking about my dad. When he moved there, they gave him a job working for the Department of Human Resources. Okay? And what his job -- JJ: Was this after the riot or --? CT: Yes because he already -- we moved to the South Side. Okay? This was when he worked with the neighborhood gangs. Okay? JJ: (inaudible). CT: So, my dad -- what I’m trying to say is, from a tomato picker, he went to holding all these positions, putting together all of these activities and things, having a job through the city. [01:15:00] Not educated, you know, and being able to -- how do you say? Mingle with people like the governor and the mayor of San Juan, and it was very amazing. Very, very amazing. Okay. So, when we moved to the 46 �South Side, okay? Caballeros de San Juan no longer existed. Okay? My dad then joined another organization, “Puertorriqueños Unidos de Chicago,” and that was an amazing one too, but let’s get back to the Lincoln Park one. JJ: But we can talk about both too (inaudible). CT: So, the Caballeros de San Juan. The last thing that they did was they had banquets, and that was to generate funds, okay? Because, if somebody had a fire, or a death, or something, [01:16:00] they gave money to these -- they helped their community. So, you bought a ticket, okay? And this was the first time Puerto Ricans were going to fancy places. So, they got to go to the hotels downtown. They got to go to different -- they got out of their neighborhood. All right? And so, that also was really amazing, that they could do that, that they could go somewhere and say, “Hey, we want to rent your hall,” and that they could sit down and estimate -- “We need to sell so many tickets, and we need to make money for the band, and we need money for the --” You know, to me, that was very amazing, and that they could do so many of these. Okay? I know that, for the first Puerto Rican parade, they had a banquet, and they sold tickets, and they were expensive, and they made money. All right. So, we -- JJ: Was anyone else connected, like [01:17:00] the Puerto Rican Congress or anybody else? CT: Puerto Rican Congress -- that was later. JJ: That was later. CT: That’s now. There’s a Puerto Rican Congress now. All right? JJ: But, at that time, it was mainly the Caballeros. 47 �CT: It was Caballeros de San Juan. JJ: The Caballeros de San Juan. CT: There was no Puerto Rican Congress. JJ: So, the first parade was Caballeros de San Juan. CT: Caballeros de San Juan all the way. The Puerto Rican Congress can claim to have been a part of that, and I really can’t say it wasn’t, but I do know who was on the committees and who did the work. I believe that the Puerto Rican Congress came -- JJ: Who was it? CT: Well, it was my dad, my uncles, Calvino. I think Felix Rodríguez. There was a Cuban guy who was -- I mean, the names -- JJ: They were all -- CT: All affiliated -- JJ: -- affiliated. CT: -- with Caballeros de San Juan. Okay? JJ: Because, actually, the date of it was [01:18:00] near San Juan Bautista, right? CT: Always. Always. Okay? It was always in June. JJ: Always in June. CT: Okay? And it’s always been in June, and it’s usually either the Sunday before Father’s Day -- sometimes, it’s fallen on Father’s Day. All right? It’s always in June. All right, so, when we left the North Side, then we moved to the South Side, again, we didn’t have a Spanish Mass. JJ: There was a group that moved at the same time? 48 �CT: Yes. It was Ernito Gómez, Rick’s dad, Don Jesus, my dad. Oh, my gosh. I’m blank right now. Okay? JJ: Okay, but it was like a group of organizers. CT: Yeah. And they moved there, and Visitation Church did not have a Mass for Spanish people. Okay? So, we went from one German church to [01:19:00] an Irish church. Everybody in that neighborhood was white, Irish. Very few Polish. Okay? No Blacks. Okay? ’Cause it was divided again. 63rd Street divided the Black community. 63rd on up and towards the East End was Irish, and Monsignor Wolfe ran the church. All right. So, he really did not want us there. Okay? He did not want us there. And so -- JJ: So you were in the hall there too, or --? CT: No, there was no hall. There was no nothing. Okay? It was a church. Actually, there was two churches. One downstairs and one upstairs. Okay? So, he used to walk on [01:20:00] Sundays. Okay? He’d get in, and he’d walk, during the Mass, talking to people, shaking their hands, but never to the Hispanics. Okay? Which was very funny. I mean, you know. And that showed his prejudice. How we came about it, I don’t know, but there was suddenly a community again, pulled together. We had different priests and whatnot, and the Monsignor eventually died, but we had a Mass downstairs. There was a chapel down there, so that was our Mass. Again, they bought a building in that area, people who connected together with my dad. They bought a building, and it was called -- oh, my gosh. What was that building called? Rick. RT: Which one? 49 �CT: The one [01:21:00] on 55th that they bought, where you played that one time. Oh, my gosh. RT: (inaudible) Puertorriqueña. CT: Oh, okay. La Unión Puertorriqueña. All right? And it had a hall upstairs, and it had a bar, and they used it for weddings. They used it for dances. Ricci played there one time. Okay? JJ: What band? What band was that? CT: He had a group. JJ: Los Riccis. CT: Los Riccis, yeah. RT: No. CT: He had a group. RT: It was The Sunsets. CT: The Sunsets. All right, so, anyway, that was one thing that they did. Eventually, as the years went by, most of the Puerto Ricans started moving further west. Okay? But there was still one group left. JJ: But this group, la Unión Puertorriqueña, what did they do? What kind of activities? CT: Dances, weddings. [01:22:00] They bought this building. It’s not that -- it was called the Puerto Rican -- RT: It’s a fundraiser. JJ: Oh, it’s a fundraiser. 50 �CT: Yeah. They called it the Puerto Rican Union because it was like a big union hall. All right? Then, the main, main thing there was -- well, there was Puerto Ricans all over the place. Eugenio Gómez, okay, was the real estate guy, and he had a store, and he used to sell furniture and whatnot from that store to all the Puerto Ricans. Okay? And he used to sell houses. So, he moved -- he was the one that gathered all these Puerto Ricans into that community. He used to work for Cahill Brothers Realtor. Cahill Brothers Realtor was on Ashland. And then, slowly, the Puerto Ricans move a little bit west of Ashland. Then, they move west of Damen. Then west of Western, and that (break in audio) in the suburbs. It was -- JJ: Is this --? CT: -- a Puerto Rican flight. JJ: [01:23:00] A Puerto Rican flight? CT: That’s exactly what it was on the South Side. JJ: So, why? Why do you call it the Puerto Rican flight? CT: ’Cause that’s how the Puerto Ricans -- I’m not talking about -- when the Puerto Ricans moved to 55th Street, and that’s what it’s called, that whole community, all the Irish picked up and left. JJ: Oh, okay. So, it was an Irish flight. CT: The first flight. After the Irish left, it was a Puerto Rican flight. JJ: Okay. Oh, they followed that. CT: Yeah. JJ: You just took over their neighborhood. 51 �CT: Exactly. So, this is what happened. The Puerto Rican Union no longer existed. They had to get rid of the building because there was not enough Puerto Ricans living in the area to continue with that. So, there was nothing for them. Okay? So, they decided, let’s do another group. We got to do something. Okay? So, they formed this group called Puertorriqueños Unidos de Chicago. [01:24:00] All right? What was their goal? Their goal was to fund scholarship for students. That was it. That was their goal. Whatever activities they did, okay? Funded. The building was owned by Eugenio Gómez, but we had to pay rent, and we had this whole, big, huge office on the South Side because, remember, St. Mike’s moved south. Some of them. JJ: You’re saying a lot of the people -- CT: Mm-hmm. JJ: -- from St. Mike’s moved south. CT: Moved to the South Side. So -- JJ: Because their neighborhood was changing at that time? CT: Yeah. So, anyway. So, here, you have this group of Puerto Ricans, and they had a president. My dad was president. My sister was always the secretary. Okay? And, eventually, [01:25:00] I don’t know how I got on it, and I was a board member, and, at the time, I was working at Curie High School. So, I had kids apply for these scholarships. Okay? And I got Wilfredo Ortiz to be on the board with me, who was -- he worked for the board. He was -- JJ: Board of education? 52 �CT: Mm-hmm. He was a principal at a couple of schools, and, eventually, he became the principal at Curie High School, and then he went on to have the job that Arne Duncan had. What is it? Director of high school development. That was his job. But, anyway. We used to have garage sales. My dad ran the garage sales. Okay? He was out there, selling everything, and everybody was cleaning house and whatnot, [01:26:00] and we did really good. The first year, we gave scholarships -- I think it was to like six kids. All right? And we were dumb because what we did was, without thinking -- “You have a scholarship. Tell us what school you’re going to, and we’ll send the money to the school.” Okay? Then, I said, “Wait a minute.” It just didn’t dawn on me because I had come in new. I didn’t know what they had done. So, the second year, I said, “You know what? That doesn’t work. We’re giving these kids scholarships, and we’re giving it to the university, and then they take away money from them ’cause, if they’re getting 1,200 dollars, they deduct the 250 that we send, and the kid’s not gonna get any more financial aid.” So, we’re helping the schools, not the students. I told them what we should do -- and then we had to vote on this -- is let the kids go to [01:27:00] school. The first semester, they bring back their grades. Okay? We don’t care if they have C’s or D’s ’cause that’s not what the scholarship was for. We just want to know that they’re in school at that they’re gonna continue the second semester, and we give ’em a check. That way, they can buy whatever they want that they need in school, for books, for clothes, if they’re hungry. What do we care? Okay? The kid’s in school. So, that’s how we did it. So, depending on how much money we got and how many kids applied, okay? 53 �First year was 250. The second year, we upped it to 500. I never worked on selecting students. Okay? Because -- even my daughter applied. Anybody could apply, but it was based on what that committee decided. No questions asked. Doors closed. They decided on [01:28:00] the kids’ resumes, on the application. They had to write an essay, “Why Should I Be Given The Scholarship?” And what have you done for the Hispanic community? That was the main thing. Don’t come and apply for a scholarship from the Puerto Ricans if you haven’t done anything, you know? So, it was based on that. Okay? And we didn’t care what school. It could have been a university. It could have been a tech school. Could have been beauty school. We didn’t care what they wanted the scholarship for, but they just had to do the first semester, and then they get the money. Wasn’t like we were giving out thousands of dollars. So, that worked for a long time. And then, eventually, like I said, the exodus took away more people, and it was just too hard to go to the suburbs, and call this one, and call that [01:29:00] one, and -- you know. JJ: The exodus -- now, the Puerto Ricans are going to the suburbs? Is that what you’re saying? CT: The Puerto Ricans have left 55th Street. There are like five families, Puerto Rican families there. The majority are Blacks. Okay? African Americans, and you have a few Mexicans, but they’re dispersed. 35th Street cuts the area up ’cause up to 35th Street is where Daley used to live, so that area is still -Canaryville is still white, Irish. JJ: It’s never changed, that area. 54 �CT: That area has never changed, and then the Chinatown area expanded, so they meet together. All right? But 35th Street cuts off the area. And, of course, Puerto [01:30:00] Ricans left. You know, the Irish took off, and then, as the African American community came -- ’cause we have to speak reality. This is the reality. Okay? They moved west because they were also scared. Okay? This had nothing to do with economics. Okay? It was really racial. JJ: It was racial. CT: So, they took off, and they kept going west, west, further south, Oaklawn. Pretty soon, everybody’s out in -- JJ: And they also -- other neighborhoods. CT: They moved to other neighborhoods. One of the neighborhoods was -- JJ: Other neighborhoods were moving the suburbs too, right? CT: When we -- JJ: Like, the other Puerto Ricans from Lincoln Park were moving to the suburbs too. CT: Exactly. It was city-wide. JJ: So they kind of (inaudible). CT: It was city-wide. The North Side people moved to the suburbs in the north. The Humboldt Park people moved west. Okay? The [01:31:00] South Side moved west and southwest. All right? JJ: So -- CT: It kept moving. Like, right now -- JJ: Oh, people kept moving away from the lake. 55 �CT: Yeah. There is -- okay. The South Side never had a lake. Okay. Now, the Puerto Ricans have moved out. Now, you have Mexicans living where the Puerto Rican lived, okay? And, now, the cut-off line in California. Okay? ’Cause we lived on 63rd and Washtenaw, and we moved, like the rest of everybody -- we also took off to the suburbs. Okay? Everybody had moved on. Okay? JJ: So, why did you move? Was it racial, or --? CT: We moved -- actually, that was one of the things, and it wasn’t just racial because of African Americans. It was also Hispanic, but what we moved for was because, now, they’re standing in the [01:32:00] corner gangs. Okay? And -- JJ: So, it was gangs. CT: Gangs. And then, we had two girls, and my daughter was going to school in Lemont, at Mount Assisi. I was paying for that bus to come pick her up, drop her off, and then I was paying extra for the bus for sports, so we said, “We’re paying all this money. Might as well just move.” JJ: Okay, so it was gangs. It was racial. It was -- CT: It was the school. JJ: The neighborhood was changing. CT: The neighborhood had changed, and the neighborhood suddenly -- it was bad. JJ: It got down. As it was changing, it got down. CT: Not that it got down. JJ: (inaudible) depressed. CT: You actually had drug dealers on the corners. You had gangbangers. JJ: But that’s what I mean, got depressed. 56 �CT: And then, the Mexican gangs would fight with the African American gangs, and it was just -- you know, we moved. We moved for a lot of reasons. JJ: It was not what it was when you first got there. CT: No. No. When we first got to that area, [01:33:00] Ricci and I, it was all Irish. It was Marquette Park. All right. My dad never moved from 55th and Peoria. The house is still there. My mom is living there now as a widow, and she lives there with three of my brothers. One never left home. Two came back after their divorce. And, basically, they’re there, but there is nothing there anymore for Puerto Ricans, just like, after we moved, there was not too much activity at St. Mike’s. JJ: Okay. And then, so, after that, you made a move back to Puerto Rico. How does it go? How does that go? CT: Myself? No, I got -- JJ: You moved back to -- CT: Okay. After we moved to 63rd -- I mean to 55th and Peoria, I went to college. [01:34:00] Okay? I went in Evanston to Kendall College for two years, and I lived there. JJ: Kendall? CT: Kendall. JJ: Okay. Was that an art --? CT: It was a junior college. JJ: Was it an art school or no? 57 �CT: No. This was just a two-year junior college, and I got a scholarship there. I didn’t have to pay anything. Then, I went to Loyola University ’cause I graduated from junior college, and I used to commute. JJ: So, you had your bachelor’s (inaudible). CT: I got my bachelor’s in science and in education. JJ: In Loyola, and then you -- CT: At Loyola. JJ: Where did you get your master’s? CT: I got two master’s. I have two master’s, one in counseling and one in supervision and administration at Chicago State. JJ: Chicago State, okay. CT: And I got my first master’s -- I started it 20 years after I had been a teacher, after I had [01:35:00] graduated, and I went to a program. Again, I went to a program for bilingual teachers. Okay? That’s how it started, but not enough applied. Okay? So, it was open to everybody, but it originally was conceived to be a program for bilingual teachers, and there was a huge, big group. Okay? And we all graduated, and we all made it as counselors, and we all worked as counselors, and some moved up to be teachers. And then, Ricci and I, we moved to Lemont. First, we lived on 27th and Keeler. From there, we moved to St. [01:36:00] Rita’s. We left St. Rita’s Parish, and I was really involved in there. I was on the school board. JJ: At St. Rita’s? CT: Mm-hmm. I used to do the cheerleading for the grammar school girls. 58 �JJ: Did you do the training (inaudible)? CT: Everything. I had somebody help me, Olga. She was in high school. She had been a cheerleader, and she taught the girls the cheers and everything. I supervised them. I made sure they had drinks. I made sure they had snacks. The same thing my dad did. Then, I started doing it with my kids. Okay? I used to read in the church. My son was an altar boy. JJ: Okay, so you read in the Mass. CT: Mm-hmm. Everything my dad did, I try to do. Okay? We moved from there, and then that’s when I didn’t get involved in anything but the United Puerto Ricans when I lived in Lemont. And [01:37:00] then, when I -- JJ: So, you had the United Puerto Ricans there too, or (inaudible)? CT: No. Lemont was all white. JJ: You were traveling. CT: We used to come to the city -- JJ: To the Visitation, to the United Puerto Ricans. That area. CT: Yeah, but that was for meetings and whatnot, to Marquette Park. JJ: Right, Marquette Park. CT: All right. So, then, what I did do, though, was I got this job, an extra job, okay? From the Chicago Public Schools, okay? I became a service learning coach, and that’s when you do work, volunteer work. Students have to have 40 hours of volunteer work, so I had all these Hispanic students. Now, I’m working with the students. And so, we went back to Humboldt Park. We went to Casa Central. [01:38:00] Okay? And I had these students visit with the people there, and it was 59 �just wonderful. The kids all wanted to come back, so I kept sending kids to do volunteer work there. But, lo and behold, why do I know a whole bunch of people there that used to live in our community? JJ: In Lincoln Park. CT: They were all at Casa Central. Okay? JJ: So, they were residents of Casa Central. CT: Yes. JJ: They lived in Lincoln Park. CT: They had lived there. Okay? I mean, they no longer lived there, okay? We did that, and we did a whole bunch of work with a lot of the Hispanic community. So, like I started to say, from my dad working with the community, that went down to myself, and my daughter did a lot of work. She [01:39:00] joined a Hispanic sorority. She joined the Sigma Lambda Gammas. JJ: This is -- CT: The Gammas. Mary Lou. JJ: Okay. Is that your only daughter, or --? CT: No. I had two daughters. One passed away in a motorcycle accident three years ago. She was 25. JJ: What was her name? CT: Her name was Cristina. JJ: Cristina. CT: Cristina used to pick up strays everywhere and bring ’em to me to fix. When I mean that, I mean, you know, she was at the same school I was in, and girls who 60 �had problems, or found out they were pregnant, or whatever the problem was, I don’t know how, but she collected them all up, and I had all this work ’cause everyone would be -- they had other counselors, but they would come to me because of Cristina. So, Cristina was a lot like my dad. She would help everybody, even if she didn’t know them. “Oh, you need some help? Oh, okay. Come on.” A lot of times, she’d bring these kids who had run away from [01:40:00] home to sleep in my house. I go, “No. It doesn’t work that way. Who are their parents? Give me the phone.” So, it was really -- they learned. I think everybody in our family, from my dad, learned to be generous, to help others, to do some volunteer work, to give, so we’ve all done that, and my dad’s shoes, like the song goes, are very hard to fit. He was a great, great person. Wonderful. So much so that, when he passed away, he has been the only layperson -- and by lay, nonreligious -- that had a wake inside the church because we couldn’t accommodate the people that came to my dad’s wake. Okay? The coffin was put [01:41:00] in the middle, up by the altar. That whole church was filled. My brothers worked for CTA. There was a CTA bus with all CTA people, dressed in their uniform, conductors, bus drivers, whatever, that came to pay their respects because I have two, three, four brothers that work for CTA, and my niece and my nephew. Okay? So, how do you say? It was just -- the only layperson to have used that church. Okay? We’re very fortunate that everybody in the family, whether they went to college or not, and extended family members of my in-laws all have -- somehow, they all managed to get [01:42:00] city jobs, you know, as policemen, as CTA. 61 �JJ: These are your brothers or --? CT: My brothers, my -- JJ: So, you have some brothers that are policemen, or --? CT: No. I’m saying in my in-laws’ family. Okay? I have cousins who are policemen. Like I said, one of my cousins is a judge. Others work for the gas company. I’m not saying they have great jobs, but everyone has a profession. Okay? In my family. JJ: Now, does this have to do with your dad’s organizing? CT: With my dad. There was no such thing as “I’m not going to school.” You had to go to school. Okay? And we lived up north, in St. Michael’s. We were the only Hispanic family that had a set of encyclopedia. Everybody came to copy something for homework from our set [01:43:00] of encyclopedias. When we moved south, my mom bought another -- ’cause that one was outdated, and it wasn’t enough information. We got another set of encyclopedias, and these were the big kind, not the little, skinny kinds. You know, they go through different stages. She also got a set of books that were body -- medical. Okay? Huge, big Bible ’cause you had to have a Bible, and you had to do homework. You came from school. First thing you did when you walked through the door -- “Hi, Mom, blah, blah, blah.” Go down, and change your uniform, and put on your play clothes ’cause we were 11. We didn’t have the money to be buying -- you know, and you had to make sure you didn’t dirty that shirt because you only had one more shirt. Two shirts in a week. Okay? ’Cause you would wear it two days, put on the other one, [01:44:00] and then the other one would be washed. And you 62 �had to sit down and do your homework. You had to graduate from school. Okay? My dad never went to high school. My mother did. My stepmom graduated in Jayuya. JJ: In Jayuya? CT: There’s a big thing in our family. JJ: She graduated in Jayuya? CT: Yeah, and she still has her class ring. JJ: I didn’t know she was from Jayuya. CT: Yes, she is from Jayuya. And she has -- JJ: ’Cause I thought she was from Isabela. CT: No, that was my real mom. My stepmother’s from Jayuya. Luz María’s from Jayuya. She has her class ring, and, nowadays, there’s a thing that the ring companies do. They come to the high school, and they say, “Whoever can bring the oldest class ring gets a free ring.” All right? So, my mom’s class ring has traveled (inaudible) Arizona, to [01:45:00] Chicago, back and forth ’cause everybody wants a free ring ’cause now they’re, like, 500, 600 dollars for a ring, so -- JJ: (inaudible). CT: So, everybody’s borrowed her ring. Okay? And, you know, it’s funny because we go to her house, and, whatever we want -- ’cause my dad’s passed. She’s 82. If you want something, you have to put your name on it because, at the time, whoever comes -- like I said, there’s 11 of us. And my family has dispersed also. 63 �From Chicago, they’ve moved on to Arizona. I have two brothers in Arizona, three sisters, and their children live there. JJ: What kind of work do they do? CT: My sister-in-law works for Allstate. JJ: Allstate, okay. CT: And my brother works for the [01:46:00] energy company in Arizona. One sister works for a health company, Magellan, and my other sister works for a bank, and -- JJ: You mentioned Mary Lou. We didn’t mention her name. CT: Oh. My daughter, Mary Lou? Okay. Cristina passed away. My daughter Mary Lou is a nurse in Joliet at St. Joe’s Provena. She went to Illinois State and graduated in criminal justice, and she was working for a nonprofit organization, Cornerstone, ’cause Cristina and Mary Lou both worked for cornerstone, and, somehow, she was working with disabled people and giving them -- making sure they took their medicine and everything, and she said, “Why should I do this? I have a college degree. I could be a nurse.” And she went back and became a nurse. [01:47:00] So, she’s a registered nurse, and she’s got a very good job, and she was just here. She just left. I have a granddaughter who’s gorgeous. Just gorgeous. And my son and my granddaughter came in January, and they stayed here for 10 days, and it was just nice playing Grandma. I had a grandson, and he passed away in Chicago. He was five years old, my son’s oldest son. And, basically, that’s it. And one of the things too is -- like, when I came here, I joined an organization here for the -- we have, like, a center. Unfortunately, I got 64 �sick, and I couldn’t continue to work, but I did do a lot of work with them the first year that [01:48:00] we got in this organization, and -- very different. Things here are different from over there, but you have to continue, and -JJ: How different? What do you mean? What way? CT: All right. If you’re used to Robert’s Rules -- JJ: Rules of Order. CT: Okay? And you come here, they don’t follow them. It’s whatever anybody says. You have to have been born and raised here to understand some of the cultural things. Even though you’re Puerto Rican, they’re different here. Everything’s different here. When I first came here, I didn’t even know what a (Spanish) [01:48:44] was. I thought that was a credit card, and it was just an ATM. The words, the language, the customs. Everything is different here, but you [01:49:00] just have to get used to it and adapt to it, and you have to remember, you know, you were raised to be a Puerto Rican, and that’s one thing that everybody in our family has instilled. My dad instilled it in us. No matter where you go, you say you’re Puerto Rican, and you hold your head up. Okay? I told my kids the same thing. “When they ask you what you are, say, ’I’m Puerto Rican.’” JJ: So, he’s working with the church, but he’s also working for Puerto Ricans. CT: Okay. You have to understand, being Puerto Rican and being Catholic were one thing. Okay? It was never anything different for those of us who were Catholic. First, you were Catholic. Then you were Puerto Rican. But, when you got to Chicago and you were in the community that had all these organizations, you 65 �[01:50:00] couldn’t separate anything. You could separate it if you lived and you had nothing to do with the community, and many Puerto Ricans didn’t want to have anything to do. Many Puerto Ricans wanted to be -- how do you say? “Don’t recognize me. Therefore, I won’t have any problems.” Okay? “I’m not going to stand up and say I’m Puerto Rican because --” JJ: That’d give you problems. CT: Right. And that was the other thing too. As you left -- and, again, I’m not saying that I experienced prejudice because I was Puerto Rican, but, yes, I felt some differences. In other words, when I got my scholarship -- “Oh, you got a scholarship ’cause you’re Puerto Rican.” No. I didn’t get a scholarship because I was Puerto Rican. I got a scholarship ’cause I had brains. I had the same GPA you did, and it had nothing to do with being Puerto Rican, but you had more [01:51:00] advantages than I did, but I still got the same GPA as you did. I had to work harder for it. All right? I didn’t graduate from Loyola, and I wasn’t just given a degree. When I went and I got my job, everybody -- my first job teaching, I worked at Mozart School. It’s on Armitage, between Armitage and -- I don’t know. Armitage is the big street -- or Fullerton. No, Armitage and Fullerton. Okay? So, I got my first job there because they needed a bilingual teacher -there was a bilingual program -- and I went for my interview, and the person who interviewed me was going to be my principal, but he just happened to be working that summer, hiring. And so, the minute I mentioned I was Puerto Rican and [01:52:00] everything, he says, “You know, I taught in Puerto Rico.” I go, “What do you mean, you taught in Puerto Rico?” He says, “Yeah.” During the ’50s, he 66 �had come to Puerto Rico, and he had taught English. Okay? He spoke Spanish. So, he says, “Oh, how would you like to work for me at my school? I need a teacher for second grade.” I said, “Great.” So, I was hired, and a lot of people resented the fact that there were bilingual teachers in the system because they didn’t want the bilingual program. There was a big controversy, again, dealing with the communities. Okay? Some people used to say that, “Oh, you take all these Puerto Rican and Mexican students, and you put ’em in the classroom, and you teach ’em Spanish, and then they don’t learn English as quickly, [01:53:00] so they’re behind.” So, there were people who were against the program, and there were people who were for the program. I was neither for or against. I had a totally different philosophy, and, ’til this day, I have it. I do not feel that children should be put in a group and be separated because they are Hispanic, and I’m just gonna teach them Spanish, and they can pick up the English as you go along, and I’m not gonna put them in an all-English classroom. I believe that immersion is the best way to teach someone. You can have a teacher who’s bilingual to get them along, but you immerse them. You immerse the students who live over there into English and Spanish. You immerse the students who live here in English because [01:54:00] they’re gonna have to learn English. Okay? I don’t know if you know that a lot of our students who graduate from high school here go to the mainland for college. JJ: I didn’t know that. CT: Oh, yeah. I have two cousins who went to Purdue from here. One went to Yale from here, and one graduated from here, okay? College, and went to 67 �Georgetown University to become a dentist. She’s a -- what do you call it? One of those that puts -- an orthodontist. So, you need to learn English, but I feel that, in Chicago, when I first started and I got my job, people said, “Oh, you got your job because you’re Hispanic.” No. I didn’t get a job because of that. I got a job because I deserved it. I graduated from school because I worked. Okay? Not because they gave me something [01:55:00] because I was Hispanic, because, at that time was when -- what is it that they call -- I forget the name -where they wanted more -JJ: Yeah, I know what -- it’s quotas. CT: The quota. JJ: The quota system, yeah. CT: I didn’t get a job because of that, and I have to remind everybody, and I always said, “I’m Puerto Rican.” And then, if they ask you -- you’re white or you’re Black, you know, what does that have to do with anything? And the other thing is that we were labeled. When you went to school, are you Black, or are you white? My daughter felt a lot of -- both of them -- a lot of prejudice in Lemont. My youngest daughter was told, “Oh, you’re Black. Go back to Africa.” And she came home crying. I told her, [01:56:00] “Hold your head up high and say you’re Puerto Rican, and so what?” Well, she did, and she became a very good softball player, so she was on the private team in Lemont, and, when they traveled, she was also dark, you know. They’d go to the pool, and, two minutes later, they’re tanned, and, “Oh, you’re Black.” “No, I’m Puerto Rican.” So, yeah. There was a lot of discrimination, and the thing was, if you didn’t look for it and you looked to 68 �say, “I’m better,” you didn’t feel it. Very few times did I feel that I was being discriminated against in that area. In other areas, yes, but, in that Lincoln Park area, I never really felt discrimination, and I don’t know if it was because of our family [01:57:00] lifestyle, okay? And you have to look. I mean, to tell you the truth, we didn’t hang out. Okay? We were home every day, did our homework. We prayed the rosary. We never, ever -JJ: You prayed the rosary at nighttime. CT: Every night, we all had to pray the rosary. JJ: So, you did your homework, and then you prayed the rosary, or -- (inaudible)? CT: We did our homework. We had dinner. We took a shower, and, before bed, all 11 kids, on their knees with dad. JJ: He led the rosary? CT: Mm-hmm, and we prayed. We went to church every single day. Every single day, and, on Saturdays that you didn’t go to school ’cause you always started school with the Mass and then you went to the classroom, then, on Saturdays, go to church. You have to go to church. On Sundays, we went to church. JJ: And, in fact, they used to have a lot of (Spanish) [01:57:55] in the neighborhood, and they had (Spanish) [01:57:58] and all kind [01:58:00] of other activities. CT: During the Christmas season, they had parrandas. Everybody went. You gather at somebody’s house. It’s known as Christmas caroling in English, but it’s parranda to us in Spanish, and everybody -- the guys who had a guitar or a cuatro and the singer. And then, everybody went, and you went from house to house in the cold at two o’clock in the morning. You’d knock on their door, and 69 �you start playing, and, if you’re the homeowner -- everybody always got ready, and this was the thing. “(Spanish) [01:58:31].” You know? “They’re gonna bring me a parranda. So, you bought the cheese, the crackers. You always had a chicken in your freezer ’cause, if they came, you chopped it up, and you made the caldo, the big soup, and, oh, my God, that was fun. That was so much fun, but, yeah, you did that. People died, and you prayed in their home every single day for nine days. JJ: The novena. CT: The novenas. Okay? JJ: And you pray the rosary too, right? CT: You prayed the rosary [01:59:00] then, and you prayed it fast because, as soon as the rosary was over, you could have your beer, or you could drink, or you could have coffee, and you can gossip. Okay? That’s -- JJ: The tradition. CT: -- the tradition. Okay? Over there, you wake people in a funeral home. Here, to this day, you can wake people in your own house. Okay? And, again -- JJ: So, they bring the casket into the -- CT: The funeral home comes. Let’s assume that we were gonna wake somebody here. You take out your furniture from the living room. They make it look like a room in a -- JJ: Funeral. CT: -- funeral home, and you have the casket, and people come all day long, all night long. You have it for one day ’cause people here are buried right away. You 70 �don’t wait a week to bury somebody. Okay? They died today. You wake ’em tomorrow. You bury them the next [02:00:00] day, or you cremate them, whatever your choice is. But, yeah, and, in Chicago, you went to the people’s houses. You prayed the rosary, and, again, you see what -- we come back to what? We come back to the church. Okay? Midnight Mass. Every Puerto Rican went to midnight Mass, and then you came home, and you opened up gifts. Okay? But, before that, you had your party. You had your lechón, and you had -- I mean, as a kid, I remember my dad going to Indiana and having these lechones killed, these big pigs, and you would bring them home, and everybody - cook (phone rings) ’em, and everybody had a piece, you know? Rick, phone. So, in reality, everything, again, dealt around the church. You’re born. You’re baptized, [02:01:00] and you had to be baptized right away, and it was a big party. Anyway, so, what else? The weddings. Okay. You know how they say weddings and funerals are where you see everybody? The reality is true. In Chicago, it was a big wedding, and you didn’t have, at the beginning, weddings in halls, where you sat down and you had a banquet. It was just a big hall, and you had the rice and beans, and help yourself, and the music, whoever you knew come and play. Again, was a religious thing. Everything. JJ: And all this was going on in Lincoln Park. CT: Yeah. Well, that’s what I’m saying, that, over there, you know, at the sodality hall, you had a wedding, and people cooked. The same people in the neighborhood. JJ: Or baptisms or -- 71 �CT: A baptism too. And, again, totally different, [02:02:00] and anybody else’s wedding. We have the nine rosaries, and everybody drinks and parties. The Irish, they bury somebody, and then they have a drinking party. You know? We’re no different. Our customs are different, but, again, no different than anybody else, and Lincoln Park, as any other community in Chicago of Puerto Ricans, dealt with -- the main thing was the church. Everything from the church came out. The church is the center, and then you have your little branches, but that’s how it was. Eventually, that has changed. Okay? And I think, like any other community, you didn’t need the church as much now because, now, you learn how to do this. Now, you can do that. [02:03:00] Now, you moved away. In the suburbs, okay? There are no Puerto Rican churches, Irish churches. You know what I’m saying? Because it’s open land and there’s one subdivision here, another subdivision there. There are no churches that really hold -- there’s no Puerto Rican subdivision in the suburbs. Okay? So, everybody’s all mixed up. And so, that’s why very few -- you can go -- JJ: So, everybody’s mixed up. At that time, they were more segregated. CT: Segregated. Now, you go to North Avenue and Ashland. No longer Puerto Rican. Now, it’s Mexican. They have moved from Pilsen and 18th Street, and they have taken over -- JJ: (inaudible) -- oh, North and Ashland? CT: Yeah. JJ: All that is -- Wicker [02:04:00] Park has changed now. It’s more (inaudible). 72 �CT: There are no Puerto Ricans in Wicker Park. Okay? And the ones that are, you can’t tell they’re Puerto Rican. Okay? Because they’re either second generation, third gen -- whatever. Okay? And they’ve assimilated totally. Okay? Like I said, there was a flight of Puerto Ricans from Chicago. A big flight. It’s mostly Mexican where we used to be. They have taken over, and, at one time, (inaudible) the yuppies took over Humboldt Park. It’s changed. There’s only one Puerto Rican store that I can tell you that I know of from way back that hasn’t left. JJ: Which one is that one? CT: [02:05:00] That’s the one on Central Park and Division. JJ: Central Park and Division? CT: Mm-hmm. JJ: What’s the name? CT: I don’t know the name of it. JJ: But it’s right on the corner of Central Park and Division. CT: Division, Chicago Avenue, where they -- you know. JJ: Where they meet? CT: That store there has not changed. You can still go buy platanos. At Christmastime, they take the meat, and they grind it so that you can make your pasteles. They have everything there, but that’s the only one that I know of. And then, again, I left six years ago, so -- but, when we go back, that’s where we go and shop for Puerto Rican items. So -- JJ: Any final thoughts? 73 �CT: Yeah. There’s one. Okay. I wish that and I hope that our culture continues to grow in Chicago. I wouldn’t want [02:06:00] it to -- how do you say? There be no Puerto Rican culture here. I believe that that’s what’s gonna happen. There’ll be nothing left there. Somewhere else, you know. So, I hope that the Puerto Ricans who are still left there continue to do Puerto Rican Parade, to do things to foster our culture, and I wouldn’t want it to disappear totally. END OF AUDIO FILE 74 � https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/2426f012b7793a6ae290977b29008f47.mp4 416cf80c9faff362efa3fa101080f467 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Young Lords in Lincoln Park Collection Subject The topic of the resource Young Lords (Organization) Puerto Ricans--United States Civil Rights--United States--History Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Personal narratives Social justice Community activists--Illinois--Chicago Description An account of the resource Collection of oral history interviews and digitized materials documenting the history of the Young Lords Organization in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Interviews were conducted by Young Lords' founder, José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez, and documents were digitized from Mr. Jiménez' archives. The Young Lords in Lincoln Park collection grows out of the ongoing struggle for fair housing, self-determination, and human rights that was launched by Mr. José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez, founder of the Young Lords Movement. This project is dedicated to documenting the history of the displacement of Puerto Ricans, Mejicanos, other Latinos, and the poor from Lincoln Park, as well as the history of the Young Lords nationwide. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jiménez, José, 1948- Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/491">Young Lords in Lincoln Park collection (RHC-65)</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2017-04-25 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng spa Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-65 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 2012-2017 Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Título Spanish language Title entry Carmen Trinidad vídeo entrevista y biografía Sujetos Spanish language Subject terms Young Lords (Organización) Puertorriqueños--Estados Unidos Derechos civiles--Estados Unidos--Historia Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Puertorriqueños--Relatos personales Justicia social Activistas comunitarios--Illinois--Chicago Puertorriqueños--Illinois--Chicago--Vida social y costumbres Source <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/491">Young Lords in Lincoln Park (RHC-65)</a> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-65_Trinidad_Carmen Title A name given to the resource Carmen Trinidad video interview and transcript Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Trinidad, Carmen Description An account of the resource Carmen Trinidad’s family arrived in Lincoln Park in the 1950s. She was one of only a few Puerto Rican families to attend St. Michael’s Church in those days, although the neighborhood had already become heavily Puerto Rican. She recalls her father’s, Cesario Rivera’s, work as a leader of Council Number Three of the Caballeros de San Juan at St. Michael’s. She also remembers the way that organizations like the Caballeros de San Juan and Damas de María started and sustained softball leagues, picnics, social dances and dinners, retreats, plays, parades, festivals, and the establishment of a credit that still exists to this day. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Jiménez, José, 1948- Subject The topic of the resource Young Lords (Organization) Puerto Ricans--United States Civil Rights--United States--History Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Puerto Ricans--Personal narratives Social justice Community activists--Illinois--Chicago Puerto Ricans--Illinois--Chicago--Social life and customs Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2012-05-17 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/f50040ecefb27b5b109649d41e376c63.pdf 80e1269946931ef0a53292c32e2f9a99 PDF Text Text Young Lords In Lincoln Park Interviewee: Ricci Trinidad Interviewers: José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez Location: Grand Valley State University Special Collections Date: 5/17/2012 Biography and Description Ricci Trinidad grew up in Lincoln Park. He describes his memories of the neighborhood, including the work of his parents, Pablo Trinidad Resto and Cristina “Nine” Jiménez. Doña Nine, as Mr. Trinidad’s mother was called, was a businesswoman. Early on as a new immigrant in the early 1950s she opened a restaurant, financing it with only her own funds in the La Clark neighborhood at Wells and Superior Streets. She began by cooking for the new immigrant men who were working to bring their families from Puerto Rico to Chicago in her converted, connecting room apartment at the Water Hotel. The restaurant was creative and domino leagues were organized to serve the patrons and to increase the restaurant’s bottom line. Lotería, or Spanish bingo games, that were sponsored by several families within the La Clark barrio, soon sprang up as well. Mr. Trinidad attended Immaculate Conception and became president of a primarily white neighborhood social club on North Park Avenue, called the “Rebels.” He served honorably in the U.S. Army and retired as a worker in good standing from the Commonwealth Edison plant. In his early years, he, William, and José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez – who were cousins and close friends -- rode bicycles and skateboards down the cobbled streets of Superior, downtown, and through the Oak Street and North Avenue beaches. �Transcript JOSE JIMENEZ: We’re just talking like we would at dinner, kind of talk like that. Can you give me your name, and your date of birth, and where you were born? RICCI TRINIDAD: My name’s Ricci Trinidad. I was born in barrio San Salvador, Caguas in 1949. JJ: So when you say you were born in barrio San Salvador, in the house or in the hospital? RT: I have no idea. (laughter) More than likely, the house. JJ: More than likely the house? RT: Yeah. JJ: So how long did you live here before you -- RT: While I was there, I remember going to -- it was like almost like a day school, where they would send you there and they’d teach you catechism and all that. JJ: Here in Puerto Rico? RT: Yeah, in Puerto Rico. And they fed you, I remember it was [00:01:00] [a Reina?] arroz con leche, you know something very simple. And it was more or less something for us to do, also. But I don’t quite remember how old I was when we left for Chicago. JJ: I mean was it more than four years old? RT: I would say something like four or five, something like that. JJ: So you probably got to Chicago in about 1955 -- 1954, ’53, something like that. RT: Right. I remember going to, I believe it was -- we lived at 1023 North La Salle. JJ: You didn’t live at the Water Hotel? 1 �RT: No. JJ: And you went right to 1023 North La Salle? RT: We were at 1023 North La Salle, and also in that other house we had. Willy’s mom, Marta, she used to live up on the second floor. JJ: And this was at 1023? RT: This was at 1023 North La Salle. JJ: [00:02:00] I think your mom was the manager. Was she the manager? RT: That’s what I was about to come in and say. (laughter) The guy that owned the building was Mr. [Soda?], and I believe that they offered her the first-floor apartment which was a pretty big apartment, all the way to the back, and then gave her a discount on the apartment, and all she had to do was just kind of interview people or try and get people to keep the apartment filled. And so I remember Marta and Andre living there. JJ: Andre was Willy’s father? RT: Yeah, Willy’s father. That’s my uncle. And I think at that time, your mom used to live on Maple. JJ: Right on the corner. RT: Right, right on the corner there. JJ: [00:03:00] 1039 Maple. RT: Right. And across the street, I think Carmen Lopez -- JJ: Oh, no, it was 1023 La Salle (inaudible), 1029 La Salle (inaudible). RT: You guys did. JJ: Yeah. You said Carmen Lopez? 2 �RT: And then Carmen Lopez, I believe, was -- across the street, there were some apartments there, and she lived there. I remember that she did because they had this -- every week they’d get together and they’d play loteria. (laughter) And during the game you put a little funds aside for the owner of the house and all this. And so -- JJ: Was loteria a legal game at that time? RT: At that time, I don’t think any type of gambling was legal. (laughter) JJ: So everybody (inaudible). But everybody liked to do that. RT: Right. So Carmen used to have the same thing, and I guess they -- JJ: So Carmen had the same thing, [00:04:00] and who else had it? RT: Carmen always used to have games at her house. JJ: Were you talking about your mom had it or Carmen had it? RT: Yeah. So I remember at one time the police got stormed in -- JJ: Stormed in by breaking your door? RT: -- and they took everybody that was in there over to Superior, I believe it was -Chicago Avenue. Chicago Avenue had a district, a police district. JJ: Yeah, Chicago Avenue police district. RT: Yeah. And I remember after they took ’em, I had a bike, my bike there, and I pedaled all the way out there because they wouldn’t take me with them (laughter) to find out if she’s coming back, what’s happening, or whatever. JJ: This is Nine? RT: This is Nine, this my mom. And so eventually I guess they -- JJ: But they took everybody else? 3 �RT: They took everybody in there, probably to cite ’em or -- JJ: [00:05:00] Who were other people? Do you know? RT: No, they got different -- they are friends of the family that were there and stuff like that. JJ: They just basically raided the lottery game? RT: Yeah, they did. Somebody -- JJ: Somebody snitched or something? RT: How do you say -- somebody used a dime. (laughs) JJ: Somebody dropped a dime. RT: Dropped a dime. (laughs) JJ: (inaudible). RT: Yeah, so, anyway, at that time, also, I remember that -- JJ: So we’re not talkin’ about a lot of money here, we’re talkin’ quarters, nickels -- RT: Yeah, nickels, dimes, and dollars. JJ: People were just kind of doing it for fun, basically. RT: Yeah, it’s more or less a get together and -- JJ: You just kind of contribute it to the food of the house and stuff. (inaudible) (laughter) So it was a business. (laughter) It would have had a big business, is what I’m saying. RT: At that time, the old man was the only one that was working. And somehow or other, he used to have [00:06:00] saved bonds and stuff for emergencies, and every once in a while, he’d cash them. So I guess he had enough where they 4 �went and they opened a restaurant on Wells and Superior, and that was right next to your Water Hotel. JJ: Right, and we were still living in the Water Hotel. That’s why I thought that you lived at the Water Hotel, too, because I used (inaudible). RT: Right. Well, Marta had moved -- at that time, Marta had moved from 1023 North La Salle, and she lived at the Water Hotel with Willy. JJ: So she moved back. RT: She moved there. Actually -- you go ahead. JJ: No, go ahead. RT: So actually, that lasted for a while, and I switched schools from Ogden School which was a kindergarten, first grade, second grade that I went to, something like that. JJ: Okay, so what was that like? RT: This Ogden School, I believe [00:07:00] it was by -- I don’t know why they call it -I guess it was by Ogden. What was the name of that park up there? By Clark and State. JJ: They called it -- RT: Close to Quigley. JJ: (inaudible). RT: Close to Quigley? Isn’t Ogden around there somewhere? JJ: Yeah, Ogden school is right by there. RT: Then that’s the school that I went to. JJ: By Clark Street. 5 �RT: Yeah, that’s the school that I went to. And so after that, they switched me -- JJ: Between Holy Name Cathedral and Ogden, yeah. RT: Yeah. JJ: (inaudible). RT: After that, they switched me, I believe it was St. Joseph’s school which is a grammar school, also. JJ: How far did you go into St. Joseph’s? RT: I must have went there for the next couple of years or so. And that’s when -- JJ: What do you remember of that -- of that school? RT: Actually, I remember bein’ chased home every day. (laughter) JJ: Being chased home? RT: Yeah. See, that wasn’t really [00:08:00] the neighborhood that we belonged to. Anything west of La Salle Street was infested with gangs, and it was AfroAmericans, and they didn’t like anybody but Afro-Americans. JJ: Cabrini-Green, right? RT: Yeah. JJ: Cabrini-Green. So they chased you every day? RT: So they waited until I got out of school, and I was already ready. There was somebody that lived in a -- JJ: I think we got chased one time together. Me, you, and Willy. RT: We might have, yeah. On the second floor, my mother rented an apartment to these guys that all they wanted it for was body building. And they had weights, 6 �they had benches there, they had boxing glove -- I mean boxing bag. And they’d have boxing lessons there and everything. And so -JJ: And this was 1023 La Salle? RT: 1023 North La Salle. So then I volunteered [00:09:00] to help ’em clean up and move the stuff around after they finished, put everything back, so long as I could kind of train a little bit so I wouldn’t be chased every day. (laughter) JJ: We got to get these guys back. RT: So I was doing that for a while. JJ: So part of you going to school was physical exercise. You had to run. RT: No, you didn’t need gym, you had that on the way there and when you came out. (laughter) So, anyway, they noticed that. And one time we got chased, like you said, so I remember getting there just in the nick of time and closing the door. JJ: A few of us kind of hung out together, right? Of the cousins. RT: Well, at that time, I think you mentioned something about the mattresses. If you were, then I guess we hung out there. (laughter) JJ: The mattresses from the -- RT: The roof in the 1023 by the garage. [00:10:00] And I don’t know, I think Willy -- JJ: Me, you, and Willy. RT: And Willy was there. JJ: And Samuel (inaudible) or something. RT: Yeah. So, anyway, then they realized what was happening. And then Ramon and [Clouta?], they used to live over on North Park across -- JJ: They were uncles and aunts? 7 �RT: Yes, those are our uncles and aunts. And so across the street from them, there was a grammar school, Immaculate Conception. And they wanted to keep me in the Catholic school, so they switched me over there, and I guess I spent maybe from sixth to eighth grade at Immaculate Conception. JJ: From what grade to what grade? RT: Sixth to eighth grade. And it was there that -- JJ: And did you go to Franklin at all or no? RT: No, [00:11:00] I didn’t go to any public schools. JJ: So you went to St. Joseph, and you went to Ogden -- RT: Except for Ogden. Except for Ogden School. JJ: And then you went to Immaculate Conception. RT: Then I went to Immaculate Conception. JJ: And how was Immaculate Conception? RT: They had one lay teacher, the rest of them were nuns. Pretty strict, it was mostly white. I don’t know, Irish -- if there some Lithuanian or -- but some of the people that went there were from -- you know, people that had some bucks, their parents were well-known or whatever. JJ: Well-to-do people? RT: Yeah, well-to-do people. JJ: And this was on North Park by North Avenue? Just south of -- RT: Yeah, just north of Shiller on North Park. JJ: So who were your friends there? 8 �RT: At that time, you get to know different people. [00:12:00] I got to know a guy named Paul [Pfister?]. And he was more or less like the look up guy, everybody looked up to him. It consisted of different races and that. In the beginning, it was real hard to make friends, you know what I’m saying? But with Paul Phister, I got to learn -- meet other people -- Damian, there was a guy named John Spar, there was a guy named Kenny Neehoff and his brother, Earl. And I remember my sister -- JJ: Your sister, what’s her name? RT: Margarita. I think she went to that Cooley. JJ: So she didn’t go to your school? RT: Cooley School. And she used to hang around [00:13:00] with Noreen Collins. I’m pretty sure that you’ve heard of her. Well, what happened is somehow or other, we got -- this guy had a basement, and we used to go there to play records, and we were at that age where you get to meet girls and stuff like that. And so we’d kind of hang out, and it turned out to be a club. JJ: This is Pfister? RT: Paul Pfister, he had a nickname of Peppy. (laughs) So, anyway, we decided to get a name for the club. So somebody brought up the name Rebels. I guess there was a song out at that time called “The Rebel.” JJ: He’s a rebel (inaudible). RT: Yeah, that’s the song. So then this other guy, [00:14:00] he got a hold of this place where they would make these sweaters for your club, so we decided on a color, I think it was black and white, stuff like that. And from then on, it was just -- 9 �this was our little group. The only ones that could go to the clubhouse -- when you nothing to do and wanted to go there and hang out, you’d just go there and you could hang out and listen to the records, whatever it is. JJ: So people like Sheila, and Mary, and Lynn? RT: Sheila, and Mary Coin, and Lynn were from Immaculate Conception, and so those are kind of like, I want to say, the Rebelettes. (laughter) JJ: Those were the Rebelettes at the time. Now later on, some of them became [00:15:00] Young Lordettes? RT: Yeah, after that, some of them did. JJ: (inaudible). RT: Was it Lynn? Lynn one of them? JJ: Lynn, and Sheila, and Mary. And Mary (inaudible)? RT: Sheila married the -- JJ: We were only a block away from each other. RT: Well, this was through Immaculate Conception because they used to hold -- I believe it was Father Ring, he used to hold dances to -- because there was a big change -- JJ: As the neighborhood changed. RT: The neighborhood was changing. Old town was starting to become more noted. It used to be nothing but antique stores, and now it was restaurants, it was -- JJ: But now there were more Puerto Ricans movin’ in from La Salle Street and all that. 10 �RT: Well, actually, I don’t know if they moved in from La Salle Street, but there were Puerto Ricans living on the north side that were close to St. Michael’s. [00:16:00] And they were -- JJ: They were going to Immaculate Conception church. RT: They were going to St. Michael’s, stuff like this. JJ: But didn’t they have masses in Immaculate Conception? RT: Yeah, but there was no Spanish mass there. JJ: Oh, no Spanish mass? RT: No, this was all just -- like I said, the people that went there, that was the top grammar school to go to. JJ: I see what you’re saying. But there were Puerto Ricans that went there, but there was no Spanish mass. RT: Because there weren’t too many Puerto Ricans there. There might have been -I can maybe count about five or six. JJ: Oh, that’s all? RT: Yeah. JJ: They did have some dances there? RT: No, no, this was later on. This was towards, say, my eighth grade, and freshman year, and stuff like that. JJ: Oh, okay, so this was later then. RT: That’s when the Young Lords, I believe, started coming around and -- JJ: We had a(inaudible), yeah. RT: Yeah. It wasn’t only the Young Lords, you had different -- 11 �JJ: [00:17:00] So the Black Eagles, (inaudible). RT: Black Eagles Paragons, whatever -- that used to come around. And so -- JJ: You were talking about before this. RT: My freshman year was Quigley North, and right around there is when all of this stuff was happening. JJ: Well, let’s go back for a second. Note the Quigley, but let’s go back to -- okay, you’re on La Salle Street, and I had mentioned one thing about jumping off the garage in the back. What do you remember of -- like some of the stuff that the youth did, the young people used to do -- that you used to do? RT: Actually, I didn’t really hang out. What I used to do was go up and use the weight room with the guys. I mean there was really not much you can do. [00:18:00] Next door we had cousins from my uncle’s side that married AfroAmerican, and they used to come by every once in a while. If you remember them. There was -- the youngest one was Brother. JJ: Who? RT: Brother. JJ: That was his name? RT: The second one was Neal, and the oldest one was Otis. JJ: Jiménez? They were Jiménez? RT: They were Jiménez. JJ: They were African American, but Jimenez. RT: Right. He was Jiménez. JJ: And their father was our uncle, Rogelio. 12 �RT: Their father was -- JJ: (inaudible) or Rogelio? RT: Rogelio. JJ: Yeah. Jiménez. So he was your mother’s brother and my father’s brother. My father’s brother. RT: Yeah. And so they were much older. They were much older than I was, so there was really nobody my age to hang out with. I believe you, and I, and Willie got together a lot, but Willy was going to a different school. [00:19:00] I think he went to Holy Name Cathedral, so his time was taken up by basketball. JJ: Right, he was playing basketball. RT: He was into sports all the time. So, really, there wasn’t anything at La Salle for me. Not until we got to Immaculate Conception that -- within the same club, I took music lessons, my father took me to get music lessons. And I learned a little bit on the guitar, and what I learned I taught this other guy named Kenny Neehoff, and he became second guitar in the -- I believe that a guy named Damian which is Falstino’s brother that was -- their parents were the ones that let us use the club, you might say, the basement, so that they could keep an eye on us, and they know where we’re at, and stuff like that. [00:20:00] She bought him a set of drums and he became my drummer. JJ: Whose basement? Which club are you talking about? RT: It was the Rebel’s clubhouse. JJ: Okay. 13 �RT: Also we had the group which we named after the club. It was the Rebels. So we didn’t play in any (inaudible). JJ: So then the Rebels were also a musical group. RT: Yeah. We didn’t play in any real big places, but we used to play for our own little get-togethers and socials. JJ: Right there for the students in that school? RT: Right. JJ: Your parents had that restaurant, though, on what was it? What do you -- RT: It was on Wells and Superior. JJ: What do you remember of that? How did it look? How was the restaurant? RT: Well, they had a pool table inside of there. My mother used to -- she used to do the cooking. The old man worked the night shift after sleeping [00:21:00] a little. JJ: Where did he work? RT: He worked at Western Electric. JJ: And he just came from Puerto Rico and found a job there? RT: He found a job there, that’s what he was doing all the -- that’s the only thing he’s done. JJ: What did he do at Western Electric? RT: He used to work the machine, the wire machine. I believe they made all different sized cables for -- you could say for many things from communication cables, and power cables, and telephone cables. I remember he used to get these little pins with the phones on them because they had some kind of contracts -Western Electric, I believe, also made phones. 14 �JJ: Where was that at? Where was Western Electric at? RT: I think it was on Cicero and 22nd. Somewhere around there. JJ: So how did he get there? That’s pretty far. RT: How did he get there? He had his car. [00:22:00] I remember he had a ’56 Cadillac. JJ: (inaudible). (laughter) RT: I remember that I was asking him to let me drive down North Park so I could show -- JJ: And you drove? RT: Yeah, I did okay until I turned the corner (laughter) and the wheel didn’t go back by itself. (laughter) So I kind of dragged the parked car a little bit, and then I finally -- the car finally stopped when that car hit the other car. So then it turned out that -- JJ: So your father (inaudible). RT: Yeah, well, no, he was mad. (laughter) He was mad. Now I know why he never took me to get my license. (laughter) But it turned out that the owner of the [00:23:00] corner store was the owner of that car that we hit -- that I hit. So, you know, they kind of came to an arrangement of some type. JJ: Were they Spanish, too, or no? RT: Yeah, he was Spanish. I think he was mixed. He was married with an American girl, and he was Spanish, and they had a crazy daughter. (laughs) JJ: So your father was working at Western Electric, and he got through family or he got it on his own? 15 �RT: He was working there before I even knew where he was working. JJ: But your mom had the restaurant. RT: She was the cook, and they had what they call (Spanish) [00:23:47]. These are the people that came from PR that went to the Water Hotel. They were bachelors. Whenever they got jobs and stuff like that, they [00:24:00] got the rooms there. And since they weren’t married, half of them, then these guys would automatically be the (Spanish) [00:24:08]. They’ll come in, and she would have their food ready because each one of them had a certain time that they got off of work, and they’ll be there and that. That was kind of her full-time job, my mother’s. And then my father would come in when he woke up before he went to work and he would do anything that had to be done around there that a guy has to do. Pool table this or that, or order -- JJ: So they had a pool table and a few chairs at the tables? RT: Yeah. Well, they had like a counter to eat. JJ: Oh, so they ate at the counter. RT: Yeah. I don’t remember it being a fancy restaurant with the tables, and the, candles and stuff like that. It was a [00:25:00] small place. JJ: Okay, was it like a square place? RT: Yeah. JJ: So she can make a lot of money off -- there were so many people coming from Puerto Rico at that time, so that’s who’s coming? RT: Yeah. So, anyway, that went on for a while. I remember even until I moved to North Park -- when we moved to North Park, she still had the restaurant. I 16 �believe he used to take her -- drive her over there, and Margaret was in charge of making our lunches for school. She’s the one that basically took care of both of us, yeah. There was only two of us. I think Poppo was a still baby or something. JJ: What do you recall of the neighborhood? Do you remember anything about that neighborhood? RT: [00:26:00] The neighborhood was -- JJ: Was there beach or anything like that? RT: No, we used to go to North Avenue Beach. We used to go over by Oak Street Beach, and, you know -- with the guys. Whatever we did, we mostly did with the guys. JJ: Which guys? RT: Well, the Rebels. (laughs) JJ: The what? RT: The Rebels. JJ: Oh, with the Rebels. You used to go to North Avenue. But you don’t recall going to Oak Street Beach with just people from Superior Street or anything like that? RT: No, nobody. JJ: (inaudible) from that street? RT: Nobody. Nobody went there. JJ: So that’s lost from your mind -- or people from La Salle Street? 1023 La Salle. RT: I don’t remember going with them anywhere. Nowhere. That’s what I’m trying to say. There was really nothing at 1023 North La Salle. JJ: Well, what about Willy? What about Willy? 17 �RT: Well, Willy was already in -- JJ: [00:27:00] What do you remember doing with Willy? RT: Okay, he was at Holy Name Cathedral, and then once in a while, he would come over with us, and I introduced him to the guys, and I said, “Hey, this is my cousin, Willy. He’s going to Holy Name and he’s on the basketball team over there.” This was at grammar school. JJ: A member of the scorpions. RT: Something like that. So then we kind talked to him, and he liked the crowd, the guys, because all he knew was basketball. (laughs) And the lake shore, there was a little facility out there where they had the tracks. JJ: Right. On lake shore, yeah. Over there by (inaudible). RT: And then they had ice skating there. JJ: By the university over there (inaudible). RT: We used to cross the street from the lake. JJ: (inaudible). RT: Yeah, right around there. [00:28:00] So, anyway, he joined the club, and it wasn’t soon after that he transferred from -- JJ: So he joined the Rebels, too? RT: Yeah. Soon after that, he transferred from -- instead of continuing with Holy Name, he went to St. Michael’s. JJ: Okay, because I know they had a group called the Scorpions, too, at that time, (inaudible). RT: Yeah, see, I didn’t hang around with anybody from -- 18 �JJ: (inaudible) at that time. RT: -- Holy Name Cathedral. I used to know some guys there once a while, but -when they were with them, but other than that, we weren’t really social. JJ: So when your mom and my mother and father and all of them played loteria, what did you do? RT: What did I do? (laughs) I don’t know. I guess we might have played around on the side with them, faking, to see, just to [00:29:00] keep us entertained. I mean we were young. Margaret, I remembered, might have played. She was older than I was, and she -- JJ: We were young, that’s what I’m saying, so what did we do (inaudible)? RT: I don’t remember. It’s almost like all that is -- went through it and that was it. JJ: So tell me about the Rebels. What kind of things did you get involved in? You said it’s a band. RT: It was a group of guys, and then the guys had girlfriends that came around and that. And they had their own little group, and I believe even Margaret in that for a while. And so how do you say it? That time was spent, I don’t know -- JJ: [00:30:00] What was Margaret like? RT: Margaret, she was going to Cooley. I believe she was gonna get some kind of diploma for cutting hair or something. And she was older than I was, and she also had her older friends like Mary Coin would hang with us, Sheila Coin would hang with her. They did their things and we did our things. I didn’t hang with my sister. (laughter) JJ: So she had her friends, very good friends, Pappo had his friends. 19 �RT: Pappo? That’s another story. Pappo -- I don’t even remember what Pappo was doing. I don’t remember. Do you remember? No, you don’t remember. [00:31:00] He was young. You see the family picture. Because if I was in grammar school, heck, he must have been in fifth grade -- third grade. JJ: You mentioned Quigley. RT: Quigley. When I graduated from Immaculate Conception, I used to be an altar boy there. And we had to go to mass on Sundays. JJ: How long were you an altar boy? RT: From, I think, seventh to ninth grade. Maybe part of sixth. JJ: So you were an altar boy, and it’s primarily -- you said that Immaculate Conception was a more well-to-do school. RT: Yeah. JJ: And not too many Latinos. RT: Right. That’s when mass was in Latin and you had to learn Latin. (laughs) JJ: That’s a good accomplishment for -- you know, at that time. RT: We had to say the prayers in Latin [00:32:00] and whatever. But the thing is that Father Ring came up to me, and he says, “What do you feel about going to Quigley?” I says, “Quigley?” He says, “Yeah, it’s a -- I think you might have a vocation. Maybe you should kind of try it.” I believe they asked you the same thing. (laughter) JJ: But there only 20 people (inaudible). (laughter) RT: Did you go to seminary at one time? JJ: Yeah, I did. I actually did. I went to (inaudible). So you went -- 20 �RT: So I says, “Yeah, I’ll agree, but, you know” -- I said, “That school is too expensive.” The only people that went there was people from the suburbs. And they split it so that you’d go to school on Saturday, and you were off Friday just to separate you from the regular crowd. [00:33:00] You were expected to do three hours of homework a night, and then you would be tested the next day on your three hours of homework, so you had to know it. And if you didn’t have it, everybody else had it, so you know how would you feel. (laughs) So it was kind of rough. But as it turned out, after my freshman year -- it was kind of hard to be split from the crowd because now Wells Street, there was a lot of different guys from different neighborhoods coming in there. We used to call them the longhairs or whatever, but I’m sure some of them were Taylor Street, there was some guys from different places. And they weren’t all there for fun. And so this was our neighborhood. JJ: They weren’t there for fun meaning what? RT: [00:34:00] Meaning, you know -- JJ: Like a gang or something? RT: Yeah. They’d go out there and drink, they’d get rowdy, they’d -- JJ: Wells Street is right by North Park. RT: So we needed to stick together. JJ: Wells Street is Old Town (inaudible). RT: Yeah. You got Wells Street, you got Wieland. I mean you got North Park, you got Wieland, and you got Wells, if I remember correctly, right? JJ: Right. 21 �RT: And that’s right in our neighborhood, that’s two blocks away. So, anyway -- JJ: So these long-hairs are coming into Old Town. RT: Yeah. JJ: Your neighborhood. RT: Yeah, so then we heard, well, they got (inaudible) over there, and they picked a fight with ’em, and there was about two other guys with the other guys, so that’s when we banded together and we said, “Well, from now, we go there.” JJ: Who’s we? RT: The Rebels. We go there -- whenever one guy wants to go out there, we go together. [00:35:00] You don’t get caught by yourself. So, anyway -- JJ: So before you were a social club, but now the long-hairs are coming in and making the neighborhood -- so now you’re becoming a little more physical. RT: Well, no, you just have to let yourself be known that -- how do you say it? JJ: Let it be known. RT: Yeah, you’re there. You know, just because they came in to -- Wells Street changed all of a sudden we’re supposed to change? Or we don’t belong there? JJ: What do you mean that Wells Street changed? RT: Well, because it used to be like mostly antique shops, now all of a sudden you had Piper’s Alley, you had Like Young, you had all these businesses and restaurants popping up everywhere and prices are going up, all the little guys are being bought off. [00:36:00] I think to this day, Wells Street is supposed to be real -- it spread. It spread from just that north -- yeah, big bucks. JJ: All the little guys are being bought out, do you mean the storeowners? 22 �RT: Yeah. They rehab them and make restaurants and stuff. You couldn’t afford it. I couldn’t afford to go and eat in one of them bigs. It used to be like Rush Street, remember how Rush Street was? Wells Street started to become the same way. JJ: Like Rush Street? RT: Yeah. JJ: But before it was just a regular street. RT: Yeah, before it was just regular antiques, like I don’t know, like something that we saw not too long ago out in the -- what’s the name? Where Meredith’s got her camper out there -- Wilmington. [00:37:00] They got a whole town that’s basically like that -- old-fashioned store here, they got -- you know, it’s nice. Everybody goes into all the stores and whatever. But then this changed into partyville, Old Town was partyville, like Piper’s Alley, and they had all these bands come in and play. And so I think at that time, the Young Lords, when they were coming around for the dances over at Immaculate Conception and all that, they kind of had a few problems with the long-hairs, too. (laughter) And so I says, “Oh, well, at least we’re not alone.” (laughter) JJ: So you had all these people from different parts of the city, some of them were gang bangers coming in. RT: Yeah. Right. JJ: You didn’t say gang-bangers they were long-horns. RT: [00:38:00] Yeah, long-hairs. We used to call them long-hairs. They’re hippies. They were hippies at that time. JJ: But these were hippies from the neighborhood, not hippies from (inaudible). 23 �RT: These hippies didn’t live in the neighborhood. JJ: Okay, not that neighborhood. RT: No. JJ: So they were coming from all over the city, the suburbs, everywhere. RT: Exactly. JJ: They kind of invaded your neighborhood. RT: Well, that was the place for them to go. That’s where their stuff was at. It was built for them. (laughs) It wasn’t built for the poor people. (laughs) JJ: So it was built for them, and so they all united and kind of took over the poor neighborhood there. RT: Yeah, and then they started spreading. JJ: The neighborhood was mixed, but it was poor. RT: Right. Well, it was -- JJ: I mean there was white, and Puerto Rican, and Mexican. RT: There was a lot of Irish. Like the Coins were Irish. And what was Peppy? Peppy, [00:39:00] I think, was Italian-Irish. JJ: So it was it a mixed ethnic neighborhood, but it was poor, it was working-class poor, whatever you want to call it. And these other long-hairs were more money people. RT: Exactly. They were from well-to-do families. JJ: So there was a clash between like their kind of culture and our kind of culture. RT: And ours. And I wouldn’t call it racial because in reality, the Rebels, we had Mexican, we had Puerto Rican -- we had this guy named Com, he was Mexican. 24 �Com, big guy. John Spar, Italian. And we had Peppy, German-Irish-Italian. Kenny Neehoff, Italian. You know, they looked at us, and they said -- you know, when you look at -- it can’t be a gang because you’re all together. Like [00:40:00] you would say Gaylords, Italian; Young Lords, Puerto Rican; Paragons, Puerto Rican, you know what I’m saying? The Blacks would have theirs, whatever. And so this was us, this is why Willy liked it, and this is why -we enjoyed being with each other. We didn’t feel any of that, but this was something else now. Now that was a part that we couldn’t go to like we used to. JJ: They wouldn’t let us go to there? RT: Well, you would have problems every time you’d go through there because I don’t know if they thought we were looking for trouble. JJ: We didn’t fit in at that time. RT: Right. JJ: And so if we walked through there -- I mean even the police would (inaudible) because they didn’t want us there. We were messing with their business. RT: So, anyway, to finish with that part because after that, what happened was [00:41:00] I kept on hanging with them. And one day, I guess, me, Willy, and another guy, I don’t know -- got some runners, and we got some beers and stuff, and I got pretty ripped. And so I was kind of turning, I was just drunk. They were bringing me home. Couldn’t walk right, so they were holding me, and they were bringing me home. Who do I run into? Father Ring. He says, “I don’t think that you have a vocation anymore.” (laughter) And so he says, “If I were you, I’d think this through and be honest with yourself.” Because I really wasn’t paying tuition, 25 �[00:42:00] the tuition was free because of the vocation, and I didn’t want to take advantage of that. And I didn’t like the Saturdays (laughs) and the three hours homework. So for my sophomore year, I went to St. Mike’s. JJ: So you went one year there? RT: Yeah. Sophomore year I was there with Willy because Willy transferred from Holy Name and he played on St. Michael’s team and everything -- basketball team. They wanted him, (laughs) he was good. So we hung out together, now we got Willy. Now Willy’s in the group and now, like I said, the dances are going on with Father Ring, you got different gangs coming around the neighborhood. And somehow or other, all kinds of stuff started happening. Store owners [00:43:00] didn’t want nobody hanging around in front of the establishments and stuff. JJ: Where was this at? RT: Like North Avenue and North Park -- Wieland. Wieland and what was that? North Avenue? JJ: Right. RT: And I guess a couple of times we banged heads with the owners. It wasn’t so much the Rebels, but it was a mixture of guys. (laughs) And, you know, after a couple of times of doing that, one time we busted the windows, and they called the cops. And so I remember being handcuffed to somebody else (laughter) [00:44:00] and thrown in the paddy wagon. JJ: So who was that? RT: You. (laughter) 26 �JJ: Okay, so we were handcuffed why? Why were we handcuffed? RT: Because we were fighting against the place. They didn’t want no -- what did they say? Puerto Rican gangs out here (laughter) hanging around the establishment and blah, blah, blah. JJ: We were just trying to hang out (inaudible). RT: Yeah, just hang out. JJ: A few bottles of wine. RT: Yeah, that’s all. JJ: That’s all. (laughter) (inaudible), a few (inaudible). RT: So, anyway -- JJ: So you go and got handcuffed, and what happened after that? RT: What happened after that, my parents had to go and get me. JJ: We were still young. RT: Yeah, we were still young. We were under age, they couldn’t get us for -- they got us for criminal damage to property, and the warning, and custody [00:45:00] of the parents. Somehow or other, he got together -- my father got together with Don Jesus and they had some kind of deal on a house on the south side. That would be the 5721 South Peoria. JJ: 5721 South Peoria. RT: Where Jesus lived on the first floor, it was a two-story home, and then we would live on the second floor. JJ: And Jesus Rodriguez? RT: Jesus Rodriguez. 27 �JJ: Jesus Rodriguez and Pablo Trinidad. RT: Yeah, they went in halves. JJ: I think they went half on a house. RT: Yeah, I believe the house at that time was $18,000, so they had to come up with -- or finance $9,000 each. And I was still going to -- JJ: [00:46:00] They were members of the (inaudible). RT: Yeah, they both belonged to that Fidelity Hall and St. Mark’s Concilio Numero 3, where they had the activities. I went there to a couple of their activities, too. JJ: Which activities did you go to? RT: What did they have? They used to have ball games over at Humboldt Park. JJ: Humboldt Park? RT: I mean Lincoln Park, right? It was Lincoln Park first. JJ: Yeah, Lincoln Park first. RT: Yeah, Lincoln Park. And then I got to know Jesus’ kids, Jose, and Carmelo, and Danny. JJ: How’d you meet them? RT: I’d seen them around Fidelity Hall, like Carmelo, they’d say, “Hey, this is Don Jesus’ son,” the guy most likely to become [00:47:00] -- or be -- you know? (laughs) Because of his schooling and all this other stuff. So that’s fine. I got to meet the rest of them, Danny, and Jose, and -- JJ: What were they like? Were they a little different, each one? Or what were they like? RT: No, Danny and I were about the same. Same age, we had the same interests. 28 �JJ: What were your interests? Tell us your interests. RT: Well, mine was the band and his was the band, too. He wanted me to join their group and play salsa, and I wanted to start a group of my own and play rock. (laughs) So it so happened that that’s when we first started living there, and then I had continued to take that Halsted Street bus all the way -- with a transfer to get to St. Michael’s. And it became a hassle. JJ: [00:48:00] So you were on the south -- and still going to St. Michael’s. RT: Yeah, but then I let it go to get a job -- to try and get a job because now I was starting to get older, and I wasn’t doing anything in school. JJ: What about Margaret, and Poppo, and them? What were they doing? RT: Like I said, Poppo had his little kids he hung out with. (laughs) JJ: He had his group. RT: Yeah, he had the little kids. JJ: What was the name of his group? RT: He didn’t have a name at that time. But when he was on the south side, I think it was the Latin Souls, but -- JJ: The Latin Souls, yeah, that’s -- RT: But, anyway, that’s jumping. JJ: Let’s go back, (inaudible). RT: So, anyway, what happened? JJ: You were taking the bus back and forth to St. Michael’s. F: Got engaged. 29 �RT: [00:49:00] Oh, you remember that, huh? (laughter) Oh, yeah. There was a club over there, and I believe it was -- their chapter was Concilio Numero 1. And so the kids around my age or a little older, had a gang -- it wasn’t a club, it was a gang called the Latin Souls. And in there, they also had a Latin Soul band. And so I listened to them play one time and I noticed that they didn’t have a bass player. They had Sammy as the rhythm, and they had little David as the lead, and so I said, “Hey, man, I’ll try the bass for you.” He said, “Yeah, okay.” The old man helped me get a Fender amp, got a [00:50:00] guitar. I had a job, odds and ends jobs, they were nothing to keep, they were just to bring in money while you can. And I was in that group for a while. JJ: Where’d you guys play? RT: We used to play at small weddings. We played at house parties, whenever somebody had a birthday party or somethin’ and the house was big enough. JJ: In that area or -- RT: Yeah, on the south side area. JJ: South side, 55th Street? RT: Yeah. So, anyway, Little David, the lead, quit, so then I started to play lead, and Sammy became a rhythm player, and we got this other guy to play bass for us. And along comes a singer, and we take him, and his name was Tony Santiago, and along comes this crazy guy with sunglasses, [00:51:00] looked like he didn’t know where to go, but he had a set of drums, I said, “Get over here.” (laughter) That was Crazy Joe. (laughs) And so this was it. This was my south side clan. I 30 �guess what she wants me to tell you is I had a girlfriend and stuff like that, and I figured get married. You know, that’s the first thing everybody thinks of. JJ: Who was your girlfriend? RT: It was [Elma Valez?], but, you know, it really never got real serious, we were just in that process. It would be an engagement, you know, I’d say. And so it was broken off, anyway. But after that, to jump a little bit more now -- JJ: [00:52:00] Don’t go too fast. RT: No, I was in the group, and that’s basically what we did. And then there was a couple of -- you know, whenever there’s gangs, there’s fights at dances or clubs, and if you’re there, you’re part of it. You have to be. So after that, the band was still going, everything was doing good, we even got this college kid to play organ for us, his name was Peter. You remember Peter? F: The singer, (inaudible). RT: And we had a girl singer. We played at a theater after the movie. It was a Spanish theater, the Sunsets. JJ: On the south side? RT: Yeah, on 47th. What was that? The People’s? At one time, it was called The People’s, then it became -- F: [Ashland?] RT: Yeah. And we played there, Tony and -- we were the group. We had a female, the first female [00:53:00] and a male singer where they’d sing songs like Peaches & Herb and stuff like that. Tammi Terrell and, you know (laughter) -- so 31 �it was pretty good. And then I got my dear -- how do you say it? “This is Uncle Sam” letter. JJ: Okay, you got your letter. RT: Yeah. And he says, “Have somebody drive you to this office downtown tomorrow. Bring toothpaste, enough clothes for one day, and don’t worry about going back because you won’t be going back.” (laughter) JJ: So how’d you feel about that? Because they had a war going on at that time. RT: Yeah, they did. That was bad. So I said, “You know what? What am I going to do? The old man went, he was in the Army, he served his time in the Korean war.” JJ: He served in Korea? Your father? RT: Yeah. And I said, “I’m going to do what was expected of me to do.” I could’ve went to Canada [00:54:00] with a bunch of guys, (laughter) said, “I’m going to Canada.” JJ: You weren’t into that? RT: No. The ones that were going up there were the people that had money, that their parents sent them out there and they didn’t want go. They were flunking out of school. If you flunked out of school, you’d be drafted. JJ: No, but I’m saying you were growing up in Catholic school in Chicago like everybody else, you were supporting the United States. RT: Yeah. JJ: So they call you to go to service and you go into the service. 32 �RT: Yeah, it was a draft. They let it known that it was a draft, there was no volunteering about it. JJ: You didn’t mind? RT: Well, I figure it’ll be something better than what I have now. First of all, the relationship just broke. (laughs) And then the only thing we got is the group, and I got no job. So maybe this will give me a chance, so I went. JJ: So you go [00:55:00] there and -- RT: Yeah, I’m expecting to out, basic training and everything. I’m expecting to go to Vietnam. Every other platoon was going -- one was going to Germany, one was going to ’Nam. Back up, one was going to front, back up front. Just turned that mine’s was back up. I said, “Oh.” So I ended up in Germany for 18 months. JJ: How was that? What kind of experience was that? RT: It was actually a continuation of your training because you’re supposed to be ready at any time. At any time, they could send you from Germany to Vietnam. When they invaded Cambodia, they already had people lined up ready to go. And we were gonna go, but the president called them back from Cambodia because, I believe, China threatened to get in if the U.S. kept marching. They were supposed to be in Vietnam, they’re already now in another spot. [00:56:00] So this was good. That’s another good deal. I came back home, and stuff like that, and tried to start up a group -- get into a group. That’s when I met her at a ball game. JJ: So you tried to start another band? RT: Yeah, Orchestra Nine we called it. (laughs) 33 �JJ: And you said something about a ball game where you met (inaudible). RT: Yeah, there was a little park over there where the guys -- the older guys, they weren’t really concilio, were they concilio? No. They were just like Renegades, the Renegades and this and that. F: They just made their own team. RT: And so we were there, and I just happened to have enough money from -- money that I got from the Army and all that. Peter. So she needed a ride, [00:57:00] I said, “Yeah, you’re Caesar’s daughter, right?” Gave her a ride, next thing you know, mother’s calling me in, says, “You can’t take my daughter out. (laughter) What do you think you’re doing?” JJ: So (inaudible). RT: She says, “You got to talk to her. You got to talk to her. She wants to talk to you.” So I walk in there, and he says, “It’s about time you come in here to ask for my daughter -- to visit her.” I said, “I didn’t come to ask for the house visit, I came to tell you that we’re getting married.” (laughter) I got a job, I’m taking $10 an hour, we got a little apartment. JJ: Now, where were you working? RT: Well, I got a job at Chicago Candles. That was [00:58:00] thanks to my -- the one that left me, her sister was the secretary there, and she got me in as a supervisor on a candle -- or a conveyer line where you’d fill out orders and have the guy bring in the different -- you look at the orders, you bring in the different bases, you put the right scent on the wax tank, and then you get the girls ready -I’d have a guy fill them, then before it dries, I’d have somebody straighten up the 34 �wicks, and then they would throw glitter on them if it called for glitter. It was pretty good, but -JJ: It sounded like you were pretty excited about the job. RT: Yeah, it was pretty good, but it wasn’t really what I wanted. I don’t think I wanted to -- JJ: It was pretty good though. So what did you want? RT: Actually, I got my GED, I forgot to say, in the Army. [00:59:00] Yeah, (inaudible). So I had extra time out there, I used to go to (inaudible). And then they had the educational facilities, so I’d study and then you take the exam for GED which I got. When we got married, I told her, I said, “You know, I’ll work -- spend minimum, you go to school, you finish.” Then when she finished, I used my GI bill and I went to refrigeration air condition and heating and got -- I wanted to be - have a good job. So I completed that. JJ: (inaudible). RT: Yeah, I got a diploma from there, and I started doing work on my own, passing out cards and doing side jobs. I did her old man’s stores’ refrigerators, walk-in coolers, [01:00:00] and stuff like that. And then I couldn’t -- they were calling me in the wee hours of the morning to go and do work and stuff like that which I couldn’t handle. So I decided to go to the Veteran’s and use that for them to get me a job in my field, something to do with either refrigeration, air conditioning, heating, or any electrical. And they sent me to a few places, and I kept coming back because they weren’t -- one time they sent me, “Oh, you’ll be making $25 an hour at this job.” I said, “What do I got to do?” Said, “You load trucks, 35 �trailers.” I said, “That sounds good to me.” I go over there, there’s a line on this side and a line on that side -- scam. (laughter) I said, “Nope.” Go back to the Veteran’s. These guys had sticks and [01:01:00] everything else. (laughter) You’re taking their job. No way. JJ: Was this a company they sent you to? RT: The Veteran’s Administration. JJ: Oh, they sent you. RT: Yeah, they get all these jobs. JJ: (inaudible) union? RT: No, to get me a job. (laughter) JJ: But they were going to get scammed. RT: Yeah. Actually, one time, this one guy, John (inaudible), I remember, somebody told me, “When you go to this place, it’s Commonwealth Edison, you go sharp, you know, dress.” I did. They looked at me like if I was applying for an office job. (laughs) And what it was is it was electrical maintenance. And he says, “This is what you can get into, but you have to start off from the bottom.” JJ: You dressed up for the interview? RT: You dressed up for the interview. I said -- JJ: I used to go dressed up, too. RT: They asked me, “Why [01:02:00] are you so dressed up?” I said, “Well, it’s an interview.” JJ: Don’t tell me you wore a suit. RT: I wore a suit and tie. (laughs) 36 �JJ: And this is a maintenance interview? (laughter) RT: I got the job. (laughter) And then I think I was mopping floors for about a year, and then -- whenever there’s an opening, you bid on it, and I got into electrical maintenance and I worked my way all the way up to a mechanic. I was there 26 years, so that was my job. And 26 years at 50 years old. And then they decided to sell it to Midwest Generation it was called. JJ: Now what was the company? RT: The first one was Commonwealth Edison which is what I retired from. Now it’s Exelon. It’s called Exelon. But Midwest Generation still owns like the station [01:03:00] at 5th, the station at Crawford, you know, Pulaski. And that’s where I did all my time there. And so they gave me a window of opportunities. Says, “You can retire” -- because the numbers have to come up to 72. “You’re 26 with 50 years, you’re way over. You’re 50 years old with 26 years work, that’s over 72.” So I said, “Okay, I’m out of here.” So they gave me a year’s salary, they gave me about three-quarters almost of my pension. I said, “Yeah, this is it.” JJ: Back up just a little bit. What do you remember of your father? What was he like? What was his name? Pablo Trinidad, right? RT: Yeah, Pablo Trinidad, he went by Resto. But now that I learn more, I’ll hear it. Resto [01:04:00] must be on his mother’s side because his relationship out here is all Trinidad. JJ: All Trinidad. They’re from San Salvador or -- 37 �RT: No. The Jiménez are from San Salvador. It would be my mother’s side. But right before you get to San Salvador, there’s a place called La Lomita, and that’s where the Trinidads are. There’s -- JJ: (inaudible). RT: It’s next to the telephone place over there. They got like a little telephone company -- or not company, station. JJ: But it’s on San Salvador, right? RT: Yeah, it’s on the way to San Salvador. And so you got Domingo living there, then you’ve got Chaleco -- these are brothers. Then you have Cholom, then you have Rogelio. JJ: So Chaleco, Cholom, and Rogelio. RT: Domingo -- they’re all brothers. JJ: [01:05:00] Of your father? RT: They’re all Trinidads. No, no, they’re cousins. JJ: They’re cousins of your father. RT: Yeah. JJ: But the whole Trinidads are from there, La Lomita. RT: Right. So they’re related through father’s side, I believe. JJ: Okay, so (inaudible)? What do you know about him? RT: Well, I don’t know. He worked nights most of the time. Like I said -- JJ: Does he (inaudible) or anything? RT: Well, I survived the car crash. (laughter) JJ: So he was (inaudible). 38 �RT: Yeah. JJ: (inaudible). (laughter) RT: Oh, yeah. That’s right, yeah. No, he took me to music lessons and stuff like that. And then after a while, he was paying -- JJ: What did he play? RT: He played cuatro. So, anyways, after a while, [01:06:00] he says, “Man, for $15 a lesson and go, ding, ding, ding, I could show you that myself.” (laughter) So he got me a guitar and I just -- JJ: So he taught me? RT: Yeah, I got me a chord book, and I learned all the chords and I practiced. And during Christmas, give parranda. JJ: Okay, so you used to do parranda (inaudible) Christmas. Did he sing, too? RT: Yeah, he was a good trovador. He used to improvise. JJ: And who else? RT: Him and his friend, Cornejo, they used to do that. And then he had some other friends out there that also played. Felix Mendoza, people from church that he met. We used to go fishing once in a while. [01:07:00] He used to like to go fishing. We used to go -- JJ: What kind of fishing was it? RT: We used to go out to the Mississippi River and catch cats -- JJ: Catfish? RT: Yeah, and stuff. It was pretty good. Nice ride and -- JJ: All the way to the Mississippi River? 39 �RT: Yeah. We used to stay overnight, camp out. JJ: (inaudible). RT: Bowling. (laughter) JJ: Bowling, too? RT: Yeah, we had a team. Okay, it was in Gage Park. I think Margaret was bowling, and the old man was bowling, and they asked me if I wanted to try out and join their team bowling, so I did. And we bowled for a while. Then we got her brother in it, George. He was part of the team. [01:08:00] And one time we took first place and everything, trophies. F: It was called La Familia. RT: Oh, La Familia. We got pictures at La Familia. JJ: You can answer questions, too. F: Yeah, I’m just saying that. RT: No, she’s reminding me of stuff that I’m skipping. But, anyway, so we did that. And when we were going to the Army, since we were hanging out and everything, he had this big party at the house. He took the two maracas -- he took one maraca from the set that we had, and he cut it in half, and then he took that half, inverted it, glued the other thing on it, he made a cup -- a wine cup out of it. Half of the maraca up there, the other half holding it as you lay it. And he filled it with whatever (inaudible) juice we were drinking at that time, and we saluded because in a couple of days, [01:09:00] I’d be out of there. I was gonna get shipped out. So we saluded, nice, everything. Basically, the rest of the story 40 �I told you. But I never played a lot of dominoes with him. That was him and his buddies. JJ: So they played? RT: Yeah, he used to like to play dominoes. And he’d go -- what was the name of that place? (Spanish) [01:09:32] JJ: (inaudible). RT: Yeah, they played dominoes there, and some people do this serious. They even got into a league where they took -- there were champs here, and then they had to go to New York, somewhere, to play against them. Me, I couldn’t play with the old man too much because whenever you make a mistake, [01:10:00] “What are you doing? (inaudible)?” (laughter) I said, “That’s it. No dominoes.” People get rowdy, man. F: He also played ball. RT: Oh, yeah. He played ball. JJ: Softball? RT: Yeah. They used him as a pitcher. JJ: (Spanish) [01:10:24]. RT: Yes. Concilio Numero 1. JJ: Concilio Numero 1. RT: Yeah. And before that, he was in Concilio Numero 3. But in Concilio Numero 1, he used to throw this dead ball underneath, and I guess it must have had a spin, everybody kept popping it up to the infield. (laughter) “No, not Pablo.” There he goes, with all of this, and he’d go -- he does it and then it pops it up to the infield. 41 �(laughter) They’re trying to hit it out the park, right? Yeah, I think with the revolution, it just -JJ: [01:11:00] (inaudible). RT: And then, I don’t know, one day he got in some kind of argument over -- I don’t know if it was a safe call or whatever it was. And they used to bring beers in coolers to the games and stuff, and the old man must have been a little bit lit, and he got in there because I don’t know if he was managing it at the time or something, but he says, “You gotta stop talking like that, man, or I’m gonna pick you up and cool you off in that pond.” The guy said, “You gonna do what?,” and he went over there and he grabbed him, he dragged him to the -- what was it? F: The lagoon. RT: The Sherman Park lagoon. (laughter) JJ: He was serious. RT: Yeah, they had to stop him from throwing the umpire in the water. (laughter) JJ: Before we get into Concilio Numero 1, what about your mom? What was she like? Doñe Nine, right? [01:12:00] What was Nine’s real name? RT: Christina. JJ: Oh, Christina Jiménez. RT: Yeah. Well, she started to have a problem later on with the beers and stuff, but other than that, she was always -- everybody that came from PR ended up at the house -- her apartment. Her policy was you’re all welcome, and she’d cook for them, let them stay there until they got their jobs and everything. So she was all good and everything. I guess maybe what happened after that was -- I don’t 42 �know, it could have even been that she was left alone too many times. (inaudible) doing stuff like that. And then she starts feeling hurt, and then, you know -- but she got sick later on from that. And then I believe it was diabetic that got her -- [01:13:00] diabetes. F: Yeah, she was, but she spoiled him. Remember, “Take your dad’s keys?” RT: Yeah. I wanted to borrow the car and, like I said, he wouldn’t lend me another car. (laughs) I think somebody from here gave him a ’63 Chevy red, real nice, and I wanted to use it to take the girl out. And so then he wouldn’t let me -- “No, I need that car for work. You’re gonna mess it up.” So then she went over there -he was sleeping, she took the keys, “Here, hurry up. Bring it back in one piece.” (laughter). Anyway, that’s basically it. After that -- JJ: I want to ask you about Council Number One? What was that story? RT: [01:14:00] Council Number One was just a concilio like Caballero de San Juan. JJ: Yeah, but how come they were first and then -- they were smaller than the Concilio -- RT: Why they’re called number one? JJ: Yeah. RT: I don’t know, but I think that before three, before Caballero de San Suan, Concilio Numero 3, the people were there, one of the first migrations was to south, way down there. And that’s where they had the first concilio. And those people moved this way, and that’s why they were one. They made this one. JJ: (inaudible) 63rd Street? 43 �F: No. You know what? In reality, to tell you the truth, I don’t -- I think that the way they got their numbers were when the cardinals committee, they went -- I think it might have been like they picked numbers because I don’t think it was this one was formed first, that one. When they became -- RT: A lot of people told me that the people from the [01:15:00] south side, we were the only ones basically there -- that went there from the north side. A lot of those people there came from south Chicago. F: And from (inaudible) Indiana. RT: Yeah. They made the south side community. F: But the concilios were picked at the cardinals committee, and it didn’t matter because there were concilios all over. And I think what it was is they picked numbers for the groups, for the different churches. And then after that, as another church got people, then they became the next number because I think that at the beginning there were only three. RT: Yeah, I don’t remember 10. F: No, because what happens -- RT: But then they started doing it against -- JJ: Who was Holy Name Cathedral? I thought they would be the first one. F: I’m telling you I think is that I think they picked numbers. And you know what? I’ll find out for you because my mom [01:16:00] would know. She would know. RT: Yeah, because the only ones that we knew was three from Lincoln Park and Humboldt Park -- and Humboldt Park is actually where you saw a lot of the 44 �different ones coming from different places. But being part or close to considering them ours would be three, and then the south side was one. JJ: And then you said the people from the south side were telling you that they came from Indiana and south Chicago? RT: Yeah, they migrated there from -- the majority of them used to live out by Euclid whatever -- F: The (inaudible). JJ: And then they migrated -- when you say to Chicago, you mean -- RT: To the south side of Chicago. JJ: Commercial? RT: No, no. On Garfield Boulevard. Garfield all the way to 63rd, right around that area. Right about, say like, Ashland all the way to [01:17:00] -- used to be -what’s the street? Our Monkey Man and all these guys -- F: Morgan? RT: No, no, no. East, going more east. You got Halsted, then you go east. Union. From Union -- JJ: Into Ashland? RT: Yeah ’cause they had that park over on that side, too, and that’s what they used to -- JJ: Yeah, (inaudible) Park. F: 51st Street to -- RT: 63rd. F: -- to 60th because nobody -- 45 �RT: Yeah, 63rd was a commercial area. F: Cut off. But what happened was people came -- you had to understand -- from Indiana -- from Puerto Rico, they went to Indiana. From Indiana, they moved over to south Chicago. From south Chicago, they moved to 63rd and Stony Island underneath the railroad track. From there, then they moved to 55th Street. How did that happen? Every time one family moved, when the other family needed a place to live, they moved, [01:18:00] and they left the steel mills. Then everybody was working in Chicago not in Indiana. So that was the migration because they didn’t want to do the steel mills no more. People were actually getting sick. RT: Yeah. That’s how (inaudible) died. Respiratory problems from all that -- JJ: (inaudible) hotels, or some people worked at the hotels. F: You know what? A lot of the hotel workers -- that happened later. I mean when (inaudible) and them got jobs, it was later, we were already (inaudible). JJ: I know, but (inaudible). But I’m talking even before this, there were people that -well, we have to look that up because (inaudible). F: Yeah, I don’t know about that. JJ: Ask your mother. You’ll have to ask your mother. F: My mom wouldn’t know about that. My mom would not know about that because she never worked, she never left the house. RT: Anybody that would know more about them would be you because of your father because your father -- if there’s [01:19:00] anybody to know it would be her old man. everybody knows him. He was always (inaudible). 46 �F: In reality, once people got into Chicago from Indiana, everyone went their separate ways job-wise. It wasn’t that the community got you a job. JJ: Okay, can you just give me any last thoughts, last word, anything like that? RT: Well, the last words is everything happens for a reason, and the reason we kept moving and finally ended to a place that we loved and then the job closed. And now we find ourselves here and I think it’s all been uphill. We never went back. Sometimes people try to go where they can’t afford [01:20:00] or fit, and they end up coming back. I think we’ve did a lot of accomplishment since we’ve been married. In our younger times, there’s not too much to say because I didn’t serve no jail time. (laughs) JJ: You never served any jail time? RT: No. I mean overnight maybe, a little DUI or something. I think I only had one in 20, 30 years. F: Forty. RT: But other than that, no. How do you say it, honorably discharged? Hey, helped me a lot. Helped me to become a tech man. That’s what I was doing. END OF VIDEO FILE 47 � https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/99beff67eabae6f9b46153a6771b296a.mp4 2fdfab64606acc9541396604171caf23 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Young Lords in Lincoln Park Collection Subject The topic of the resource Young Lords (Organization) Puerto Ricans--United States Civil Rights--United States--History Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Personal narratives Social justice Community activists--Illinois--Chicago Description An account of the resource Collection of oral history interviews and digitized materials documenting the history of the Young Lords Organization in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Interviews were conducted by Young Lords' founder, José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez, and documents were digitized from Mr. Jiménez' archives. The Young Lords in Lincoln Park collection grows out of the ongoing struggle for fair housing, self-determination, and human rights that was launched by Mr. José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez, founder of the Young Lords Movement. This project is dedicated to documenting the history of the displacement of Puerto Ricans, Mejicanos, other Latinos, and the poor from Lincoln Park, as well as the history of the Young Lords nationwide. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jiménez, José, 1948- Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/491">Young Lords in Lincoln Park collection (RHC-65)</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2017-04-25 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng spa Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-65 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 2012-2017 Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Título Spanish language Title entry Ricci Trinidad vídeo entrevista y biografía Sujetos Spanish language Subject terms Young Lords (Organización) Puertorriqueños--Estados Unidos Derechos civiles--Estados Unidos--Historia Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Narrativas personales Justicia social Activistas comunitarios--Illinois--Chicago Source <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/491">Young Lords in Lincoln Park (RHC-65)</a> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-65_Trinidad_Ricci Title A name given to the resource Ricci Trinidad interview and transcript Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Trinidad, Ricci Description An account of the resource Ricci Trinidad grew up in Lincoln Park. He describes his memories of the neighborhood, including the work of his parents, Pablo Trinidad Resto and Cristina “Nine” Jiménez. Doña Nine, as Mr. Trinidad’s mother was called, was a businesswoman. Early on as a new immigrant in the early 1950s she opened a restaurant, financing it with only her own funds in the La Clark neighborhood at Wells and Superior Streets. She began by cooking for the new immigrant men who were working to bring their families from Puerto Rico to Chicago in her converted, connecting room apartment at the Water Hotel. The restaurant was creative and domino leagues were organized to serve the patrons and to increase the restaurant’s bottom line. In his early years, he, William, and José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez – who were cousins and close friends -- rode bicycles and skateboards down the cobbled streets of Superior, downtown, and through the Oak Street and North Avenue beaches. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Jiménez, José, 1948- Subject The topic of the resource Young Lords (Organization) Puerto Ricans--United States Civil Rights--United States--History Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Puerto Ricans--Personal narratives Social justice Community activists--Illinois--Chicago Puerto Ricans--Illinois--Chicago--Social life and customs Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2012-05-17 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/d72ded5dbd77f446fe91076424865b22.mp4 d8242d4726fdab50000a86fd65e659ef https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/4dc9fe9248ce6a0b39bf9491496f172c.pdf 22a18a5d519fd9090156d57f41175d1a PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project Woodrow J. Tromp (01:07:26) Introduction (00:26) Family and childhood (02:15) • Tromp mentions that he grew up in Grand Rapids, with 5 sisters and 1 brother. His father owned and operated a grocery store while his mother was a homemaker. Pre-enlistment (04:57) • • Graduated Central High School in 1937. In 1935, at the age of 17 Tromp mentions that he enlisted into the National Guard even though the age to enlist was 18. He also mentions that he got away with this by writing down the wrong birth year. Worked in a grocery store and General Motors while still training with the National Guard in the summertime. • Went to Camp Grayling, Michigan, in 1935 where he learned his Guard training. Tells of how this was before the Guard was federalized. • Describes briefly his part in quelling the rioting in Flint, MI with the National Guard while still in high school. (1:25:52) Enlistment and Training (06:20) • In October, 1940 when the National Guard was federalized Tromp was sent down to Camp Beauregard, Louisiana. While there he describes the different maneuvers that the men had to perform. From there he was transferred to Camp Livingston, Louisiana. • While at Camp Livingston, Tromp mentions his time as sergeant with the mortar section. Later, as platoon sergeant he was responsible for the operation of 60millimeter mortars and 30 caliber light machine guns. Describes that while marching he carried a carbine and that in combat he carried an M-1. Also mentions an encounter with Captain Shirley where he carried his commanding officer’s automatic weapons. (10:48) • Tromp then gives a detailed description of how mortar training range estimation works. Tromp mentions that it was an observer’s job to see how a mortar operator reacted and responded to the exercise of hitting a mortar target. (13:37) �• During this time, Tromp briefly describes his time in Alexandria, Louisiana where he attended a Baptist church. Tromp also shares his thoughts on the recruitment of Southern soldiers. (14:43) • On the Sunday afternoon of December 7th 1941, Tromp describes how the people of the town he was stationed at went out into the streets and yelling sharpen your bayonets. Trump relates his thoughts on Pearl Harbor. (15:39) • Trump then describes how the National Guard was sent to guard various areas in Louisiana for fear of sabotage. Afterwards, he was transferred to Fort Devens, Massachusetts where they were told they were going to go fight in the European theater. (17:55) • From Fort Devens, Massachusetts he took a train across the country and ended up in San Francisco, California. (20:14) Trump describes his brief stay in San Francisco. From there he mentions boarding a luxury liner bound for Honolulu, Hawaii where they were briefly delayed. Briefly mentions that General Harding [commander of 32nd Infantry Division, his regiment’s parent unit] was aboard. Australia (23:20) • From Hawaii, he and his company boarded a cruiser and disembarking at Adelaide, Australia. He describes the fear that the Australian authorities had of a Japanese invasion. Tromp also mentions that while there a woman sang a ditty about his ancestor Admiral Tromp of the Dutch Navy. Further mentions that an Australian general taught him and his men how to fight like the Japanese. (27:18) • From Adelaide, Tromp went to Brisbane, Australia. Briefly describes the different train gauges used by each Australian state. (28:27) Once in Brisbane, they went out into the boonies where they set up camp. While there Trump describes receiving jungle training. Papua New Guinea (36:01) • From Brisbane, Australia they went to Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea. Tromp describes a fierce storm that they ran into and the rescue of 6 Aussies. While based in Port Moresby he describes in some detail the frequent Japanese air raids on the base. (35:44) • After this experience, they were sent to Buna, Papua New Guinea. It took them 40 days and 12 days forced march to get there. Trump describes what the conditions were like in the mountainous regions of Papua. �• Tromp describes how his company used flamethrowers and grenades to clear the way of Japanese positions. Also mentions that his company began using quinine when falling sick with malaria. (40:28) • Detailed description of himself and his company setting up a roadblock behind Japanese lines. Once out of a swamp, he mentions how they were hammered by the Japanese and how their battalion commander got hit in the leg and carried off. It was then that Captain Shirley made the call to flank the enemy. Tromp describes an encounter with a battalion commander ordering him to take mortar men on patrol to secure a trail. (44:16) • Tromp also mentions that once they had performed their flanking maneuver around the Japanese lines and secured a roadblock behind their lines that they faced the problem of Japanese snipers and infiltration. (46:58) For 23 days Trump and his company had to deal with Japanese snipers and 103 of his men coming down with malaria. (48:52) Malaria Recuperation (51:24) • Tromp describes his bout with malaria and how he was loaded into a jeep and then airlifted to an aircraft carrier which then went to northern Australia where he spent 17 days in a hospital. (51:24) Trump was then transferred to another hospital where a doctor fixed him up with medicine, which he had already been receiving for 17 days previously. Trump further mentions that he was there for a period of 6 weeks. • Afterwards, he joined a unit in a malaria camp. He describes that during his recuperation in Coolangatta, Australia he had a closer encounter with a tiger shark. (56:31) Upon review, the Medical Board told time told him to recuperate for another few weeks. • After malaria recuperation, he was assigned to the 32nd Infantry Division Company I. (1:00:29) Upon joining his unit, they are sent to take Saidor, farther up the coast of New Guinea. Island Hopping (1:03:26) • Describes the landing on Saidor and tells of how they encountered no resistance. What it amounted to was chasing a few Japanese soldiers. • Trump tells of an encounter in battle with new replacements of how the Japanese were firing their machine guns and how they joined up with M-Company to help reinforce and overwhelm the enemy. (1:07:01) �• He also describes landing on Morotai which was part of the Dutch East Indies. While there he mentions that his company guarded a radar station. Tells of an encounter with friendly island natives. Only stayed there 24 hours because they couldn’t find fresh water. • Then went to Raul where they encountered no Japanese opposition. While there, he describes how they set up a radar station on the island. Stayed there 3 weeks. (1:10:05) The Philippines (1:10:58) • Was then transferred to Leyte where his unit reinforced a battered outfit that was fighting there. Tromp then tells of how they were well supplied and had air, sea, and land superiority. (1:11:30) He describes the Japanese guerilla techniques in some detail. Tromp also mentions the continuous fighting that took place until the Japanese gave up. (1:14:10) • Also tells of fighting on Leyte in December 1944 where they were dug in the mountains. Tromp mentions an encounter at night while guarding of where he could the fighting going on. Going Home (1:17:44) • Tromp tells of an encounter in which his 1st sergeant tells him that he would be going home. Had choice of how he wanted to get home: by air or by ship. Tromp decided on a 6 week trip by ship back to the states while battling a case of jungle rot. (1:19:06) • Arrived at San Francisco, CA, Tromp tells of an encounter where he saw Japanese prisoners while checking in at Angel Island. The men there called the place “wire city” because there were so many wires up. From there Tromp was then sent to Fort Sheridan, Illinois and stayed there for a short time. From here, he took a train to Grand Rapids. (1:19:45) After the War (1:19:50) • 11 days after getting back, Tromp got married. Had been separated from his sweetheart for 3-4 years in which time they had written to each other. For a brief time, he took on temporary jobs working with a friend painting and putting up basements for a Dutch man. It was then in September that he took a job working as a postal man for the city of Grand Rapids and stuck with it for many years. (1:25:49) Also shares his thoughts about the concept of war before and after his time in the Army. (1:26:56) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27_TrompW Title A name given to the resource Tromp, Woodrow J. (Interview outline and video), 2008 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2008-01-24 Description An account of the resource Woodrow J. Tromp is a WW II veteran who served in the U.S. Army with the 32nd (Red Arrow) Division Company I, 126th Infantry Regiment from 1940 to 1945. In this account he discuses his time with the National Guard before and after it was federalized as part of the U.S. Army. In addition, he discusses his training in the U.S. and Australia, combat experiences in New Guinea and the Philippines, along with problems caused by terrain and disease. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tromp, Woodrow J. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans United States. Army World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Video recordings Language A language of the resource eng Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Moving Image Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project collection, (RHC-27)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University Libraries. Allendale, Michigan Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/d768f5135cf27c6f4d086aee582ce985.mp4 ecc27c349767d0c213f88258bfa8b417 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/d85e73d73d9ff5d41c0a94de60583aa8.pdf 661b43aada9cc1c12924a8b4e95dbdf2 PDF Text Text William James College Interviews GV016-16 Interviewer: Barbara Roos Interviewee: Scott Troost Date: 1984 [Troost] My year was the first year that we still had draft numbers, but it was the first year that it was clear that no one was going to be drafted. The year before me… [Unknown] After the lottery? [Troost] Yeah. Well, we had a lottery. My year had a lottery as a class of seventy-two in high school. We had the lottery but when we had a lottery everyone knew that it was not going to make a difference. By that time Nixon declared the war was going to be pretty much phased out. The class before me there had been people that were drafted. So, when I was in high school, I assumed that I was going to have to face that issue. My brother who was two years older than me had to go through it. Ended up getting a deferral from a friend who was a psychiatrist who just gave him a psychological deferral. And so that really shaped my mind as far as… [Unknown] This goes on a theory that I have and that is that in the later sixties and early seventies there was a greater need for alternative colleges because of all the returning vets and [inaudible], you know, that weren't accepted at traditional colleges at that time. [Troost] Yeah. [Unknown] Do you want to say anything on that? [Troost] I don’t know what… I'm real surprised about the whole anti-nuclear movement, about people I meet that are younger who seem to have a lot of social concerns. And yet they don't have anything like a Vietnam to galvanize them. So, I don't know. Maybe there is still a population out there of kids that grow up that for whatever reason don't accept the standards and need some place where they can go and not feel like they're the odd ball. And because it seems like there is still a significant group out there that have that feeling. [Unknown] Definitely a minority. [Troost] Definitely a minority. Though when you look at the… after the end of the Vietnam War, a lot of people that were protesting ended up going back to the fold. The �fact that the student population became Republican quite quickly, gave some indication that for a lot of those people, it didn't stick. Whatever it was they were feeling in the sixties, once Vietnam was over with, they went back to being pretty much typical students. [Unknown] Yeah, the cause was [inaudible]. [Troost] I remember I couldn't… I remember being so surprised to meet someone my age who was racist. Because I thought to myself, "Well, that was something we figured out." We figured out in the sixties that racism was bad. And so, anyone my age should know that. I mean they went through all that, they should know that they can't tell a racist joke and that's bad to do. And yet here they are doing it. Where were they during that time? How come that didn't have the same effect that it had on me. [Unknown] Yeah. Well and I'm twenty-six, and I'm probably the last generation, or near the last generation that knew what was happening… [Troost] Oh yeah, you’re real close to being at the end of that. [Unknown] Yeah. And I think I’m one of the few “long hairs” that’s still left of that generation. [Troost] Well, now if you have long hair it's more indicative that you're conservative and kind of a redneck. I mean, I'm scared of “long hairs” now. Like, ooh, watch out for that guy, I'm sure he's violent. [Unknown] Okay, well let’s roll video. [Troost] Okay. Now you're going to be… were just going to be conversing? [Unknown] Yeah, it's the same thing. Just roll video. Is video rolling? Alright. I’m going to wait a few seconds to get to the video. [Inaudible] [Troost] Okay. [Unknown] So, you studied Arts and Media also? [Troost] Well, I studied Arts and Media, I took some dance classes, I took one design class. I just, I really literally sat down. All the milestone things they were just phasing in when I was graduating and so I didn't have to do any of that while I was at [William James]. I sat down in the last week and just juggled around all the classes and thought, "Hey, I can get a double major here.” And so that's what I did. �[Unknown] That's funny. You know, I got away with that, too. See, I never graduated. [Troost] So, you didn't have to… [Unknown] Well, I kept on not doing my milestone and they would either not ask me about it or they would change the rules while I was still under it. "Well, you should have done that four terms ago." Well, I didn't do it. "Well, don’t worry about that.” [Troost] Well, the greatest thing about Grand Valley was that because it was cluster colleges, whenever there was a screw up, they always assumed they had screwed up. Whenever I'd go into the records office and they would say, "Well, we don't have that." Or when I was trying to get something, I'd say: "Well, it should be there." They would say, "Well, we probably lost it." The assumed they lost it. I was so shocked when I went to the University of Iowa where it's a monolithic structure and so I went in and said, "Well, I already paid that." And they said, "No, you didn’t." I said, "Well, can I get in anyway?" They said, "No, you’ve got to pay right now." Where at Grand Valley it was, "Oh yeah, go ahead, go ahead, you're in.” [Unknown] Okay, from the top. What drew you into William James College and West Michigan and how did you get to there? [Troost] Well, I grew up in Oklahoma and went through high school and did the whole thing there. I was a child during the sixties and the Vietnam thing. I had a draft number, though I wasn't drafted. By that time the war was coming to a close. And so, when I was out of high school, I was hot for experimental education. Also, the schools I applied to had turned me down because I had been rebellious my senior year and dropped all my grades. So, I wandered around for a while. I was out in California in a small junior college out there. I went overseas on a program called Experiment in International Living in Denmark. And while I was there, I met a woman, Sally Norquist, who said: "Well, I'm going to a small experimental college in West Michigan called 'Thomas Jefferson College.'" This was the first time I heard about it, even though I had looked at literature about experimental colleges. Never- the name of James never came up. But at that point, Thomas Jefferson had a national reputation among a small group of people. It also was attractive that it was a public institution and was quite cheap compared to a lot of the other experimental colleges I investigated. And I said: "Well, that sounds great." So, I followed her to Grand Rapids and set up household with her and some other people and started taking classes at Thomas Jefferson. To find out then that there was a cluster college there, several cluster colleges, one of which was William James College. The first time I heard about William James was one of my housemates, Paulette Rosen, came home and said that she just started taking this class with this professor named Stephen Rowe, Ethical Problems and Perspectives. And she thought it was the best class she had ever taken, that he �was a wonderful professor. She also was in love with one of the other students in the class, which made her even rave more about the class. And that whetted my appetite to see what he was like. At that time, the classes I was taking at Thomas Jefferson weren't that exciting to me. About that time the only thing I did at that point was to sponsor a class myself in how to throw the Frisbee. Which fit in the curriculum about as well as anything else fit in. I also did learn how to deliver a baby in my Pregnancy and Birth class at Thomas Jefferson and if anyone ever needs that help from me, I can perform that. So, there were a few things I learned about how [?] shares in the work of some value but I started taking classes with Stephen and found him just to be a wonderful professor, and loved his ideas, and his conversation, and the way he conducted his class. I eventually got hooked in with Barry Castro and had the same experience with him and I found a little niche there. The thing that I remember when I first got to Grand Valley was that someone said: "Well, you go to Thomas Jefferson College to get your shit together and once you've got your shit together then you go to William James." And that seemed to fit my experience also. [Unknown] So, how was William James different than Thomas Jefferson, in the people and the classes and also from other traditional schools? [Troost] Well, the thing that- the main thing, the difference between Thomas Jefferson and William James that I found was that the people at Thomas Jefferson seem to be… the main mode there seem to be emotional. People were passionate about this, about that, and it worked quite well for things like dance, and theater, and other arts activities. But there was very little thought, there wasn't a lot of respect for conversation, there was a lack of focus at Thomas Jefferson, or there was an attempt to find focus that it never seemed they were able to find. And what I found at William James was a celebration of ideas and thinking, at least in the classes that I took the professors I took classes with. And the students seem to be serious about studying, about thinking, about issues, about broader themes, about being synoptic, to use the word that we all have to use at least once if were William James alumnus. And the other thing I found that was… that the difference between William James and more traditional schools I went to was that I had always felt like an oddball or a rabble at the more traditional colleges. And I didn't like that role. I would play it and I started… I wasn't taking myself as seriously. And William James College was the first place that I could take myself seriously and that other people would, too. And that I wasn't the oddball in the class or the rebel in the class. I usually was probably one of the more conservative people in the class. I could say things on my mind and not have them laughed at or have to be defensive about them. And I love to talk. I love to be in a classroom, and talk, and engage with people and it was a perfect place for that. I found a little niche there. And I was not able to find that at other colleges. And it seemed like William James was set up to allow people to find niches. People that didn't fit in other places, they could come there and find a �niche. And that's how I found it different. [Unknown] Okay. What of the education? Was it a good general education? A good liberal education? How would you rate with other traditional colleges? [Troost] Well, I was a self-motivator. Once I find something that I enjoy, I usually work quite hard at it. And so, I studied very hard at William James. I remember a class I took during the College of Arts and Sciences, this is after a couple of years at William James, and it was an Environmental Studies class, and it was one credit class, and the professor was not going to be there one day, and it was a discussion class. And he, by that point I had been the one that had been talking most the time, and so he suggested that I'd be the moderator for the next class, when he was going to be gone. And I showed up that day and no one else was there. Once when the professor wasn't there that means there wasn't a class, in their minds, even though they knew it was scheduled. And yet for me it was a lost opportunity to talk more about the environment and what the issue was in the class. And I found that kind of thinking and serious study was as rigorous as any other place that I went. And was certainly for helping me to think creatively, it was as good as education as I could find. Because other people that I met that would come through traditional schools didn't do that. All they wanted to know was what was expected of them and then that's what they would do. Now I didn't do that very well, and I found that would be a problem later on as that once I got back and I went to law school after Grand Valley, and it was back in traditional structure that didn't work very well for me. The kind of stuff that I had learned at William James. [Unknown] How is that education regarded at any other traditional? [Troost] Well, most people don't ask you or don't care too much where you've gone to school. I went to University of Iowa Law School and they didn't know Grand Valley from Adam. Or certainly never heard of William James College. So, it was only after I told him, which I told him quite frequently that I had gone to the experimental college, and that I had gone to William James College, that it was a special place, and I wore my T-shirt, and I was having articles written by Stephen and other professors that I was willing to hand out at the least provocation. So, I made sure that people knew that I'd been to a different place, and that it was unique, and that it had given me a whole different view of the world that they should also have. I proselytize quite a bit when I first left William James. But I found that most people didn't have a very clear conception of what that kind of education would be like and it was business as usual for them. They were in law school and there were more pressing matters to be worried about. [Unknown] I'd like you to say a little bit about the role of the educational community out there in the support [inaudible]. A statement on that. �[Troost] In terms of the educational community of William… [Unknown] Of students, and how that was unique. [Troost] Well, I don't… in Grand Rapids it's rare that I don't meet someone that hasn't been to William James. It seems like every time I meet someone in some field either they were at Wayne James, or the person they're married to went to William James. And there's an immediate sense of community there. Even though we might… even though I usually don't know them. And I find that ironic that I went to a school as small as William James and I know very few people from Wayne James. I mentioned when we were talking before the tape started that when I graduated in seventy-seven, I got to graduation and there was the little room full of William James graduates and I didn't know a single student. I had to introduce myself to everybody, and everybody had to introduce themselves… they didn't know me. And here was a school that was, I think, sixhundred people and I had been there for two or three years, and I didn't know a single person I graduated with. And yet there was that sense of then, and when I meet people now, that there is a community of people and a support for, again, for being a little bit different. And accepting that. And certainly, I think there are certain values implied, usually more liberal. Though I'm sure that's not always the case, but you can… you don't have to apologize about not voting for Reagan. Things like that. [Unknown] Can we talk a little bit about… I'm taking off my notes right now. [Troost] Sure. [Unknown] Can you talk a little bit about the language. [Troost] Yeah, well that was one thing when I… a frustration I found when I left the William James community was that we had developed a very specialized language there, especially in the Social Relations group. I don't know… I don't know about the other groups, whether they had their own language. [Unknown] I'm sure they did. [Troost] I'm sure they sure did. It just didn't translate. I remember giving a group of very good friends at law school – who also seemed to share most of the values that I shared - an article by Stephen. They didn't understand. They didn't… I mean they literally couldn't understand what it was about. And for me it was… it summed up my complete experience at William James. I could read that, or I can read that article and it said exactly what I felt about the world. And yet for them it was mishmash. And so, I had to try to figure out ways see to translate what I learned �of William James, or just give it up entirely. I finally stopped talking about it because I couldn't find ways to bridge that language gap. And it was also… the other thing about the language that I learned William James was it was mostly a language of ideas and thinking to the exclusion of emotions and that sort of thing. Now I know that there were some other classes, I know Dick Gottlieb in Social Work paid a lot of attention to that, but I'd never had any classes with Dick. And so, for me, I had a whole language of ideas and I didn't have much language of emotions. And that got me in trouble because I think I started assuming that things that were happening to me had more to do with my thinking than with what was going on emotionally with me. And as I later found out, that wasn't always the case. The decision to going to law had a lot of emotional reasons. My father wanted me to do it, my parents were getting divorced at the time, and I needed some stability. There were lots of emotional things that were happening to me when I made the decision to go to law school that I never talked about. And I was able to, with ideas and thoughts, rationalize why I should go law school, when really that was not the reason I was going. I was going because my father wanted me to go and because I needed some stability in my life. Now I'm going into theater, which seems to get much closer to my heart and what I should be doing. But it took me a long time to realize like that. And I had to… I didn't learn that at William James. I'm of the opinion now, thinking back to that age, that I probably needed a lot more than just William James College at that point in my life. I needed a therapist; I needed a vocational counselor. And I was under the mistaken impression that I could get all of that at William James. And I think that was probably a problem William James had is it held itself out to be more than it should be, or could be. What I needed a teacher to say to me was: “That's something you need to deal with a counselor, and I can't do it here for you." But we had this idea that William James is a community. We could talk and deal with all sorts of intimate issues. And maybe we could… maybe we were a bit more ambitious than we should've been with that. [Unknown] Yeah, I've heard it criticized because of the fact that you develop, you know, a surrogate family, more or less while you're in college. And the four years, and you're out and back into your reality, as you know, is completely shaken up. Your friends are gone, you know, everybody you can relate to. And the language barrier. That kind of closure I think, do you think, perhaps that was one of the things that didn't work for the college? [Troost] Well, the thing is… the thing that worked for me was the challenge to remain alive and remain thinking. And to initiate thought for myself. And that's something that has stayed with me as a strength for me. It sometimes trapped me. Like I said, there were certain emotional things that I didn't have a handle on, and I trap myself by my idea and my thinking. But at least I kept thinking and kept questioning things. And that's something I still hang onto and it's something I think I got from William James or least I got strengthened by William James. To �feel like that was okay to think for myself and not accept what was going on, what the status quo was. I was going to say something else, but I forget now. [Unknown] Why is that… [Troost] Oh! The community of… the community people. There was a whole group of us that ended up moving out to Lake Michigan in Grand Haven for school year and it was a wonderful and horrible experience. It was this whole idealism that we could establish this community for ourselves and be self-sufficient. We even talked, at a point, where maybe we didn't have to go into Grand Valley, we could just do our education there among ourselves. And by the end of the year, we had come apart at the seams. It had gotten quite incestuous. People went from one couple group to another. I mean people… so and so and so and so split up, and then these two people started sleeping together. And people started checking out, emotionally. And it was a… it ended up being a very painful experience. Though when we started it, we were full of idealism and we had some wonderful times together. And it's an experience that still feels strong to me, that it is possible, you know, in moments to find that kind of community among people. And so, I still take that with me. I think in the end, I am still a committed idealist, even though I have longer periods of cynicism now I have to weather. I think deep down, my hunch is for most William James students, they didn't lose that. They got a little more tempered by the society, maybe they’re a little more reluctant to talk about it now, and they're certainly a little more cautious about jumping into things. But deep down there's still that idealism that they have. [Unknown] Looking for things that perhaps didn't work and, you know, perhaps tie that in with the demise of the college. You talked a little bit about early how you felt too much was paid to, perhaps, the pragmatic rational attitudes than not to the emotional attitude. And you also talked about how there's a [inaudible] that's going to be made after the closing because William James… [Troost] Well, I remember when they announced the closing of Thomas Jefferson College it certainly seemed that the trend was going away from a cluster college concept. And that Lubbers, who initially seemed to embrace the idea, had lost his enthusiasm for it and was starting to become convinced that there was a need to make a more university type setting. And if that's the case, then William James would've had to radically change to continue to exist within that university structure. So that if a stand was to be made, it should've been made back when they closed the first cluster college. Even though at that time I think Thomas Jefferson College just had tremendous problems and had no educational philosophy that was working and had not worked. But it also seemed that the die was cast. And I'm sure everyone has their opinion about why they closed William James College and mine is as valid or no more valid than anyone else's. But I don't feel like we have much to do with that, that we had much power over that �decision. I think once the decision was made at the higher levels that it was a political decision that we couldn't have changed. We might've been able to make more of a fuss about it or embarrassed Grand Valley more about it but my hunch is that the trend towards a cluster college at Grand Valley had run its course and was not going to be supporting any longer. [Unknown] We talked about the constitution of the William James student base. Too much idealism, not enough idealism, too much rationalism, too much -isms [Troost] Too many -isms. [Unknown] Yeah. You know, I want to get a good picture of that because I think that was one of the points that led to the demise that people were always reacting [inaudible] perhaps emotional. [Troost] Well, for me, what worked for William James – and I suspect worked for most William James students – is the relationship with the professors and the classroom work they did. It seemed like people that were there found a comfortable niche of two or three professors that they took most of their classes from and of a subject matter that they studied. Beyond that, I'm not sure if the institution worked for the student in any other way. I know they have the council meetings, but I never figured out what they were talking about at council meetings. I didn't go to very many. I was fairly antisocial in terms of the larger structure at William James. I suspect that was the case for most William James students. So that the power structure or what happened beyond the classroom level was really left up, principally, to the administrators and the faculty. I don't know enough about the politics of what happened among the faculty when things were coming apart, to know what happened or didn't happen. Whether the faculty could have taken certain stands or could have pressured certain people, I don't know. It's beyond me. I think for the students, though, I never had a sense that we had much to say about how William James worked, and certainly not about how William James worked in the Grand Valley community… Grand Valley State Colleges as a whole. The student I found there, like me, loved to talk. They were, in some ways, pretty conservative folks. Thomas Jefferson College were just wild. I mean, they were fun; they were wonderful. It was exactly the kind of people you should be around for part of your little liberal education because they really were willing to expand and try things that have never been tried. William James students, on the other hand, though, we're much more willing to talk and to think. And yet there was as basic conservatism, even though most of the values we had and talked about were quite liberal. I think they came from a much more conservative place in us. And certainly, for me I felt that way. I wasn't radical or liberal because I had this expansive view of the world, it was because certain things didn't make sense. I thought about the way our structure was… the way our society was structured, and it didn't work right. And I thought: "Well, �that's not right." I mean they came from thinking about these things. And that's a fairly conservative type of view of the world, where you just see contradiction. It's interesting, I found that in Denmark, which is usually considered a very liberal country and very, you know, socialistic country, that the people there, basically, were very, very conservative people. They just see things that don't make sense and so they change that. And I had a sense in William James that was more the way people thought. I admit that sometimes people seemed a little dull, but I certainly didn't… I certainly liked… that was the place that I found for myself and I liked, even though I kept playing Frisbee, and I had my hair long, and did all those things. And I had… it was like a duality for me. I regretted that TJC didn't work, but certainly found a home for myself at William James. [Unknown] Okay, got some wrap up questions here. We got most of them. Is there anything else you want to throw out? [Troost] I don't think so. [Unknown] Okay. How would you describe William James to another person? [Troost] Oh, God. William James College to another person. [Unknown] Somebody that doesn't know about William James, and you're talking about it. [Troost] I would tell them it was a small college among a cluster of colleges near Grand Rapids, Michigan, that had a very dedicated faculty. And that were dedicated to thinking and liberal education, and that found a student body who are committed, or willing to commit themselves to the same thing. And that attracted students, and I suspect faculty, who have not fit in other places very well. And yet were not radical in fundamental senses, but basically misunderstood or just needed a place where they felt more comfortable and were among peers that they could share things with. And that for a period of time there was created a community of people who could talk and think in the way that they'd always felt. And it was a worthwhile experiment. And it was probably an educational tool but that's still needed. I don't think it was a product of the sixties, I think there was a viable philosophy that was going on there that still can appeal to a certain segment of kids graduating from high school. Kids that don't quite feel accepted, or have different ideas, or want to seriously talk about the world and questions fundamental things in the world. You know, I think William James was the perfect place for that. The whole emphasis at William James about career education was not so much the thing for me. I did an internship, I did all that sort of thing, that was not as important to me as the whole celebration of ideas that I found at William James. [Unknown] Okay, good. Okay, so [inaudible] question. �[Troost] Okay. [Unknown] What is the essence, you know, the bottom-line essence, using, you know, a couple words, bottom line, the essence of William James College? You know, take a minute to think. [Troost] Bottom line essence of William James College? [Unknown] You know, what was it? That's one of the big questions everybody asks. What was William James, really? [Troost] Blue. I don't know I have to make a joke because it's an important question and I can't think of anything to say about it. It, for me… I'm going to say…I'm going to make… I'm going to do an intellectual answer. I wish I could come up with emotional response to that and I can't. And it's unfortunate because I think I could come up with a better answer if it was emotional. The intellectual thing I was going to say was that it was the conversation was the essence. That I found people to converse with for perhaps the first time in my education. And maybe last time in my education. And that was liberating to me. That had a liberating effect on me. The idea that I could converse with faculty and with other students and have a true conversation in the broadest sense of the word was, for me, the essence of William James College. [Unknown] Great. She's been telling everyone the response to the question [inaudible]. [Troost] Yeah, I wish you… like I said, I wish I could come up with something that was more from the heart, an image or something. I can't come up with an image. [Unknown] Well, maybe that wasn't the essence. [Troost] Whatever it is, it's the image, I mean when I think of William James I think of a classroom. I think of either Stephen or Barry talking. A lot. Because they both love to talk. And yet in a way that included the students. And talking about fundamental things. And not being afraid to do that. Not being afraid to spend time talking about very fundamental questions, and speculating about the world, and being able to entertain any question and talk about it in a serious manner. That's the image I have of William James College. I don't… the rest of it seems to be blurry. That's why it's always embarrassing to me when people ask me about William James because I like… I can't tell them about council meetings, I can't tell them about what it was… what was happening in other niches in the in the college. There's not many professors that I know. There's not many other students that I know. I just know I know those classrooms and what happened in those. And that there was something magical, for me, in those moments, in those �classes. And Stephen and Barry and sometimes other professors, seemed to be able to create a magic for me that just was explosive. I was in seventh heaven when I discovered them. I thought: "This is education. I finally found education." And I knew that it was there. I knew, in high school, and in the first colleges I went to, I knew that that was not something that was happening, that could happen. And when I found it, I went: "Aha! I was right all along." I suspected that you could do this, this was possible to have a conversation like this. So that was… [Unknown] Okay. Did you have class with [inaudible]? [Troost] No. Same way? Same kind of feeling? [Unknown] Yeah just real involved. He was the only person I saw… [Troost] He taught music, didn't he? [Unknown] Yeah. He's the only person I ever saw talk to everybody personally, and to the whole class at the same time. Every time he talked, you thought he was talking to you. Not at the blackboard, not at the class as a whole. It was just real good. The instructors, I think that's the essence also. [Troost] Yeah. And maybe that's the best thing a college can offer people is a good core of the professors that you can find one or more that you can use the mentor. And maybe that's all William James really needed to have done. Maybe the other stuff they tried to do was more ambitious than it needed to. I was not unhappy with my education at all at William James, even though I kept suspecting I should be. I kept thinking, you know, I'm not at council meetings, I should be there. I am not really a William James student unless I'm doing all this synoptic stuff. But in fact I was happy with the classes I was taking. And someone said: "That's all you need to do." I was like: "This is great, I don't want to do anything else. I just want to study with these people." [Unknown] Great. Anything else? [Troost] I can't think of anything. [Unknown] Okay. Good. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource William James College Interviews Description An account of the resource Videotaped interviews of William James College faculty, students and administrators by Barbara Roos. William James College opened in 1971 as the third baccalaureate degree granting college for Grand Valley. It was originally designed to be an interdisciplinary, non-departmentalized college consisting of concentration programs, rather than majors. Curriculum was organized around three concentrations that were meant to be interdisciplinary career preparation offerings: Social Relations, Administration and Information Management, and Environmental Studies. The college was discontinued in 1983 during a reorganization of Grand Valley. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1984 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/69">William James College faculty and student interviews (GV016-16)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Grand Valley State University Michigan Universities and colleges Oral histories Alternative education Interdisciplinary approach in education Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Roos, Barbara (Interviewer) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GV016-16 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Language A language of the resource eng Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context GV016-16_GVSU_59_Troost Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Troost, Scott Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1984 Title A name given to the resource Scott Troost interview (video and transcript) Description An account of the resource Interview with Scott Troost by Barbara Roos, documenting the history of Grand Valley State's William James College. William James College was the third baccalaureate degree granting college for Grand Valley. It was originally designed to be an interdisciplinary, non-departmentalized college consisting of concentration programs, rather than majors. The college opened in 1971 and was discontinued in 1983 during a reorganization of Grand Valley State. Scott Troost was a Social Relations student of William James College who graduated in 1977. In this interview he discusses what drew him to William James College and West Michigan, how he first learned of Grand Valley while overseas in Denmark, and how he switched from Thomas Jefferson College to William James due to influential professors such as Stephen Rowe and Barry Castro. This interview is part 1 of 1 for Scott Troost. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Roos, Barbara (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Grand Valley State University Michigan Universities and colleges Oral histories Alternative educaton Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/69">William James College faculty and student interviews (GV016-16)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/b4707902759b29b866861196455de711.pdf 4d7b9cabe4c0b4bfd6781c70fb9f05d9 PDF Text Text � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Incunabula Description An account of the resource The term incunabula refers to books printed between 1450 and 1500, approximately the first fifty years following the invention, by Johann Gutenberg of Mainz, of printing from moveable type. Our collection includes over 200 volumes and numerous unbound leaves from books printed during this period. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1450/1500 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Incunabula Collection (DC-03) Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/NoC-US/1.0/?language=en">No Copyright - United </a> Subject The topic of the resource Incunabula Printing 1450-1500 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DC-03 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource text Language A language of the resource eng it la nl de Still Image A static visual representation. Examples include paintings, drawings, graphic designs, plans and maps. Recommended best practice is to assign the type Text to images of textual materials. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Summa casuum conscientiae [folium 121] Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context DC-03_121Salis1488 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Trovamala, Baptista Description An account of the resource One leaf from Summa casuum conscientiae by Baptista de Salis (Trovamala). Printed in Nuremberg by Anton Koberger on April 14, 1488. Illustrated with red rubricated initials. [GW 3322; ISTC is00046000] Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Nuremberg: Anton Koberger Subject The topic of the resource Incunabula Printing 1450-1500 Language A language of the resource la Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/NoC-US/1.0/?language=en">No Copyright - United States</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1488 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seidman Rare Books Collection Type The nature or genre of the resource Text https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/8d14426d335414c3e13320fbd18ac38f.mp4 d5021151e2777e095993868c9c0e561c https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/302b67cadbfe5da8ed753e6334bcb8d1.pdf 5b4c460ea590f52b46c070aac2cd1f61 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project Interview World War II Tony Trovato Total Time: 01:26:00 Background • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • (00:20) Born March 13, 1912. Born on Grant St. on the Southwest Side of Grand Rapids, Michigan Moved around different locations in Grand Rapids His family traveled to Europe in 1924, when he was 12, so that he could meet his grandparents (00:46) He counts it a blessing to have visited because he eventually served near his European family during the war He knew the Italian language fluently. He could read, write, and speak it fluently (01:21) o Thanks the Lord for an amazing trip where he was able to easily communicate with everyone Both of his parents were born in the same village in Sicily. (02:19) His father worked for the Metal Office Furniture Company, now known as Steelcase (03:00) Tony went to school through the 8th grade (04:25) Spoke Italian at home (05:07) Worked at several local grocery stores by the time he was nearly 19 years old Learned Lithuanian when he transitioned to a new job because of local demographics (06:24) Managed to keep working during the Depression (07:10) o His father brought home the guts of animals for food during this time He got married when he was 28 years old in 1940. Enjoyed going out to dance with his friends for enjoyment (09:25) Left the grocery store to work for Metal Office Furniture Company (17:10) Met his future wife Hazel through a co-worker o Hazel was older than he was, but that did not matter (11:41) o Hazel had back and kidney problems (13:06) Left the grocery store to work for Metal Office Furniture Company (17:10) o Worked here when Pearl Harbor was attacked (18:19) o Learned of Pearl Harbor through the news media Left his job at the Metal Office Furniture Company (19:52) Enlistment & Training – (21:05) • He was deferred from service but did not want to be �• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • o He wanted to enlist in the Navy because he did not want to go into the Army (21:18) o Was not forced into the service (21:26) o His wife’s response to him joining the Navy was that he should do what he wanted to do (21:49) Joined in March of 1943 (21:57) Went to get his physical in Kalamazoo, Michigan (22:15) o Was assigned to the Army at his physical, but explained that he was a volunteer for the Navy Was stationed at Great Lakes, Illinois, for boot camp (22:48) o He was the oldest guy in the camp by 10 years (23:38) Was made second class [spokesman] (24:51) o Had troops under his authority Learned how to handle personnel, troops, and platoons in boot camp (24:41) Was assigned to go to Norfolk, Virginia (24:52) Learned anti-aircraft firing and how to maneuver a ship o Where he learned to be a boatswain (25:21) He was assigned to be a boatswain when he was in Norfolk Was then sent to Seneca, Illinois with a full crew (26:58) o Picked up his LST here Travels down the Illinois River to the Mississippi River o Remembers seeing people on the coastline watching as they passed down the rivers (28:40) o Dropped anchor overnight along the river (28:52) Stopped in New Orleans (29:28) During this time he was aboard an LCVP (29:47) o He had a smaller boat from the LST Dropped comrades off in New Orleans (30:12) o Waited at the landing dock for his friends until it was night time (30:25) Was able to find his LST in the bay at New Orleans (31:07) Was in New Orleans during the enforced “black out” (31:46) o It was difficult to maneuver the boats because lights were not used (31:56) Equates his bad eyes to his experience as a lookout in the Navy (32:07) Left New Orleans in a convoy through the Caribbean (32:35) Traveled up to Norfolk, Virginia and picked up the remaining crew (33:27) The LST was filled with highly combustible, radio controlled explosives, and other cargo Active Duty – (34:42) • • The trip across the Atlantic was with a convoy (34:51) o The weather made many of the men seasick (35:09) Had the same crew the entire time (35:45) �• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Had German E-Boat encounters when traveling across the Atlantic Ocean – around Gibraltar (36:12) o The Germans fired two torpedoes that went under their LST (36:44) Went through the Mediterranean and traveled to Algeria (37:33) o The convoy went across the bay to load up on supplies in Oran, Algeria – diesel and food (38:10) From Oran, he traveled directly to France (38:29) o Took part in the Southern France invasion (38:46) Was on the bow of the ship serving as 1st gunner with a 20 or 40mm (39:18) o Was not allowed to have a camera When they hit the beach at the southern invasion, the doors opened and all the troops went out (39:58) o There was gunfire so they pulled anchor and left for supplies (40:20) o Went back and forth to the place of invasion, but did not see as much action the second time o Brought supplies in for the troops (40:46) Was never alone overseas (41:21) Loaded up boats full of prisoners (41:49) o Sent them to prison camps (42:02) o Noticed that the prisoners were no different than any other person (42:11) o Made friends with the prisoners – gave them cigarettes and was given two German ornaments (42:30) o The prisoners were just ordinary Germans – not SS (44:19) Did not like when they helped carry a load of Gurkhas and Senegalese (44:52) Stopped in cities in southern France as well as Taranto, Palermo, and Naples (46:43) o Went to visit his family in Sicily as well (47:55) Got a free ride to visit his family (48:29) While in Pompeii, Italy, he visited a guide's villa where he was given spaghetti (49:40) o The spaghetti was dug up (49:48) o The spaghetti was still good, even after being buried because of the German occupation (50:19) When he was in Naples, it was extremely bombed out (51:09) o Palermo was bombed as well (51:18) Loaded two suitcases of food to take to his relatives, but was not allowed to take them by himself – able to use his language skills for this (52:25) Had a wonderful Skipper – Lt. (j.g.) Hotchkiss (53:24) o They were both 33 years old (53:28) o Hotchkiss loved to drink (53:44) o Could not drink on board ship, so the skipper would go to the Red Light District instead (54:02) The Navy gave soldiers warnings to avoid the Red Light Districts (54:17) He was shore patrol both overseas and in America (54:31) o Would have to go out to the bars to get sailors (55:20) �• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • o No soldiers ever put up a fight (55:48) o Was on patrol for all sailors (56:01) Saw German submarines and aircraft while in the Mediterranean (56:50) o Germans had better PT boats than the Allies (57:25)  They were faster and more maneuverable (57:39) Sailed to Corsica and Sardinia to pick up troops and supplies (58:15) o Was able to go on shore and explore while in these places (58:30)  Was not allowed to explore in Oran or any of Africa (58:51) o Was able to go and buy souvenirs in France and Italy as well (59:05) A friend stole a work of art from an art museum in Toulon, France (59:54) o It was against the law (01:00:09) o The museum was abandoned (01:00:17) Picked up a piano from a music store in Toulon, France and brought it on deck (01:00:44) Traveled to Athens one time and got to see the Acropolis (01:01:22) Traveled primarily between Italy and France – never traveled to Egypt (01:02:03) When on the ship, there were actual doctors on board (01:02:48) He hung out with black stewards on board (01:03:20) o Saw them as part of the family o Did not find it strange that blacks were only allowed to be stewards (01:03:37) Enjoyed the food in the Navy (01:05:00) o Had a great chef at his disposal (01:05:19) More than once, he had to interpret for the Skipper (01:06:18) The civilians loved the American people (01:06:50) o Were blessed just for being there o The food supply was less in Italy than it was in France (01:07:20) Enlistment time was two years during peaceful times and three years during time of war (01:08:36) Received commendation (01:09:01) The Skipper arranged for him to go home (01:09:14) Was put on a personnel transport boat – ended up in Boston (01:09:48) Was given a chit to travel on train or bus (01:10:09) He was discharged out of Great Lakes (01:10:30) He was in France when the Germans surrendered (01:11:18) o In France when the Japanese surrendered as well (01:11:23) After the Service (01:11:28) • • • He arrived at home in 1945 Went back to work at Metal Office Furniture Company (01:12:19) o His boss Frank Harman was excited to see him He was told that he would receive the same pay as when he left for war (01:13:05) �• • • • • • • • • • o Although others had received raises while he was gone at war, he was told that he had to prove he was still good at his job to get the raise o His boss told him that “you don’t know how lucky you were to be dodgin’ bullets” (01:14:12) o Left the job after his boss said that Found a job working with tool and die with a neighbor across the street (01:15:34) The Grand Rapids company wanted to send him to Holland, Michigan to work and start a crew there (01:16:48) o Did not go because he did not want to leave his wife (01:17:15) Lost his first wife to bone cancer (01:17:32) Lost his second wife to heart problems (01:17:44) Worked at Grand Rapids Brass (01:18:12) There was a married woman that he made eye contact with and fell in love (01:19:10) o She eventually got a divorce and became his second wife (01:19:32) Bought a house on Burton Street (01:21:38) o He helped out a friend water plants at the nearby greenhouses (01:21:56) When living on Burton Street, a friend told him about a lot of land where he eventually built his home (01:24:05) He does not believe that he changed from the Navy at all – he is still the same man (01:25:11) He says that he has so much to say about everything, but that it is difficult because his mind is wearing out (01:26:22) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context TrovatoT1351V Title A name given to the resource Trovato, Anthony (Interview outline and video), 2012 Description An account of the resource Tony Trovato was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1912. He was son to Italian immigrants and could speak fluent Italian. He enlisted into the Navy in 1943 when he was 31 years old and trained at Great Lakes where he learned how to handle troops and personnel. He was later assigned to Norfolk, Virginia where he was trained to be a boatswain. After leaving Norfolk, he was sent down the Mississippi River to New Orleans and eventually made his way across the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea. While in the Mediterranean, his convoy spent the majority of its time resupplying troops in France and Italy as well as carrying war prisoners. He served as shore patrol near the end of his time before he was discharged in 1945, after both Germany and Japan had surrendered. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Trovato, Anthony Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Veterans Video recordings Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings United States. Navy World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Language A language of the resource eng Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2012-03-15 Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/7290dbe22a6f358f78ea2056d5046d4b.mp4 96c0a28f9bfa2e114d4cbbe9dbf04d8b https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/e5e4b1f70622f423842800fd8275bd9d.pdf 76f6dac90cf3960c31e475d3d9609e4d PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project Oral History Interview Veteran: Chet Trybus Interview Length: (46.19) Interviewed by Michael McGregor Transcribed by Chloe Dingens Interviewer: Today we’re interviewing Chet Trybus of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The interviewer is Michael McGregor with the Grand Valley State University's Veteran Oral History Project. To begin Chet, when and where were you born? I was born March 16th, 1945. During World War II actually, in Highland Park, Michigan just outside Detroit. Interviewer: Okay and what did your parents do? Well my dad was a TV service repair manager For the Good Housekeeping shops in Detroit. Sort of like the equivalent to like the ABC Warehouses of today but he did the radios and TV repairs. Interviewer: Okay and did your mother work outside of the home? Nope, she never worked outside of the house. She raised five boys and lived in Detroit my whole life. I was born and raised within eyesight of the old Tiger Stadium, which is now a vacant piece of property. Interviewer: Yeah, okay where did you go to school then in Detroit? Detroit, I went to grade school at a place called St. Luke's, grade school in West Side Detroit. And then to Detroit Catholic Central. Graduated right from there in 1963. (1.10) Interviewer: Was that when Detroit Catholic Center was in Detroit? Actually, it was, yeah. Now it's in Wixom, Michigan. Interviewer: Yeah. �Yeah. Interviewer: Okay, what do you recall about growing up in Highland Park. Well actually it was West Side Detroit where I grew up. Well, I, since the age of eight I had a newspaper route. Routes plural, from The Shopping Daily News, to Detroit news, Detroit Free Press and I drove a truck for the Free Press. Basically, it was a real nice neighborhood type of atmosphere. A lot of kids play together, very different than from today, you could walk to school. You could not worry about being on the outside at night and so forth. It was a good time, I had a good time going up there. Interviewer: Okay and then after high school what did you do? (1.53) Well after high school I went to Henry Ford Community College and that was a full-time, and I also drove a truck at night for The Detroit Free Press and delivered all over metropolitan area newspapers to stations at night. I actually, when I was at Henry Ford Community College there, I had a full credit load, which was more than 12 hours in 1964. In 1965 I dropped to part-time because I had more hours at the Free Press driving the truck and then I was reclassified because that was during that time when the military would- you'd be reclassified if- you could stay in college if you had 12 hours or more and then after graduation going active duty. Well I fell below twelve hours and so I was reclassified immediately and- and so I got a notice from the draft board and I says, “oh no I'm below 12 hours what am I gonna do?” So, I went to the draft board downtown Detroit and I talked to the guy in charge of it and I says, you know trying to validate is this correct and so forth. He says, “well yeah.” And I says, “well I really can't serve on active duty,” and he said, “why not?” I says, “I got a bad case of acne.” And this guy did a double take, he kind of chuckled and he said, “no I'm sorry, you’re- you can serve in the �military.” And so, what happened was, there was four buddies of mine down the street. I lived on Ohio Street on the west side Detroit that we all got our notice to report for our armed forces physical exam, examination on July 16th, 1965 at a place called Fort Wayne. Which was an old fort, during I guess colonial times, but it was at the foot of Livernois and Fort Street in Detroit. So, we went down there for our physicals and I'll never forget during that time, what sticks in my mind, you know how things stick in your mind; I was going through with a hernia check. There was a line of about 300 of us being examined for hernias, there was a glass plate in front of us and then the doctor would examine us. The guy in front of me, when the doctor said “cough,” he would not cough, and he asked him two more times to cough and he didn't. He said look, “if you don't cough the next time to examine you for a hernia,” he says, “you're going to the Brig.” So, he coughed, and the things moved on. So, I was kind of concerned about, because everybody that I knew of went to Vietnam immediately. And I was kind of like in that stage in my life where I wanted a complete college, but how do I do that? So, I talked to someone else and he said, “you know why don’t you try the Naval Reserve?” So, there was a Naval Reserve station on Jefferson Avenue in Detroit. So, the week following my army physical I went down there and signed up for the Naval Reserve. And it was back in- to August of 65 and of course, when the Naval Reserve you get yourself the proverbial Blue Jackets manual. The how-to, everything to know about the military, how to dress, and so forth, and ships that you might be on, and so forth. So, I got that and that was kind of fun and so what happened there was, afterwards I was still in college because I was deferred through college now, they told me for the Naval Reserve you could, even though it was in 1965 my targeted graduation day was December of 68. So, I could say in The Naval Reserve with the understanding that you would spend two weeks of active duty for training every year prior to going on active duty. So, my first boot camp was actually in �December of the- of 1965. So in between my college break I went to Great Lakes, Illinois for my boot- boot camp and it was quite interesting, we're like a dorm style boot camp. Probably I think it was, I don't know probably close to maybe 100 guys here. And this happens to be me… wait where am I located here? (Holding up photo) Right here, right close to the chief petty officer there. And I was the storekeeper there, so I had some extra duties, but extra privileges because of that. And after that I went back to school of course at Western Michigan University where I got my undergraduate degree in 68. And then the next summer, which was the summer of 66, I did my first 2-week active duty for training at Great Lakes, Illinois and we were required to be on a ship for a while. So right on Lake Michigan they had a ship called The Porridge, it was a patrol craft escort ship. And so, all of us recruits went out there to training to get on the ship and of course they got me on the, they sat me in the tort of a- a 2... Interviewer: 40 millimeter? (6.35) Well it could have been. These the- the shells were about this round (showing hand motion). They had- they had a cartridge of them, about 16 of them, and so the- the guy who was the gunners mate said, “okay you're gonna aim for this 55-gallon barrel out there in Lake Michigan.” So, I was the pointer, the pointer and a trainer and I was pointing the gun and my foot was on the trigger basically to start shooting the rounds and I was getting close to the barrel in terms of trying to hit it direct, and you know and make a score. But it I just couldn't get there, so I stopped shooting and all of a sudden, the gunner's mate yelled, “clear the deck.” And I said, “what is going on?” He says, “wasn't that a jam and you're in your gun?” I says, “no I just wanted to point a little bit better.” And he says, “you could have got us all killed.” So, they never kept me on the- �the pointer round for the turret anymore. So, I just went back, for the day, we were just out there for the day. And do that little round there it was kind of interesting. The... (7.37) Interviewer: If I can interject then you- you joined the Navy Reserve. Yes. Interviewer: You- you went to the reserve center; they gave you the Blue Jackets Manual. Yeah, yeah. Interviewer: And equipment … between then and one you had to go to Great Lakes the first time, did you have to go to meetings once a month? Oh, absolutely. Yeah absolutely. Interviewer: What did those consist of? Well they basically take you through the- the regiment of the military. Understand the rules of the Navy and so forth and the processes procedures if you will. The formal things on saluting and standing at ease and all that stuff. And essentially understanding the process of the Navy and how it kind of works from the enlisted guy on up so, you'd understand that. There’d be various fastest of the training month-to-month that you'd go to, so throughout the entire year I'd be going to 12 meetings. Plus, I would be going to two weeks of active duty for training and usually the summertime. (8.33) Interviewer: Now in, in- in your Reserve Component where there are other people had already served and are staying in the Navy or was it just all individuals like yourself? Who… �Yeah it was fellows try to get out of the active duty to go to Vietnam per se. But we knew we had to serve but we’re by and large everybody I was with was in college of some degree yeah. Interviewer: Okay so when you were at Western you were still going to the meetings and that and did you have to go back to the Detroit area? Nope, we had a… fortunately we had a reserve location in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Interviewer: Okay so you did that there. And one of my commanding officers there was actually, taught at Western Michigan University. Interviewer: Okay. So, we did that. It was quite easy for me to do it because the meetings I think lasted about two or three hours each night. Interviewer: Okay so you- you went there for basically two years then? (9.29) I was there, let’s see, I started Western Michigan in 65 and then 68. Oh, one more thing I want to mention to you. During this time of course, I mentioned the Free Press. Kind of the highlight of my working there was in 1967 the riots in Detroit. My particular route that evening of the riots which was a Saturday night before Sunday morning started was 12 Street where the riots started. And during the next three or four days, we'd go out on caravans in these yellow trucks delivering newspapers at night. And to our newspaper stations and the trucks were being fired upon by snipers. One guy got on the back of my truck and at 45 miles an hour he fell off because I- he was gonna try and hijack my truck when I was driving it. So, that was in 67. So, between the Naval Reserve working and so forth, quite interesting. Then in 68, July of 68 I married my high school sweetheart I met at Western Michigan and that was getting near the time of graduation at Western. Which was then what would have been active duty shortly thereafter in April of 69. �And my wife became pregnant shortly thereafter and we- I graduated in 68. December of 68 and then in February of 68 just before active duty we lost our baby she was born, lived 27 hours. And we had a barrier her in an unmarked grave in Kalamazoo which was quite a blow for the entire family, including myself. So, about that time I got notice from the Navy that you, I had a choice of serving two years of active duty in Vietnam or through your stateside. Well given the fact we went through this major trauma in our lives, I elected to do three years of active duty. Starting in April of 69 and they gave me a choice of Omaha, someplace in North Carolina, or Great Lakes, Illinois and I says, “Great Lakes.” So, that was north of Chicago. And I says, “well you know it's not too far from the family from Detroit basically, versus Omaha. So, let's go there.” So, lo and behold we packed up our bags from Western Michigan University and lived in married housing and took my car down on the interstate and of course it overheated, and we had to trying to limp our way to Great Lakes, Illinois. In advance of that we were given some notifications of where do you stay? Because we're husband and wife together. So, we had to rent a third-floor apartment in Waukegan, Illinois not too far from Great Lakes. And then till my application cleared to get base housing. We got the base housing three months later it was pre-World War II officer housing. And it was a, something you would not live in today because it has the asbestos sighting. It had compliments of mice and roaches and dirty walls and… but it was our place. We live across the street from some barracks and in the summertime, we'd hear revelry going on across the street for the recruits, but this was actually married housing. So, we live there for the entire time and interestingly enough the high cost of that to me, it was fifty-four dollars and thirty-five cents a month which included all utilities; heat, light, and all that good stuff. And we had a good time there. In fact, I can remember one of our parties of the seven other families that lived in our housing unit. We had a summertime party and we went through 47 ears of corn, had �of course roast the corn, and 18 bottles of wine. So, the next morning was kind of a highlight of our day, is waking up to corn. (13.06) Interviewer: Now before you want an act of duty, while you're still doing the reserves how much of the time of your meetings were spent on physical training and physical fitness? Actually, virtually nothing. We did do, I remember in boot camp we had to go through swimming exercise and that sort of thing but we, unlike the military, the army and so forth, or Marines, we never had, you know to the degree of physical stuff that you guys went through. I know, we never had that. Interviewer: Okay. So, we're all sizes of people that were in the Navy at that time. From the slim to the big. Interviewer: And at the time that you got your draft notice what, which prompted you to join The Naval Reserve. How aware were you of Vietnam? Oh very. Interviewer: Because it was 1965, our involvement was just escalating at that point. (13.59) We had friends, neighbors that had died there prior to me going on active duty or being drafted. So, I had an awareness of that, you know it was something that was looking ugly out there, and I was trying to hopefully out live it by going through college, but it never happened that way because it didn’t end until the seventies so. Interviewer: So now you, you're at Great Lakes, so you’re out of college, you’re what an E3? �I was an E4. I had an E4 over four years, so I had some stripes on my arms that showed every, you know every four years you get a stripe and so forth, so I was an E4 over four. And I went directly to my first assignment and only assignment in the Navy was at the Commandant ninth Naval District building at Great Lakes the building one they call it. Where they- they have all the graduation ceremonies in front of it and I was assigned to a job called a fiscal liaison accountant. Basically, in our group, active duty for training that was the assign two-week training duty for officers enlisted in which we'd process about 20,000 orders per year. And I was involved with literally just pricing out pay. Travel per diem for each one of those and then at the end of the year do an accounting of all, basically a six-million-dollar budget that I was kind of responsible for tracking. And we did that we had an office of about 35 people there. Had enlisted people, had an officer, commanding officer, and we had civilians that worked along with us. And of course, the old style we had ditto machines and all that good stuff to crank out the orders and so forth. Kind of an interesting highlight of that particular stay, we made a lot of good friends. Friends that were from Alaska, from the south, from the Midwest, we stay close to today. It was a very nice environment, collegial environment. I had one of my several commanding officers complimented me on my abilities to speak and write and so forth and do my job, but he said regarding, how’d he put it? Let's see he said something regarding my future and the Navy he said (reading,) “his potential as a storekeeper is excellent.” Which I was a storekeeper. “However, his military capabilities are lacking.” What he was- had a problem with, he had brush haircut. One of my several commanding officers and at that time there was a Chief of Naval Operations called Admiral Zumwalt and Admiral Zumwalt used to call what they call the Z Grams on what- how he felt about that- how people should work and- and participate in the Navy. And he said that basically, “enlisted people were allowed to have sideburns down to the bottom of their earlobes.” �Well, my commanding officer having a brush haircut, being a very-very military guy, he had a real problem with that. So, we would always give him a little bit of jive by, you know one day I said to my commanding officer I said, “you know what, basically you’re a radical sir.” And he says, “what do you mean?” I said, “you’ve got a brush haircut, we don't have a brush haircut.” So, I think that stuck with him, but I had a good time. I had good commanding officers there. We had- we got along well we could speak person-to-person without having the enlisted versus an officer thing. Even though I respected that position, we still had that opportunity to work with them. One of the funny things about that office I'll never forget; Bertha, one of the gals that work there. An elderly lady, she went to the bathroom one day and so she came back, and everybody was looking at her because when she walked by us, she had her dress tucked in her panties and she didn't know that until she sat down on her cold chair. And then everybody looked around. We had some good times there. It was a good, we'd get together at night and so forth, but I did also work during that time, in the Navy. At- at Citizen Lobank,I was in the credit department and an experience... I'd do that, I would be going to school... by the way I was working on my master's degree on active duty. Just one block from my house, Roosevelt University, had a program for public administration and so I wanted, I attended that to work on it. But the other nights I’d work at the credit department because I think- when I got out of the service my net, my gross pay was four thousand bucks a year. Yeah, so, I need it every penny I could get my hands around. We even bought a Volkswagen back then for sixteen hundred and fifty bucks and I needed every penny to pay for that thing. But one day in the credit department, I used to whistle like a bird and so I had seven crowns’ put in my mouth. I could do a real great sound for a songbird. So, I was in the credit department and I started whistling like a bird. My buddies knew I could whistle, and it sounded realistic and my credit manager had a big vented grate above on a �wall above him, and he thought there was a bird caught on this grate. So, what does he do? He calls maintenance and they unscrew this 50-year-old grate which falls to the floor. And he's standing there with a fish net trying to catch this bird and nothing comes out, so word got around. So, the next time I went to work the next day he said to me, “do you whistle like a bird by chance?” I says, “oh no sir.” He says, “but if you did,” he says, “never do this again.” [Laughter] (19.09) Interviewer: So, he knew. Now at Great Lakes you were- you were processing the... Orders. Interviewer: The orders for what? It was recruits that finished training there, or people who were getting out of the service, or what? No, people who had served on active duty or had the requirement of serving two-week active duty for training per year. Those were officers and enlisted people so I we- we would then create the destination, put them on a ship someplace, or a naval district someplace, and then I’d price them out from where they're coming from and to, and give them the pay for that, and the travel, and the per diem, the cost of that two-week training duty. And as I mentioned over 20,000 orders we processed per year, high turnaround of paper. Interviewer: What was the average workday like for you there? Well it- you'd get there at eight o'clock and you'd leave at five quite frankly. And then you'd have your staff watch duties. I had a couple of duties; I'd have to staff, I'd have to stand in or, it was an office, staff watch office at building one commodious office usually on the weekends like a Saturday over Sunday. One night, I'll never forget this, it was 2:30 on a Sunday morning and the base red phone rings next- on my desk. �Interviewer: What was the red phone? (20.29) That was that was the Admiral’s phone. If he called you immediately picked that up and he lived just behind our building, so I got a 2:30 in the morning got a call from the Admiral’s wife this is Admiral Renken, R-e-n-k-e-n his wife said, “there’s an intruder in our kitchen please get help.” Well my chief petty officer was on the couch, you know we had a couch, office had a couch and recliner and so forth and I says, “chief there’s an intruder in the Admiral’s quarters what do I do?” He started stuttering, he couldn't get himself together. So, he says, “talk to the Jag officer Judge Advocate,” our Attorney officer was in the next room sleeping which was the protocol. Woke him up he says, “pick up the black bass phone and call security.” Well I did that, as soon as I did that the colonel, the marine colonel who was next to the Admiral’s quarters was notified that there was an intruder. So, he automatically picked up his phone had called the Marine barracks kitty-corner to our building and- and it was like 2:30 in the morning so the Marines were just coming in off of a… a good soda pop evening. And those guys had just come in from rotation from Vietnam, and he says to these guys, “find this intruder and do not go to sleep until you find them.” Well that was 2:30 on a Sunday morning. They found this guy at 4:00 p.m. on a Monday afternoon on the ravine next to Lake Michigan. It turns out that there was a marine on the beach he was heavily drinking, and he was hungry around 2:30 in the morning and he looked up the ravine and saw this light and a- a house like. And so, he says, “I’m gonna go up there and get some food.” So, he walked up in his skivvies, was in the kitchen of the Admiral’s quarters, and Admiral’s wife came down and get him a glass of milk because he had a hard time sleeping that evening. She walks in, here's a guy in his skivvies who’s going through her refrigerator looking for food. She screamed, he bolted down the ravine and hid in the ravine for about a day �and a half. Well when the guys found them, they were upset because they were not allowed to go to sleep, they just come back from Vietnam, so they were really kind of gung-ho to do this stuff. They found the guy, worked him over a little bit, threw him in the brig, and because of his opportunity to be in the Admiral’s quarters, he had an opportunity to go back and do another round in Vietnam, because of that. Well that was my involvement with the Marines on the base. It was, we had a good relationship actually. Interviewer: How big was the Marine’s Contingent on the… (22.43) Well let's see there's probably 300 there, yeah. And I'll never forget one time during May of 1970 of all things, during, they called it ‘Mayday.’ And- and our base had a fencing around it and hippies were going to try and invade our property to quote, “show the anti-war thing.” Well I can tell you that the Marines protect us very well and that the hippies never really made it over the fence. Hippies were kind of an interesting group because I had run across them as well when I was at, I had a run the Admiral and his commanding officers and so forth to O'Hare Airport, and one day I was there and standing outside our car, waiting for the Admiral to come out to get in his car to go back to the base. One hippy came up to me and spit on the ground in front of me and started cursing me because of the Vietnam thing and anti-military talk and so forth. So, I saw that more than one time though from the hippies of that era. You know the 60s and early 70s so quite-quite fascinating. My wife had our first baby, our second baby at Great Lakes Naval Hospital, cost us five bucks. It was… and where we were in the base, we'd hear helicopters coming in from medevac, from Vietnam, guys come in for… It was a major hospital, the ninth naval district hospital. And this, so they'd fly and land on the roof of the house, we'd hear them every day, day and night, coming in from Vietnam you know injured people. One day I was �doing staff watch office call, and I got a casualty assistance call from Vietnam. A chief petty officer had died while entertaining a call girl from Vietnam and so I asked my jag officer the, Attorney, Judge Advocate General Officer what should I do? And writing up this report he says well we would just put down he died on, on active duty because then he will get benefits for his family. Because... Interviewer: He was on active duty. (24.40) Yeah. Well he was he died was smile on his face I'm sure. Let's see, what else do I have here? We had inspections the first time I was there, we had a stand in order, ranks in order. I had my dress whites on, my white jumper and so forth and my wife was not really up to speed on how to press and iron the uniforms. Even though I did that she said, “no I'll take care of that for you.” So, during the inspection the commanding officers looked at me and he said, “you've got stains on your collar, not good.” And then she did... the Navy is dressed the- the dress whites. Pants the- the creases are on the side of the pants, not like the front like very good business people would. And so, the crease is wrong and a scorch for my collar and so from that point on she said, “that's it. I'm not doing any more of your stuff, you got to take it to Mary's cleaners across the base at- in North Chicago.” So, from that point on all my inspections were very good for that from that point on, but I learned a lot during the service. Had good relationships with all the people. Understood the value of how we supported the troops over Vietnam through our active duty for training office, our segment of the business. It was quite gratifying for us quite frankly. (25.58) Interviewer: How often did you have to stand inspection? �Once a month, I would have to be usually a Saturday night over Sunday and that was a long shift, but it was in an office. I had a chief petty officer next to me and a lieutenant that would always serve along with me. So, we were just basically doing paperwork from some other contingent within that building because the building actually housed about 300 military and civilian people that actually were the headquarters for the ninth naval district. Basically, covering most of the United States quite frankly. And let's see, what else… Interviewer: Did your office function just on one shift? Or were people processing orders and that kind, on a night shift? No, we're basically a one shift operation. Rare occasion where we had the opportunity to process more paperwork, but it was very rare. You know because we had employees that had to punch in on their timecards, for these were non-military types, and then us we just show up for work on time. (27.03) Interviewer: Well in your office what was a ratio between service people and civiliancivilian employs? I would say out of 35 I think we had about 10 military, and the rest were civilians. It was- back then it was a lot of paper-pushing we did not have computers per se although that we had the first onset of the first internet through the military, but I never worked with that. I worked just basically things with ditto copies and correcting things like that and moving paper from this desk to that desk and then I would get them, and then process the pricing on that, and send it over to the building across the way from us. Which would then actually physically set up the airline tickets and so forth and get the people on their two-week active duty for training. �Interviewer: Would you disperse the cash? Or was that done in another office? We never handled any cash at all, no. It was just strictly a paperwork thing. Get the orders and get him down there and so forth. Interviewer: And that was basically your duties for the… My job. Interviewer: The years and… (28.07) Yeah, I would price it up and I would run a tally of what was being spent and then give that to the commanding officer so that he could provide it to the Admiral on an as-needed basis. One of things I've got to talk about too is the fact that I mentioned that I worked on my master's degree for Roosevelt University of Chicago. I graduated there in January of 72 and during the graduation, Secretary General of the United Nations U. Thant, U period-T-H-A-N-T, was theour guest speaker. And so, I was walking across the stage to get my diploma and I stood a little bit longer with U. Thant and some, afterwards my buddies in the audience said, “why did you take longer than the other people to get your degree?” I said, “well I asked him what the letter ‘u’ meant in his name.” All kidding aside, I had a little fun with that. Interviewer: So, you were able to get your master’s while you were on active duty? (29.03) I did, that was my… and as my mother said, “I never thought you could get a master's degree.” She didn't have that confidence, but I guess when you… you're married and so forth and you're getting into next phase of life. I wanted to go well beyond what I… you know I… Oh one thing, I try to get in the officer corps in the Navy back in 66, just a year after I was joining a reserve, but I found out I was colorblind. I could not tell the difference between red and green and of �course on a ship it’s, you see the buoy red, right, and returning or green. Or if I was on the aircraft carrier it could cause a real calamity if I didn't know the difference between red and green which I did not. So, unfortunately, I had to stay an enlisted guy and that's why I figured if I could not be an officer, which my wife wanted me to stay in the military for 20 years. Then I should do something else and I thought at one time I was going to be a city manager, that's why I took public administration. Only to find out I ended up at Xerox Corporation right after the service. So much for public administration. Interviewer: Now when you were in graduate school, did the Navy provide tuition assistance? How did it work? (30.10) They did they, it was interesting it was $64 a credit hour which I thought was outrageous back then, but they provided 75% of the- the funding for that. And I had to croft out the other 25 which meant I did work at Sears, like I mentioned at night in order to help with that, so I didn't have to leave with a loan at all. And back then there were really no student loans, back then. Interviewer: So, you were a pretty busy guy, your full-time shift at The Great Lakes, working at Sears at night, and I presume your classes were at night. I gotta tell you one thing about the classes, I was the only enlisted guy there. The rest were commanding officers and captains and lieutenants and so forth. Well during my class, I got to know the professor pretty well and what I could expect on the exams. Well one time we took an exam and I aced the exam; I got a hundred percent on it. Well because the rest of them are did so poorly he you set a curve and a bunch of the higher-ranking officers flunked the- the quiz. So, the very next class they looked at me with kind of like this sting in their eyes like how could this �little enlisted guy beat us out of our grade. You know, they'd gone to all these different schools, but I thought I was pretty proud of that, that I could smoke out the officers. Interviewer: How… going to school obviously, did you go in civilian clothes? (31.27) I had the choice, I could go in civilian but usually I walked I, I just came out of work at five o'clock and my classes started at six, so I just stayed in uniform. Interviewer: So, they knew you were a…? Oh yeah, they knew I was one of the kids. Interviewer: Yeah, and that gave you a good sense of satisfaction. It did, I said you know what, I may not be able to be a lifelong officer here, but I can sure beat them in the quizzes. Interviewer: Why did you wife want you to stay in the service? She loved it! She absolutely loved going to commissary and all the things provided for her and so forth. And- and she had no clue about the future you know per se, but she did like… everybody was congenial and- and was good, it was good toward us. And she felt really warm with the friendships we made and that this is really the kind of life she wanted… Interviewer: Okay. And I says, “I'm not gonna be full-time enlisted guy for my entire life.” But she said afterwards, “you should have joined the Naval Reserves.” In retrospect that might have been a good thing because I could have been- been getting some- some retirement benefits from that so… That's water over the dam though, turned out to be just fine afterwards. Interviewer: Okay so your tours winding down, so what ideas did you have? You said you wanted to be a city manager; did you pursue? �I did, I looked at that. There was a city manager from Glencoe, Illinois that was one of my instructors buddy, but he also was a good friend, and we were talking about getting into that kind of job but at that time city manager was making about eight thousand bucks a year, which was twice what I was making in the military and I figured well that’s not a whole lot of money. Until you got into your ten year as a city manager. So, my brother at the time worked at Xerox and he said, “why don’t you interview at Xerox?” So, while I’m on active duty one of my leaves I came to Detroit to interview for a job as a sales rep for Xerox. And eventually got into Xerox, I was told I could start a week after I got out of the military and moved to Lansing, Michigan. They had a spot for me starting the very next week after I got out of the military. So, I stayed with them for 24 years and retired from there. Interviewer: So, you left when you got out of the service that was the end of your service obligation or did you have to stay in the inactive duty for a while? (33.45) No, I hadn't fulfilled all that time from the 2 August 65 until the April 9th of 72. I had enough years. Seven years. Interviewer: Yeah you had you six years. Yeah it was good to stay, good memories about them, I’ll never forget; one time my wife was just about ready to deliver on December 27, 1970. We went to the commissary there was about 400 recruits that are in line and here she was walking down toward the commissary and the chief petty officer says, “gangway let this pregnant lady through.” And so, we had a great meal two days before the baby came. Yeah it was good, oh one other thing about the Navy; officers got a little bit better medical care than we did. In that I had a cavity in my front tooth so when I'm on �base and he says, “well your enlisted guy, so we’ll have to put a silver filling right here in the front tooth.” I said, “what do you give officers?” He says, “well we do porcelain.” So, I had to go off base and spend an extra 20- 30 bucks to get a porcelain filling put in my front tooth because enlisted guys did not get porcelain fillings. Interviewer: Oh really? I thought that was hilarious and now what other things come to mind, I can remember seeing all the graduation ceremonies in front of my office in the summertime, through my window of the recruits that are coming through. And then going on active duty from Great Lakes. It was quitequite nice quite formal. I enjoyed that part of it. Military I had no problem with actually. (35.17) Interviewer: Well now you’re at Great Lakes during the 68 on? Well technically, technically 69 through 72. Interviewer: 69-72 so Vietnam was kind of... I think we made the decision by then to kind of disengage. What was the- what was the feeling on the base about Vietnam and the...? Well we were participants in supporting that and we did not have any quote “disgruntled folks” that would show their faces. Back then that was I was a no- no you never did that even if you felt, I knew a couple guys I worked with that were kind of bent that way. Toward, you know, we shouldn't be in Vietnam, but they never voiced it in front of the commanding officers or anything else, but they never did show any kind of disdain for that at all, because we were full fullblooded military people. Interviewer: Was, was there anything like hey, if you screw up, I’m going to send you to Vietnam kind of mindset there among some of the senior petty officers? (36.21) �No not really, well let's see. In my group because we had to claim a contract for an extra year you stay there- there was never that discussion, because they knew what my contract was. Basically my- my from and to dates on my order to serve there. So, there was no talk about if you don't do this I mean. Interview: Really? Did they, did- I know in the army state side bases would get a levy if they didn’t have, you know they needed so many people in Vietnam with so many MOS’s. Sure. Interview: And if they couldn’t fill that with people finishing training and volunteering to go over or whatever then each base got a- a levy. Oh really. Interviewer: And said, “okay we need X, you know with these MOS’s.” That ever take place there? Never ever, not in those three years I was there, and there was no talk about that either. Interviewer: Of course, yeah, I think being in the Navy as well, and being in an administrative position, I don't think too much, too many administrative things happen in Vietnam in the Navy anyway they… Not that I'm aware of, other than being on ship or yeah, yeah. Interview: So, after Xerox what did you do? Did you stay in the Lansing area the whole time where you were with Xerox? (37.41) No, we moved from Lansing to Jackson, Michigan and I was there until I moved to Rochester, New York in 1980 to go at work at corporate in marketing, and then Xerox being like most big companies, we got rid of 2,000 people one Christmas eve in 1981. And I came to Grand Rapids, �Michigan for the first time and managed the office here at Xerox for several years but remain with them for a total of 24 years. Interview: And then you retired? Now one of my several retirements, yes, from Xerox immediately went to work for a company called Sun Garcon the IT disaster recovery. Going on five years, and then they were sold out to a private hedge fund and then I went to another company as a sales manager there and they werewent out of business after 138 years. So, it seems like every business I started working for and started going out of business. So right now, I teach full-time at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan. I teach business courses there. Interview: How long have you been teaching? (38.43) I started teaching in 1974 at Jackson Community College my boss at Xerox said, “do you want to teach at college?” I says, “well I've got a master's degree, where at?” He said, “four thousand Cooper Street.” I said, “that's the state prison,” so I taught for five years for the community college but three years at the prison until one day… I oh I gotta rewind the tape a little bit, my first day at the prison I walked into the guard. Interviewer: When was this? It was in 1974. Interviewer: 1974. And I still have my prison ID badge, which cause a little havoc because I had to walk in front of 200 new residents to the prison to get my photo shot before they did. But anyway, the first day I walked to, got on campus in the prison to teach for Jackson Community College. They said, “take all your jewelry and everything off. Just I want your driver's license and your prison ID �badge.” So, I walked in there and the prison said, a guard said to me he said, “well before you go in, I'm gonna have to put this fluorescent dye in your, on your, on your hands,” so he did a letter A here. I said, “what’s that?” “Letter A, look underneath the fluorescent light it shows a letter A.” He said, “well why would you do that?” He says, “well sir” he says, “assume that you're in here and your clothing was acquired.” I'm thinking one and one is two, clothing’s acquired, they found my hand in the hallway. Well I used to teach here, I stopped teaching at the prison after my work hours at Xerox when I had a major fight in my class one day where knives were pulled, blood was drawn, 30 guys were fighting and I called the Dean the next day says “get me off this campus, I do not want to die here.” From that point forward all my colleges, I've taught now at five colleges I never had a problem like at Jackson Community College, it was always better. Interview: Other than the riot in your classroom, how did- how did you feel the students received what you were trying to do? (40.29) It was fascinating, that for them was the cream of the crop to go to college while being as a resident, you're not a prisoner, you're a resident. Because here's the deal back then in 74, state of Michigan with all the fully loaded cost for each of those students, cost us fifteen thousand bucks, the state fifteen thousand bucks per student and I felt that because, here's how I saw if you were going to college in prison you would get up, have breakfast, go work out a little bit, go to the library, study, and go to class. You did not do the laundry, do license plates, or any of the menial stuff. So, this was like the creme de la creme of the population, but you could tell some people were absorbing my business courses and others weren't. I had one guy who's quote “roommate” if you will, this guy was about six foot six his roommate is about five three and he used to cheat on him during the exams and I’d look at this guy he's looking right down in his answers to the �exam. So, this big guy did not want to have a confrontation, so I figured at the end of semester the big guy got a D- and the little guy got an A. To shame for that guy, I never confronted him, although I had the power within the class like a guard to say you go here, you go there. I had a couple guys who were holding hands walking in one day and I said, “look you sit here and you there and don't say a word.” So, I had that power but with regard to having homemade knives in class and that, I was I could, I could have been a victim quite frankly. Interview: Well was there a guard in the classroom when you… No, actually when I fight started, I had a guest speaker in the classroom that was going to take over for me when I went on vacation the next week. We went right out in the hallway when the fight started and there was a guy looked like, like Leave It to Beaver type, no not Leave It to Beaver, Barney Bucks. 90 pounds I says, “we're having a fight in our class.” He started stuttering, “what are you doing.” We went back their classroom, I pointed out that people started and all of a sudden about 12 cops show up and clean out the two guys who were involved in the fight, but that wasn't, he was nearby but not to jump in on the fracas. Interview: Okay so was that your last term teaching there then? There, absolutely yeah and I went back to campus, I kissed the cement on the campus, main campuses thank you lord I’m gonna be alive. Oh, during that time I taught at the prison everybody was framed, they thought I was an attorney walking with a briefcase. You know they wanted to get sprung because they were framed. They got in prison on the wrong circumstances. They were, you know, so I- and he always wanted my phone number and my address at home so they could contact me which they never got, in today's world they could have got it on the internet but back then they couldn't. Interview: Yeah, I don't well, I, they have access to the Internet in prison now? �I have no clue. Interview: I don't think they do. I asked one dumb question the first class I went to, I was trying to find out how long your sentence would be. I says, “on average what does it take to, you know,” I meant to say time, but I didn’t I said, “what does it take to get out of this prison?” A guy said well, “I'll tell you what you jump that fence is about 100 yards to I-94 and you're gone.” It's a dumb question to ask in class. (43.47) Interview: Yeah. Okay so if you could summarize your service time, what- what do you think where your, the- the best part of the experience? I think we had people of the same or equal values that were with us. My colleagues my associates they're my commanding officers. We all had a purpose in mind we knew what our goals had to be. We achieved those goals with no problems in terms of serving our particular assignment within the military, and that was to produce 20,000 orders for people on a yearly basis to get them to train in order to be more effective in support of our, of the United States. So, I think we had a good focus is it- it was actually like a family environment, because when you were there for three years you were not going to be there for two weeks and then take off. Everybody got to know you. In fact, I was looking at my farewell cards for my party, goingaway party that the civilians and the officers gave, and I had like a couple hundred people sign this thing, it was like amazing that they knew me, and I knew them. It was a, it was a nice family environment, very different than my buddies who went on active duty in Vietnam and so forth. Very, very different. (44.59) Interview: Okay and flip the coin over, what was the worst part of the experience? �Well the worst part honestly, it was unrelated to the military. Is the fact that I was not in the workplace working, well as my quote “buddies” who did who got out because they had maybe knee surgery or something and they're making money, and I was making maybe four thousand bucks a year, at the end of three years and they were making twelve thousand dollars and I told my wife I said, “you know I don't know what it ever be like to make twenty five thousand dollars a year.” You know and say, “yeah well twenty, we could live in a mansion.” You know so I had that in the front of my mind all the time. Yeah. Interviewer: Okay well I'd like to thank you for spending time with us and sharing your story. It was very, very interesting. (45.40) It's a bit of pleasure to be with you today. And I’d like to say hello to all my military buddies out there, ex-military buddies. Interviewer: Let's hope they watch it. I hope so too. Interviewer: Thank you. Thank you. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27_TrybusC1471V Title A name given to the resource Trybus, Chester (Interview transcript and video), 2013 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2013-01-03 Description An account of the resource Chet Trybus was born on March 16, 1945 in Highland Park, Michigan. Trybus was attending Henry Ford Community College in 1965 when he received a draft notice. Wanting to continue his education, he opted to join the Navy Reserves and was sent to Great Lakes Naval Station, Illinois, for Boot Camp. While in the Naval Reserves, Trybus was able to continue his education at Western Michigan University since there was a Reserve station in Kalamazoo. After completing his degree, he was stationed at Great Lakes processing recruitment orders as part of his active duty. Since he was stationed in the U.S, Trybus was able to pursue his master's degree while on active duty. He eventually left the service in 1972 and took up work for the Xerox Corporation in Michigan. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Trybus, Chester Joseph Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource McGregor, Michael (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Other veterans & civilians--Personal narratives, American United States. Navy. Naval Reserve Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Veterans Video recordings Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Veterans History Project collection, RHC-27 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="https://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University Libraries, Special Collections & University Archives, 1 Campus Drive, Allendale, MI, 49401. Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Language A language of the resource eng https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/903c867e2f4dbb69790cefeb5b4238ca.m4v c7c6eb4bee6995750286c3e56ec03d7c https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/834643081157d3cacdba01ef314b59ab.pdf 9bad916f3e61c8d132754fe43f153d60 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project Interview Vietnam War Kim Tuck Length of Interview: (01:25:30:00) Pre-enlistment / Training (00:00:12:00)  He grew up in the rural area around Battle Creek, Michigan, living mostly on farms, and spent a lot of his early teens working on a sawmill that his grandfather operated (00:00:12:00)  Born in 1946 (00:00:34:00)  Went to college at Michigan State (00:00:44:00)  During that time, the draft was used heavily in recruitment for the military and in 1966, Tuck received a draft notice (00:00:51:00) o He and his fiancée moved their wedding date up three months to accommodate the draft (00:01:06:00)  Tuck was standing in line at the draft center ready to go to Detroit for induction when a lady came out and told him and another man that they had reinstated the college deferment and the two men did not have to go (00:01:20:00)  Went back to college and graduated in 1969 with a B.S. in Building Science (00:01:41:00) o The draft board notified him upon graduation that he was back in the process and would be leaving in March to be inducted again (00:01:55:00)  Instead, Tuck went down to the local Air Force recruitment office to talk about enlisting in the Air Force (00:02:09:00) o The recruiters said he could qualified for the Officers Candidate process (OCS) if he qualified to be a pilot candidate; at the time, the Air Force was only taking pilot candidates for OCS (00:02:20:00) o Tuck went to the center and took a series of tests and after the first three hours, he wondered what else more could they test him on (00:02:40:00) o Test involved looking at moon graphs, cloud cover, picking out sights on photographs and answering questions and out of the twenty-four testtakers, only two, including Tuck, qualified for the pilot process (00:02:57:00)  Went to Selfridge Air Force Base for a physical and discovered that he had elevated blood pressure, so the Air Force required him to get blood pressure readings for the following weeks (00:03:16:00) o Found a doctor that would do the readings for Tuck; instead of paying Tuck, using his construction experience, traded for free readings (00:03:32:00) o Received a clean bill of health, went back through and was signed up for the delayed enlistment program (00:03:47:00)  In Fall of 1969, he went down to Lackland Air Force Base after being processed through Detroit and spent the next ninety days in officers training (00:03:59:00) �   o During officers training, the military came out with the lottery system for the draft and the trainees were told that if they wanted to drop out of the program and take their chances with the lottery, they could and several did; Tuck’s number in the lottery was eight, so he was going either way (00:04:22:00) OCS consisted of a long day; got up at five o’clock in the morning and be dressed and ready for the chow line by six o’clock (00:04:52:00) o They marched everywhere in formation and when eating, they had three minutes to eat from when the food was placed in front of them until they had to be back outside in formation (00:05:06:00) o They had to sit at attention while eating and Tuck got into a bad habit of eating too fast for years following his service (00:05:20:00) o They had portion of the day dedicated to marching in formation, calisthenics, running and then about six hours of academics; the days were exhausting and it never seemed like they got enough sleep (00:05:44:00) o Had some very valuable lessons, including a lesson that that has followed him; a class on resistance to change (00:06:08:00)  All the trainees in the class were upperclassmen in the last month of training and they were sitting in the classroom waiting for the instructor to begin when all the sudden, a strange officer came in, a captain they had never seen before, and began reading the riot act to the trainees, saying that nothing the trainees had done was right (00:06:22:00)  The regular instructor then came in laughing, saying that the trainees had just had their first lesson in resistance to change (00:06:57:00)  This was the factor that would be the plague of the trainees for most of their assignments; getting people to change and to overcome their natural instinct to resist (00:07:05:00)  The instructors were teaching them how to recognize the resistance to something that is different to a person’s routine (00:07:29:00)  They also taught the trainees more management processes and how to deal with people (00:07:57:00) The Air Force was unique in that a lot of it was run like a business; some of the newer officers understood this and some of the older officers did not have the training or the skills, a fact that was evident to Tuck when he got into the field, especially in Southeast Asia (00:08:03:00) From OCS, he went directly to pilot training at Del Rio Air Force Base in Texas, where he started out in the T-41, essentially a military version Cessna 172, to learn the basics of flying a plane (00:08:36:00) o Moved up to the T-37, a twin seat jet aircraft, and then into more advanced aircraft; however, he ended up blacking out a four Gs; with such a low G tolerance, he was not able to continue in the pilot training process (00:09:03:00) �   From there, Tuck had a choice of critical career fields and he put in for missile launch officer and munitions maintenance officer and ended up receiving a munitions maintenance officer slot (00:09:33:00) Went through munitions training, a six month program with six hours of class everyday, in Denver, Colorado at Lowry Air Force Base (00:09:55:00) o They learned everything it seemed there was to learned about every weapons system on every aircraft that was operational at the time, along with all of the munitions, warfare agents, and nuclear weapon systems (00:10:13:00) o At the time, they needed a “top-secret” clearance to go through munitions school and Tuck discovered that the Air Force went back and talked to even his grade school teachers (00:10:37:00)  The investigators were concerned because he and his wife had taken a vacation to Florida and they could not account for where he was for the vacation (00:10:55:00)  He was eventually approved and was placed into the training program (00:11:10:00) During training, Tuck’s wife was back home for the most part, although for pilot training, she was with him at Del Rio (00:11:20:00) o They then moved into an apartment in Denver for his munitions training and their daughter was born in Denver at the Army Hospital (00:11:34:00) First Assignment (00:12:15:00)  After munitions school, he received his first assignment (00:12:15:00) o He was supposed to go to Minot, North Dakota but another trainee in the class received an assignment in Michigan, so the Air Force offered the two men the chance to switch assignments (00:12:20:00) o Since both men were from around the other’s assignment area, they switched and Tuck ended up going to Wurtsmith Air Force Base in Michigan (00:12:35:00) o He and his family’s first few days on base were quite an experience because they had to move into temporary house as the base did not have housing available (00:12:46:00)  They ended up staying in the old emergency response pilot quarters, a couple of old house trailers, and were awaken several times a night when B-52s would take off and land on the runway next to the building (00:13:08:00)  Tuck had two missions on the base: munitions services where he took care of the training of all the loading crews for the B-52s and later, he took over the weapons maintenance area where they maintained the weapons for both nuclear missions and conventional support (00:13:51:00) o Munitions referred to bombs and ammunition for the 20 mm gatling guns in the rear of the B-52 as well as wing-mounted missiles that the bombers had early on (00:14:36:00) o They also loaded conventional weapons for training missions (00:14:55:00) �       They also supported the alert missions, planes ready to take-off at a moment’s notice (00:15:10:00) o Tuck spent many nights on the flight line monitoring and making sure none of the weapons were sabotaged (00:15:19:00) o A lot of winter nights with heavy clothing, winter parkas and fighting to clear snow to load the munitions (00:15:50:00) They had a lot of emergency response drills, nearly two a month, when some agency would call (00:16:15:00) o One time when he was going to an emergency response, he heard over the radio that the mission was not a drill and that they were under attack (00:16:34:00) o Turned out that it was a mistake because someone in command had read the wrong message (00:16:56:00) o Tuck thought they were going to war because it was recently after the Pueblo Crisis (00:17:04:00) o Parts of the drills involved removing all the real munitions and putting on dummy munitions to test the response times of the operations (00:17:31:00) o Tuck had the responsibility of being the explosives safety officer, the nuclear safety officer, the ground safety officer and training the troops in properly using the equipment (00:17:52:00) The munitions maintenance portion consisted of forty men plus eight senior NCOs and when he moved into the bomb dump area, it was a smaller operation, with four two-man crews and four senior NCOs (00:18:21:00) o He ended up getting a commendation medal for the flight line operations portion in part due to one of his enlisted men being very detailed oriented (00:18:53:00) Essentially they did depot level maintenance in the field and the equipment was some of the best in the Air Force at the time (00:19:14:00) Most of the enlisted men were draftees, some of whom had come from other services (00:19:54:00) o The munitions program demanded a higher quality of enlisted personal and some of Tuck’s enlisted men were college graduates, meaning that Tuck had an intelligent group of men and the majority were very good at what they did (00:20:02:00) o They had a lot of people advance through the ranks rapidly because unlike some of the other forces, the Air Force gave promotions based on the soldier’s intellect (00:20:23:00) o The morale of the unit was were good; they rarely had any problems and part of this was due to the background checks performed on each man before he was admitted to the program (00:21:07:00) Was at Wurtsmith from November 1970 until 1972 (00:21:44:00) They did not have much exposure to the anti-war movement, partly because they were at a remote base, removed from any large metropolitan areas (00:22:18:00) o The movement really had not been getting into the full process while he was in college, even though there was fifty thousand students at Michigan �  State, although there were few people at the university around the fringe who were anti-war (00:22:31:00) Eighteen months was a long time for an officer with a munitions background to be in one place (00:23:19:00) o Tuck had another senior officer partner who was eligible to get out of the military, did manage to get out but after two weeks, called the commander of the squadron, wanting to come back to the Air Force (00:23:27:00) o The Air Force got him back in and immediately went to EOD school and that was Tuck’s first experience working with explosives (00:24:04:00)  The two were responsible for disposing of outdated munitions, so in the middle of winter, they went out to the EOD range (00:24:19:00)  They had a few thousands pen-gun flares to dispose of which they sent a good amount of time shooting into the clearing before deciding to blow the flares up instead of burning them, which would have taken more time (00:25:01:00)  When they set off the explosives, the sky was filled with thousands of lit pen-gun flares (00:25:46:00) o Most of his time was spent responding to the alerts that they had all the time (00:26:19:00) Eventually he received his orders to go to Southeast Asia (00:26:26:00) o He had had a little exposure to what was going on in Southeast Asia because he had a tech sergeant assigned to him who had worked for the CIA and Air America as a gun plumber on the C-47’s, maintaining the gatling guns (00:26:32:00)  The sergeant had had two tours in Southeast Asia working for the CIA and each time he had to resign from the military to do the secret missions although he was paid quite well, roughly equivalent to $80,000 -$90,000 dollars, tax free (00:27:00:00)  The sergeant told the others a lot about what was happening in Southeast Asia although he was a quite guy and he did not talk a lot about what he actually did, apart from the benefits he received and the environmental issues he faced while living over there (00:27:28:00) o Tuck was originally supposed to go to Da Nang Air Force Base, where at the time, they were bombing right of the end of the runway because the enemy was so close to the base (00:28:15:00) o He had a thirty day layover in Denver for a refresher course for conventional munitions and during that time, his orders where changed to go to Takhli Air Force Base in Thailand because the unit he had been assigned to, the 366th Tank Fighter Squadron, had moved to the base (00:28:27:00) Takhli (00:28:48:00)  When he arrived at Takhli, they were still renovating the base, meaning that they did not have any of the comforts that they would eventually have (00:28:48:00) �    He worked nights from six pm to six am and they were loading aircraft all night long (00:29:05:00) There was also a contingent of Air America at the base, which was an interesting operation to watch (00:29:20:00) o The pilot would taxi up to their loading area, stick his head out of the window while smoking a cigar, reverse the spin of the propellers and back the plane up to where others would load the plane with supplies, including chickens, pigs, bombs, munitions, and rice (00:29:28:00) o The pilot would get out of the aircraft with bandoliers across his chest, pistols on his hips and wearing Bermuda shorts and flower shirts (00:30:01:00) o The others on the base knew that they were flying goods into the Montagnard people in the Highlands (00:30:35:00) Tuck did know what the missions were of the planes that he was loading with munitions (00:31:48:00) o The planes were doing a lot of bombing and he saw of the strike films because his portion of the operation was in direct support of the activity and if there were any munitions that did not perform, he needed to know (00:31:51:00) o There was a count taken after every mission and if on occasion the munitions came back, they met the planes when they landed (00:32:10:00) o They had aircraft returning damaged and Tuck’s roommate said that seeing a SAM fired looked like a white picket fence coming towards the aircraft (00:32:30:00)  If the missile did not impact, they had a proximity fuse that caused it to explode and throw shrapnel into the aircraft (00:32:54:00) They also had a squadron of F-111s on the base as part of the Air Force’s determination of the effective ability of the rapid dispersement of the F-111, which was relatively new to the Air Force inventory (00:33:07:00) o They were supposed to have the eight aircraft fly across the ocean, land, reload the aircraft, and immediately turn around and do another mission within twenty-four hours (00:33:35:00) o On the first mission, of the eight aircraft, they launched three and only one returned (00:33:55:00) o It was interesting to hear how the pilots claimed the others were shot down, which they claimed was the golden BB (00:34:05:00)  The planes had terrain-following radar and they flew just above the tree tops, so someone happened to fire up and hit something in the right place (00:34:12:00) o On the second mission, one plane came back and the entire bottom of aircraft was torn up; there was not a single square inch of metal that was not twisted or destroyed (00:34:40:00)  Tuck talked with the pilots, who explained that they “experienced some turbulence” and they had no idea the bottom of the aircraft looked the way it did (00:34:57:00) �       They had received missile lock-on warnings, jettisoned their bombs, dove to avoid the missiles and ended up running into their own bombs as they impacted the ground below (00:35:11:00) He saw a lot of aircraft that he was amazed could even return to the base (00:35:35:00) They lost just a few aircraft; it was not very often that they lost an aircraft (00:35:45:00) o However, one time he had a pilot talk to him, questioning how the bombs were hung on his plane; he was carrying napalm canisters which have a white phosphorous fuse that was set up differently then other fuses (00:35:53:00) o That plane did not return from the mission and that was one time that Tuck personally talked to someone that they lost (00:36:30:00) At Takhli, they lived in barracks built with slotted exterior walls and were partially screened (00:36:53:00) o It was an experience sleeping in them, especially during the day because it was so hot that that they just laid on the sheets after wiping off the gecko dung because geckos lived in the rafters of the barracks, eating the bugs (00:37:08:00)  Also, the Thai Air Force had old F-86 aircraft and they did practice flying over the barracks and it woke the men up when aircraft when screaming over the buildings (00:37:36:00) o Tuck would get off at six o’clock in the morning and try to get as much sleep as he could before it became super hot (00:38:04:00) Takhli was about eighty kilometers north of Bangkok (00:38:23:00) o There was a fairly sizable town right next to the base and once in a while, some of the men would go down and eat at a local restaurant (00:38:31:00) o He had a chief master sergeant assigned to the squadron whose girlfriend was a wealth Thai lady, who would come to the base with her Mercedes and chauffer to pick the sergeant up and take him into town (00:38:47:00)  She owned a fleet of five hundred vehicles that were leased the U.S. military to use on the base (00:39:05:00)  They had two parties in the town that she paid for in celebration of the sergeant’s birthday (00:39:16:00) Takhli was a base of pretty good size; they had five squadrons of F-4s, although one was in revetments but when he got to Udon, all the squadrons were in revetments (00:39:43:00) o Udon Air Force Base was a larger, better built base that had been in place for a long period of time (00:40:12:00) He had a couple of incidences at Takhli that scared him (00:40:21:00) o One night he was doing his monitoring of the loading crews when he drove up behind one of the door crews and he could see that they were loading the wrong side of the aircraft but they were too far along for him to stop them (00:40:28:00) �  Just as he drove up, they positioned the munitions to be locked into place on the pylon and the other part of the lift truck punctured the wing tank on the F-4, shooting fuel out twenty feet and all over the bomb lift truck driver (00:40:57:00)  Tuck called for a wash-down truck and the flight ops people came down in their van while the fuel leak had spread to around sixty feet in diameter (00:41:22:00)  When one of the flight ops men got out of the fan, he threw down his cigarette right in the middle of the fuel leak and Tuck thought that they were done for but the man put the cigarette out (00:41:45:00) o Another night, he was driving down the flight line monitoring the aircraft and he saw a bomb convoy, aircraft tow vehicles used to pull bomb trailers, trucking down the line when one of the bomb trailers detached (00:42:01:00)  Tuck is following behind and calling the op’s people (00:42:35:00)  The trailer traveled two or three hundred feet and it sheered off the nose cone off of the nose cone of the tip tank of an F-4, dumping out all three hundred gallons of fuel and stopped an inch or so from the nose gear of the plane; thankfully nothing happened (00:42:42:00)  They had around one hundred airplanes, fully fueled and armed and an explosion could have been a problem (00:43:15:00) There were military police with dogs that monitored the perimeter of the base and every once in a while, they would hear bullets hit the metal roof of the building (00:43:38:00) o However, the bullets were fired from so far away that all their momentum was sent (00:43:53:00) o They never had an issue at Takhli (00:44:02:00) Udon (00:44:12:00)  At one point, they did a rapid deployment from Takhli to Udon with one of their squadrons (00:44:12:00) o They were all marshaled to C-123 aircraft and in the plane were nothing but cargo palettes and the men had to sit on the palettes and although they flight was not long, it was an experience (00:44:24:00)  His son was born while he was in Thailand and he received R&R and an emergency return to the United States (00:45:17:00) o He flew from Thailand to Vietnam to the Philippines to Guam in the back of a C-141 aircraft, sitting on a fold-down shelf next to a jet engine, before going to the United States (00:45:27:00)  The Thai people were really friendly (00:46:05:00) o He had maid service for his quarters for eight to ten bucks a month; the maid washed his clothes, shined his boots and swept out the room and she �     spoke enough English so that Tuck learned a little about the local culture (00:46:12:00) o He never saw any hostility from the locals, even when he took a three day R&R to Bangkok (00:46:45:00)  He had an accommodating taxi driver whose fee was only two or three bottles of cheap booze and he drove Tuck everywhere that Tuck wanted to go (00:46:57:00)  The taxi driver set up the hotel for Tuck and even negotiated the price (00:47:38:00)  Tuck found the driver by chance when he arrived at the bus depot, which had a mob of taxi drivers around it and when Tuck asked the man’s price, he said he wanted the booze, so they went to the base PX and Tuck bought three bottles of the booze (00:47:52:00)  The driver even took him to a nice French restaurant, although Tuck suspects that all the places the driver took him gave the driver kick-backs for delivering a customer (00:48:26:00)  The driver took him to the water gardens and waited while Tuck took the tour (00:48:38:00) The main thing the men were taught regarding keeping safe when off base was dealing with hookers and drugs (00:49:02:00) o The Air Force gave them an indoctrination at each base, telling them where the problems were, certain areas outside the gate that they did not want to use the taxi and in what locations to stay away from the women (00:49:12:00) o The men were told that they could get anyone killed for a carton of cigarettes but if the men were smart about what they were doing, they could avoid all that (00:49:41:00) One time, he took a ride in a pedal powered cab down a highway, something that he will never do again because riding in the cab with truck convoys and the large amounts of traffic was quite an experience (00:50:01:00) The drainage ditches were sewage and the water was so filthy that he could not see the bottom and could see the water moving from insects (00:50:36:00) o Once, he was on a boat near the market when a young boy dove into the dirty water and swimming up to the boat, tried to sell things to the passengers (00:51:02:00) He rode a train from Udon down to Bangkok for his flight out on one R&R where he went back to the United States and people were cooking in woks in the middle of the cars and the train stopped at every road crossing, making an eighty to ninety mile trip take thirteen hours (00:51:34:00) The men in his unit were very similar to the men he had served with back in the United States, just more of them (00:52:24:00) o When he moved from Takhli to Udon, he became the munitions services officer, who was in charge of loading operations, the weapons systems maintenance operation and the weapons reload operation, and he had almost five hundred soldiers working for him (00:52:30:00) �    The first experience of going to Udon was quite a big one because the morning after his first night on duty, he had to go and talk with the squadron commander, a major (00:53:07:00) o He went into the major’s morning briefing room and all the senior NCOs and officers assigned to the squadron were in the room in a circle and Tuck read them the statistics from the previous missions, including how many planes they had loaded and a list of accomplishments (00:53:25:00) o As Tuck reported, the major exploded and gave a tirade for a few minutes before storming out the door; the room was silent for a moment then everyone laughed and they told Tuck he had been initiated (00:53:54:00) Turned out that the major’s tour was short-lived because a few days later, the inspector-general arrived at the base, the first time this had ever happened (00:54:23:00) o The major met the inspector-general, a colonel, on the flight line and after a short conversation where the major berated the colonel, the colonel said that he wanted the major off the base by sundown; it was the quickest justice Tuck ever saw in the military (00:54:43:00) o The next morning, Tuck received a call from the wing commander, wanting to know where a representative from the munitions squadron was at the wing commander’s briefing (00:55:11:00) o Tuck went to the major’s office where the major’s assistant, a captain, was out cold drunk on the floor and Tuck went to the wing commander’s meeting and explained what was going on (00:55:28:00) Things settled down at Udon following the incident with the major (00:55:58:00) o The next officer turned out to be a former missile launch officer who had been in a missile silo in the Western United States for eighteen years and in charge of only a very small contingent of people (00:56:03:00) o At Tuck’s first briefing, he went in and gave the officer a rundown of the night before, including the number of men in jail and the number of men in the hospital for VD treatments (00:56:19:00)  The officer just sat there shaking his head, looking at the desk and saying “you’re trying to get me fired” repeatedly (00:56:38:00)  The officer had a real awakening because he had never been in charge of a munitions operation of six hundred soldiers, which involved a lot of responsibility and although he grew into the role, it was initially a shock to his system (00:56:49:00) However, there still were accidents on the flight line (00:57:26:00) o One day, Tuck was driving down the line monitoring the crews and down the line, he saw a crew unloading a “Mur”, six five-hundred pound bombs, from a trailer, with three bombs on each side (00:57:33:00)  One of the crew took the tie-down strap and threw it over the side of the trailer while the lift truck was picking up the six bombs and backing away; the tie-down accidentally hooked itself onto the “Mur” and also a “Tur” (00:57:58:00) �    A “Mur” is six bombs loaded onto a rack that locked center-line on the F-4; A “Tur” is three bomb clusters that locked onto the wing pylon (00:58:22:00)  Tuck watched in slow motion as the load truck backed up and the “Tur” tipped over and smashed the fuses on the front of the bomb (00:58:49:00)  It was a “thanks” moment where they were thankful that they had really good fuse designs that required arming before they would detonate (00:59:03:00) o Another incident occurred at night when a weapons maintenance crew was checking the arming system on an aircraft (00:59:21:00)  One of the crew unscrewed the cartridge retainers on the pylon and one came out without any cartridge in it (00:59:44:00)  The man assumed that they had forgot to put the cartridge in initially when in fact the cartridge had stuck inside the container and when the man signaled the pilot to test, the cartridge shot off in his face (00:59:52:00)  The man was shivering and shaking in shock because he thought he was going to die although the wounds turned out to be superficial (01:00:18:00)  After taking the man to the hospital, Tuck reported to the squadron commander, who was drinking with the his second in commander and did not seem to care (01:00:31:00) Was in Thailand from 1972 to 1973 (01:01:08:00) The politics came to light towards the end of his assignment in Southeast Asia (01:01:26:00) o When he became the munitions services officer and got more involved with the operations and missions and saw some of the strike films, there was a lot more talk of the politics of the war, especially [Johnson’s] philosophy and how it was relayed to the men (01:01:36:00)  [Johnson’s] philosophy was that the Communists know the Americans have the ability to wipe them out and since they know that, then the Communists should just give up (01:02:11:00) o There was discussion toward the later days of the war that the American prisoners were being treated well because the Communists though the American military was going to go in and take over Hanoi when all of the sudden, the United States changed gears and pulled out when they could have essentially won the war (01:02:39:00) The missions that Tuck saw towards the end of the operation were ridiculous (01:03:14:00) o He saw pictures of airports were nothing but a series of craters and they would stack up three or four squadrons of fully-loaded F-4s that would spiral around the airport and drop their bombs because theoretically there was a line through the craters were a MiG fighter could take off and make a strike (01:03:24:00) �    o They also saw pictures of the Ho Chi Minh Trail and those roads and trails were bombed extensively, to the point that they were merely rearranging the craters (01:04:05:00)  The North Vietnamese were moving all the cargo on bicycles, so all they did was go around the new craters (01:04:26:00) o Thousands of tons bombs were dropped on similar targets, where if the bombs had been dropped on primary targets, the war would have been over sooner; the politicians did not want to bomb the targets that made a difference (01:04:36:00) o They seemed to blow up a lot of jungle and nothing was accomplished (01:04:52:00) However, he did see some strike film where there were against some meaningful targets (01:05:00:00) o One of the films was after they had the Maverick missile assigned to the war environment (01:05:06:00)  The Maverick was a TV monitored and targeted missile in which the pilot used a small TV screen to target where he wanted the missile to go (01:05:18:00)  One of the strike films showed the pilot targeting a tunnel opening in the side of the mountain and they saw the missile fly into the opening and a few seconds later, the entire top of the mountain came off because there was a large munitions dump within the mountain (01:05:32:00)  Because the targeting was all central-seeking, the missile followed all the way through the mountain until it found the target (01:05:57:00) o Eventually the decree came down from command that since each Maverick cost $25,000 apiece, they could only use the missile against targets that were more valuable than the missile (01:06:13:00) Politics played a huge role and were usually to the detriment of accomplishing the mission (01:06:28:00) o It did not really have much effect on the men; day in and day out, they did their job without much grumbling (01:06:43:00) o Usually it was more an issue of Tuck not letting them take naps inbetween servicing aircraft (01:06:54:00) There was very little drug use; largest problem was alcohol and they later found that some alcoholics hid bottles of liquor on the flight line and were drunk to the point that they did not know which aircraft to load the munitions on (01:07:32:00) Race was hardly ever even talked about; they had a mixed race make-up of the crews and he never really saw problems (01:08:20:00) o He did have a tech sergeant at Wurtsmith who he had to discipline because the sergeant was a alcoholic African-American who claimed that their decisions were based on race, although the decisions were not and the sergeant ended up being forced out of the Air Force (01:08:39:00) �     Always viewed the Air Force as the elite of the military; they operated under a much more business-like environment than the other armed forces (01:09:48:00) o He did not know a lot about the Air Force before signing up (01:10:12:00) o He had some fascination with the airplane aspect of the military and the Air Force seemed like a much better way to go than the Infantry (01:10:21:00) o He never cared much for the water, so he the Navy was out (01:10:43:00) One humorous event happened in Thailand (01:11:08:00) o One day he was driving around the end of the runway to get to the operations side of the base from the housing side to get to work, a three or four mile ride on a bicycle (01:11:12:00) o He had bought a ten-speed Japanese bike and had ridden it for several months, meaning he was in good condition, and on the way to work, he got behind a Thai biker with his wife sitting in the back of the bike (01:11:33:00) o Tuck decided to go around him and when he pulled out to go around the Thai biker speed up and kept ahead of Tuck (01:12:02:00) o Tuck pedaled a little faster and shifted down a gear while the wife sat on the back of the bike smiling; for the next two miles, Tuck pedaled flat out and the Thai biker kept ahead of him (01:12:12:00) o The Thai biker chuckled, waved, and rode off, which humiliated Tuck because he could not keep up (01:12:37:00) Another assignment he had was investigating crimes on base and one time there had been the theft of all furnishings inside a building on the base, so Tuck was called in to do the investigation review and give a recommendation (01:13:07:00) o There were two guards posted at the end of the driveway across the road from the building that was burglarized and Tuck’s recommendation was that the two guards be required to ask people who were moving equipment on or off base because there had been a crime committed in full view of guards on base and no one said anything (01:13:32:00) Usually their most exciting, or apprehensive, issues occurred at the end of the runway (01:14:18:00) o One time they had a returning aircraft landed and the bombs dropped off the pylons and slid down the runway towards Tuck’s crew, arming as they went (01:14:34:00)  The bombs stopped just before they got to the area where they would have gone off if they had been contacted (01:14:50:00)  The bombs did not drop off when the ejector cartridges activated, which was why the bombs returned on the aircraft (01:15:07:00)  The racks have cams that went down and locked onto the bomb and for whatever reason, the cams did not release (01:15:23:00) There were scary moments that were almost bad things, although there had been incidents in Vietnam earlier in the war when the bombs used were from World War II and had been shipped in from Europe (01:15:59:00) o The explosive liquid leached out of the filler used to make it into a safe compound, essentially creating nitroglycerine, and whenever the liquid �  came out of the filler plugs, it crystallized and if anything jolted the bombs, they exploded (01:16:15:00) o They saw film of instances when the forklift dropped the bomb off into the munitions revetment, the nitroglycerine exploded and the crews working at the time evacuated to protection (01:16:49:00)  However, the pressure wave from the explosions flipped their vehicles over and killed them all (01:17:28:00) o In another case, one of the bombs dropped in the middle of the flight line and took out all of the aircraft (01:17:38:00) By the time he received his orders to return to the United States, Tuck was ready to go home because a year was long enough (01:17:59:00) o He received a new assignment to report to missile defense command at Griffiths Air Force Base in New York, which was a whole different operation; the squadron’s mission was to essentially repel Soviet “Bear” bomber attacks on the east coast (01:18:08:00) o He was the munitions services officer and reported directly to the wing commander; on previous assignments, he had had a senior officer between him and the wing commander and this would be his final assignment (01:18:41:00) o Griffiths was just about in the middle of the state, in Rome, New York (01:19:12:00) o He had had some training opportunities there for the 106 aircraft and they also had inventory from Bangor, Maine (01:19:24:00) He had another experience with politics in the upper echelon of the military that occurred at Griffiths (01:19:43:00) o They had a surprise inspection of the base from the inspector-general and they came in and inspected the base a week after Tuck arrived (01:19:53:00) o They came in an inspected the base based on depot-level maintenance criteria rather than on fuel-level criteria; it was obvious that the whole intent was to remove the wing commander from the position and eliminate his possibility of becoming a general (01:20:07:00) o Tuck had to respond to the inspector-general on the majority of the issue that were classified as so serious that they that could not complete their mission; when they did research on the criteria from the depot-level maintenance books, it was clearly a mechanism to get rid of the wing commander (01:20:31:00) o Within the thirty days that they had to correct the deficiencies, they changed the processes to meet the criteria (01:21:04:00) o It was interesting to see how the process worked and the politics that when through the upper echelons to get positions (01:21:25:00) Discharge / Post-Military Life (01:21:47:00)  At the time, there was an effort to get the non-pilot personnel out of the military because as the Vietnam War slowed down, there were a large number of pilots coming back to the United States without positions to fill and because they had �   spent so much developing the pilots, the Air Force wanted to find them positions (01:21:47:00) o One decision that was poor on Tuck’s part after he got out was that he was offered a position teaching at Michigan State in the ROTC program but he was in the middle of building a house and he passed (01:22:12:00) He probably would not have joined the military had there not been a draft going on at the time (01:22:52:00) The total experience of management was greater than anything he had ever received; when others question how he can stay calm in stressful environments, he tells them that they have no idea what real stress is (01:23:06:00) o He gained a level of maturity that sometimes takes a lifetime to accomplish (01:23:43:00) When he got out of the military, he went to work for his wife’s uncle in a manufacturing process making pre-cast concrete products and pre-cast countertop systems (01:23:57:00) o He went on to become a licensed residential builder, which was what his degree from Michigan State was and in a slow period in building, he was asked to take on the role at the NA lumber yard as the general manager (01:24:11:00) o Later, he was offered the position of a rehabilitation loan officer for the city of Battle Creek, which he did for four years, when one day his boss came in, said that they had fired the supervisor for the inspection division and told Tuck to go down and take the job until they found a replacement; he had the job for the rest of his career with the city (01:24:45:00) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context TuckK Title A name given to the resource Tuck, Kim (Interview outline and video), 2009 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tuck, Kim Description An account of the resource Kim Tuck was born in 1946 in Battle Creek, Michigan. After graduating from Michigan State University, he enlisted in the Air Force and completed officer training as a munitions officer. Following training, he served as a munitions officer at several bases around the country and the world, including a year's tour at bases in Thailand from 1972 to 1973. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American United States. Air Force Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2009-08-05 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/2d88727073214362a279453842b30deb.mp4 53d98020d50acb6332010adbe2947811 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/5e739863199a53d9aacf095e39f97471.pdf 183ad761a0dc0a57d1928a0b530817b7 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans' History Project James Turner Cold War 1 hour 36 minutes 33 seconds (00:00:13) Early Life -Born on March 8, 1940 in Guntown, Mississippi -One of 13 children -Moved to Missouri when he was four years old -Lived there for one year -Moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan when he was five years old -Family of migrant workers -Lucrative fruit farms in Benton Harbor area -Older brothers worked in the automotive industry -Father got a factory job at Superior Steel -Went to school in Benton Harbor -In the summers the family went down to Missouri to pick cotton -Came back late to school near the end of October every year -Attended a one room school for kindergarten through the sixth grade -Went to Bard Elementary School in Benton Harbor -Had to repeat the fifth grade because of missing some of school due to work -No program to make up school work -Remembers some student that had to repeat eighth grade -One brother was 17 years old and still in the ninth grade -Left school and joined the military -Enjoyed working in Missouri as a child -Taught him to love work -Coincidentally, he wound up working at Bard Elementary School in 1995 -Remembers the family member that picked the most cotton got an additional 50 cents -Sometimes he got the 50 cents, but wound up sharing it with his brothers and sisters -Visited New Madrid, Missouri on the weekends when the family was in Missouri -Always a lot of fun -Remembers a huge flood in Missouri -Only a barn on a hill escaped the flood -Remembers over one hundred people staying in the barn to escape the water (00:07:29) Race Relations Pt. 1 -Too young to be aware of racial tensions in Missouri -Black and white people worked the cotton fields together -Bard Elementary School was integrated -Slightly more black students than white students -Best friend was a white boy -Killed in a hunting accident (00:09:18) Early Life Pt. 2 -Graduated from Benton Harbor High School -Played basketball at Bard Elementary School -Played with Chet Walker, now in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame -James is featured in a photo in a book about Chet Walker �-Lived in the government housing projects (government apartments) in Benton Harbor -Good place to live at the time and better than living on a farm (indoor plumbing for one thing) -Remembers a lot of friends lived in the apartments -Had sports teams for recreation -Played tennis at Hall Park -Curiosity in the 1950s for black people to play tennis -Went on to play tennis at Lake Michigan College and in the Air Force -He was the first black captain of the junior varsity basketball team -Only lasted one week due to local political pressure -Played football in the summers -Remembers one boy began to hate James after James critiqued his passing abilities -He became the starting running back in junior varsity high school football team -When he was in the upper class he got snubbed for a varsity position because of local politics -When he was in the Air Force he played basketball -Played against a team from the Greenland air base -The kid that hated him played on the Greenland air base team -Graduated from high school in 1958 -Tried to enlist in the Army -Rejected due to high blood pressure -Went to Lake Michigan College -At the time it was called “Benton Harbor Community College & Technical Institute” -Graduated from there after two years (00:20:23) Enlisting in the Air Force -Enlisted in the Air Force after graduating from college -Sneaked in a pencil to change his blood pressure records -Went on to have a successful, 20 year career in the Air Force -Having high blood pressure never gave him any problems (00:21:39) Racial Relations Pt. 2 -Racial tension caused stress which led to high blood pressure -Wasn't a problem when he was overseas due to a more integrated environment -Experienced racism and tension at Benton Harbor High School -More white students coming in from the surrounding area -This led to black students being the minority -By the 1980s the black students were the majority -Didn't have a black professor until he got to Jarvis Christian College in Hawkins, Texas -Remembers black teachers and their families moving up to Benton Harbor -As time progressed, jobs vanished, followed by government programs, which led to poverty (00:27:11) Chaplain's Assistant & Military Police in the Air Force -When he first went into the Air Force he wanted to be in the Military Police -Guaranteed he would get that position by the recruiter -Got to Lackland Air Force Base and was told he would go into administration, not MP -Future brother-in-law advised him to talk to Representative Henry B. Gonzalez -Talked to the general at Lackland Air Force Base on James's behalf -While he was waiting to hear about the MP position he helped in the chapel -Learned that there were positions available to help in the chapel and help the chaplain -Went to a technical school to serve as a chaplain's assistant -When he was in Turkey he conducted tours of the Holy Land and other religious locations -Retraced the path of St. Paul's first missionary journey -Visited Bethlehem, Jerusalem, the Church of Antioch, Nazareth, and Mount Ararat �-Stood on the banks of the Tigris, Euphrates, and Nile Rivers -Surreal to be in places he'd learned about in school -Eventually sent to a university after he returned from Turkey -Studied police administration, law enforcement security, and correction -Went through Officer Training and the Police Academy -Served as the project officer when Bunker Hill Air Force Base became Grissom Air Force Base -Remembers being there on April 4, 1968 when Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated -After Dr. King's assassination racial tensions flared at the base -A black airman and a white airman got into a fist fight -They were brought before him which led to an idea -Started the first ever human relations council and race relations program (00:34:01) Basic Training -Enjoyed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base -Whole life changed in a matter of days -Had never had that kind of structure -Only two other black recruits in his training flight -Technical sergeant was a “redneck,” but he made sure everyone was treated equally -Everyone looked the same regardless of race when they had shaved heads and uniforms -Everyone had to meet certain standards -If you couldn't keep up you were discharged -Enjoyed the sense of fairness -He was placed in charge of the men cleaning the latrines -Didn't mind washing dishes when he pulled kitchen patrol duty -Always wanted to work on the pots and pans -Nobody ever bothered him when he cleaned pots and pans -Pots and pans shined when he was done -Gratifying to see immediate results of a job well done (00:39:35) Race Relations Pt. 3 -Received race relations training in the Air Force -In 1971 the Department of Defense created the Defense Race Relations Institute -James worked there which led to getting selected to work in the Nixon administration -Assistant to President Nixon's secretary of defense -Told James race relations were so bad in the military national security was at stake -Race relations classes lasted 40 hours for one week -Had to repeat the classes if necessary -Helped the Department of Defense become the first government institute to integrate race and gender -Military has become an environment where race relations can be successful (00:42:33) Benton Harbor School Board & Race Relations -He is now a member of the Benton Harbor School Board -Benton Harbor's high school football team had only won 22 games in 13 years -Had lived in Texas for 13 years -Knew the new coach and the athletic director -First game of the season (away) the team lost -Next game was at home, and the team won -Won the game after that, and the game after that -Boys on the team regained their confidence -Some of the black people in Benton Harbor didn't like having a white coach -He defended the coach because he helped the boys regain the confidence -Victories brought the community together again �-Brought in people from the surrounding area that had gone to Benton Harbor High School (00:49:50) Service as a Chaplain's Assistant Pt. 1 -Chaplain's assistant does clerical work for the chaplain -Laid vestments out for priest (he is Catholic) -Conducted mass a few times because the chaplain was not available -Chapel conducted Dynamic Moral Leadership courses for personnel on the base -Everyone had to go to those classes -Played films about scenarios then discussed the scenarios -Inspired him to get into race relations and human relations work in the Air Force -Showed him that communication was key to dealing with issues (00:52:56) Race Relations Pt. 4 -Best race relations classes were when airmen were open and honest in the discussions -Worked with a master sergeant to help teach the airmen -Remembers a white sergeant that complained about things during Black History Month -Felt Soul Food should be called “Southern Food” because he ate it growing up too -Why did the base have to play “black music” during Black History Month? -In another class they discussed interracial marriage -Same racist sergeant from earlier opposed to interracial marriage -One female airman said her fiance was a black man -Sergeant went to the other end of the room to be away from her -Remembers a black airman saying it was always difficult for him to encounter a “good” white person -Felt like he was supposed to unconditionally hate white people -Taught 10,000 personnel during his time in race relations -Saw it as a war he had to fight with the people (00:58:15) Patriotism & Black Veterans Pt. 1 -In 2010 he started to work with black Americans on patriotism -Started the Glad to be American National Association -Trying to teach black Americans to participate and be proud of being American -Remembers running into an old friend that was a black veteran, but he never showed it -He didn't feel patriotic because he fought alongside other black soldiers and white soldiers -Came home to racism, discrimination, and police brutality -On the anniversary of 9/11 he conducts a commemoration at Benton Harbor High School -Lowers the flag to half mast at the time when the first jet hit the first tower -Had 500 people come for the commemoration (01:02:36) Terrorism in Europe -Worked as the police chief in Spain then worked at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany -Stationed in Germany from 1976 to 1978 -Dealt with the Baader-Meinhof Gang and the Red Brigades -Terrorist groups robbed banks and carried out bombings -Assassinated a German industrialist -Hijacked a Lufthansa airliner -The terrorists wanted to get a hold of American “special weapons” at Spangdahlem Air Base -James was responsible for keeping the terrorists off the base -Stressful because his family and other American families lived on the base -Served as the terrorist threat liaison at Spangdahlem Air Base -Worked with local German police and the FBI -Difficult job -In Turkey he worked with Muslims when he was a chaplain's assistant -The Muslims admired him and some of the men wanted him to convert to Islam �-They explained, in 1965, that they were going to kill all Christians and Westerners -Shocked him that they felt that way -Saw their plans come to fruition on September 11, 2001 -Which in turn made him want to memorialize 9/11 in a formal way -Now he talks about his firsthand experiences with terrorism and terrorist mentalities (01:09:58) Stationed in Spain & American Bicentennial -He was in Spain from 1971 to 1976 -Started off working with the police then moved on to race relations -At the time American citizens living off the base could not fly the American flag -Even on July 4th -He reached out to the Spanish government because America's Bicentennial was fast approaching -Felt Americans ought to be able to celebrate their country's bicentennial -Knew someone who worked closely with King Juan Carlos I and General Francisco Franco -Told James he could talk to those men about the flag issue -On July 4, 1976, the Spanish government allowed Americans to fly the American flag (01:14:30) Patriotism & Black Veterans Pt. 2 -When he was a young recruit he laughed at older veterans that got emotional about patriotism -Now, he understands and feels the same way -Numerous black Americans have fought for the United States since the Revolutionary War -One of his uncles fought in World War I -An older brother fought in World War II -Received five Bronze Stars and had a metal plate in his head from wound he sustained -Three of his older brothers fought in the Korean War (01:17:57) Serving at the University of Michigan -Served as assistant professor of aerospace studies at the University of Michigan with the Air Force -Recruited minority students and minority students from the Detroit area -Talked to black high school students from Detroit -They excelled at math, but didn't believe in their abilities -Enjoyed working at the University of Michigan -Met with the governor of Michigan and state representatives (01:20:30) Work Ethic -Mother and sisters worked for the Whirlpool Corporation -Saw billboards in Europe advertising Whirlpool products -Proud that his relatives helped make that corporation successful -Parents and older siblings taught him to work hard and have aspirations (01:24:36) Service as a Chaplain's Assistant Pt. 2 -Worked as chaplain's assistant in New York -Wound up in the film The Hustler -Asked if he wanted to be in the movie as an extra -Movie wound up winning an Academy Award -He made $600 or $700 from working in the movie (01:26:46) Connection to the Tuskegee Airmen -Felt a powerful connection to the Tuskegee Airmen -Has met white bomber crewmen that were protected by the Tuskegee Airmen -Swore by those pilots -Knew the famous black flying ace Lt. Colonel Lee Archer -James's basketball coach at Stewart Air Force Base in New York -Made James the captain of the basketball team -Said that James should strive to become a captain in the Air Force �-Eventually became an officer in the Air Force (01:28:59) Becoming an Officer -First time he saw a black officer was at Stewart Air Force Base, New York -James introduced himself to the officer and they wound up talking for quite a while -Officer invited James to continue the conversation in his office -When they entered the law enforcement building everyone stood and saluted the officer -After he graduated from the police academy he reported for duty with the Military Police -Walked into the law enforcement building and everyone stood and saluted James -Never thought that he would be an officer -Black officer and Lt. Colonel Archer inspired him to become an officer (01:33:20) Work at Eastern Michigan University Pt. 1 -Took terminal leave from the University of Michigan to work at Eastern Michigan University -Interim minority affairs officer (01:33:54) Vandenberg Air Force Base -Prior to taking terminal leave from the University of Michigan he worked at Vandenberg AFB -His flight came in last in every competition and every field of study -He managed to turn them around and make them the first in everything (01:35:27) Work at Eastern Michigan University Pt. 2 -When he worked at Eastern Michigan University he received university and Air Force pay -Thought it was luck, but in reality it was because he worked so hard � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27_TurnerJ1909V Title A name given to the resource Turner, James F.A. (Interview outline and video), 2015 Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2015-12-08 Description An account of the resource James Turner was born on March 8, 1940 in Guntown, Mississippi. When he was five years old his family moved to Benton Harbor, Michigan. In 1960 (approximately) he enlisted in the Air Force. He received basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. After that he served as chaplain's assistant both in the United States and in Turkey where he conducted tours of the Holy Land and holy sites in the area. He went on to receive Officer Training and training from the Police Academy and got into the Military Police of the Air Force. He served in Spain as part of the Military Police and at Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany where he dealt with the Baader Meinhof Gang and Red Brigades (terrorist groups). He also served at Stewart Air Force Base, New York and at Bunker Hill Air Force Base, Indiana (now Grissom Air Force Base). During his 20 year career in the Air Force he also helped establish human relations courses and race relations courses, specifically with the Department of Defense and President Nixon's Secretary of Defense. He concluded his Air Force career at the University of Michigan where he worked in aerospace studies and recruited minority students. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Turner, James F.A. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American United States. Air Force Language A language of the resource eng Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Moving Image Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project collection, (RHC-27)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/">In Copyright</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University Libraries. Allendale, Michigan Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/8d57194e1e1e7b5b44e2e63ab75f8443.pdf 843f656363c5be77d148ed68c720af53 PDF Text Text Young   L ords   In  Lincoln  Park   Interviewee:  Linda  Turner   Interviewers:  Jose  Jimenez   Location:  Grand  Valley  State  University  Special  Collections   Date:  2015   Runtime:  00:38:33         Biography  and  Description   Oral  history  of  Linda  Turner,  interviewed  by  Jose  “Cha-­‐Cha”  Jimenez  in  2015  about  the  Young  Lords  in   Lincoln  Park.   Linda  Turner  was  born  in  1941  and  became  an  activist  in  1965  after  viewing  the  movie  Judgement  at   Nuremberg  which  she  said  was  followed  by  news  about  police  beating  demonstrators  during  the  civil   rights  March  to  Selma,  Alabama.  She  later  joined  the  Congress  of  Racial  Equality  (C.O.R.E.)  in  Chicago   headed  by  James  Foreman.     Her  first  action  was,  her  and  others  chaining  themselves  in  a  circle  at  McCormick  Place  in  downtown   Chicago  protesting  what  was  going  on  down  south  with  violations  of  the  civil  rights  of  Blacks.   She  went  to  Cuba  as  part  of  the  second  Venceremos  Brigade  of  about  800  volunteers  that  went  to  help   in  the  sugar  cane  harvest.  Upon  coming  back  she  participated  in  the  Young  Lords  Manuel  Ramos  March   �and  also  entered  McCormick  Theological  Seminary  during  the  full  week  take-­‐over  led  by  the  Young  Lords   with  the  Puerto  Rican  Community  and  other  Lincoln  Park  activists.  Linda  joined  the  People’s  Information   Center  which  like  the  Young  Lords  had  community  programs  modeled  after  the  Black  Panther  Survival   Programs  and  they  supported  the  Rainbow  Coalition.  She  describes  a  political  base  of  activists  being   formed  around  Halsted  from  Armitage  to  about  Lincoln  Avenue.       Linda  would  help  design  flyers  for  Chairman  Fred  Hampton,  sold  the  Panther  newspapers,  but  most   important  she  transcribed  depositions  of  Red  Squad  spies  for  the  People’s  Law  Office  while  they  were   being  prosecuted,  and  she  said  that  she  was  able  to  witness  many  of  the  infiltrators  who  she  had   thought  were  activists  but  were  in  fact  paid  spies.       �Transcript LINDA TURNER: -- this little suburban Evanston girl. F: (laughs) There you go. LT: Yeah. JOSE JIMENEZ: (inaudible) A suburban what? F: You asked about -- LT: No, so when are you starting? You got to say all go or -- (break in audio) JJ: Okay. Okay, Linda, if you want to give me your name and maybe the age and where you were born and that. LT: My name is Linda Turner, I was born in 1941. You do the math. And I became an activist in 1965. I remember precisely because it turned out to be a very momentous moment (laughs) for a lot of northern people to get involved in the civil rights movement that was going on down South. That was the first nationwide showing of the film Judgement at Nuremburg and when it ended and the, if you know the movie, it’s about the trial of Nazis who were responsible for exterminating millions of people in Germany, Austria, around. [00:01:00] Not only Jews but gypsies and communists and political enemies and gay people. Lots of folks. And at the end, you’re left with the message that if you care about people, you have, you can’t just sit back and let it happen. You have to be like the few good Germans and do something about it. Right after the movie ends, on comes the news and what’s on the news but Alabama state troopers plug, clubbing 1 �demonstrators on the Pettus Bridge in -- is it Alabama? Was it -- now I’ve forgotten -- Selma. They’re on their way to Selma, Alabama and that was my signal. I immediately connected. If I feel upset about people sitting by and not doing anything about injustices to someone, I had to get involved in this. So the next morning, I joined CORE. And within a week, we were at McCormick Place at the boat show that they, [00:02:00] the tourism show they held every year. I think this was the old one before that one -- I think it’s the one that burned down eventually. And we chained ourselves in a circle in front of the Alabama booth with the state trooper standing there. We ran a chain link through our coats so you didn’t see the chains until we got there and padlocked ourselves. So, the front page of the Tribune the next day was cops carrying out, because we went limp, carrying out these demonstrators (laughs) like sacks from McCormick Place. And we were jailed, got out the next day, we went back, did it again. No security there. They let us back in, we did it again. I remember the story because that night, I ate Chinese food and got a fortune in my fortune cookie that said you feel refreshed after a relaxing weekend and ready to tackle [00:03:00] the world. So, my feeling was I was active in CORE for a long time. From there, it kept growing. The anti-war movement, from the civil rights movement to the anti-war movement just like Dr. King and start making the connections between them. And I think once you’re an activist, it’s hard to stop being one. You’re always -JJ: What kind of work did you do in CORE? LT: Oh, I did in the ’80s, oh, well, ’70s, I went to Cuba. I’ve been to Cuba five times. 2 �So, when they make a big fuss about Beyonce and Jay-Z going to Cuba, anybody can really go to Cuba now. You can say, “I want to investigate the arts and culture of Cuba,” you can go. But I wish they would stop the blockade already. I’ve been involved in various ways of trying to end the blockade against Cuba for all these years. I was part of the Chicago Cuba Committee which did work on that that was, it was an educational organization. I went on the second [00:04:00] Venceremos Brigade; there were 700 of us. We cut sugarcane and I still have a picture of Fidel with his machete talking in this big circle of people and that was the brigade that I was on. We left just after Fred Hampton had been murdered, December of ’69, and we returned after cutting sugar cane and touring the island just before May Day of 1970. And when we returned, we were confronted with the fact of Manuel Ramos’ death. I don’t remember all the details. He was killed at a gigantic May Day march. Somewhere in my files of memorabilia, I have pictures of it with banners and everything. It was really beautiful. And we felt like we were, that was a connection between the struggle of the Cuban people, the Puerto Rican people, and all oppressed people, in Chicago, everywhere. [00:05:00] it was very moving. I went on to, at that time, a storefront community organization called the People’s Information Center opened and I became a part of that along with several other friends. We did programs that other participants in the Rainbow Coalition did. The Young Lords also. Breakfast for Children program, worked on a free people’s health clinic, just all kinds of good things in the community. JJ: Where was it located? 3 �LT: This was in Lincoln Park right on Halsted Street. On one side of us, we had the People’s Law Office which is a whole other story, and a few doors down, we had the women’s liberation, Chicago Women’s Liberation Union office. So, it was a very progressive block. And in fact, after urban renewal cleared the land between I think Dickens and [00:06:00] Armitage, there was a People’s Park built and I remember specifically a 26th of July celebration where we roasted a pig. I won’t describe how the pig was attired. And it just went on. I went into, I came into an organization of activists that did a lot of work against US intervention in Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala, for many years called the US Anti-Imperialist League. It was after -- there was initially many years ago an anti-imperialist league and that’s what it was named after. But we did a lot of film showings and sponsoring speakers, educating people. There were lots of demonstrations at consulates. There was always something going on. I’m trying to follow this chronologically [00:07:00] because for -- what else did I do during those years? I’ll probably remember later. I’m 71 years old so you gotta cut me some slack, you know? Every detail won’t be there in the right order. But about 12 years ago, I had to move to Las Vegas -- actually, I live in Henderson -- because my mother who at the time was almost 96 could no longer live alone. So, she moved from Florida and I moved from Chicago, leaving my daughter and my little grandbaby behind. And stayed with my mother and she lived another five years because she finally had her family around her. My brother lived there already so for the first time in many years, my brother and I and my mother were all together in the same neighborhood. So, it was a very good five years for her. She almost 4 �made it to 101. Now, I find so many of my friends are taking care of their mothers. It’s usually [00:08:00] the mothers. So that’s another link I have with friends is the experience of the reversal of the mother becomes the daughter and the daughter becomes the mother in a way. So that’s where I am now. I come to Chicago every year for a week to see my friends and family. But I’ve, my skin has got, my blood has gotten too thin to live here all year-round especially in the winter. So that’s why I am where I am. And there, whenever MoveOn has a demonstration whether it’s against gun violence or whatever legislation is coming up, I work on campaigns, work with OFA which has been, had many incarnations. Obama for America, Organizing for America, now it’s Organizing for Action. So, I just keep doing that because I feel that if I [00:09:00] stop doing that, I lose my connection with the world. And it kind of, it’s good exercise. Walking a picket line never hurt anybody if you can put one leg in front of the other so... JJ: So you came to CORE, from CORE -- LT: Yeah. JJ: -- in the, in ’60- -- LT: Right. I joined from CORE the next morning. It was headed by James Forman at the time. JJ: And was that located in Chicago? LT: In Chicago, yes. JJ: Okay. LT: And for a time, I was secretary of the organization and then there was Northside CORE, Westside, Southside, they had various branches. 5 �JJ: But I don’t understand. What was the difference between them and some of other civil rights -- LT: Well, Congress on Racial Equality didn’t limit itself to students. It was for all ages, it was very integrated. But there came a time, it was after the Black Power Movement, when there was pressure for white people to take, to especially step down from leadership positions. That it was time for Black people to lead their struggle. [00:10:00] I had no problem with that, so I did. Other people took office. But it didn’t mean that we weren’t supportive, white people who no longer officers or whatever in CORE. I liked the organization and I liked James Forman and it was very active at the time. JJ: What was he like in the -- LT: Well, I only met James Forman once very briefly. There’s actually a movie, I should press my brain and try to remember, that talks about his youth. Denzel Washington played a union organizer in it. The Young Debaters. If you ever get a chance to see it, it’s great because there’s a kid there who was a son of a minister who grows up to, who’s James Forman. And this kind of shows you how his introduction to things like the labor movement and debating. He was a very articulate and powerful speaker. He was part of the Black colleges debate that ended up win-- [00:11:00] beating the Ivy-League schools and winning a championship in debating. It’s very good skill to have so... JJ: Now, you mentioned Manuel Ramos and then you mentioned Fred Hampton. What do you recall of Fred Hampton? LT: Oh, I, because I knew him. I mean, I think it wasn’t even weeks, not even a 6 �week, before his death that I was the one that took a flyer that we had designed. There had been an attack by the Chicago police on the apartment that -- it wasn’t Fred Hampton’s apartment; it was an office or something. And let me think. So, there was a big rally planned on behalf of the people who had been injured and jailed from that raid, not the one that killed [00:12:00] Fred. So, we designed a flyer to be passing out to mobilized people -JJ: The Information -- LT: Now, this is before the internet. JJ: The Information Center? LT: Yeah. Well, yes, it was. I took it over to the office on Madison and showed it to Fred and he’s the one who changed the location. It was going to be a different location, I don’t remember which, but it ended up being at the church on Ashland where they had many events and a few minor little changes and took it back -- JJ: On Madison -- Ashland and Madison? LT: Well, there was a church on Ashland near Adams, I believe. It wasn’t far from the electric workers’ union hall. It was that, there was a strip there and that’s where the rally was scheduled to happen. So went back, made the changes, went to -this is maybe a day later. Went to the printing press, Omega Press, progressive printers in Hyde Park. And I was, I spent the night waiting for the flyer to be [00:13:00] done. And in the morning, about 6:00 in the morning, I got a phone call from Sue Jan telling me what had happened. Chairman Fred had been murdered. So needless to say, everything but the heading, the header came off, all the illustration, everything else stayed the same. The place, the time, and it 7 �was reprinted and I waited for it and brought it back north. And yes, I remember that. JJ: How did it impact you and some of the other organizers? LT: Well, we were just about to leave for Cuba and I remember one of the things that people decided that the brigadistas would do -- because we did various community service kinds of things in training before we left together -- was to stand guard, to stand witness at the Panther office on Madison. So, we’d stand up and down the stairways, in case there was a [00:14:00] attack or something, here’d be all these people standing there waiting, watching. I remember that. And I knew a lot of the Panthers because we, I was one of the people like many of us at the Information Center who sold the Black Panther Paper all the time. So, I would be the one who would drive my little Toyota over there and would load it, John Preston would load up the car with Panther papers, take them back north and sell them at El stops and everywhere. Good paper. And then as I say, there, between the, there was a Young Patriots organization, later there was Rising Up Angry, there was the Panther Party, there was the Young Lords, people’s information, all these groups that were really showed an example of the Rainbow Coalition by our skin and by our politics. The solidarity [00:15:00] among the peoples in the community and that was what -- JJ: How would you describe that? I mean -- LT: Well, I mean because you could see organizations and individuals working together toward common goals following the -- especially for white people -following leadership of third-world people. Or you know, Black People, Puerto 8 �Rican, Mexican, whatever. Brown people, Black people, that we followed their example. The Panther Party started the Breakfast for Children programs, the Serve the People programs, STP. So that, I think, in itself sent a message in terms of who, of leadership not being for people like me. Formerly white suburban kids at one tine to come in and feel that somehow, we could run it. And no, we couldn’t, because we didn’t have that contact with the community, that [00:16:00] understanding of what needed to be done. So, it was a great learning experience for a lot of people to work with the Panthers, the Young Lords, no matter what it was about. JJ: You said contact with the community. What do you mean? LT: Well, like even in Lincoln Park. There was a, there were a lot of Puerto Rican people in Lincoln Park, the place where I lived was pretty white. It was like a merging of -- they call it the base now, a political base. That that became everyone’s base. All the progressive factors in a community. So, I just thought it was important for people to see that when the politics are right, it can pull people together, to work together to accomplish good things. JJ: What would, geographically, what would be a base? LT: Well, when I talk about Lincoln Park, I talk about that area between, because it had, oh, I’d say Arm-- between [00:17:00] Armitage and Belden even in terms of where people were located. Because you were, the Young Lords’ church was on Dayton and Armitage, the People’s Information Center, the People’s Law Office, the Women’s Union were all on Halsted between them so those were some basic organizations. People lived in lots of places. 9 �JJ: What were some of the demonstrations like? LT: Well, I remember when -- wasn’t it the Young Lords who helped take over McCormick Seminary? We were there, too. It was saying a lot in terms of what McCormick Seminary should give back to the community. It was, it got a lot of media coverage. And in fact, in the end, McCormick Seminary did acquiesce to do some, I can’t remember exactly, but I know that in some [00:18:00] way, that sit-in, that occupation was successful in that it did rest some power from that institution in the community. JJ: Were you inside or...? LT: Well, I had been in there. I didn’t occupy, no. I didn’t live in there. Occupation, the occupy came later. I was part of occupy in Las Vegas. JJ: Okay. LT: Occupy Las Vegas, what better place to occupy? (laughs) Occupy a casino. But that’s what I remember. And that was very important and I think it kind of set an example that institutions in a community have an obligation to support the interest of the people in the community, not just -- it was, in fact, walled-off. It had this black, wrought-iron fence all the way around it. Do you remember? And tried to be like an isolated island in the community and I think people showed that it couldn’t be. It had to relate to the community it [00:19:00] existed in. JJ: Now, you mentioned Manuel Ramos. What do you remember of that? LT: Well, I’m, I was trying to rack my brain to try to understand. I think I must have met him at least. I didn’t know him well. But I know that by, when we returned from Cuba just before May Day, that’s what we learned. In Cuba, we heard 10 �nothing about what was going on back in the States. I mean, we didn’t have cell phones (laughs) or the internet or anything like that. So, this is what we were told when we got back that he had been killed by police. Was it a police? I don’t remember the details but I do remember the turnout. That it was just this very impressive -- there were pictures that showed people six abreast walking down the middle of the street. I don’t know if it was Division or what it was. But I remember that occasion because it seemed so apropos to come back from Cuba [00:20:00] and see this massing of progressive people demonstrating against the kind of attacks that police were pulling off. In fact later, when I actually held a 9to-5 job, I worked on the Red Squad spy suit and a lot of the people who spied on activists in Lincoln Park and elsewhere were, the lawyers got special permission to do, not court reporters which were so expensive, but actually have tape-record the depositions of these spies and I was one of the people who transcribed. That’s the first transcription job I ever, transcribed those depositions so that we -- and I could see people walk through the office at the Better Government Association to their conference room for their deposition and recognize -JJ: These are police? LT: -- me and I would recognize them. JJ: These are police, undercover police? LT: Yeah. The Red Squad started I think in the ’30s and they initiated to spy [00:21:00] on labor, labor unions, infiltrate them. Report to the police. It went through the peace movement, the anti-war movement, the civil rights movement. 11 �It was always there. In fact, I think Michael Moore had a movie that talks about those kind of, that kind of infiltration. Of cops going to meetings and everything. And people who -- when they walked through that conference room and I looked at them and they knew who I was, because they’d spied on me and a lot of other people, it was, it just kind of this feeling like, “We got you now. We know what you are. You’re not a progressive person, you are a spy for the cops all this time.” JJ: So, you actually saw your name in the files or...? LT: Well, I was part -- oh, yeah. I was part, I have my file. Of course, when you get your file, did you ever get your file? It’s all redacted. Big black lines through everything that would [00:22:00] indicate who it was that was reporting this information about you. And there was a cop who every time I came out of Montana Street apartment, [Maurey Daley?]. He’d be sitting in a, unmarked car, waved to me, followed me wherever I went. That kind of intimidation. It was just kind of -- some of it was just silliness. JJ: So, you were saying they were going through to the meetings? What are the, what else did they do? LT: They went to, they came to meetings whether it was civil rights or community meetings or whatever as if they were ordinary people. I don’t want to name names -- JJ: No, no. LT: And then, once this -- JJ: But can you describe some of the things that they were -- 12 �LT: Pardon? JJ: Can you describe some of the things they were doing? LT: When they came to meetings, and demonstrations, they didn’t stand out from anybody else. It was a nice person, a teacher maybe, who believed in, claimed to believe in something and came. And showed up with a sign or whatever. But they were there to take names down. Who was at the meeting? Who said [00:23:00] what? That kind of stuff. And it happened all over the country but we’re familiar with it as the Red Squad. So, and back in the early ’80s, that was my job at the BGA. I was transcribing those things and working solely on the suit. And the files of people who were spied on and the spies were all stored there. So, I could walk into the file room with dozens of file cabinets in it and my file was in there, my Red Squad file. So, I was part of the class action. JJ: So, what about, is that COINTELPRO? Is that the same thing or...? LT: Not exactly. I mean, it, in a way it was because there were other suits at the same time. JJ: I mean, what do you, can you describe COINTELPRO? What is that? LT: That was uncovered in the Percy hearings, I think. What, weren’t they? That it was a national, run by the FBI especially. COINTELPRO was [00:24:00] Counter Intelligence Program and they tracked the plot to kill Fred Hampton through COINTELPRO. The Red Squad thing was a different thing. I really have no idea or recollection how much of the local operation was influenced or mandated by national COINTELPRO. I only know what happened here. And at the same time, we also had a suit against military intelligence and the FBI so different 13 �offices handled different aspects of the lawsuit. The lawyers’ committee to defend a bill of rights I believe had the suit against the FBI. And another organization, I can’t quite remember which it was, that had the other part. So, I didn’t, I did a lot of the typing of the brief for it. I mean, being a secretary had its advantages. I was also the secretary in the Hampton civil suit. [00:25:00] And I still have the fly page from the notebook that the People’s Law Office gave me. This was before computers. I did it on my IBM electric typewriter; it was red. They would come to my house every night and sit around my dining room table and edit pages and I’d have to go and cut and paste and put the document together. Basic-- the NACP gave them a grant only for secretarial help like that. So, before the lawyers saw a penny, I was being paid which I kind of felt bad about because -- but then again, I was earning a living. But they didn’t get paid till the settlement happened. JJ: And what were some of the things that came out in the trial in the ’70s? LT: Well, in the -- the documents -- JJ: (coughs) Excuse me. LT: -- were, it was the complaint against the Chicago Red Squad. It was [00:26:00] incident after incident of evidence of police spying on people exercising their constitutional rights. We hear a lot about constitutional rights today. Freedom of speech, freedom of assembly, and the police were harassing. Many people lost jobs because they would go to your boss and say, “Did you know that your employee did this or that?” It was a big, big thing; don’t ask me to recite it. But it existed and I did that. 14 �JJ: But I heard they sent letters to different people and -- LT: Pardon? JJ: To spouses, they spent, they send letters or...? LT: There were a lot of -- I don’t remember exact circumstances. JJ: So, they weren’t just collecting information, they were -- LT: No, they were collecting information, but they also caused problems for people. It was an intimidation. [00:27:00] I mean, telling your boss that your employee is a, I don’t want to call names. A communist or who the heck knows? That can get you fired so it was harmful. Many people suffered direct injury from it. But the most of the class were any people who were intimidated from participating by presence and knowledge that the Red Squad was afoot spying on you even though we didn’t know exactly who it might be that was the spy. And not to build it up to sound like international spies but they, some of them were the kind of people who were firmly against what we were doing, the kind of causes we were involved in whether it was peace, civil rights, anti-war, whatever. And some of them might’ve been people who did it in exchange for cops dropping a charge they might’ve had. Somebody gets caught doing something they shouldn’t [00:28:00] and they said, “Are you willing to do this?” And they say, “Sure, I’ll do that. Just don’t arrest me for whatever I did wrong.” They came to it in a lot of ways so... JJ: And was this brought up like in court like some of the -- LT: Well, I actually never went to court. It was only the lawyers who went to court. The -- 15 �JJ: No, but I mean this case, this information that the Red Squad gathered, was it used against individuals? Or I mean -- LT: For it to be in their files, it meant that the whole police department could look up somebody and know what they were about. And whether they wanted to harass people individually like going to their bosses or spouses or whatever, or whether they wanted to sabotage the work of organizations. Sometimes, there’d be agent provocateurs. They weren’t just reporting; They were suggesting things that might be illegal [00:29:00] to try to get people to do things they shouldn’t so they could be arrested. There was a whole array of dirty tricks that they did. And I only mention it because from being a victim myself although not harmed as much as other people were to being a person who could sit there and watch these spies kind of be called to justice, they were outed. Suddenly, the whole movement knew who these people were. Just to be at that desk before the conference room as they walked in and looked at me and I looked at them as if to say, “Now I know what you, who you really are.” So... JJ: What about did you hear anything about Reverend Chris Johnson? LT: No, no. JJ: No? LT: I know I had met him when the Young Lords were in the church but I knew nothing about what went on there. JJ: I say that because it [00:30:00] happened just about a month and a half before Fred Hampton’s death. LT: Really? Oh, it had happened before? 16 �JJ: Yes. LT: I remember that it’d happened but I knew nothing about the details. JJ: That’s September 29th. LT: Did they ever find who did it? JJ: No but actually, it’s still a cold case. LT: Still a cold -- JJ: They haven’t found it. (inaudible). LT: No. JJ: I think they want to find out but -- LT: Yeah. Were they trying to blame the Young Lords? JJ: No, we were, the Young Lords weren’t blaming us. LT: Uh. JJ: I mean, they were at least insinuated. Yeah. LT: Yeah. I mean, through the years, you might’ve remembered the Lincoln Park, what was it? Remember Dick Vision? JJ: Sure. LT: Yeah. I remember his, because that was, that struggle was against urban renewal within the community. And I was friends with Dick. In fact, I went up to Cana-- when my daughter was born, Maya -- we took a trip up to British Columbia [00:31:00] to visit him and his wife and his little daughter Revie for revolution. Revolutionary, Revolutionary Hope. Turns out her name was really Hope but that’s what they called her, Revie. And we stayed up there -- talk about cold. I’m never going back in February to British Columbia but it was beautiful. 17 �Yeah, he was a good guy. And then he went to China to teach English in China. And the last I heard, he married a Chinese woman. I think he’s still there. Yeah. JJ: And I had a recently -- it’s another issue. LT: Have we covered everything? JJ: I, what else? What do you think? F: I think it’s pretty complete. JJ: I forget. Is it pretty complete? I don’t know. How about the People’s Law Office? Did you, what did you recall of that? (laughs) LT: Well, I work with the People’s Office, Law Office on the Hampton suit. I mean, I did the, I typed the complaint [00:32:00] for it at the, and it was, as I said, the NAACP who paid for that. Yes, I was close. I mean, Flint and Jeff and Jeff wrote a wonderful book, The Assassination of Fred Hampton, which I have an autographed copy of. And I still sometimes check Chicago papers and Flint’s still involved in fighting for justice on all kinds of fronts. And now, a big thing is The Innocence Projects all over the country. When I worked at the BGA, the guy who started it at Northwestern, David Protess, I worked in the same office with him. Then he went on to start the Innocence Project at Northwestern and now they’re everywhere. There’s even an Innocence Project in Las Vegas. So, I think that’s a great thing, trying to fight for freedom of people wrongly incarcerated. JJ: So, what do you think were the main, the most important aspect [00:33:00] of that era? (inaudible) -- LT: Of the era? I think it was always, there had to be the fight against racism. Because no matter where you turned, that was very central to a struggle. Yeah. 18 �I remember later, I worked with an organization that had a newspaper called Frontline on the Frontline Against War and Racism. That those were the twin anchors of the progressive movement and they really were. When you talk about U.S. military intervention in Central America, that’s the war aspect and as well as racism. The idea that the United States government could dictate to other countries how they could, how they should run their, govern their countries and things like that. Mm-hmm. JJ: Now, you went in the church several times or...? LT: Oh yeah, I’ve been in the church. JJ: What was it like? Can you describe the...? LT: Well -- JJ: [00:34:00] What was it like to you? LT: Pardon? JJ: What was it like to you? LT: It was like a church. (laughter) I don’t know. I remember I was there when the, you had the clinic in the church. I remember visiting the clinic, I remember you had a Breakfast for Children program. Yeah, it was, that’s the parts that I remember. But mostly I remember that it was just this, that in the community, the activists in the community, because we had -- at the People’s Information Center, we had a breakfast program. At the Church on Diversey, there was the Fritzi Engelstein free people’s health clinic and the mural is still there on that church. It just made the whole larger community so much more, the, these progressive aspects so much more visible. Whether you were on Armitage of Diversey or 19 �Halsted or whatever, you got the impression that there were [00:35:00] progressive people doing good stuff in this community so... JJ: A base like something. LT: Yeah, it was a base. Of course, you know what urban renewal did to that. When I drive down Halsted and see the fancy, expensive housing that took, that was build on People’s Park or whatever, it almost makes it, makes you wonder did all that other stuff really happen? You see it so transformed. But it was a special era and I don’t see, I haven’t seen anything like it since then. I think it was very unique; it was. People had a sense of power, that they could do stuff. And I don’t see it that way now. There’s so much separateness between the environmental movement or the anti-war movement or the anti-nuke movement or whatever. Some [00:36:00] activists circulate among all of them but they, there’s no coming together with the kind of coalition that worked in Lincoln Park and around Chicago then. JJ: And what in terms of the Women’s Movement, how did that fit in? LT: I was probably less active in the Women’s Movement than I was in any of the other stuff. And it’s ironic because a new movie’s coming out that would -- did you ever know my friend Ethan Young? JJ: No, I haven’t heard the name, yeah. LT: Yeah? He’s a writer, he’s in New York, he lives in Brooklyn, and his wife, Mary Dore, has just collaborated with another filmmaker to make this wonderful movie about the Women’s Movement in the ’70s. Which was really, I mean, the Women’s Movement didn’t just start then. It’s been going on since before 20 �suffragettes. But it's really great because there are a lot of Chicago faces in it. I’ve seen the trailer for it. It’s called She’s Beautiful When She’s Angry. And that’s [00:37:00] the name of the film. It should be out within a month. But I wasn’t as active in that as I was in whether it was Cuba or breakfast program or all the other stuff that was going on in the community? JJ: Was there any work being done at all? LT: Pardon? JJ: Right? You said there was a woman’s group. LT: Oh, there was. Oh yes, I just wasn’t as active in it -- JJ: Oh, okay. LT: -- myself personally. Yeah. Oh yes, they were very much, yeah. If you see, if you kind of keep a tabs on it and Google the movie when it comes out, you watch it online and you’ll see, “Oh, there’s so-and-so.” You’ll know faces. It’s a good thing. JJ: We’ll kind of taper it down but I mean, any final points? LT: Not really. I just think that there’s always something to be done. Maybe it’s kind of like an electoral campaign. Not everybody can walk, knock doors. [00:38:00] Not everybody can cold call people in a phone bank. But people can write Letters to the Editor, people can make comments online articles, people can individually find a demonstration to go to or a forum to attend or a donation to make. There’s always something people can do to strengthen that movement. And they should do it. JJ: All right. Thank you. 21 �LT: You’re welcome. END OF AUDIO FILE 22 � https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/f53236f975b83778b559b704353744db.mp4 b993528ff395dbaa4bb844baa73ee7a7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Young Lords in Lincoln Park Collection Subject The topic of the resource Young Lords (Organization) Puerto Ricans--United States Civil Rights--United States--History Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Personal narratives Social justice Community activists--Illinois--Chicago Description An account of the resource Collection of oral history interviews and digitized materials documenting the history of the Young Lords Organization in Lincoln Park, Chicago. Interviews were conducted by Young Lords' founder, José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez, and documents were digitized from Mr. Jiménez' archives. The Young Lords in Lincoln Park collection grows out of the ongoing struggle for fair housing, self-determination, and human rights that was launched by Mr. José “Cha-Cha” Jiménez, founder of the Young Lords Movement. This project is dedicated to documenting the history of the displacement of Puerto Ricans, Mejicanos, other Latinos, and the poor from Lincoln Park, as well as the history of the Young Lords nationwide. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Jiménez, José, 1948- Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/491">Young Lords in Lincoln Park collection (RHC-65)</a> Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2017-04-25 Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng spa Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-65 Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 2012-2017 Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Título Spanish language Title entry Linda Turner vídeo entrevista y biografía Descripción Spanish language Description entry Historia oral de Linda Turner, entrevistado por José 'Cha-Cha' Jimenez el 23/10/2016 acerca de los Young Lords en Lincoln Park. Sujetos Spanish language Subject terms Young Lords (Organización) Puertorriqueños--Estados Unidos Derechos civiles--Estados Unidos--Historia Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Narrativas personales Justicia social Activistas comunitarios--Illinois--Chicago Source <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/491">Young Lords in Lincoln Park (RHC-65)</a> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-65_Turner_Linda Title A name given to the resource Linda Turner video interview and transcript Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Turner, Linda Description An account of the resource Oral history of Linda Turner, interviewed by Jose 'Cha-Cha' Jimenez about the Young Lords in Lincoln Park. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Jiménez, José, 1948- Subject The topic of the resource Young Lords (Organization) Puerto Ricans--United States Civil Rights--United States--History Lincoln Park (Chicago, Ill.) Personal narratives Social justice Community activists--Illinois--Chicago Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource video/mp4 application/pdf Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/c8761e156fa788eee932bc40d45f3187.mp4 4c4b31f2125cd236e0329dea065a13b7 https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/603cecbc86f9341a21354ca203463031.pdf aefb8996d9fbfac8ac7e185630160486 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project Interview Robert Twa World War II Total Time: 1:02:30 Pre-War (0:00:10) • • • • • • Born in Crystal Falls, Michigan, in 1922. His father and mother were both cooks. Attended Watervliet High School in 1940 His father and mother started a restaurant in Watervliet, Michigan, in 1934. He enlisted in the Army Air Corps. He enlisted at Manistique, Michigan, in June 1940. Training (04:05) • He was sent to Air Force Training School at Chanute Field, Illinois, where he took the AGCT test, which determined a recruit’s strengths. He tested well, so he got to choose where he wanted to go so he chose light trainer school, but that did not start for a long time so he chose weather school instead. • (0:06:30) The weather training school was at Chanute Field as well, and there were 600 other pupils in the class with him. • There was a lot of memorization in the training. They had class 8-5 with a ½ hour lunch. • The school was 6 months in length. • They didn’t do much on the weekends, as the pay was quite low. Active Duty (0:12:10) • After training, he was sent to Moffett Airfield in San Francisco, California, to a pilot training base where he worked in the weather station. • The base was overcrowded while he was there. • (0:15:05) James Stewart was housed in the Barracks next to them, and they used to go over and have conversations with him while he was there. • He was then transferred to Selfridge Filed in Michigan. • Selfridge Field had Pursuit Squadrons there and James Doolittle was stationed there for a time. He gave Doolittle briefings on a regular basis. • After Pearl Harbor, most of the planes that were on that base were shipped overseas. • (0:18:45) While he was at California, there was recruitment going on for the Flying Tigers, who would be sent to China. He took all of the tests for this but they never called him up. • He would go into Detroit some while he was at Selfridge Field when he had free time. �• (0:24:00) He was on a shift when Pearl Harbor was attacked. • (0:28:10) He was then sent to Greenland to a base called BW1 where he stayed for a time. There was a large Inuit village where he stayed while he was waiting for his base to be built. • They lived in a small cabin while they were there, and their job was to take continuous observations. • (0:31:40) They were there for around 3 months until they were moved to a fjord called Ikatek where they had to build their base from scratch. • They had some trouble with food while they were there. • They took weather observations while they were there 24 hours a day, and they also had to use a weather balloon to get high altitude observations. • They had to make their own hydrogen for the balloons while they were there because they couldn’t get helium shipped in. They took balloon observations every 6 hours. • He was in Greenland a total of 15 months. He was also the first one to leave the base for the south in October 1943. • He got 30 days leave and got reassigned to Bermuda. • This stop was on the South Atlantic Route, and he stayed there for a year. He worked in the weather office here as well. He was there for about a year. • (0:43:50) He was then sent to Goose Bay, Labrador. He worked there for around 6 months. • He was then sent to the US and worked training, and was then discharged. • (0:49:15) He remembers the weather in Labrador being very difficult to forecast. • He did code work for the Army, so he had to be checked by the FBI. • He was assigned to the 4th Region Weather Center, which was Georgia and some of the rest of the Southeast. • He was discharged September 17th, 1945. Post-Service (0:58:30) • • • He was home in Michigan for a couple of days after he was discharged, and then he went to Chicago, Illinois, where he signed up for the weather bureau. He volunteered to go to Alaska for the weather bureau. Got married in 1946. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context TwaR Title A name given to the resource Twa, Robert (Interview outline and video), 2009 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Twa, Robert Description An account of the resource Robert Twa was born in Crystal Falls, Michigan in 1922 and served in the Army Air Corps in World War II. He was trained as a weather forecaster and served in California, Michigan, Greenland, Bermuda, Canada and Georgia. After the war, he worked for the Weather Bureau. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource McCauslin, Kelly (Interviewer) Spring Lake District Library (Spring Lake, Mich.) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings United States. Army. Air Corps World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Moving Image Text Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2009-04-25 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf video/mp4 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/1ce9608d6fd1f3128fb03a38409ca2ac.pdf e33736cf9585e72290ec3bac6a48ebbe PDF Text Text I . ~ \ tlRO·N E -..': ! i: T o . : ~ w n ·s h i p :. ,. ~~ ,,. .. . . .• TYRONE : . ..,.. . •. . . ' . •, Comprehensive P/1#1 1 9 9 3 �• TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Prepared By: Tyrone Township Planning Commission and Board With the Assistance of: Mark A. Wyckoff, AICP Mark A. Eidelson, AICP Brenda M. Moore, AICP Timothy McCauley Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. 302 S. Waverly Road Lansing, Ml 48917 October 25, 1993 I ' �,.. TABLE OF CONTENTS Chapter 1 - Introduction Plan Purpose .....•......................................................................................................................1-1 Plan Contents and How to Use the Plan ................................................................................... 1-1 Plan Preparation .......................................................................................................................1-2 Chapter 2 - Community Character Introduction ............................. ............................................................................. ...... ... ........... 2-1 Demographic Summary ............................................................................................................ 2-1 Open Space .............................................................................................................................2-3 Natural Resources Summary ....................................................................................................2-3 Visual Landscape Areas ...........................................................................................................2-5 Existing Land Use Patterns ...................................................................... ......... ... ........... .......... 2-8 Critical Trends ..........................................................................................................................2-8 Chapter 3 - A Common Vision: Goals & Objectives Vision Statement ......................................................................................................................3-1 Goals & Objectives ...................................................................................................................3-2 Chapter 4- Future Land Use Strategy Introduction and Purpose ..........................................................................................................4-1 overview of Future Land Use Strategy .....................................................................................4-1 Individual Components of the Future Land Use Strategy .......................................................... .4-2 Commercial and Industrial Developrnent .................................................................................4-11 Public Lands ...........................................................................................................................4-12 Recreation Lands ...................................................................................................................4-13 Special Land Uses ..................................................................................................................4-13 Principal Road Corridors ...................................................................................... ................... 4-14 Chapter 5 - Public Services Strategy Introduction and Purpose ..........................................................................................................5-1 overview of Public Services Strategy .......................................................................................5-1 Public Services Districts ................................................................................. .......................... 5-1 Individual Public Service Components ......................................................................................5-3 Intergovernmental Coordination ......................................................................... ..................... 5-15 Appendix A Location and Geography .......................................................................................................... A-1 Appendix B Historic Perspective ................................................................................................................. B-1 Appendix C Physical Profile - Natural Features ........................................................................................... C-1 Appendix D Physical Profile - Man-Made Features ..................................................................................... D-1 Appendix E . Demographic Profile ................................................................................................................ E-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �·· -LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1-1 Planning Process .............. :..~ ...................................................................................... ... 1-2 Figure 2-1 Example of Lot Split Evolution ........................................................................................2-2 Figure 4-2 Development Flexibility Through "Development Density .................................................4-6 Figure A-1 ...................................................................................................................................... A-1 Figure A-2 .............................................. ,..................................................... ,................................. A-1 Figure A-3 ........ :...................................... :...................................................................................... A-1 Figure C-1 Soil Map Units .............................................................................................................. C-4 Figure E-1 Population Growth Trend Livingston County: 1900-1990 ............................................... E-4 Figure E-2 Population Growth Trend Livingston County and Tyrone Township ............................... E-5 Figure E-3 Population Growth Trend Tyrone Township and Area Communities .............................. E-6 Figure E-4 Persons ·Per Square Mile Tyrone Township and Livingston County ............................... E-7 Figure E-5 Median Age Distribution: 1970-1990 ............................................................................. E-8 Figure E-6 Age/Sex Distribution by Percent Tyrone Township: 1960 .............................................. E-9 Figure E-7 Age/Sex Distribution by Percent Tyrone Township: 1980 ............................................ E-1 0 Figure E-8 Age/Sex Distribution for Tyrone Township: 1990 ......................................................... E-11 Figure E-9 Number of Households Tyrone Township ................................................................... E-12 Figure E-10 Persons Per Household: 1970-1990 ......................................................................... E-13 Figure E-11 School Enrollment by District 1971-1990 ................................................................... E.14 Figure E-12 School Enrollments ................... ................................................................................ E-15 Figure E-13 Dwelling Units Added Tyrone Township 1980-1990 ................................................... E-16 Figure E-14 Employment by Industry Livingston County: 1980 & 1990 ......................................... E-17 Figure E-15 Employment by Industry Tyrone Township: 1990 ...................................................... E-18 Figure E-16 Unemployment Rates Tyrone Township & Livingston County: 1984-1990 ................. E-19 Figure E-17 Per Capita Incomes 1979 & .1989 .......................•.....•............................................... E-20 Figure E-18 Share of Total Millage Rate for 1990 Tyrone Township ....•........................................ E-21 ii TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �r LIST OF TABLES Table 4-1 Devetqpment Densities by Use Area .............................. .......... .................. ..... ............. .4-10 Table 5-1 Perceived Road Condition by Number of Daily Car Trips .......... .................... .... ...............5-4 Table 5-2 Michigan Recreation Opportunity Standards ............ ........................ ................ .............. 5-14 Table C-1 Climatic Information ........................................................................................ .... ...... ..... C-1 Table C-2 Lakes 5 Acres or Larger .................. .................................... .............................. ............ C-2 Table C-3 Woodland Use/Cover Codes ... ,...................... ........... ..................................................... C-7 Table C-4 Wetland Use/Cover Codes ......... ...... .............. ................................. .................... ... ....... C-8 Table D-11991 Land Use/Cover Tyrone Township ............................ .............. ........................ ...... D-2 Table D-2 24 Hour Traffic Volumes ............... ....... .... ........ ........ ....................... .. ............................. 0-3 Table E-1 Historic Population Livingston County .............. .. ...... .................... ... ............................... E-4 Table E-2 Population Growth Trend ............... .................... .......................... .............. .................... E-5 Table E-3 Historic Population ................ ................. ........................................... ............................. E-6 Table E-4 Persons Per Square Mile .................... .... .... .............. ... ................................... .............. . E-7 Table E-5 Median Age ............................................ ....................................................................... E-8 Table E-6 Age/Sex Distribution by Percent Tyrone Township: 1960 ...... ......................................... E-9 Table E-7 Age/Sex Distribution by Percent Tyrone Township: 1980 ........ .... ............... ............ ... ... E-1 O Table E-8 Age/Sex Distribution for Tyrone Township: 1990 .......... .. ....... .................................... ... E-11 Table E-9 Number of Households Tyrone Township ..................... .......... ................... ....... ............ E-12 Table E-10 Persons Per Household ........................................ ..................................................... E-13 Table E-11 School Enrollment by District 1971-1990 ..................................... ............................... E-14 Table E-12 Dwelling Units Added Tyrone Township 1980-1990 ........ .......... ........................ .......... E-16 Table E-13 Employment by Sector Livingston County: 1980 & 1988 ................................. ........... E-17 Table E-14 Employment by Sector Tyrone Township ............. ............................................ ........ .. E-18 Table E-15 Unemployment Rates Tyrone Township & Livingston County: 1984-1990 ..... ... ....... ... E-19 Table E-16 Per Capita Incomes 1979 & 1987.............................................. ... .. ................... .... ..... E-20 Table E-17 Tyrone Township Tax Levy .................. .................................. ................... .... .. .... ..... .. E-20 Table E-18 Share of Total Millage Rate for 1990 Tyrone Township ................ .'........ .. ......... ... ...... . E-21 iii TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN .,. �LIST OF MAPS Map 2-2 Map 4-1 Map 5-1 Map 5-2 Map 5-3 Visual Character Inventory ............... .................................................................................2-7 Future Land Use .................................... .... .. ..................................................................... 4-3 Public Service Districts ......................................................................................................5-2 .Roads by Current Level of Service ................................................................................... 5-6 Proposed Highest Priority Road Improvements .................................................................5-8 APPENDICES J Map C-1 Steep Slopes Map C-2 Relative Elevation Map C-3 Watersheds Map C-4a Soil Map Units Map C-4b Soil Map Units Map C-5 Limitations for Septic .Systems Map C-6 Limitations for Basements Map C-7 Most Suitable Soils Map C-8 Hydric Soils Map C-9 Prime Farmland Soils Map C-10 PA 116 Farmlands Map C-11 Woodlands Map C-12 Wetlands Map C-13 Environmentally Impacted Sites Map D-1a Land Cover/Use Map D-1 b Land Cover/Use Map 0-1 c Land Cover/Use Map D-2 Land Use by Parcel - Tax Class Map 0 -3 Roadway Classification (Act 51) Map 0-4 County Drains Map 0-5 Fire Department Service Areas Map 0 -6 School Districts Map 0-7 Community Facilities iv TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION PLAN PURPOSE • to maintain and moderately enhance employment opportunities and tax base of the area; The purpose of this Plan is to guide policy and decision making for all future land and infrastructure development decisions within Tyrone Township. Within the Plan, key planning issues are identified; goals, objectives and policies are outlined; future land uses are described and mapped; public facility standards are established; and specific implementation measures are recommended. • to promote an orderly development process which is paced in coordination with the Township's ability to provide services and which permits public officials and citizens an opportunity to monitor change and review proposed development in a reasonable manner; and • to provide information from which to gain a better understanding of the area and its interdependencies and interrelationships, and upon which to base future land use and public investment decisions. This Plan is adopted pursuant to the authority of the Township Planning Act, PA 168 of 1959. This Act provides for the preparation of a •basic plan• to promote community health, safety, and welfare through provisions for the use of land and resources and the assurance of adequate public facilities and services. The Tyrone Township Comprehensive Plan is a ·basic plan.• It is prepared as a foundation for, and depends primarily on, the Township's zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and capital improvement program for its implementation. Although this Plan states specific land use development policy and proposes specific land use arrangements, it has no regulatory PLAN CONTENTS and HOW TO USE THE PLAN There are three critical components to using this plan as a decision making guide. First, are the goals and objectives in Chapter 3. Second, are the policies, future land use map, public facilities plan and associated descriptive information presented in Chapter 4 and Chapter 5. Third, is the supporting documentation found in Appendices A-G which draws directly from previous planning and engineering studies. power. All proposed future land uses and policies presented in this Plan were developed based on a blending of the natural capability of the land to sustain certain types of development; the important natural functions played by unique land and water resources in the area; the relative future need for residential, commercial, and industrial land uses; the existing land use distribution; the relationship of undeveloped lands to existing community character; and the desires of local residents and public officials as expressed through interviews, town meetings, and public hearings. This Plan is presented to help all elected and appointed officials to make difficult choices between competing interests and to serve as a guide for decision making. It is anticipated that this plan will be consulted in the following situations: • Review of rezonings, variances, and spacial use permits: Applications for rezonings, variances, or special use permits should be evaluated not only in terms of specific zoning ordinance standards, but also in terms of how well the proposed action would help attain the goals and objectives of this Plan and fulfill its policies. This Plan is intended as support for the achievement of the following public objectives, among others: • to protect public health, safety and general wel- fare; • Public improvement projects: All future public improvement projects, including the construction of new facilities, utilities or buildings, should first be reviewed by the Planning Commission for consistency with this plan, pursuant to PA 168 of 1959. In particular, such projects should be reviewed to determine consistericy with the • to conserve and protect property values by preventing incompatible uses from locating adjacent to each other; • to protect and preserve the natural resources, unique character, and environmental quality of the area; 1-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �__:;:...,,,r. ~ Fi ure 1-1 Plannin Process goals, objectives and policies in the Plan, and whether it supports the planned future land use pattern in the Township, as set forth in this plan. • Review of land subdivision and lot splits: The subdivision of land and associated lot split activities has a profound impact upon the character of a community and future public service needs and tax burdens. This plan provides policies to assist the Planning Commission and Township Board regarding decisions about the appropriateness of proposed subdivisions and lot splits, and the adequacy of public services to address the increased demands associated with these subdivisions and lot splits. etermlned Process Started Data Collection and Mapping Trends and Conditions Analysis • Township stability: This plan is a very strong and visible statement by the Township and its residents, regarding the intended future character of the community and strategies to assure that character. As a formal and tangible document, this plan instills a sense of stability and direction for township officials, township activities, and township residents. uturlng Town Meeting Goals and Objectives Ref lned at Town Meeting Draft Alternative Development Patterns Town Meeting PLAN PREPARATION Draft Comprehensive Plan The Planning Process The planning process used in developing the Tyrone Township Comprehensive Plan included a combination of Planning Commission meetings with attendance by members of the Township Board, computerized mapping, data analysis, development of alternative development schemes, and four town meetings. The planning process is represented graphically in Figure 1-1. Public Hearing on Plan At the first "town meeting,• an overview of current economic and demographic trends and issues was presented, and a "futuring• session was conducted in which citizens of Tyrone Township were asked to visualize Tyrone Township 10-20 years in the future as they wanted it to be. This resulted in citizens articulating their vision and desires for their community. Key issues which surfaced during this town meeting included the preservation of the Township's rural character, open spaces, and natural resources. The combined results of the futuring session, an analysis of economic and demographic trends, and mapping analysis, were used to determine the issues to be addressed by the Comprehensive Plan. Draft goals and objectives were developed from the public vision statements generated at the first town meeting and were presented at the second town '!leetin~. F?llowing refinement of the goals and objectives with input from the local citizens, alternative future !and ~se development patterns were developed for d1scussIon and presented at the third town meeting. Four principal alternatives were presented. The Soils Carrying Capacity alternative proposed a level of deve'?pment intensity primarily based upon the ability of soils to accommodate septic fields. The alternative provided for new commercial and industrial land uses provided they were situated along the U.S.-23 corridor: The Open Space Protection alternative emphasized the preservation of open spaces as a determinant of 1-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -- - -- -- -- - - - - - -- - �Following preparation of the draft Plan in the summer of 1992, the Planning Commission discussed and refined the Plan over the following months during a number of work sessions open to the public. In February of 1992, the draft Plan was presented at a fourth town meeting. Based upon the results of the fourth town meeting, the draft Plan was further refined and presented to the public at a public hearing in the summer of 1993. development densities, in addition to septic field requirement considerations. It also proposed no new commercial or industrial land uses in the Township. . . The Services Center-1 alternative proposed a commerciaVindustrial development center at the US23 and White Lake Road interchange, and a suburban\urban density residential denvelopment pattern along the northern third of the Township (generally north of White Lake Road). The balance of the Township was proposed for low density residential development, including recognition of soil capacities for onsite sewage disposal and the preservation of open spaces. The Services Center-1 alternative was based upon the introduction of public sewer service into the northern regions of the Township in a planned and phased manner. The Services Center-2 alternative was similar to the Services Center-1 alternative but proposed the commerciaVindustrial center, and suburban/urban density residential pattern, to be anchored at the Center Road/US-23 interchange. Growth Management Approach Growth management planning is different from the traditional comprehensive planning approach in that specific implementation measures for guiding future land development and for upgrading or maintaining public facilities are integrated with the future land use plan. Traditionally, a comprehensive plan provides the necessary background information on which to base planning decisions regarding the location, density and type of future land uses. A growth management plan also establishes public policy on the rate, timing and location of new development, so as to insure it proceeds at a pace which does not overwhelm the ability of citizens and the Township to meet the new public service cost obligations and to ensure its compatibility with adjoining uses of land. This involves careful planning and the establishment of a process to ensure new facilities will be available to meet new development needs. Important results of this third town meeting included: 1) the Open Space alternative received the greatest support; 2) though the Open Space alternative received the greatest support, the majority of participants supported future cornmerciaVindustrial development within the Township; and 3) the majority of participants supported lower residential densities where special natural resources existed. j:\lyroM\ch-1.doo 1-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Chapter 2 COMMUNITY CHARACTER INTRODUCTION DEMOGRAPHIC SUMMARY Tyrone Township is a rural bedroom community situated on the fringe of the Greater Detroit Metropolitan Area. The expanding growth and sprawl of the suburbs from the Detroit area has already been witnessed by the Township and has been fed by the easy access to the Detroit Metro Area as well as by the urban centers of Flint and Ann Arbor. The Township's rural atmosphere, in conjunction with easy access to these employment and retail centers, make the Township attractive for development. Tyrone Township is a suburbanizing community that still has relatively dispersed development. However, in a 40 year span the population increased 6 1/2 times; going from 1,039 in 1950 to 6,854 in 1990. The County's population increased at a slower pace in the same time period-by 5 1/2 times. The decade with the single largest increase in populatio~ for the Township was between 1970 and 1980, when it grew 77%. Between 1980 and 1990 the population grew 13%. While the population increase of the 1980's seems relatively small, it is much greater than the state's growth rate of less than 1%. By the year 2010 the Township's population is anticipated to reach 11,281 ; an additional 65% increase over the 1990 population figure (according to the Livingston County Planning Department). Between 1980 and 1990, the Township's population increased by nearly 13% and reached a total population of 6,854 persons. This growth has occurred within and among the Township's extensive natural amenities including rolling terrain, inland lakes, streams, woodlots, and wetlands, interspersed with agriculture and open spaces. (See Appendix A for more information on k?C3tion and geography). With the increase in population has come an increase in population density (persons per square mile). In 1900 Tyrone Township had 25 persons per square mile. By 1960 it had increased to 41 .7, and in 1990 it reached more than 187. The vast majority of Tyrone's population is located in the northern third of the Township, including the Runyan Lake area, which exhibits spme of the highest numbers of persons per square mile in the Township. A substantial amount of residential development has occurred in Tyrone in recent years. In the five year period (1986-1990) there were 430 residential building permits issued in the Township. That is four times the number of permits that were issued from 1981 to 1985. State . equalized value (SEV) attributed to residential development increased by 66% between 1982 and 1990, increasing from $67.1 million to $102.5 million. (See Appendix E, Table E-17). Commercial land values have increased 92%. As may be expected in rapidly developing rural areas, the SEV of agricultural lands has fallen 25% between 1982 and 1990. Overall, the Township's SEV increased by 45%. The significant demographic trend in Tyrone is not so much its population growth as its increase in number of households. In the 1980's the number of households rose 87%. In terms of public service delivery and land use, the number of households may be a more meaningful measure of need. In Tyrone, fewer people are taking up more space. As the population becomes increasingly dispersed, public service delivery is more of a challenge; from both financial and engineering standpoints. A growing market for residential development has spurred a large number of parcel splits in the Township. Average parcel size in the Township in 1930 was in excess of 80 acres. By 1961, many of the large tracts had been divided and a large number of parcels smaller than 40 acres had appeared. The balance of the 1960's witnessed a tremendous trend toward lot splits of 10 acres. Today, large parcels (40 acres and over) are relatively limited in number and 1O acre and smaller parcels vastly dominate the Township's lot split pattern. Figure 2-1 on the following page illustrates this evolution as it has occurred in sections 20, 21 , 28 and 29. Although minority populations have increased slightly since 1980, the Township's population is relatively homogeneous; with 98.5% of the population being white. Additionally, most of the households in Tyrone are comprised of married-couple families (81 .7% of all households) and 97.2% of the housing units are single family. 2-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Figure 2-1 EXAMPLE OF LOT SPLIT EVOLUTION 1930 1961 1991 1971 Source: Rockford Plat Maps 2-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �The age structure of Tyrone Township suggests maturing families with children and relatively low numbers of persons 65 years and over. Median age in the Township is higher than county and state averages, which suggests the presence of aging "baby boomers• who are now rearing families. the Township. Extensive open spaces exist throughout all areas of the Township , including wetlands, woodlands, agricultural fields, shrub and herbaceous fields, and rolling hillsides. These define a community character rich in panoramic vistas, environmental integrity, and pastoral serenity. While the number of persons per household in the Township (3.05) is higher than the state (2.66) and county (2.94), household size has decreased since 1980. This parallels state and national trends toward smaller families, childless couple families, and more single-parent households. During the past thirty years of growth in the Township, degradation of these open spaces has occurred. Pastoral vistas have been replaced with strip residential development, such as along White lake Road . Runyan lake is now fully divorced from the natural and open spaces which it was initially part of. The extent to which open spaces have been preserved is due more to the pattern of development, the nature of the new land uses introduced into the Township, and individual property owner commitment to protection of these open spaces, rather than a purposeful regulatory program aimed at effective conservation of these areas. In ten years (1980-1990) the number of housing units in the Township increased by 20%; going from 1,960 to 2,352 total units in the ten year period. During that same time 565 building permits were issued for new single-family homes, 309 of which were issued in three years (1988-1990) . Tyrone Township is also a relatively wealthy community in that the per capita income has increased at a faster rate than the state's. Between 1979 and 1989 Tyrone's per capita income increased 100% while the state's increased 84.1%, and the county's increased 108% in that same time period. Since per capita income figures are derived by taking total income and dividing it by every adult and child, it is especially significant that Tyrone's per capita income remains high despite a larger household size. Another measure of wealth in a community is the median value of housing stock and the rate of home ownership. Tyrone Township has a much higher median housing value than the state ($97,300 vs. $60,600). Of all the housing units in the Township, 94.1% are owneroccupied. The state rate of home-ownership is 71 % . However, if recent trends and local regulations continue, the future of these open spaces will become more in doubt. The provisions of the Township's current zoning ordinance, including the minimum two acre lot size within the agricultural district (which covers the vast majority of the Township) , in conjunction with the unregulated lot splits permitted under the Subdivision Control Act (creation of four lots under 1O acres in size every ten years) and rapid population growth, together permit the insidious conversion of these open spaces. NATURAL RESOURCES SUMMARY Topography and Watercourses Most of Tyrone Township is characterized by rolling moraines and steep slopes. The highest elevations are located in the eastern half of the township, while the lowest points are in the western half. The steepest slopes, some exceeding 18%, are generally found on three moraines. One of these moraines runs diagonally between Section 9 and Section 36. Another, historically referred to -as the Bluffs, is located in Sections 10, 11 , 14, and 15, bounded by Hartland Rd. , Foley Rd ., Fenton Rd ., and White Lake Rd ., The third moraine is Denton Hill, located in the northeast corner of the Township. Other areas of very steep slopes are Lake Shannon and an area between Runyan Lake and Hoisington Lake, where upland areas slope abruptly down to the floodplain . Tyrone Township's population is a commuting population; over 82% of the work force leaves the county for employment. Workers commute primarily to the Detroit metro-area, and Genesee and Washtenaw counties. As of 1980, the majority of Tyrone Township's labor force was employed in manufacturing and service sectors of the economy (36.8% and 26.6%, respectively) . For a more detailed overview of Township's demographics, see Appendix E. Tyrone OPEN SPACE Open spaces are as much a fundamental part of Tyrone Township's character as are the residents of 2-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENS IVE PLAN �The primary watercourses in Tyrone Township are . Ore Creek/Lake Shannon and a system consisting of •-'more than six interconnected water bodies. This larger and interconnected system, which crosses the entire northern half of the Township, begins at Tipsico Lake, just east of Tyrone Township in Oakland County, and drains into Sullivan Lake where it then flows into Denton Creek, Runyan Lake, Runyan Creek, Stearns Lake, and Hoisington Lake. This system ultimately drains into Ore Creek just west of the Township. Ore Creek runs northward through the central western periphery of the Township before turning west into Deerfield Township, receiving waters from Lake Shannon which is, in turn, fed by tributaries running through the southern two miles of the Township and from Hartland Township to the south. Wetlands Tyrone Township has a significant amount of wetlands. Most of the wetland areas of the Township consist of shrub swamps and low-lying woodlands (see Map C-12). Wetlands are concentrated primarily along Denton Creek, Runyan Creek, and the lakes in the northwest portion of the Township. Other wetland areas are scattered throughout the remainder of the township. Most of the wetlands may not be covered with water year-round, but the area near Stearns and Hoisington Lakes is likely to be covered for the entire year. Some of the wetlands in Tyrone Township are interconnected or contiguous, providing a distinctive network of •natural" areas throughout the community. This is most evident by the chain of wetland environments stretching across the northern portion of the Township and in association with the numerous lakes and streams in this area. One of the strongest visual impacts of the Township's wetland environments is along Linden Road, looking west toward Hoisington Lake. The Township's wetlands contribute to the natural beauty of its watercourses and lakes. and Fenton Road. Though lowland hardwoods predominate throughout the Township's wetland areas, hardwoods are the predominant type of forest cover and are augmented by small areas of pine and other conifers. These large tracts of woodlands are an essential element of the rural character in the less developed portions of the Township. ,,,-- \ Lakes Tyrone Township has numerous lakes ranging in size from less than 1 acre to 193 acres, and total over 734 acres (see Map C-12). Except tor Shannon and Tyrone Lakes which are situated in the southeastern and southcentral regions of the Township respectively, most of the larger lakes are located in the northern 12 sections of the Township. Most significant of these in size are Hoisington, Stearns, Sullivan, and Runyan Lakes. Except for Hoisington and Stearns Lakes, which are bounded by extensive wetland areas, all of the larger Township lakes are characterized by fairly intensive residential development, with lots generally less than three quarters of an acre in size. Runyan Lake, the first lake to experience substantial development, is characterized by the highest residential densities as lots do not generally exceed 1/2 acre in size. Public access to these water resources does not currently exist. As might be expected, the visual character of these lake areas has been significantly altered with the onset and expansion of development, and some of the lakes' waters have suffered due to septic field leachate, residential fertilizers, and water activities. Most of the land surrounding smaller lakes (20 acres or less) in Tyrone Township remains undeveloped. ,..---..__ Agricultural Land Tyrone Township has many areas which have prime farmland soils present (see Map C-10). The entire Township, with the exception of moraines and ridgelines, has concentrations of prime farmland soils. A declining number of working farms exist in Tyrone Township, but the acreage is significant. They lend significantly to the diverse rural character of the area and provide open spaces to compliment the area's rolling hills. Woodlands The wooded areas of Tyrone Township substantially contribute to the picturesque rural character of the area and are evident throughout all areas of the Township (see Map C-12). Most are found on the steepest slopes and hillsides of the Township and in wetland areas, primarily on the ridgelines of moraines. Many of the forested areas are relatively small in land area, covering 40 acres or less. Other areas include 80 acres or more of contiguous woodlands. The most significant of these larger wooded areas are located just south of Stearns Lake, and south of White Lake Road between Hartland Road Though agricultural lands are scattered throughout the Township, they are generally concentrated in three areas: 1) the west central area of the Township between Hogan Road and Center Road, west of US23; 2) the southern region of the Township between Lake Shannon and Hartland Road, south of Dean Road ; and 3) the east central region of the Township stretching from Hartland Road to the Township's eastern boundary. Even within these more 2-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ,,,-....._ . ~ - �woodlands and frame the largely undeveloped Hoisington Lake and Steams Lake. This area is further complemented by a varying topography, ranging from fairly flat to rolling to areas of greater than 18% slopes. Little development has occurred within the Area, largely due to the physical constraints present, and the Area provides an excellent resource for wildlife habitats, runoff purification, and flood control. concentrated farming areas, there still exists considerable farmland fragmentation; there are limited large contiguous and consolidated expanses of farmland. Notable exceptions are the approximately 250 acres of farmland at Center and Fenton Roads, 160 acres of farmland along the west side of US-23, north of White Lake Road, and more than 350 acres of farmland along Linden Road between Hogan and Center Road. Most notable however, is the more than 450 acres of farmland In Section 33. Northeast Territory The Northeast Territory is dominated by the strongest suburban-like landscape in the Township. The Northeast Territory is generally characterized by those lands north of White Lake Road and the Runyan Lake area. While a significant portion of this area is characterized by wetlands, woodlands, and rangeland, there is a strong visual tie between the Northeast Territory and suburbanization. There are close to a dozen platted subdivisions in the Northeast Territory, not including the Runyan Lake area. Runyan Lake is characterized by residences on extremely narrow lots, reflecting a more urban character than lot sizes may suggest. A substantial amount of residential development has occurred in a strip fashion along the roadway corridors. This is particularly evident along numerous stretches of White Lake Road. Often times the expansive and panoramic vistas from the county roads have been replaced with foreground views of driveways, garages, and residences, screening the more rural landscapes in the background. Tyrone Township's rich farming history is evident by the numerous Michigan Centennial Farms in the Township, including the Dexter Farnham Centennial Farm at Center and linden Roads, the Gordon Centennial Farm at Center and Fenton Roads, the John Trollman Sr. Centennial Farm on Hogan Road at the Township's western boundary, and the Lyons Centennial Farm on linden Road, south of Center Road. There are approximately a dozen such historical farms throughout the Township. There are 833 acres of land in Tyrone Township enrolled in the state's Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program. VISUAL LANDSCAPE AREAS Overview The visual character of Tyrone Township is one which reflects strong rural elements inter1aced with features of Sli>urbanization. Within this context however, there are a number of clearly identifiable visual landscapes which come together to create the unique community of Tyrone Township. While there is probably little difference in local opinion about the description of Tyrone's visual character, there may be diverse opinions about lines and boundaries which separate the variable landscapes in the Township. Below is one descl1)tion of the many landscapes of Tyrone Township. It is presented because of its utility in documenting the existing character of the Township, and because of the insight it provides for land use planning purposes. The visual character assessment below identifies seven principal landscape areas in the Township and elaborates upon each. The landscape areas are illustrated in Figure 2-2. U.S. - 23 Corridor Not only is the U.S.-23 corridor the backbone of the Township's transportation network, but it is a very strong visual element. For those traveling on the corridor, the highway provides a tour of the more central regions of the Township and provides the principal visual images of the Township for many Township residents and nonresident travelers. The visual images provided by the U.S.-23 corridor along the southern two thirds of the Township are dominated by opens spaces, including farmland , rangeland, and woodlands, and the Tyrone Hills Golf Course. More urban environments become apparent from the corridor in the northern third of the Township, particularly approaching the White Lake Road interchange, where visual access is afforded to the dense Runyan Lake residential areas, several commercial and industrial developments, and a propensity of billboards. Hoisington-Stearns Natural Area The Hoisington-Steams Natural Area epitomizes the rural grandeur of Tyrone Township. The Area, generally located within the Bennett Lake Road-White Lake Road-U.S. 23-Tumer Road corridor, in the northwest area of the Township, includes some of the Township's largest expanses of wetlands and Just as the U.S.-23 corridor provides visual images of the Township to travelers, it also makes a strong visual statement itself. The corridor is within view of abutting lands and many more distant 2-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Township areas. Further, Old U.S.-23, a well traveled road, abuts and parallels most of the highway corridor in the Township. As one might expect, the U.S.-23 corridor contrasts visually with the vastly rural environments • through which it passes within the Township. Lake Shannon/Parshallville Corridor Township. Understandably, the Bluffs features attract development. Up until recently, development in the Bluffs Area had been largely limited to its peripheral areas. However, as the Township continues to grow, pressure for the development of its more interior areas will increase as well, as recently evidenced by the current construction of the • Top of the Pines" subdivision. Built upon the shores of North Ore Creek at its convergence with Lake Shannon in the far southwest comer of the Township, the community of Parshallville began to evolve by the mid 1800's. The water power afforded by North Ore Creek needed only an energetic soul, the likes of Isaac Parshall, to set the wheels in motion for what was to evolve into a small, charming rural village. By 1880, the pastoral community included a post office, general store, shoe store, blacksmith shops, and numerous other enterprises. Though situated principally in Hartland Township, Tyrone Township does share a portion of this historic community and early population center. As the mid 1900's approached, this population center had begun to expand northward along Lake Shannon and today, nearly all the Lake's shoreline is characterized by suburban residential development. Lake Shannon's southeastern shoreline is the Lake's only significant shoreline which strongly resembles the Lake's original shoreline character. While considerable residential development has evolved along Lake Shannon, the community of Parshallville still retains a quaint and pastoral quality with strong linkages to its past. The Farmstead Areas Though farmlands are visible throughout the entire Township, only several areas of the Township are characterized by comparatively large expanses of farmlands, and these comprise the farmstead areas. There are three farmstead areas, located in the far southcentral, far eastcentral, and far westcentral regions of the Township. The farmstead areas include adjacent natural open spaces (woodlands, wetlands, etc.) and a very limited amount of residential development. A number of the Township's centennial farms are situated in the farmstead area. Though the rural character of the Township is evident throughout nearly the whole Township, its tie to fanning and past generations may be most evident while passing through the farmstead areas. The Mainlands The mainlands cover the vast majority of the Township area and include those Township areas not included in the landscapes discussed above. Because of the vast area they cover, the mainlands establish the dominant character of the Township. The mainlands are characterized by a mosaic of farmfields, woodlands, wetlands, rangeland and residential development. The topography ranges from fairly flat areas to rolling hills and include limited areas of steep grades. The farmfields are comparatively limited in size and in nearly all cases, the residential development is of a strip pattern. One can stand on nearly any point within the mainlands and either see, or be in close proximity to, all of these elements which comprise the mosaic. The Bluffs Area The Bluffs Area includes the highest point of the Township, and associated moraine formation, generally bounded by Hartland Road, White Lake Road, Fenton Road, and Center Road. This geological formation is characterized by extensive hardwood and coniferous woodlands and extensive areas in excess of 18% slopes. The upper limits of the Bluffs Area is visible from nearly all areas of the Township as it reaches nearly 1,250 feet above sea level. It is a natural landmark within the Township and reflects some of the strongest rural and serene qualities of the 2-6 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Map 2-2 VISUAL CHARACTER INVENTORY + '~ . Northeast Territory BENNETT LAKE RD. 5 2 3 ~- ~ q, ~6 ~ UJ LL. +~ Hoisington-Stearn 7 ci er Northeast Territory Mainlands HOGAN RD. ci er 18 i!i 17 Farmstead .... ci er ci er 0 z 20 21 ~< :r Mainlands ci er 29 er 5 Farmstead ROHN RD. 25 27 28 24 UJ Mainlands DEAN RD. UJ ~ 22 (!) (.) ~ ci er 34 31 Mainlands 33 UJ 35 36 §I en (L Farmstead ;:: HOLFORTH RD. LJ\7[11@)~[3 V@W~0C=OD[P Livingston County, Michigan 2-7 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �EXISTING LAND USE PATTERNS CRITICAL TRENDS The general land use character of Tyrone Township is one of open space and residential development. Just over 80% of the Township area is characterized by some form of open space. Both agricultural lands and woodlands each comprise approximately 21 % of the total Township area and herbaceous and shrub lands comprise nearly·one third of the Township area. Agriculture in Tyrone Township is primarily crop farming and generally situated in the eastcentral, westcentral and southcentral regions. While all communities are going through a constant evolution in response to changes in economic, physical, social, and political patterns, Tyrone Township is a community in particular transition. This transition began approximately 30 years ago and is continuing today, and in some cases, at a more furious rate. Three particular trends have, and are continuing to, shape the character of the Township: 1) growth; 2) urbanization and the loss of farmland and rural character; and 3) large lot and strip residential development. Residential land uses are scattered throughout the entire Township. The vast majority of land area devoted to residential use is characterized by low density development on lots of five to ten acres. Higher density residential development is most evident in the northern third of the Township and along most of the Township's larger lakes. The more than 60 platted subdivisions in the Township range in size from as few as four lots to more than 70 lots. The vast majority of these subdivisions are smaller plats of a larger residential development. For example, the Laurel Springs development, which consists of nearly 50 lots, is composed of three separate plats. Nearly all of these platted subdivisions are largely comprised of approximately 3/4 acre lots, except in the area of the lakes. Lakefront subdivisions on Runyan Lake include many lots between 1/4 and 1/2 acre in size, although some are as small as 1/10 of an acre. Lake Shannon includes lots ranging from less than 1/4 acre in size to more than 1 3/4 acres in size. The vast majority of the lots abutting Runyan Lake are extremely narrow in width, often less than 50 feet. Shannon Lake, Tyrone Lake, Runyan Lake, and the multiple subdivisions in the Township's northern region are the principal population centers in the Township. The Township is being recognized more and more as a very desirable place to live. While the State of Michigan grew by less than 1% between 1980 and 1990, Tyrone Township's population increased by nearly 13% and reached a total 1990 population of 6,854 persons. More importantly, the number of housing units within the Township increased by approximately 27% in the past ten years resulting in a total 1990 Census dwelling unit count of 2,352. Probably the most telling statistic of increased recent growth within the Township is the number of residential building permits issued by the Township from 1986 through 1990. During that period, approximately 430 permits were issued. This was four times the number issued from 1981 through 1985. If the rate of dwelling unit increases in the last five years {22% from 1986 to 1990) were to continue to the year 2000, the total would be approximately 3400. This would represent a new population approaching 10,000 persons. This growth has taken its toll on local farming activities as more and more farmland has either been converted to residential use or left fallow due to increasing difficulties and conflicts in light of surrounding development. Of the 24 rezoning requests filed in 1980 through 1990, 75% were filed since the beginning of 1986 and just over 50% were filed in 1989 and 1990. All of the rezoning requests during this ten year period were of parcels zoned Farmland Residential to a variety of other zoning classifications, mostly to the Single Family Residential zone. The only multiple family development in the Township is on Fenton Road south of the City of Fenton. The vast majority of residences not part of a platted subdivision are on lots of approximately five to ten acres in size. Commercial and industrial development is limited in the Township and generally situated along the US23 corridor between Hogan Road and Whitelake Road. The Kelsey Hayes, Co. industrial facility is situated at the US-23/Center Road interchange and a small convenience store is situated at the intersection of Carmer and Hartland Roads. The diminishing farmland in the Township reflects the increasing loss of rural character in the Township. Though a rural atmosphere still predominates throughout most of the Township, increasing urbanization is chipping away at this Township quality. It is the particular type of urbanization in Tyrone Township that is so detrimental to its rural character. 2-8 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �First, much of the urbanization is occurring by way of residential lots between five to ten acres. Individual residences are occupying a disproportionate amount of land, and ther~y escalating the loss of rural amenities, as many of these larger residential lots still take on a visual and physical character of urbanization. If development trends continue as they have, the approximately 1,000 new residences which may be built in the Township by the year 2,000 could take up as much as ten square miles if five to ten acre lots were to predominate. This increase alone could convert nearly one third of the Township to a residential pattern {this does not take into account that land area in the Township already of a residential character). This pattern of land development can be equally devastating to the Township roadway network. The strip residential development pattern which could dominate will increase the number of residences accessing the primary roadways directly and thereby continually shortening the distance between driveways. The result will be increased congestion, traffic hazards, and travel times and a complete transformation of the visual landscape. The visual character of the Township will be typified by a county roadway network lined with residences. The visual experience from the roadway will not provide any real sense of present and past rural character. The extensive gravel road network throughout the Township will require far more in maintenance costs than current conditions. The continual lot splits and dispersed development will unnecessarily consume large areas of open spaces and the natural resources associated with these open spaces including woodlands, wetlands, and fields. Current land use policy and subsequent development patterns prompt the conversion of open space, woodlots and agricultural lands into large lot, single-family development. The increase in density, and lack of public sewer in the Township, will place greater pressure upon groundwater resources as their vulnerability to contamination through on-site sewage disposal will increase. The introduction of new and expanded services provided by the Township will become a larger issue in the future as the population grows, households increase, and land is further developed. Publlc protection problems {police and fire protection, emergency medical service and transportation management) will become more acute. The expansion of services will be accompanied by an increase in local taxes. Development that does not accommodate unique natural characteristics {e.g., retention of native vegetation, slopes and wetlands) will alter the character of the Township over time. Groomed yards will replace native vegetation and wildlife habitat. Water quality in area lakes and streams wiU decrease as pesticides, lawn chemicals and other artificially introduced nutrients and'or contaminants reach the water. Those open spaces that may be prese,ved are apt to be fragmented and be far less functional and visual in the environment. Eventually, the Township will take on the appearance of a more urbanized suburb than a rural area. These trends will continue as long as encouraged by public policy and permitted by existing regulations. This plan sets forth a new public policy intended to encourage new development in a way which protects public values associated with a clean environment and scenic open spaces. 2-9 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -- - - - . --- �Chapter 3 A COMMON VISION: GOALS & OBJECTIVES development will be directly linked to the US-23 corridor and reflect the overall quality and character of the Township. The permitted intensity of both residential and nonresidential development will be directly related to the presence and nature of environmental resources and conditions, with the most environmentally sensitive areas, including wetlands, floodplains, woodlands, and hillsides, to be developed at the lowest intensities. Not only will development be limited in these areas, but the development that may occur will respect the aesthetic features of these resources and minimize visual, audible, and other sensory pollution of these resources. VISION STATEMENT The planning process followed in the preparation of this Plan identified community attitudes regarding the future character of Tyrone Township and developed a consensus of public opinion regarding future land use and community development. This consensus was arrived at through town meetings where the public was given opportunities to identify the preferred future character of the Township and comment on and shape the evolution of the Plan. Citizens consistently portrayed a common vision for the Township's future which was founded upon the preservation of the Township's natural resources and current •rural-like• character. The following vision statement portrays the prevailing aspirations of Township residents: The location of intensive land uses will be linked with adequate public facilities and services to safely accommodate these land uses. Township facilities and services will be expanded in the Township in a well planned, priority based, and coordinated fashion, and in a manner which preserves and reflects the rural character and lifestyle of the Township. Carefully regulated and environmentally sound onsite potable water sources and sewage disposal will predominate and limit the expenditure of public funds and property taxes for new and expanded public sewer and water. Expansion of services will occur to the extent that it is fiscally sound and addresses public health, satety, and welfare concerns, including the accommodation of more intensive residential and nonresidential land uses in limited areas. New public facilities should precede or be concurrent with private land development and shall largely be financed by the developer or future resident/operator of the development project. The development and maintenance of a capital improvement program will assist the Township in providing the desired services in a coordinated and cost-effective manner. The fundamental natural, rural character of Tyrone Township will continue well into the 21st century. It will maintain its charm, warmth, and wholesomeness as a place to live, raise a family, and for children to grow and develop as constructive members of society. Day-to-day activities of Township residents and families will occur within a beautiful mosaic of environmental resources including woodlands, wetlands, lakes and streams, rolling hillside~. and expanses of open spaces and farmland. These resources will be of the highest quality and the air will carry a sense of freshness and vigor. Growth and development will be accommodated within the Township in a manner which preserves the fundamental and character-building assets of the Township. Site development practices will respect the special natural resources of the Township and recognize these resources as community-wide assets for an improved living environment. Residential development will largely consist of single family homes grouped among the expanses of open space and integrated with natural resources in a manner which reflects respect and appreciation. Young persons, couples, families, and senior citizens will find affordable housing opportunities and a mix of housing types and densities. Opportunities for limited commercial and industrial development will be provided in locations where public services are adequate to accommodate such development and where adverse impacts upon adjacent land uses will be minimized. Commercial and industrial Recreation-related open spaces will play an increasing role in the Township. The Township's extensive natural resources will serve as the basis for an open space system providing recreation opportunities for all segments of the Township's population. Tyrone Township government decisions will reflect a level of land use and growth management which will effectively blend an expanding population and level of development with the special and sensitive natural resources of the community. Community pride will be established in 3-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �the form of a separate identity for Tyrone Township and will show itself in the appearance and upkeep of residential and nonresidential properties, public interest and involvement in charting the Township's future, and in a strong sense of community and neighborliness. futuring session were tabulated , and key issues were extracted. Draft goals and objectives were formulated to address all of the issues identified and provided the impetus for the second town meeting. A final set of goals and objectives was compiled following the second town meeting, after the public scrutinized the first draft version for language and omissions. Based upon the results of the second town meeting, a refined set of goals and objectives was prepared. This Township-wide vision strongly molded the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan. GOALS & OBJECTIVES Definitions of Goals, Objectives, and Policies Following are goals and objectives to accomplish the common vision for the future of Tyrone Township. Policies to implement the goals and objectives are presented in the next two chapters (Chapters 4 and Goals, objectives, and policies play a fundamental role in the Tyrone Township Comprehensive Plan. The goals and objectives chart the Plan's direction and form, and the policies present key implementation strategies to assure the Plan's direction is followed . The relationship between goals, objectives, and policies is as follows: 5). Although goals and objectives are grouped under several categories, there are numerous interrelationships among them. Some goals and objectives are concurrent, while others must be accomplished in sequence. A GOAL is a destination, a final condition which a community seeks to attain. A goal is the most general level of policy and, by itself, is not very helpful to decision makers. It needs further refinement to assist decision makers to reach their selected destination. It is like saying, •1 want to take a vacation. • Growth Management and Land Use Planning GOAL: Provide opportunities for managed growth and development in the Township in a manner which preserves the Township's rural character, assures the provision of adequate public services as may be needed to meet the needs of existing and new development, and protects the health, safety, and welfare of Township residents and visitors. AN OBJECTIVE is the route which specifies in general terms the way (route) by which the goal (destination) can be reached. An objective indicates the kinds of actions that should be used to achieve the goal. It is a •means• to the "end•. It is like setting aside •$x• by •y date• to travel to •z • Objective: Minimize the loss and fragmentation of open spaces through a coordinated land use plan and related regulations. A POLICY is a means of achieving an objective and hence a goal. It is the form of transportation along the route. It's a course of action which, if followed, will achieve an objective. A policy is more detailed than an objective and can be readily translated into specific action recommendations or design proposals. Policies will be presented in more depth in Chapter 4 and Chapter 5. Objective: Continually identify areas for, and techniques of, managing the conversion of agricultural and open lands so as to prevent driving agriculture out, while protecting the open spaces during the conversion process. How The Goals & Objectives Evolved Objective: Guide development into areas where public facilities and services (such as roads, possible future public sewer and/or water, and police and fire protection) have adequate capacity to accommodate growth and increased development intensities, and where provision of public facilities is cost-effective, while limiting development in areas where the ~ecessary public services are not present to support increased development intensities and where the provision of public services is not cost-effective. The evolution of the goals and objectives for the Tyrone Township Comprehensive Plan involved several steps to identify pertinent issues and address those issues. The initial citizen input component included a -,uturing session" (Town Meeting #1), where participants were asked to visualize Tyrone Township twenty years in the future. Before the first draft of goals and objectives was written, the results of the 3-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ,-....... �Objective: Enact a capital improvements plan which specifies timing and cost of providing and expanding public facilities in specific areas of the Township. Objective: Ensure through responsible and innovative development, incentives, and site planning regulations, that new development minimizes disturbance and destruction of open spaces and preserves the landscape's natural assets and important open spaces. Objective: Adopt regulations to provide aesthetically pleasing visual and physical separation between greatly differing land uses to minimize their respective negative impacts. Objective: Identify and preserve the historical character of the Township through community education programs and a land use program which includes a strong historical preservation theme. Objective: Arrange for periodic joint meetings between Tyrone Township officials and officials from adjoining municipalities to discuss current issues. Objective: Ensure that the visual quality of the Township and its neighborhoods are not negatively impacted by existing and new development due to land use practices, height, size and bulk of structures, utility infrastructure, and associated visual concerns. Objective: Promote uniform or compatible land use planning and zoning across municipal boundaries by coordinating efforts with the surrounding municipalities as well as with Livingston, Genesee, and Oakland Counties. Environmental Quality GOAL: Assure the continued quality of the natural environment. Objective: Develop and maintain a meaningful communication program utilizing the particular expertise and insights of the Livingston County Planning Department, Livingston County Road Commission, Livingston County Public Health Department, Livingston County Drain Commission, and other county agencies to discuss existing and proposed land use and land development projects within the Township. Objective: Ensure that the quantity and quality of new development does not substantially increase air, noise, land, and water pollution, or the degradation of land and water resource environments, and that all development and land uses be in compliance with the Michigan Environmental Protection Act and all other applicable county, state and federal regulations. Community Character, Open Space & Natural Resources character of the Township through the preservation of open spaces, natural resources, and other fundamental assets, and the reduction of undesirable character elements. Objective: Adopt standards and regulations for residential, commercial , and industrial development which require site design measures be incorporated to protect environmentally sensitive areas, including wildlife and plantlife resources. Objective: Document and establish the existing character of the Township to serve as the basis for programs to protect and enhance the positive aspects of that character and alleviate the less desirable aspects. Objective: Educate the public regarding the Township's fundamental reliance upon groundwater resources for potable water supplies and the potential detrimental effects of land development and land uses upon groundwater resources. Objective: Recognize that the open spaces and natural resources of the Township are fundamental elements of the Township's character and identify those open spaces and natural resources to be preserved . Such areas should consist primarily of farmland which reflects strong long term economic viability , woodlands, wetlands, wildlife preservation areas, and other environmentally sensitive areas, and land not suitable for development because of limitations on structures or septic fields . Objective: Identify vulnerable and sensitive areas of aquifers and watersheds in Tyrone Township and limit land division, development densities and land uses in and around them to protect against altering the natural hydrology including the surficial and underground water quality, the intensity and quantity of runoff, and flood control. GOAL: Maintain and enhance the current rural Objective: Adopt regulations aimed at assuring that existing and new development will not adversely affect the quality of on-site and off-site environmental resources . 3-3 TYRONE TOWNSH IP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �owned facilities and reliance on nearby municipal .~ systems. Objective: Establish standards to classify the quality of service, or "level of service•, provided by individual public facilities and services and use this classification to assist in land use decisions and capital improvement planning. Transportation/Roads GOAL: Develop and maintain a transportation network throughout the Township which moves vehicular traffic in an efficient and safe fashion, functions in a manner consistent with the relative importance of individual roadway segments, and provides safe and functional opportunities for alternative modes of transportation including walking and bicycling. Objective: Develop and maintain a regular, meaningful communication program whereby Tyrone Township and all adjoining municipalities regularly convene to discuss public facilities and services needs, identify common needs, and investigate alternative strategies to address those needs in a mutually beneficial manner. Objective: Identity priority roads for maintenance and i"1)rovement and include them in the Township's capital improvements plan. Objective: Maximize the presence of US-23 as an anchor for well planned intensive development. Objective: Develop and maintain a meaningful communication program with area school districts to discuss impacts of area land use and development upon the school districts including economic, capacity, and quality of education considerations. Objective: Adopt regulations which minimize the potential for traffic congestion and safety hazards along roadways including access controls, the limitation of the number, size, and shape of new land divisions along county roads, the prevention of "strip" development, and the control of land use intensity along major roads. Objective: Recognize that solid waste disposal, and recycling, is a regional issue which requires coordinated and collective action and a sense of personal, township-wide, and regional responsibility. Objective: Develop plans and regulations to expand alternative transportation facilities, including walkways and bicycle trails, to address the varied transportation needs of the Township residents. Parks & Recreation Public Facilities & Services GOAL: Facilitate the expansion of recreation opportunities in Tyrone Township in a purposeful, planned, and coordinated manner to address the recreation needs of all populations in the Township. GOAL: Expand public facilities and services in a phased manner based upon priority needs, costeffectiveness, technical feasibility, and the land use policies and proposed future land use pattern presented in the Plan. Objective: Identify needed recreation opportunities in the Township and establish a strategy for addressing these needs which includes both public and private sector involvement. Objective: Investigate sources of state and federal funding for parks and recreation facilities, and prepare proposals to obtain funding for the development and/or expansion of facilities when Township funds are adequate to maintain future recreation facilities . Objective: Determine areas of Tyrone Township which are in greatest need of increased public facilities and services, based upon existing and proposed land use patterns and conditions. Objective: Increase the level of fire and police protection on a Township-wide basis, through the development of police and fire protection plans. Objective: Promote the use of open space and recreation areas to enhance the character of existing and new residential areas. Encourage incorporation of such areas into residential development through the use of incentives to developers. Objective: Incorporate public facilities and services expansion areas into the Township's capital improvements plan. Objective: Explore and pursue feasible options f~r _developi~g a trail system for recreational biking, hiking, walking , and similarly based trail recreational activities. Objective: Explore long range planning considerations associated with alternative public facilities and services programs including Township- 3-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN .v �of Township residents for small commercial and industrial centers. Objective: To the extent that it is practical and appropriate, guide commercial and industrial development toward the US-23 corridor in a planned manner. Objective: Coordinate recreation planning efforts with surrounding municipalities and governmental units, including ~hool districts, to provide comprehensive recreation opportunities and minimize unnecessary duplication of services and facilities. Objective: Adopt regulations which will ensure future development along US-23, as viewed by highway motorists, is of a visual quality compatible with the Township character. Housing GOAL: Promote a broad range of housing opportunities which respond to the varying economic, family stage, and lifestyle needs of the community while maintaining high levels of aesthetic and qualitative character. Objective: Ensure that elements for preservation of the Township's rural character are incorporated into new commercial and industrial developments by establishing appropriate site design standards (including landscaping and signage) and building standards, with a special emphasis on height, size, and architectural style. Objective: Promote opportunities for affordable housing (new housing which does not exceed the cost of the approximate median housing value for the state -- approximately $80,000) in the Township's planning and zoning program. Objective: Limit land division and access along major roads to prevent commercial or industrial strip development. Objective: Identify lands which are particularly suited for single family housing, and lands which are particularly suitable for multiple family housing, and appropriately zone these lands for such uses at such time when the need is apparent and/or a responsible rezoning request comes before the Township. Objective: Ensure that new commercial and industrial development does not adversely impact the normal use and enjoyment of adjoining land uses through appropriate buffering and other techniques. Objective: Ensure that, while meeting objectives for affordable housing and varied housing options, detached single family homes remain the predominant housing type and are not encroached upon by higher density housing. Objective: Ensure that commercial and industrial land uses have adequate provisions for sewage disposal, stormwater management, potable water, and other critical public health and welfare concerns. Objective: Ensure that new development reflects the scale and character along the borders with adjacent existing residential development and neighborhoods. j:\tyronelch-3.doc Objective: Maximize the amount of open space and natural areas preserved by Integrating open space protection with new housing development though the use of clustering, conservation easements, and other applicable techniques. Commercial & Industrial Development GOAL: Provide practical and functional locations, patterns, and regulations of commercial and industrial development which support the viability of these land uses, minimize their negative impact upon adjacent land uses, and maintain high levels of aesthetic and qualitative character. Objective: Identify a limited number of appropriate locations satisfactory to meet the needs 3-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Chapter 4 FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY of the Subdivision Control Act. Private road regulations are intended to provide opportunities for road circulation networks restricted from general public use, in response to the local housing market, while at the same time assuring such roads are built to minimum public health, safety, and welfare standards and so maintained . Other related ordinances and a capital improvement program, may, from time to time, be adopted or amended to further carry out this Plan. INTRODUCTION and PURPOSE The growth management program for Tyrone Township consists of coordinated planning and regulatory components. The principal planning components are embodied within the Comprehensive Plan's Future Land Use Strategy, as discussed in this chapter, and the Public Services Strategy described in the following chapter. The Future Land Use Strategy is a plan which identifies the desired pattern of land development throughout the Township through the establishment of land uses and densities for areas with common characteristics. The Future Land Use Strategy presents the intended character of each land use area and specific policy guidelines for site development projects. OVERVIEW OF FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY Basis The Future Land Use Plan establishes the planned future land use pattern throughout the Township for approximately 20 years. The goals and objectives presented in Chapter 3 are the foundation on which the Future Land Use Plan is based, including: The Public Services Strategy in Chapter 5 specifies policies regarding future infrastructure improvements and decisions to assure future public services are coordinated with the planned future land use pattern in the Township, and that the goals and objectives of this Plan can be achieved. • Protection of public health and safety • Conservation of natural resources IMPLEMENTATION OF THE FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY: The regulatory elements of Tyrone Township's growth management program-those elements intended to implement the Comprehensive Plan, including the Future Land Use Strategy-will consist primarily of the regulatory ordinances of the Township including its Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. The Township's Zoning Ordinance generally regulates the type, location, bulk, and intensity of land development throughout the Township. The Subdivision Regulations establish the standards under which land in the Township can be subdivided into multiple lots (a plat). Standards regarding street alignments, circulation, utility easements, emergency access, grading, and erosion control are addressed, among others. • Environmental protection • Rural character preservation • Minimizing public service costs • Insuring compatibility between land uses • Lake and stream preservation • Woodland preservation • Historic preservation. The future land use pattern was established based upon an analysis of the Township's natural and cultural characteristics, community attitudes, the existing roadway network, soil conditions, existing and nearby public infrastructure, environmentally sensitive areas, neighboring municipal land use conditions, and other associated characteristics. The opportunities and constraints presented by these characteristics were evaluated within the context of the goals and objectives of Chapter 3 to arrive at a future land use pattern. Lot split and private road regulations are also very important as a means to further implement the Comprehensive Plan and the Future Land Use Strategy presented within. Lot split regulations are intended to assure efficient land division patterns, the avoidance of nonbuildable lots, and adequate public access to public roads. Lot split regulations are particularly valuable when lots are being created outside of the regulatory authority, and administrative review procedures, 4-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Township-Wide Land Use Pattern east, Hartland Township to the south, Deerfield Township to the west, and Fenton Township (in Genessee County) to the north. While there do exist limited areas along neighboring municipal boundaries that do exhibit, ancVor are planned or zoned for, higher densities (such as the Mari Lake area in Fenton Township where minimum lot sizes of 12,000 square feet are permitted), the balance of the neighboring lands are zoned for residential densities of 1 dwelling unit per 1.5 to 1O acres. The principal exception to this pattern is the City of Fenton which provides for 2 dwelling units per acre along much of the land which abuts the northeast portion of the Township. However, a significant portion of Tyrone Township which abuts the City has been similarty developed at higher densities (approaching 1 1/2 to 2 dwelling units per acre) and the Plan provides for the continuation of this development intensity in this area of the Township with limited opportunities for development approaching 4 dwelling units per acre. The text in this Chapter establishes the policies to guide future land use change so as to accomplish the desired geographic land use pattern illustrated in Map 4-1, the Future Land Use Map. The Future Land Use Strategy calls for a land use pattern in the Township characterized predominantly by low density residential development and a variety of open spaces including farmland, woodlands, and wetlands. Opportunities for commercial and industrial development are provided along selected areas of the U.S .-23 corridor. Relationship to Existing Land Use Pattern and Land Uses The Future Land Use Strategy calls for a future land use pattern which is generally similar to that which currently exists throughout the Township. The primary differences between the planned and current land use pattern are founded upon a stronger program to protect rural character, open space and environmental resources, retention of significant visual resources, recognition of the limited long term economic viability of farming in the Township, provision for denser residential development in specific and limited areas of the Township to provide affordable housing opportunities, and the consolidation of commercial and industrial land uses along U.S. 23. INDIVIDUAL COMPONENTS OF THE FUTURE LAND USE STRATEGY Following is a review of the principal components of the Future Land Use Strategy. These components, collectively, formulate the planned future land use pattern in the Township and generally identify the future land use pattern by land use type and include policies regarding each land use type. A major emphasis of the Future Land Use Strategy is to limit the unplanned creation of ten (and smaller) acre lots often stripped along the County roads. This lot split pattern has negatively impacted the rural quality of the Township and the efficiency and safety of the roadway network (see "Trends and Conditions" discussion in Chapter 2). Conservation of Special Natural Resources Overview This Plan calls for the preservation of the Township's natural resources. The Township's natural resources includes its groundwater, surface water, air, wetlands, floodplains , soils, woodlands, and hillsides. These natural resources should not be so exploited as to reduce their long term availability, or contaminated so as to present health hazards to Township residents. Some of these resources are particularly sensitive to degradation from unsound land use and development activities and present constraints to land development. Relationship to Neighboring Municipalities The Future Land Use Strategy was based, in part, upon insuring compatibility with existing and proposed land use patterns in those municipalities sharing borders with Tyrone Township. Such considerations were fundamental in the interest of intergovernmental coordination, continuity, and compatible land uses. The Future Land Use Strategy in this Plan proposes low to very low density residential and/or conservation (open space) uses along the entire pefl)hery of the Township except that portion abutting Fenton. This pattern of land use is very compatible with those existing and proposed patterns in neighboring communities. These natural resources are scattered throughout the Township and provide important environmental benefits including habitats for wildlife, flood control, groundwater recharge and discharge , and surface water and air purification. In addition, they provide special opportunities for passive recreation and play a Four of the five principal abutting municipalities reflect a dominant agricultural and/or low density residential land use pattern, and are similarty master planned and zoned. This is true for Rose Township (in Oakland County) to the 4-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENS IVE PLAN ~ J �Map 4-1 FUTURE LAND USE • Conservation ~ Suburban Residential ,-Jl] Lakes Residential D Open Space Residential & Agriculture Ill Commercial/Industrial Corridor Note: LCT1ds norlh of Hogon Rood ond Foley Rood ore p/orr,ed for e,rponsJon lo Subu-bCTI Resldentiol development ofter dev-elopmenl of lands nortt, of Write Lake Rood. See Fioure 5-1. September 1993 302 South \MoveffV f'lood N A SCALE 1 ss 096 : ' 1 heh • 4590 feet LOn&lnQ . MlchlQOn • All areas shown are generalized . This is not a parcel specific or sensitive environmental area specific map. 4-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �critical role as elements of the Township's rural character so strongly desired to be retained by residents. other public benefits of the new land use are great enough. The Future Land Use Strategy calls for the consetvation of all of these natural resources through both designated consetvation areas in the Township and through conseivation policies linked to other land use areas. POLICIES: The following policies shall guide the use and development of parcels and portions of parcels In the Conservation Area: 1) Average development densities for development within the limits of the Conservation Area should not exceed one dwelling unit per 20-40 acres. 2) Alternation of the natural landscape and development of new roads should be avoided. 3) Land development in Conservation Areas should proceed only after receipt of appropriate Township and/or state or federal permits, and where applicable, according to mitigation measures required through the administration of federal, state, county or Township ordinances. 4) Land uses requiring state and/or federal permits (especially for wetland or floodplain alterations) should not receive final Township approval until satisfactory evidence has been submitted verifying the acquisition of all other necessary permits. 5) If the land can be reasonably used without alteration of the special natural resources (at densities otherwise permitted by local, state, or federal regulations) then it should be used in this manner. Conservation Area A Consetvation Area is depicted on the Future Land Use Map (Figure 4-1). It includes those areas of the Township characterized by wetlands, hydric soils, and lands within 100 feet of the Township's principal water courses. While the Consetvation Area includes lands throughout the entire Township, the largest individual Consetvation Area land mass is situated along the Hoisington and Stearns Lake lowlands, east to U.S.23, and is part of the Consetvation Area corridor stretching across the northern section of the Township to Sullivan Lake. It is expected that any flood-prone areas in the Township would most likely lie within the Consetvation Area should they be subsequently identified and mapped. Lands within the Conseivation Area should only be used for residential and recreation land uses. Development densities within the consetvation areas should not exceed one dwelling unit per 20-40 acres. This low development density is applicable to only those instances where development on a parcel occurs entirely within the limits of the Consetvation Area, as very few properties lie wholly within the Conseivation Area. In most cases there are significant portions of a parcel which are upland, or otherwise outside of the Consetvation Area. Future development should occur on those portions of the property, outside the Conservation Area, whenever the option exists. The number of dwelling units permitted on a parcel which is partly included within the Conservation Area should be based upon the total parcel area-not just that area outside of the Consetvation Area. Whenever possible, alteration of the natural landscape and development of new roads and structures in the Conservation Area should be avoided. Residential Development Overview Residential development will continue to be the predominant developed land use throughout the Township. Permitted density of future residential development as established in the zoning ordinance, will be based upon the natural limitations and suitability of the soils in the area for residential development (as represented by an applicant obtaining the necessary pe,mits from the County Health Department), preservation of special natural resources, preservation of important open spaces, compatibility with adjacent land uses, and the availability of adequate support setvices including, but not limited to: safe and convenient access, healthy water and septic waste disposal, and sufficient police and fire protection. The lack of public sewer in the Township dictates an overall low density residential development pattern. Extensive areas of the Township have severe limitations for septic disposal if development were to occur on small lots, according to the published soil analysis of the Soil Conservation Service. · Future land use decisions must recognize the significance of these resources to the Township. Any loss in the quantity or quality of these resources must be considered permanent and, as ·such, sound and practical land use and site development practices aimed at presetvation of these resources must prevail. In the alternative, and only when no other practical alternative exists, mitigation measures may be authorized where 4-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �A principal consideration guiding residential development within the Township is the intention to allow for a variety of single family residential housing options, consistent with the chijracter of the Township, in order to better address varying lifestyle preferences, economic considerations, and family orientation options including the elderly and young. The specific permitted development density associated with a particular parcel would depend upon the particular conditions present and the development option a landowner wishes to pursue. The premise behind the Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area's intended land use and development pattern is that an increase in the measures taken by a landowner (in regard to a proposed development project) to preserve the Township's open space rural character and minimize negative public impacts should be accompanied by a comparatively higher permitted development density. In this fashion, a strong incentive would then exist to develop land in the Township in a responsible manner as it relates to preserving the Township's current character. Also, nearly all landowners within the Township would have available to them similar development options with only limited differential treatment-contrary to the traditional effect of comprehensive plans and zoning ordinances. DEVELOPMENT DENSITY: Tyrone Township wants to provide its current and future residents with the basis for a zoning program that provides more development flexibility than what is typically provided for. "Development density" is used in this Plan to describe recommended development intensities. Within the text of this Plan, references to a particular ·development density", such as one dwelling unit per 2 acres, means the density that results by dividing the total acreage of the project area (including many Jots) by the number of dwelling units planned for that area-it does not mean a uniform minimum zoning lot size of 2 acres. Principal measures in arriving at higher development densities would be: the use of clustering and permanently designated open space of at least 4050% or more of a parcel's area; direct access to, or close proximity to, paved roads; provisions for fire protection infrastructure; public or community water and sanitary sewers, and other measures to minimize excess demand on the Township's limited public services system and to protect the health, safety, and welfare, of present and future Township residents. These or comparable measures would become standards in the zoning ordinance. They would be designed to regulate residential development and protect the public from potential negative impacts associated with the denser development. Thus, a 20 acre landowner could have a number of available development options where a development density of 1 dwelling unit per 2 acres was recommended by the Comprehensive Plan and so regulated by the Zoning Ordinance. This development flexibility might be reflected in the following hypothetical development options each with the same development density: 1) twenty 1-acre lot platted subdivision; 2) twenty 1/2-acre lot subdivision with 10 acres reserved as permanent open space; or 3) a multiple family development consisting of four buildings, with five units in each b~ilding, and a 18 acre open space area. The increased flexibility which a property owner receives in the development of land based on "development density" rather than "minimum lot size• is illustrated in Figure 4-2. A special emphasis on site design should be placed on development along all of the County road network within the Township to better preserve the rural attributes of these heavily traveled corridors and to prevent road hazards from too many access points. More discussion of this emphasis is presented under "Principal Road Corridors" later in this Chapter. Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area The Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area covers the vast majority of the Township and provides opportunities for residential development within an open space, rural character setting. An overall low, open spaced-based development density of one dwelling unit per 1 to 5 acres will be encouraged within the Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area, and includes the vast majority of the Township, due to the lack of public sewer and water, _ the generally poor soils for septics in much of the Township, the limited capacity of the predominantly unpaved roadway network, and the public's interest in protecting the rural character of the Township. OPEN SPACE ZONING: Guiding future residential development in a manner which maintains the rural character of the Township is the primary challenge of successful implementation of the Plan. The strategy proposed is the addition of a new option to both the Township's Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Ordinance, often referred to as "open space zoning" or "rural clustering," to permit and encourage carefully designed small "open spaceN developments to be established anywhere in the residential areas of the Township according to standards established in each ordinance. This will allow the creation of small lots (or 4-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �tional versus open space zoning development approach. A bonus density may also be considered for superior design or the provision of affordable housing. In some situations, it may be desirable to require development via open space or cluster zoning (such as property exclusively in sensitive environmental areas). but in most cases this would be a voluntary option. For example, the incentive could be established by pennitting development at 1 dwelling unit per 5 acres if the open space zoning option were not selecteci, while permitting a larger number of dwelling units per 5 acres if the open space zoning option were selected. alternatively, if done under the Condominium Act, to site new residential structures) in a cluster, or series of small clusters, leaving the bulk of the property in permanent open space (achieved through a permanent deed restriction). Careful design will ensure that the open spaces and rural character of the Township is retaineci. This option would pennit, for example, a tanner to create 40 lots from an 80 acre parcel (if the pennitted development density is one lot per 2 acres) and to make each lot 1/2 to 1 acre in size, clustered into three to five groups to take advantage of the natural characteristics of the site. This will result in conversion of approximately 40 acres (including roads), thereby leaving the remaining 40 acres for agricultural or other nondevelopmental open space use. Scenarios A and B in Figure 4-2 illustrate another example of a tradi- The following guidelines are a framework for a new set of subdivision and site development (zoning) regulations for rural clustering for all of the land in the Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area. Figure 4-2 Development Flexibility Through "Development Density" The development scenarios below illustrate the development flexibility available by stipulating "development density" rather than "minimum lot size.• All of the development scenarios below result in a development density of 1 dwelling unit per 1 acre. \ A41"C. n-+--+-+-+~ . j _i ___ • I I 1 t -~"" 1 lcrt ,....,.-e--, , -1 . - ; , - - - - ·J • .,_j.......,._·.__ ,; .._j A. Traditional platted subdivision consisting of a 20 acre parcel divided into 20 1-acre lots. A.U-C. lot : : : .. '-~ t~~--"~{J; J B. Open space subdivision consisting of a 20 acre parcel divided into 20 1/2-acre lots and a permanent open space area of 1O acres. 4-6 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN C. A multi-family development on a 20 acre parcel, consisting of 4 five-unit buildings on 2 acres and 18 acres of permanent open space. �of factors including the limited extent of contiguous expanses of prime agricultural soils. &'.Qid 1) Disturbing areas adjacent to floodplains, stream buffer areas or >Vetlands. This Plan encourages the continuation of all current farming activities, irrespective of their location, as long as it is economically viable to do so, adequate public services for higher density development are not available, and especially where the land is characterized by prime agricultural soils. All typical farming activities, including the raising of crops and use of stables, silos, and barns, but excluding intensive livestock activities, are recognized as legitimate land uses provided that they met Department of Agriculture requirements as •generally accepted agricultural land management practices.• Livestock operations of such intensity that the quantity of animal waste and odors presents excessive impacts upon adjacent and area land uses and resource systems are not consistent with the current or future residential character of the Township. 2) Developing on steep slopes. 3) Building on hilltops and ridges when development will be highly visible. 4) Siting houses on prime agricultural soils when these can be part of a significant block of farmland. 5) Placing numerous houses with access drives along local and primary county roads or local collector roads. 6) Backing houses directly or visibly onto local and primary county roads or local collector roads. 7) Destroying existing tree stands or hedgerows, especially along rights-of-way and between housing and active agricultural areas. POLICIES: The following policies, at a mm1mum, shall guide the use and development of parcels and portions of parcels in the Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area: 1) Residential development should be limited by appropriate zoning to an average development density of one dwelling unit per 5 acres [except within one half mile of the Township's northern boundary, where development densities approaching 4 dwelling units per acre may be permitted, based upon policy #2 below.] 2) Site specific development densities should be based upon the extent that special conditions may prevail, the quality of the open space and rural character of the project and associated site plan, available public seNices and infrastructure, and the degree to which the project will impact the Township's roadway system and other public infrastructure and seNices. 3) Actual permitted lot size should be established in the zoning ordinance based on the presence or Jack of sewers, type of road access, number of lots, amount of open space, and related factors. 4) Minimum lot sizes should be, at a minimum, adequate to accommodate septic systems (where sewer is not available) as required by the Livingston County Public Health Department. 5) Opportunities and incentives should be provided within Township ordinances to encourage residential development according to the open space/cluster zoning principles discussed in this Plan and as specified in the Zoning Ordinance. 6) Residential development should not occur on a strip basis and should be appropriately sited, landscaped, and setback from all roadways, including 8) Fences on clustered lots within the development. Regyjre 1) Substantial buffering and screening for development near all public right-of-way on collectors and arterials. 2) Preservation or enhancement hedgerows and wooded areas. of existing 3) Appropriate setbacks and/or buffering between housing and existing or proposed active agricultural areas. 4) Sate location and design of common sanitary systems and storm water management structures that do not create nuisances. · 5) Homeowner-managed recreation areas and common spaces within larger clusters. 6) Covenants or easements to permanently protect the undeveloped open space areas that remain after clustering is accomplished. AGRICULTURAL LANDS: The Open Space Residential and Agricultural Area includes those lands in the Township currently being farmed. This Plan recognizes that farming plays an important role in the history and character of Tyrone Township. It also recognizes that farming, as an industry, is a particularly difficult challenge in Tyrone Township due to a number 4-7 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �better capable of handling the traffic demands associated with this higher development intensity. Ultimately however, this development density is contingent upon the futu re expansion of public sewer and water from Fenton Township and/or the City of Fenton, or the use of community systems (see "Sewer and Water" section of Chapter 5) . In recognition that the northern portion of the Township is already characterized by established neighborhoods, an additional important condition is the necessity for setbacks and buffering between these existing neighborhoods and higher density developments. special provisions to maintain a rural character along all segments of the County road network. 7) Residential development within the Open Space Residential Area, should be based upon ordinance provisions which limit the fragmentation of open spaces and Township-wide natural resource systems. 8) Community sewer systems (also known as cluster systems) shall be permitted within the Open Space Residential Area (limited to the Partial Services District; see Chapter 5) provided all necessary state, county, and local permits are acquired, the system is accepted by a public body and maintained as a public system, and the system is constructed according to adopted standards by the Township to facilitate ease of tie-ins to potential future public systems and to ensure adequate financial resources exist to maintain it. POLICIES: The following policies, at a minimum, shall guide the use and development of parcels and portions of parcels in the Suburban Residential Area: 1) Residential development should be limited by appropriate zoning to an average development density of one dwelling unit per acre, except within one half mile of the Township 's northern boundary, where development densities approaching 4 dwelling units per acre may be permitted, based upon policy #2 below. 2) Site specific development densities should be based upon the extent that special conditions may prevail, the quality of the open space and rural character of the project and associated site plan, available public services and infrastructure, and the degree to which the project will impact the Township's roadway system and other public infrastructure and services. 3) Actual permitted lot size should be established in the zoning ordinance based on the presence or Jack of sewers, type of road access, number of lots, amount of open space, and related factors. 4) Minimum lot sizes should be, at a minimum, adequate to accommodate septic systems (where sewer is not available) as required by the Livingston County Public Health Department. 5) Opportunities and incentives should be provided within Township ordinances to encourage residential development according to the zoning principles discussed in this Plan and as specified in the Zoning Ordinance. Open space/cluster zoning is encouraged along with traditional subdivision design. 6) Residential development should not occur on a strip basis and should be appropriately sited, landscaped, and setback from all roadways, including special provisions to maintain a suburban character in subdivisions and a rural character along all segments of the County road network. 7) Residential development within the Suburban Residential Area, should be based upon ordinance provisions which limit the fragmentation of open spaces and Township-wide natural resource systems. Suburban Residential Area The Suburban Residential Area borders most of the northern length of Sections 1,2,3,4 and 5 and lands in Sections 1O and 11 north of White Lake Road. It is largely characterized by existing suburban style subdivisions and some wetland areas. The undeveloped portions are suitable for either subdivision style development on the upland portions of parcels, or for well designed affordable housing either on smaller lots with perimeter open space or clustered with common open space to minimize impacts on abutting parcels. Development density averages 1 dwelling unit per acre (roughly 30,000 sq. ft. lots). AFFORDABLE HOUSING: Opportunities for more affordable housing is a major concern in the Township and the Suburban Residential Area provides for increased housing opportunities of this nature. One exception to the suggested development density range of 1 dwelling per acre in the Suburban Residential Area is the provision for a limited amount of development at a density of up to 1 dwelling unit per 1/4 acre provided such development is characterized by: 1) public sewer and water; 2) internal paved streets; 3) access to the project via a paved road ; and 4) an ISO fire protection rating of at least seven. These conditions are considered essential to assure the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of these higher density projects as well as neighboring developments. Clustering of units around common open space and possible bonus densities should be considered in development of new zoning regulations for affordable housing. At present, the most appropriate location for such development is along the northern periphery of the Township where there is close proximity to the public services of the City of Fenton and a street network 4-8 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Protection and Use of Open Space Created by Clustering Adapled from Ille Howard Colny, Maryland Plan, endled The 111110 General Plan: A Six Point Plan for the Futu,., adopted July 2, 1990. Use of open space zoning or cluster zoning in Tyrone Township offers a very good opportunity for accommodating residential development while simultaneously preserving the quality of the environment, the natural features of the rural landscape and working agricultural land. However, when an open space zoning development is completed and its permitted density has been exhausted , there remains the question of how best to ensure that the remaining open land is permanently and viably preserved. When clustered lots are recorded, the remaining parcel would be identified on the plat or recorded with the County Register of Deeds as limited to agricultural, recreational or related use. Covenants detailing restrictions on the clustered lots and the remainder could also be recorded at the same time. However, these remainders, permanently stripped of any future development rights, have the following characteristics to be defined more fully in the Zoning Ordinance: 1) The open space created by rural clustering will, in almost all cases, remain private property, whereas "open space• created by subdivision of a parcel is usually dedicated to the public or a homeowner's association and becomes a public responsibility. 2) The size of the open space created by rural clustering will result from application of performance standards to be included in the zoning ordinance. 3) The permanent stripping of development rights on the remainders created by rural clustering means they can never be used for additional housing. Such land can be actively farmed, used for woodlots, nurseries, pasture, or other uses related to farmland, or it may be used for certain recreation uses described in the Zoning Ordinance. These remainders must be recorded as lots or common lands whose uses do not include future homes, stores, offices, or other buildings unrelated to the principal use of the designated open space. 4) Remainders which meet the qualifications for such programs could be donated to an Agricultural Land Preservation Program, a local Environmental Trust, Historic Trust, or other custodians of environmental and landscape resources. The remainders would then be subject to the restrictions of these programs, giving them an even stronger degree of protection than exists merely by the absence of development rights. 5) In some cases the Township might wish to acquire the remainder as part of a public park, greenway or greenbelt. However, the Township is under no obligation to accept as dedicated open space any of the remainders created by rural clustering . Indeed, it is the Township's preference to see these remainders stay privately owned and managed in ways consistent with agricultural preservation and environmental purposes that are the prime reasons for encouraging clustering . 6) Remainders to be designated for local recreation or common green space can be entrusted to the responsibility of a homeowners association. 7) Unlike public open space which becomes a permanent responsibility of government agencies, the remainders created by rural clustering can be rented, leased or transferred to new owners, but such leases, rentals or sales cannot restore any development rights. 4-9 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �8) Community sewer systems (also known as cluster systems) shall be permitted within the Suburban Residential Area (limited to the Partial Services District; see Chapter 5) provided all necessary state, county, and local permits are acquired, the system is accepted by a public body and maintained as a public system, and the system is constructed according to adopted standards by the Township to facilitate ease of tie-ins to potential future public systems and to ensure adequate financial resources exist to maintain it. Lakes Residential Area The Lakes Residential Area covers those shoreline areas of the Township's lakes which are generally considered buildable and, conversely, not included in the Conservation Area. The Inland Lakes Residential Area is established in recognition of the extremely fragile environments of the Township's small lakes, the role these water resources play in contributing to the desired character of the Township, and the particular challenges these resources present in regard to adjacent land use management. The issue is fundamental: while the Township's water resources are, and have been, magnets for development, this development places tremendous pressure upon the aesthetic, environmental, and recreational values of the lakes. The threat to these resource values is at risk due to degradation through shoreline erosion, septic field leaching (where public sewer is not available), sediment discharge, alteration of the natural landscape, and excess use of surface waters by water craft. Except for the southeast portion of Lake Shannon, and small portions of Stearns Lake and Sullivan Lake, nearly all other buildable shoreline areas in the Township have been developed. Given this fact, the emphasis of the Inland Lakes Residential Area goes far beyond the establishment of guidelines to shape future development of these undeveloped lake areas but al.so to provide the necessary guidelines to shape future development of the existing developed areas as they may undergo redevelopment activities. This may be particularly applicable to portions of Runyan Lake and Tyrone Lake where, though the lots may be very narrow, they are several acres or more in size and could provide sufficient land area for additional dwelling units (either through lot splits or redevelopment of several lots in an integrated manner). NEW DEVELOPMENT: The present character of the land surrounding Tyrone Township's inland lakes is nearly wholly residential. The Plan encourages the continuation of these uses but in a manner which more effectively recognizes the sensitive environmental qualities embodied in these resources and their aes- thetic and recreational aspects. Given the limited available shoreline land for new development, the Plan provides for future residential development along the remaining undeveloped portions of the Township's inland lakes at development densities of approximately one dwelling unit per 1/2 to 3/4 acres, provided adequate on-site sewage disposal could be assured where sanitary sewers are not available. Development densities as high as one dwelling unit per 1/4 acre could be permitted where a public or community sewer system exists or is proposed. However, the Lakes Residential Area places far more emphasis upon the preservation and creation of shoreline open spaces than is reflected by existing development patterns. The presence of a sewerage system should not be viewed as an answer to concerns over sensitive environments, water quality, and open spaces, as a sewer system does not assure adequate open spaces, the avoidance of pesticides and fertilizer laden runoff entering the lakes, or a visually pleasing development character. It is the intent of the Plan to encourage lower density lakefront development (density not to exceed one dwelling unit per acre) 1) where currently vacant land is developed for residential purposes; or 2) existing developed land undergoes redevelopment, such as where several contiguous, developed, lots are purchased and razed, and a new structure is constructed. REDEVELOPMENT: The Plan encourages the renovation and/or redevelopment of those lakefront residential areas which are characterized by deteriorating conditions of both a visual and/or structural nature. These conditions do not support the intended character of the Township, threaten the public health, safety, and welfare, and negatively impact the use, enjoyment and value of surrounding development. Similar development densities as those recommended for new development are recommended for redevelopment projects where several contiguous, developed, lots are purchased and razed, and a new structure(s) constructed. Redevelopment of these areas should be particularly sensitive to the preservation of open spaces, provision of a "naturalized" shoreline, and compatible architectural styles. Wetlands and sensitive natural areas adjacent to the inland lakes should be maintained as part of the natural lake ecosystem. Increased lot widths and water setbacks are particularly important in the redevelopment process. Many of the older lots along Runyan Lake and Tyrone Lake ate less than 50 feet wide and many dwelling units are situated within 40 feet of the shoreline. This development pattern presents a far stronger urban character 4-10 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN , , �than what the Township residents have expressed a desire for and is particularly damaging to the environmental ecosystems and resources. Table 4-1 DEVELOPMENT DENSITIES BY USE AREA USE DEVELOPMENT DENSITY• AREA 1 unit/20-40 ac. Conservation 1 uniVS ac. Open Space Residential and Aoricultural 4 units/1 ac. Lakes Residential 1 unit/acre •• Suburban Residential KEYHOLE DEVE~OPMENT: Keyhole, or funnel development, should not be permitted. Keyhole development is the use of a waterfront lot as common open space for waterfront access for dwelling units located away from the waterfront. This results in potentially greater lake use than would •normally• occur if the lot were used for its intended use, such as a single family residence. As surface water use increases, so does the potential for shore erosion from speedboats and water-skiers, loss in property values, oil and gas spillage from powerboats, increased noise, conflicts between lake users (sailboats, fisherman, swimmers, etc.) , and increased lake maintenance costs. Such threats become that much greater when keyholing occurs with the digging of canals to increase lake frontage access to back lot residences. This form of development should be prohibited in the interest of preserving the water quality of the Township's lakes, protecting the public health, safety, and welfare, and preserving the lake and shoreline character of the Inland Lakes Area. • Minimum lot size is established in the Zoning Ordinance. .. Development density may be as high as 4 ct....elling units per acre within one half mile of the Township northern boundary when public infrastructure and services levels are adequate to support this density. COMMERCIAL and INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT POLICIES: The following policies, at a minimum, shall guide the development of, and redevelopment of, land within the Lakes Residential The residents of Tyrone Township have clearly voiced their general satisfaction with the limited extent of commercial and industrial facilities within the community and do not care to see these land uses indiscriminately encouraged, both in location and amount. Area: 1) Opportunities for new development and redevelopment shall be conditioned upon development standards which address, at a minimum, consideration of a potable water supply, safe disposal of septage, water and land carrying capacities, water quality protection, preservation of open space, minimal additional intrusion upon the natural environment, and the provision of adequate public access where applicable. 2) Development and redevelopment densfties should not exceed a development density of 4 dwelling units per acre where sewer is available, and 2 units per acre where on-site sewage disposal is practiced, unless the Public Health Department requires a lower development density due to larger required lot areas for permit approvals. 3) Approval of all development shall be contingent upon, in part, the acquisition of all necessary permits by the applicant for the proposed project, including permits administered through the Inland Lakes and Streams Act, as may be applicable. In fact , there are no areas particularly well suited for commercial or industrial development in the Township. These land uses typically require a high level of public services including public sewer and water, police and fire protection, and roadway infrastructure. Nowhere in the Township does such a combination of service levels and suitable vacant land exist. While service levels are highest in the northern portion of the Township, particularly toward the City of Fenton, a clear residential land use pattern has evolved and this Plan does not suggest the introduction of commercial or residential land uses in these areas. Rather, the Plan proposes that future commercial and industrial land uses be located in two corridor areas, both along the west side of U.S.-23. The principal corridor area is proposed to be anchored at the U.S.23/Center Road interchange area , and extend along the west side of U.S.-23 approximately one mile south to Dean Road and one-half mile north. This corridor area is proposed to be approximately one-half mile wide , except for the southern half-mile north of Dean Road , which is proposed to extend one-quarter mile to the west. The second corridor area would extend along the west side of U.S.-23 from the south side of the White Lake Road interchange to a point approximately one-half mile further south . The Plan identifies these two corridor areas for future commercial or in- 4-11 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENS IVE PLAN �Development within these corridor areas must provide for adequate buffering from adjacent land uses. This buffering should also respond to the critical role U.S.-23 plays in formulating impressions of the Township among highway travelers and residents. New development must provide adequate sewage disposal and potable water supplies. In addition, new businesses will have to provide for an improved level of stormwater management. Measures should be implemented to address the increased quantity and rate of runoff and its impacts upon area flooding and degradation of the natural environment. Site development must also recognize and respect the sensitive environmental areas along the corridor and protect the integrity of groundwater resources through measures designed to minimize impacts on these resources. dustrial development in recognition of a number of key considerations and concerns, including: 1} The proximity of the commerciaVindustrial areas to the interchanges minimize the additional vehicle and truck traffic upon the local, and far less developed, road infrastructure. 2} These corridor areas are already currently characterized by the greatest extent of commerciaVindustrial development in the Township. 3) The residents of the Township have continually expressed support for corridor development, in regard to commerciaVindustrial land uses, in the Town Meetings during the preparation of the Plan. 4) Maintaining two separate corridors, rather than one continuous and longer corridor, better assures compact development and minimizes the potential for leapfrogging. 5) Prohibiting commerciaVindustrial development north of White Lake Road better assures the integrity of nearby existing and future residential neighborhoods. POLICIES: The following policies, at a minimum, shall guide the development of, and red&velopment of, commercial and Industrial land uses within the CommerciaVlndustrial Area: The area adjoining the east side of U.S.-23 south of Center Road may also be suitable for future commercial development. However, more than a sufficient amount of commercial land is encompassed in the two areas previously identified on the west side of U.S.-23 to meet anticipated Township needs for the planning period of this Plan (15-20 years}. If however, this commercial area is nearly developed to its fullest potential more quickly than is anticipated, and if a clear need for additional commercial and/or industrial land is demonstrated, then the area up to 1/4 mile east and 1 mile south of Center Road should be considered for future commercial or industrial development. The Future Land Use Map should be amended before any zoning change to accommodate more commercial or industrial development is initiated. It is intended that future commercial development within these corridor areas be characterized by predominately business and service activities which serve the particular needs of the highway traveler and/or meet the consumer needs of a more regional population. The bulk of the Township residents' local consumer needs are met by nearby urban areas including the City of Fenton and the U.S.-23/M-59 interchange area near Hartland. However, the Plan recognizes the convenience of having such land uses more locally situated within the Township and, to the extent these land uses are encouraged, they should be done so within the White Lake Road corridor area due to its closer proximity to the more densely populated northern portion of the Township. 1) Commercial and industrial development within the CommerciaVlndustrial Corridor Area shall be permitted where the following conditions, at a minimum, exist: a) there are adequate public and/or private services; b) roads are paved: c) access is regulated and designed to prevent traffic hazards; and d) stormwater runoff is adequately controlled as to quantity and quality. 2) Private utility systems may be constructed if they meet all Township, county, state, and federal requirements; and can be Jinked to future public utility systems, including public sewer and water systems. 3) No commercial development should occur except in commercially or industrially zoned districts, respectively, unless it qualifies as a special land use and meets all requirements therefore in the Zoning Ordinance. 4) Commercial and industrial development w;thin the Coffkior Area must recognize the cuffent rural-like character of the Township and compliment this character through building scale, materials, and style, and the provision of strategically located open spaces. 5) All new commercial and industrial development must be designed so as to preserve open space and minimize intrusion upon the natural landscape. PUBLIC LANDS With the provision of public services must come public ownership of land resources from which the services originate, are maintained, and administered. The absence of extensive public services provided by Tyrone Township including public sewer and water, and the Township's intention to continue to provide only limited public services (see Chapter 5) , minimizes the need for Township-owned 4-12 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENS IVE PLAN �While Tyrone Township fully supports the value of recreation opportunities within the community and the irnJX)rtance of individual and family quality leisure time and community image, the Township also recognizes land used for recreational purJX>ses can impact adjacent and area-wide land uses as significantly (and in some cases more so) as other land uses. As a result, new public or private recreational land uses must be designed and operated so as to minimize negative impacts. land. Current public lands administered by the Township are limited to three cemeteries, a vacant Runyan Lake lot, and the Township Hall property. Except for recreational needs which will be discussed below, this current and limited Township-ownoo land appears reasonable and adequate at this time. However, this need may change as the Township grows. The Township recognizes that purchase of public lands can involve high acquisition costs, impacts upon adjacent land uses, and public welfare issues associated with providing for selected services and infrastructure on a site. POLICIES: The Township should only acquire and develop public lands where the proposed acquisition or development meets the following circumstances: 1) Responds to a demonstrated need for one or more public facilities ancVor services intended to correct an immediate or projected critical public health, safety, and welfare condition or improve the overall quality of life in the Township. 2) The site characteristics accommodate the pro/X)Sed public use; 3) The use will not unreasonably impact adjacent land uses and waters; and 4) Measures are taken to minimize negative impacts upon adjacent land uses and waters. RECREATION LANDS Recreational lands in Tyrone Township _<!re presently limited to the private Kandahar Ski Club"t-am e Rik ~ n g !rail...aleni;J N. OFe Greek frem ~priflg Mill.Jo Hogan Road, the lane #or whieh ,;ms deN!ted ey a devcb oper aRCI s~l:JcAtl) dereloped and maintaiRed ey the :+o~. The small and scattered population of the Township creates difficulties for most private recreation facilities from a marketing starq:x>int. There are no pUQlic schools currently in the Township, though the development of an elementary school is currently being considered. As a result, the Township residents do not have the benefit of enjoying the recreational opportunities typically associated with public school facilities. /lJ. the present time the Township does not operate any park or recreation facilities. As the Township continues to grow, the demand for recreation opportunities can be expected to grow as well. Though the Township is rich in untapped recreational resources, these resources are not under public ownership and public acquisition of future recreational sites may become necessary and desirable. A key link in the planned recreation lands strategy of the Township is the provision of open spaces in association with new development and the use of these open spaces to address the recreational needs of the future residents of these developments. These recreational open spaces should be linked to future public recreation areas administered through the Township or other body recreational corridor systems and trails. POLICIES: The following policies shall guide the development of recreation lands in Tyrone Township: 1) New facilities shall be compatible with area land uses. 2) Proposed facilities shall be compatible with the natural site characteristics. 3) Site development of new residential land uses of comparatively higher densities shall include provisions for recreation opportunities which address at a minimum the most basic recreation needs of the intended residents, as may be applicable, including trails, playground equipment, picnic tables and benches. 4) Site development of new residential and nonresidential land uses shall include provisions for trail linkages with, and between, adjoining developments, and public recreation facilities (including public trails) where such facilities abut the proposed land use. 5) Future acquisition and development of recreation lands by the Township shall be based upon a coordinated Township-wide recreation plan approved by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. 6) Prior to acquisition and development of public recreation lands, the means to perpetually maintain and operate any facilities on the property shall be established. SPECIAL LAND USES There are a growing number of land uses which, though they may be largely residential , commercial , or industrial in character, present unique or special circumstances in regard to land use management. These are typically regulated as special land uses in the 4-13 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �POLICIES: Special land uses In Tyrone Township should be permitted only as provided for: 1) In the appropriate provisions of the Zoning Ordinance 2) Pursuant to both general standards (like those above) and specific standards unique to the special land use. Zoning Ordinance. A special land use is a use which is pennitted only after a special review has detennined that the land use and associated site development proposal meets special standards to assure its compatibility with both surrounding land uses and the other pennitted uses in the district. These unique or special circumstances may be a result of traffic, noise, or visual or operational characteristics, which if unmitigated could result in significant public or private nuisance. Special land uses often include {but are not limited to} day care facilities, airports, gravel pits, mobile home parks, and multiple family projects. PRINCIPAL ROAD CORRIDORS The Future Land Use Strategy described up to this point establishes policies regarding the planned k:x:ation of land uses throughout the Township within the planning period of this Plan, and policies regarding conditions upon which site development should occur in support of the proposed future land use pattern. There is, however, a critical consideration, as part of the Future Land Use Strategy, which is not specific to particular land uses but rather to the principal roadway corridors, as characterized by U.S.-23 and the County road network. Special land uses should be permitted in appropriate locations pursuant to specific standards and review procedures established in the Zoning Ordinance. Approval should not be indiscriminate and conditions should be imposed to minimize impacts on surrounding lands. These standards shall accomplish the following: 1) Assure that the design , construction, operation and maintenance of land uses are in a manner harmonious with the character of adjacent property and the surrounding area. 2} Avoid inappropriate changes to the essential character of the surrounding area. 3) Avoid interference with the general enjoyment of adjacent property. 4) Improve the use or character of the property under consideration and the surrounding area in general, yet also be in keeping with the natural environment of the site. 5) Avoid negative impacts upon adjacent property or conditions which will be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of persons or property through the excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, odor, fumes or glare. · 6) Assure availability of adequate essential public facilities and services, or evidence that the person responsible for the proposed special land use shall be able to continually provide adequately for the services and facilities deemed essential to the special land use under consideration. 7) Avoid demands on public services and facilities in excess of current capacity. 8) Assure consistency with the intent and purpose of the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance. These corridors are fundamental elements of the Tyrone Township fabric . Their significance within the Township is inescapable for four reasons: 1) these transportation corridors are the most heavily traveled roadways within the Township; 2) these corridors will continue to be the most traveled corridors in the Township throughout the time frame of this Plan and most likely well beyond ; 3) these corridors, and the landscapes through which they pass, formulate the principal visual image of the Township among Township visitors and nonresident travelers; and 4) the vast majority of residents of the Township use U.S.-23 or the County primary roads on a regular basis. Because of both the critical functional and visual role these corridors play within the Township, the preservation of their rural and scenic qualities are paramount to successful implementation of the Future Land Use Strategy. Achievement of this goal will also protect public safety through regulated access and controlled turning movements. Future growth and development within the Township must be guided by measures which will assure the efficient movement of traffic in a safe manner. An increase in the number of access points along these corridors, both for individual property access and for intersecting roads, will result in a corresponding increase in the potential for congestion and traffic hazards and interfere with the intended function of these corridors-the safe and efficient movement of traffic between population centers. It would also undermine the significant existing public investment in these roads . Limiting direct access upon these corridors , 4-14 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN _r'- �spacing access points at appropriate distances, and providing acceleration and deceleration lanes will be necessary to insure the functional integrity of these corridors as new land uses are established along these corridors. • Similar1y, future growth and development within the T o ~ must be guided by measures which will preserve, if not enhance, the landscape's visual quality along these corridors. The future sense of rural character ttvoughout the Township will be, in large part, derived from the visual landscape experienced when traveling along these prirtj:)aJ corridors-it is from these corridors which present and future residents see the vast majority of the Township. The lack of effective measures to preserve these corridors in their current "rural" state will lead to a sl.burban-oriented corridor landscape and a dramatic reversal of the Township's overall character. Assuring that development along these corridors, to the extent that it may occur, is appropriately set back from the roadway, screened from view, and meets m,rnmum driveway spacing standards, is essential if the present character of these corridors is to be preserved. POLICIES: New development and redevelopment along the County's road nstwork should only be permitted according to development standards which address, at a minimum: 1) Controlled and limited direct access onto these road. 2) Appropriate spacing between access points is assured. 3) Adequate acceleration and deceleration Janes when needed. 4) Screening of structures and parking facilities, and the use of appropriate setbacks, to preserve and enhance the current character of these corridors. 5) The preservation of existing natural landscapes along these corridors. 4-15 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - -- �r Chapter 5 PUBLIC SERVICES STRATEGY base its future capital improvement projects, and the expenditure of funds for such projects, upon the policies presented above for the respective Public Service Districts. INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE The Future Land Use Strategy discussed-in Chapter 4 describes the desired pattern of land development throughout the Township through the establishment of land uses and densities for areas with common characteristics. The Public Services Strategy described in this Chapter identifies the manner and degree to which public infrastructure and services are to be provided within the Township to support the planned future land use pattern. Public services and related infrastructure include sewage disposal and potable water, roads and highways, police and fire protection, recreation, and general government services. The second level of policies addresses future decisions regarding improvements to the Township's delivery of individual public services in response to existing conditions and anticipated needs. Collectively, these two policy levels formulate the manner by which, and conditions upon which, future improvements should be made regarding public services. Township-Wide Public Services Pattern The Public Services Strategy calls for a future public services pattern not very different than the current pattern in the Township. The vast majority of the Township is proposed to receive limited expansion of those services currently available. The limited level of current public services will continue though the northern third of the Township, particularly the Runyan Lake area and the White Lake Road area and areas further north, will be the principal focus of future public service improvements. It is expected that the gravel roadway network will continue to dominate (less so north of White Lake Road) as will the reliance upon on-site potable water and sewage disposal. As the character and feasibility of land development is directly impacted by the extent to which urban or public services are available, the Public Services Strategy works hand-in-hand with the Future Land Use Strategy and is a critical element of the Township's growth management program. OVERVIEW OF PUBLIC SERVICES STRATEGY Basis The Public Services Strategy is based on the principle of new development occumng concurrent with or after the public services necessary to serve it are in place. It is the specific intent of the Public Services Strategy to minimize the opportunities for urban sprawl and the leapfrogging of more intensive urban development into the areas of the Township plann,ed for short term agricultural use and long term rural residential use. PUBLIC SERVICES DISTRICTS The Public Services Strategy identifies the future limits of public services, and associated urban development, within the Township at least until 2010. The Township is divided into two service districts, as illustrated on Map 5-1 . Each service district prescribes a particular intended level of public services available to land uses within the district. The Pt.blic Services Strategy consists of two policy levels. One set of policies identifies, by geographic areas, the relative level of planned new or expanded services. To this end, the Pt.blic Services Strategy is based upon both the current and future planned land use pattern in the Township. The expansion or introduction of public services is given greatest priority in those areas of the Township where the existing or intended future land uses are to be of such intensities or densities that the availability of adequate pti>lic services is more crucial. Two levels of pt.i>lic services are established: 1) a Partial Services District; and 2) Rural Services District. The Township will Rural Services District The Rural Services District includes those areas of the Township generally characterized by the lowest existing development densities, the greatest lack of existing public infrastructure, the most limited public service levels, and a planned very low development density pattern. Lands within this district do not require extensive public services and are intended to remain as such. The Rural Services District covers the vast ma- 5-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �24 23 g !l ;J ',.....--. I 33 35 • ~36 r-, • ( H0I.. ~,"".... ""· J Map 5-1 PUBLIC SERVICE DISTRICTS 1::::::1 First Phase li.iliill Partial Services District Partial Services District Rural Services District Plonnlno &. Zoning Center. tnc, I !Wza ~ Second Phase Partlal Services District □ Rural Services District Mostly paved roads. some public: sewer. and possibly public water are generally available or may become more so ~ 20 I 0. A few paved county roads. mostly unpaved roads. no public sewer or water. and limited police or fire seivk:es are available or plamed ~ 20 IO. These conditions are expected to conth.Je at least untll 2010. JufHI, 1993 302 south Wnv•"'I llood 5-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN SCAJ.E 1:55,096 1 heh • 4590 feet l.orwlng . Michigan �jority of the Township. Present and future residents in the Rural Services District can have some confidence that the rural attributes of their immediate surroundings will not be disrupted by urban type land uses and development densities, and their attendant infrastructure needs, •at least during the planning time frame of this Plan. this Plan, despite its low density, will result in higher traffic levels and will eventually increase the impact on these roads, ultimately requiring some improvement -or risk congestion, vehicular and pedestrian hazards, longer travel time, higher auto "wear and tear,• and a general decrease in the quality of road service. Conversely, it must be recognized that an improved roadway network may well attract new or expanded intensive land uses which, in turn, place additional demand on the infrastructure network. Such change must be managed so that the rate of land use change does not overtax the ability of the Township and County to make the necessary improvements. The Road and Streets component of the Public SeNices Strategy seeks to assure that land development does not occur in a manner which will sacrifice the public health, safety, and welfare due to inadequate roadway infrastructure nor prematurely encourage changes in land uses. Partial Services District The Partial Services District includes those areas of the Township which, in comparison to those areas in the Rural Services District, are generally characterized by significantly higher development densities, increased existing public infrastructure, higher public service levels, and the planned potential for a higher development density pattern. The existing and future land use pattern within this District necessitates the need for a higher level of public services due to the higher traffic volumes, proximity of dwellings to one another, and the disproportionate increase in public service demands created by a concentrated population. The services currently provided to, or intended to be provided to, lands in the Partial Services District are capable of accommodating a small degree of urban growth but are not considered to be capable of accommodating extensive commercial or industrial land uses, or high density residential development (four dwelling units per acre) on a broad scale basis. The Partial Services District covers the Runyan Lake area, White Lake Road, and lands northward. Analysis The present roadway network pattern of Tyrone Township is similar to most townships, with a fairly extensive mile grid pattern and full length north-south and east-west roads across the Township. While the number of roadway miles is considerable, nearly 70 % of the roadway miles are unpaved. Even with this extensive gravel network, which greatly reduces traffic flow capacity, the Township's roadway infrastructure fulfills its function fairly well. This is due, in large part, to four conditions: 1) the very low development density throughout the vast majority of the Township; 2) the presence of paved roads in many of those areas of the Township where development densities are considerably higher; 3) the presence of U.S.-23 and its two interchanges in the Township, and 4) Old U.S.-23 and Fenton Road, two paved county primary roads, both of which accommodate the vast majority of the local north-south traffic flow in the Township. This last condition is of particular significance as east-west traffic flow is comparatively marginal due to adjacent conditions in Deerfield and Rose Townships and regional conditions beyond. This Plan recognizes that an Urban Services District may ultimately be established in the Township. Such a District would be planned to contain all the necessary public capital facilities to allow opportunities for extensive urban development. It would likely first be established in areas adjacent to Fenton when both the density of development and available public services warranted its creation. INDIVIDUAL PUBLIC SERVICE COMPONENTS Roads And Streets The number of daily car trips a gravel roadway can accommodate before users perceive evidence of regular and persistent traffic flow and safety problems, as identified by the Livingston County Road Commission and Livingston County Planning Department, is about 75 daily trips on unpaved roads where the roadway base and drainage are inadequate and 450 daily trips on unpaved roads where the roadway base and drainage is adequate. Overview As new residential, commercial, and industrial land uses are introduced into the Township, the need for a roadway network able to accommodate the increased traffic demand increases. This is particularly true in Tyrone Township where a rural road network predominates and is not currently capable of adequately accommodating significant increases in traffic flow. The additional rural residential development anticipated in 5-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �...... As the average household produces 10 vehicle trips daily, and most of the unpaved roads in the Township have an inadequate base, a stretch of gravel road in the Township with more than 7 dwelling units is apt to be characterized by regular and persistent maintenance problems. Even though recent traffic counts have not been recorded for most of the Township's gravel roads, residential lot split patterns suggest the high likelihood of traffic counts exceeding ROAD TYPE u N p Inadequate base, surface and drainage 75 trips per day on many of the Township gravel roads. When vehicle trips produced by persons not residing on the roadway corridor are taken into account, the implications are clear; much of the Township's existing roadway infrastructure is inadequate. Further development abutting or accessing these roads, even at low development densities, threatens the public health, safety, convenience and efficiency of all travelers along these roads. Table 5-1 PERCEIVED ROAD CONDITION BY NUMBER OF DAILY CAR TRIPS BEGIN TO SEE GOOD CONDIFLOW AND TION MOST OF MAINTENANCE YEAR PROBLEMS less than 25 25-75 REGULAR AND PERSISTENT PROBLEMS greater than 75 A V E D Adequate base, surface and drainage less than 150 150-450 greater than 450 p Sealcoat surface, adeauate base and drainaqe Plant mix surface, adequate base and drainage less than 250 250-1,000 greater than 1,000 less than 2,500 2,500-5,000 greater than 5,000* A V E D Source: Livingston County Planning Department, Livingston County Road Commission • This volume can be higher where the should6r is wide and solid, and the right-of-way is kept clear of vegetation. CURRENT LEVELS OF SERVICE: For the successful implementation of the following Roads and Streets policies, it is necessary (to the greatest extent possible) to establish the current level of service associated with each roadway segment. This will facilitate identification of current roadway improvement needs and identify those improvements which are fundamental to the advancement of the land use policies and public service strategy of this Plan. This will also enable the Township to pursue effective long range planning to assure the necessary improvements are appropriately programmed into the Township's future capital improvements programs. LOS B: traffic levels are between 25% and 50% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS C: traffic levels are between 50% and 75% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS D: traffic levels are between 75% and 125% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS E: traffic levels are between 125% and 200% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS F: traffic levels exceed 200% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. Level of service standards corresponding to perceived need for regular and persistent maintenance as presented in Table 5-1 are presented below: LOS A: traffic levels are less than 25% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. Map 5-2 identifies the existing levels of service along many of the County roadway network segments in the Township. The existing levels of service were established according to: 1) the roadway type (surface and base) ; 2) published traffic counts prepared by the Livingston County Road Commission (see Table D-2 5-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �in Appendix); 3) estimated traffic counts (where Road Commission studies had not been prepared) based upon a standard of 1O trips per day per dwelling unit along each particular road segment and the anticipated distribution of .these trips from their point of origin to the Township's boundary or to a road segment which had a traffic count established by the LCRC; and 4) the volume of traffic each road segment is capable of accommodating before regular and persistent maintenance of the road is perceived to be needed as illustrated in Table 5-1. ' 3) Approximately 47% of the respondents supported the paving of approximately 8 miles of roadway in order to put the majority of residents within one mile of a paved road (approximately 20% were undecided). 4) Approximately 56% percent of the respondents disagreed with the paving of all Township gravel roads (approximately 12% were undecided). 5) Though not reflected in a strong majority feeling, the predominant responses did not support th~ use of a special tax assessment or millage to improve road conditions. These estimated traffic counts should be considered to be conservative as traffic entering into the Township on roads was not accounted for. Due to the nearty lack of recorded traffic counts along the ~~ _County ~ in the Township, and the resulting 1nab1lity to estimate the distribution of trips generated along some of these road segments, a number of road segments have not been provided a level of service rating. The survey results would appear to suggest that though the respondents generally recognize the often times poor conditions of the roadway network, there is little consensus for an aggressive road paving program. It should be noted however, that the high number of respondents from the northeast quadrant of the Township, where paved roads predominate and where a conscious decision was made by these households to move to that area of the Township, may not reflect the attitudes which exist throughout the vast majority of the more rural Township area. At least 30% of the County road mileage in the Township is either approaching the levels of traffic at which regular and persistent maintenance problems are perceived, or have already crossed into a higher maintenance threshold. This percentage should be considered low, as a number of the road segments have not been given a level of service rating. The excess demand is nearty wholly attributable to gravel road segments. FUTURE IMPLICATIONS: As the Township continues to grow and develop according to the land use policies contained in this Plan, traffic volumes will increase and further threaten the current levels of service along all of the roads. Based upon a buildout of the Township at an average of one dwelling unit per 1 1/2 to 5 acres, which approximates the majority of the proposed development density for the Township, an increase of approximately 3,000 to 10,000 dwelling units would be witnessed. This increase in dwelling units over the current number of 2,352 dwelling units would result in approximately 30,000-100,000 or more additional trips per day in the Township. Even the low end of this range in average daily car trips in the Township would most likely result in the lowest level of service rating for every road corridor in the Township except U.S.-23. These estimates do not consider additional trips originating outside of the Township. TYRONE TOWNSHIP ROAD SURVEY: Tyrone Township administered a mail survey in 1988 to better identify the attitudes of residents regarding the adequao/ of the Township's roadway network. Of the approximately 590 surveys which were returned , the northeast quadrant of the Township comprised the greatest proportion of respondents (nearty 41%) while the northwest quadrant comprised the smallest proportion of respondents (nearty 15%). Some of the particularly relevant findings as they relate to the Township's comprehensive planning efforts include the following: Capital improvement programming on the part of th~. Township and Coun~ Road Commission can help mitigate some of these impacts and prevent serious threats to public health and safety. Road improvements should respond to areas of greatest need based upon the criteria established in the first policy (following section). 1) Nearty 40% of the respondents felt the Township's roadway conditions were "poor", while another 40% felt they were "fair". 2) :ine r~ndents were fairty evenly split regarding their support of the Township's program of paving about 1/2 mile per year. 5-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -----·--~-- - - - - - - -- - - = �--- r MOO...N - - - - - -- -- •ct. q <> IP 17 r= 20 F- 18 F,. A r;::::, .. I= 0 - 21 0 B __, b e, 0 I b OCAN ND, a O· IS ~ 24 22 1::,,-""'------i---.r.:.=:"":...~-=·;_,...---1...,. I= r: t 2!I ~ /1 B F· . _,___ r----- B 33 31 _r- F Map 5-2 Current traffic levels are _ A F ROADS BY CURRENT LEVEL OF SERVICE of the level at which regl.Jar and persislent moinlenance problems are perceived.' LOS A: Less than 25% LOS D: Between 75% and 125% LOS B: Between 25% and 50% LOSE: LOS C: Between 50% and 75% LOS F: Between 125% and 200% In excess of 200% Data source: Pkrlnklc, & Zonlnc, Center. ·Inc. P1onnlng & Zoning Center, Inc, ·· - November, 1992 302 south \Nov,.,;..; Qood 5-6 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -- N ~ SCA1E - 1:55,096 1 nc:h •·4.590 feet Lon.Ing, Michigan �PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS: Following is a listing of highest priority road improvements, accompanied by a brief description of the basis for the improvement. Map 5-3 illustrates the location of the proposed improvements, LOS C: traffic levels are between 50% and 75% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS 0 : traffic levels are between 75% and 125% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS £: traffic levels are between 125% and 200% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS F: traffic levels exceed 200% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. 1) Runyan Lake Road, from White Lake Road to the City of Fenton 2) Tipsico Lake Road 3) Carmer Road 3) The maximum recommended levels of traffic for each roadway segment will be based upon the level of traffic which a roadway segment can accommodate before regular and persistent maintenance problems are perceived, as noted in Table 5-1 . The Township will coordinate with the Livingston County Road Commission on periodic updates to the level of service applicable to each roadway segment. 4) Vista Drive 5) Linden Road 6) Faussett Road Policies The following policies are intended to guide Tyrone Township officials on future decisions regarding improvements to the Township's vehicular circulation network and in response to new traffic demands associated with proposed land uses: 4) Proposed land uses and site development projects larger than a single family home on an individual lot will be analyzed in regard to traffic impacts and roadway improvements. 1) Tyrone Township will strive to improve the Township roadway network, as financial resources become available, based upon the following guidelines: a. 5) No new land uses (other than single family homes on individual lots) or site development shall be permitted which will reduce the level of service on adjacent roadways below the current level, as identified on Map 5-2 until the roadway has been improved. Roadway level of service. b. Functional classification of roads. The functional importance of the various roads in the Township, from highest to lowest, is as follows: 1) state trunklines; 2) county primaries; 3) county locals; and 4) minor roads (subdivision roads). 6) The Township should achieve a balanced transportation/land use system which includes an adequate number of roads and streets of appropriate capacity to accommodate land use traffic patterns. c. The degree to which the improvement is needed to protect public health and satety or preserve or achieve full use of existing facilities. 7) The Township will develop standards to regulate new development along roadway corridors to minimize negative impacts of such development including but not limited to poorly sited and/or designed access, and too many points of access. d. The degree to which a project represents a logical extension of existing roadways within an area of the Township according to its intended use and services level. 8) Subdivisions platted according to PA 288 of 1967 are encouraged because the new roads must be built to County Road Commission standards. 2) Each roadway segment within the Township will be classified according to the following level of service (LOS) standards (See Map 5-2). ... 9) Development of private roads, whether lot by lot or via the Condominium Act, PA 59 of 1978, must be built to County Road Commission standards unless otherwise provided by the Zoning Ordinance. LOS A: traffic levels are Jess than 25% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. LOS 8: traffic levels are between 25% and 50% of the level at which regular and persistent problems are perceived. 5-7 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - - �l- ······················· ···············-r-:--"\ .: ! . QI Tuct,-...::,t "0. o" 8 0 ~ <c> HOGAN RO. q . 0 18 16 17 0 15 14 \ p con-t:A AD . ~ ..... 21 200 0 . I b OE:AN RO. D a ~ 22 ; 24 23 ;:i i5 ~ l!I l!I ~ OHN AD. ·o 29 26 ~ 25 p /ft ,; 0 g ,.., ~ 1!l 33 31 35 J 36 HO... Tl"'CffTH RO M_ a p 5-3 .. , ••• • ••· · • · PROPOSED HIGHEST PRIORITY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS N i Proposed Highest Priority Road Improvements I A SCALE June 1993 1:55,096 1 heh • 4590 feet ~,,..... 1------------------------------------'-------I ~ Plonning & ZoninQ Canrer. Inc. 302 South \Nove"" Dooa 5-8 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN . ~ �Township have been documented as having high nitrate levels in area wells and a major nitrate problem has been documented in the Marl Lake area of the Township. 10) All future structures along all County primary and county local roads, and along all fr88way interchange ramps, shall be setback at least 100 feet ,from the road or ramp right-ofway, or if the road right-of-way is not known, 130 f99t from the center line of the road. These and related threats to the public welfare will only increase as the Township grows and develops unless specific measures are taken. These measures must address the assurance of adequate on-site sewage disposal practices including in some cases, the provision of public sewer and wa er. Tyrone Township is not currently serviced by public sewer or water except for a public sewer system around Runyan Lake and Lake Tyrone. Up to this point in time, the need for such public services has been limited, but the need is clearly increasing. Sewer and Water Overview As is often typical among rural communities, the vast majority ot Tyrone Township residents rely upon septic systems and private wells for sewage disposal and potable water. However, improperly operating septic systems can contaminate potable groundwater resources, inland lakes and streams, and pose public health threats to those using the contaminated resources. It is not the intent of the Public Services Strategy to suggest expanded public sewer and/or water is a necessity within the Township within the 20 year planning period of this Plan. It is the intent of this Plan, however, to establish: 1) the planning principles upon which the expansion or introduction of new systems should be based; 2) conditions delineating to what extent future land uses should be required to have access to a public sewer and/or water system; and 3) minimum design standards of future public sewer and water systems. As land development densities increase, so does the need for public sewer and water. Industrial, commercial, and higher density residential land uses generally have greater sewage disposal and water (potable and otherwise) needs than can often be met by traditional on-site facilities. Failure to provide adequate sewer and water facilities to these land uses can lead to severe health and environmental consequences while the premature provision of these services can lead to unmanaged growth and land development. OPTIONS FOR FUTURE PUBLIC SEWER AND WATER SERVICES: Future public sewer and water opportunities which may be consjdered include: 1) newly constructed systems administered by Tyrone Township; 2) the expansion of the Runyan Lake public sewer system; 3) purchase of available sewer capacity from the Township of Fenton or City of Fenton; 4) establishment of a Tyrone Township sewer franchise, for purchase by the Township of Fenton or City of Fenton; or 5) community sewer systems established as public systems within a sewer service drainage district and operated and maintained by the Livingston County Drain Commission (especially if around an inland lake). The City of Fenton, Township of Fenton, and the City of Linden are the three local municipalities which, along with Genessee County, form the Genessee County Sewer District System #3, established under P.A. 342. As of July, 1992, the unused sewer capacity in the Fenton Township and Fenton City systems was 1,500 and 1,200 units respectively. Each unit is approximately equivalent to a residential unit. The Sewer and Water component of the Public Services Strategy provides policies and standards to guide the use and applicability of on-site sewage disposal, potable water sources, and the provision of public sewer and water facilities to selected areas and land uses of the Township in conformance with the Future Land Use Strategy and in the interest of the community's health, safety, and public welfare. Analysis Less than 3% of the Township's surflcial soils present only slight limitations to septic systems, and these areas are both scattered and fragmented. Approximately half of the remaining areas in the Township are characterized by soils which present moderate/severe to severe limitations to septic systems. These conditions highlight the critical relationship between land use, development densities, and on-site sewage disposal and potable water. Because of the considerable Township-wide limitations toward septic systems and yet the Township-wide use of this type of sewage disposal process and private wells for potable water, the public health, safety, and welfare is always at risk. Already more than 13 sites throughout the Each of these options, and the relative feasibility of each, presents its own set of advantages and disadvantages. While it is not the intent of the Public Services Strategy to encourage either one of these options over the others, it is important to recognize 5-9 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �less the Township finds such an extension is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan (see Map 5-1). that these potential opportunities exist and they should serve as a basis, in part, for the policies of the Public Services Strategy. 4) Sewer and/or water service areas, and associated infrastructure, shall be established in a phased manner so as not to open up too great a land area to new and higher density development at one time. COMMUNITY SEWER SYSTEMS: Community sewer systems provide an alternative to the traditional large public sewer systems operated by municipalities. Community sewer systems are sewage disposal systems which are typically privately constructed, serve two or more dwelling units, and are constructed to provide sewage disposal to all dwelling units in the development project. These systems can vary in tech·notogy, ranging from a community septic field to a packaged treatment facility. Such systems can also be used to service nonresidential uses, as is exemplified by the community sewer system at the Kelsey Hayes plant. 5) All land uses and land development projects within the Partial Services District must be serviced by public sewer and water infrastructure if the infrastructure abuts the property in question 6) Any future decision by the Township to provide public sewer and water services beyond those which cu"ently exist in the Township shall be based upon an in-depth analysis of all available options, including services provided through cooperative agreements with neighboring municipalities. Tyrone Township strongly discourages the use of community sewer systems. Such systems provide for the highest development densities permitted by the Zoning Ordinance on a Township-wide basis and this development pattern is not consistent with the Future Land Use Strategy, the desired future character of the Township, and the growth management initiatives of the Township. 7) The provision of public sewer and water shall be based upon conformance with level of service standards where adopted by those municipalities individually or jointly providing the service to Tyrone Township. The single exception where community sewer systems may be considered a reasonable alternative for sewage disposal is when such systems are within the Partial Services District and where ultimate responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the systems fall under the jurisdiction of a public agency. 8) Community or package sewer systems will be permitted by the Township provided the treatment capabilities of the package system provides a tertiary level of treatment, the system is built to, operates, and is maintained according to all local, county, state, and federal standards, and the project site is located within the Partial Services District. Policies Tyrone Township will be guided by the following policies in striving to assure adequate sewage disposal and potable water in the Township: 1) All on-site sewage disposal and potable water facilities shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the requirements and standards of the Livingston County Public Health Department and Michigan Public Health Department as well as those of other applicable local, county, state or federal agencies. 2) No land uses or land development projects will be permitted if any applicable regulations regarding on-site sewage disposal and potable water facilities can not be met and public sewer and water services are not available. 3) Any public sewer and water services shall be provided in the Partial Services District, and shall not be extended beyond that District un- 9) The Township will develop a wellhead protection zone around any future municipal wells and establish zoning regulations to prevent leaks and spills, or discharges of hazardous substances that might contaminate groundwater. Stormwater Management Overview As the land surface is covered by buildings, parking lots and other impermeable surfaces, the quantity of stormwater runoff increases. The soils and vegetated landscape which previously absorbed and slowed much of the water associated with storms are gone. Unless specific preventive measures are taken, these conditions encourage increases in runoff flow, soil erosion, sedimentation and pollution of area water resources, and flood potential. Though these conditions originate from site-specific circumstances, their 5-10 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �impact can extend to the entire community and communities beyond if within the same watershed. Inadequate management of storrnwater produced due to land development and urbanization threatens the public health, safety, and welfare through life threatening flood conditions, contamination of groundwater resources, deterioration of water-based recreation facilities, and damage and loss of property values. In contrast, storrnwater management aims to minimize flood conditions, and ensure the quality of runoff which is collected and ultimately discharged into the watershed system (streams, rivers, wetlands, lakes, etc.) is adequate. 3) All new and existing land uses must comply with all county, state, and federal regulations regarding stormwater management and soil erosion, including those regulations of and administered by the Livingston County Drain Commissioner. 4) All proposed and existing land uses situated on sites which reflect slopes of 12% or greater shall take and maintain aggressive measures to prohibit the erosion of soils and sedimentation. Support Services and Buildings Overview Analysis Though storrnwater management should be a concern of all communities (and increasingly is because of federal and state regulations), the natural topography of Tyrone Township presents particular challenges in this regard. Though the rolling , and at times steep, topography of the Township minimizes the propensity for area-wide flooding, it also greatly facilitates soil erosion and sedimentation when soils are exposed. Unnecessary sedimentation threatens the wetlands and headwaters of the rivers, plus the lakes in the Township. The anticipated residential growth and development to occur in the Township in future years will increase the amount of impervious land cover and disturbance of sloped areas. This and the additional future commercial and industrial development has the potential to alter existing hydrological systems to the point where the public health, safety, and welfare may be at risk if concentrated in certain areas. This is particularly true in the northern sections of the Township where a more intensive land use pattern is provided for (Partial Services District). Policies The following policies will guide the Township in adequately controlling the quality and quantity of stormwater runoff associated with the introduction of new land uses. 1) Proposed land uses will not be permitted if and where the level of service cu"ently provided by existing stormwater management infrastructure and/or existing drainage patterns would be decreased, unless necessary improvements to such infrastructure or natural drainage are first made. 2 The cu"ent level of service may va,y from one site to another but will be generally defined as the rate, total volume, and quality of predevelopment stormwater runoff. Support services, as referred to within this Plan, includes all the public services a community may provide to its residents above and beyond sewer, water, roads and streets. In particular, these services include police and fire protection and general government services such as tax assessment, cemetery care, and governance services. The reference to these services as support services is not intended to suggest that they are of secondary importance but simply that they are of a different type than sewer, water, and roadway services. As community growth and land development increases, so does the demand for these services. For example, police and fire protection must be extended to more individuals, families, and properties. Similarly, as the demand for these services increase, so does the need for support services administration and the need for property and buildings from which these services are administered. The Support Services and Buildings component of the Public Services Strategy is intended to assure that fire and police protection services, and associated land and buildings, are available to provide for both the existing and future welfare of residents and property within Tyrone Township. Analysis Tyrone Township currently relies on the Livingston County Sheriff's Department in Howell and the State Police in Brighton for police protection. Fire protection is provided to the majority of the Township by the Fenton Fire Department while the Hartland Township Fire Department services Sections 31 through 34 in the Township. (see Map D-5) Specific standards upon which to evaluate the level of police protection in Tyrone Township do not exist due to the high number of variables that impact police protection needs. The limited commercial, in- 5-11 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �.... County Sheriffs Department, and State Police and if necessary, explore the development of a service agreement with one or more area police protection agencies for a higher level of service. dustrial, and high density residential development in the Township greatly reduces the need for a level of police protection typically associated with a geographically smaller and more urbanized community of similar population size. As a whole, Township residents are generally satisfied with the current level of police protection services. These services are limited to a single patrol car cruising the Township for four hours per weekday. 24-hour protection and weekend protection is not contracted for, and the State Police must be contacted should the need arise. 4) The Township will continue to monitor other emergency services needs, such as ambulance assistance, and explore the development of a service agreement with one or more area police protection agencies for a higher level of service. 5) The Township will continue to meet the basic governance needs of its citizens in existing facilities, until a demonstrated need for more service and adequate financial resources are available to meet that need. Expansions and/or the construction of new facilities will be on the site of existing Township owned lands, except possibly for new recreational facilities which may require purchase of new lands. Though a significant portion of the Township does not fall within the American Insurance Association's recommended four mile optimum service radius for buildings having an average separation of 100 feet or more, the vast portion of the Township does fall within the National Board of Fire Underwriters' recommended 10-minute response time for "closely built" and "scattered residential" areas. However, the lack of public water infrastructure in the Township is a significant obstacle to comprehensive fire protection. As the Township relies on other agencies for fire and police protection, the Township itself does not maintain any land or capital facilities for these purposes. However, though the Township's current agreements for police and fire protection services do not suggest the need for the purchase of land by the Township during the next 20 years, the need for increased service levels may well rise. Future growth in the Township may jeopardize current levels of service as emergency conditions will arise more frequently, placing additional demand on the agencies providing these services. Policies The following policies will guide the Township in its pursuit of maintaining, and as necessary, improving the level of service for general government, police, fire and emergency services: 1) The Township will maintain agreements with adjoining municipalities tor fire service equal to the quality of service in place at adoption of this Plan with the aim to improve it to a fire rating of seven or eight. 2) The Township will require the provision of fire protection infrastructure (wells, water Jines, etc.) for all new development of a net density of 2 dwelling units per acre or more where more than 1O lots or dwelling units are provided for. 3) The Township will continue to monitor police protection needs and service provided by the 6) The Township will explore the feasibility and practicality of public and/or private development of dry hydrant systems in connection with development around the Township 's lakes and, where shown to be feasible and practical, establish standards and requirements for the construction of such systems. Recreation Strategy Overview Tyrone Township recognizes that the health of its residents is, in part, impacted by the quality of opportunities available for spending leisure time. The Township further recognizes that a critical consideration in this regard is the type of recreational faciiities nearby and available to the residents of the Township. Demands for recreational opportunities increase with population growth and available land resources for recreation decrease as residential and other land uses consume greater amounts of what was previously open space and potential outdoor recreation land. Recreational lands must be purposefully pursued and planned for, as with any other principal land use, if these uses are to be appropriately located within the community and provide the services in demand. The Recreation component of the Public Services Strategy is a plan for identifying and addressing the recreation needs of the Township. This strategy becomes the tool for identifying future recreation lands and the recreation services associated with these lands. However, it is recognized a more detailed analysis and plan is necessary to qualify for state or 5-12 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �federal assistance with future recreational facility development. recreational needs and actions should be initiated to find out, and, if so, to correct the situation. Analysis Policies Tyrone Township is extremely limited in the area of programmed recreational resources within its municipal limits. There are no public recreation lands administered by the Township nor are there any county, state, or federal facilities within the Township. The most fundamental of public recreational facilities, school playgrounds, are nonexistent due to the absence of school facilities in the Township. The limited recreational facilities that do exist within the Township are not of a public nature and consist of the Tyrone Hills golf course at Center Road and U.S.-23 and the Kan-d-har Ski Club on Foley Road. The following policies will guide the Township in its pursuit of an improved recreational environment: While the extent of recreational facilities in the Township is minimal, the degree to which the lack of these facilities reflects a condition of inadequacy is unclear at this time. The reason for this lack of clarity is that adequacy is, in part, determined by the attitudes of the Township residents in regard to their particular recreation needs and likes. Up to this time, a survey of resident attitudes on the amount of recreation opportunities in the Township has not been pursued. However, a definite state of inadequacy is apparent according to recreation standards adopted by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (Table 52). These standards identify the minimum number of suggested recreation facilities, by facility type, based upon a community's population. These standards are presented as guidelines and not as absolute •hard and fast rules.• Standards applicable to a community the size of Tyrone Township suggest inadequacies relative to facilities for ball fields, court games, picnic areas, playgrounds, hiking trails, snowmobile trails, and more. Most evident is the total lack of park land in the Township, irrespective how it may be programmed. MONA standards suggest approximately BO acres of park land for a community the size of Tyrone Township, or 1o acres for every 1,000 people. 1) The Township will determine, approximately eve,y five years, the extent to which area residents are unsatisfied with recreation opportunities in the Township through the use of surveys, public meetings, and/or interviews with residents. 2) Should sufficient public sentiment warrant, the Township will pursue the development of a MDNR-approved five year action plan which will provide a specific action plan aimed at providing needed Township facilities and enable the Township to compete for state and federal recreation development monies. 3) The Township will strive to provide recreation facilities in a manner which recognizes the recreation standards of the MDNR and the particular recreation needs expressed by its residents. 4) The Township will adopt incentives to encourage the provision of open space and recreation areas within future development projects. 5) The Township will encourage ease of access to future recreation facilities though the pursuit of a linked open space system, siting recreation lands with recognition of existing and future prima,y population centers, and facilitating movement to and within future recreation facilities for motorists, bicyclists, pedestrians, and the physically disabled. 6) The Township will improve and coordinate efforts with all levels of government, with the quasi-public sector, and the private sector to provide expanded and coordinated recreational opportunities. While these standards suggest inadequacies ranging from slight to severe, the public's perception of inadequacy is not clear. The rural character of the Township may provide for recreational needs at individual homes or through nearby recreational programs and facilities in other communities. However, not all Township residents live on, or have access to, large land parcels, woodlots, and similar potential outdoor recreational opportunities. On the whole, the Township may not be meeting a significant degree of its citizens 5-13 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Table 5-2 MICHIGAN RECREATION OPPORTUNITY STANDARDS Type of Opportunity Local Park Land (acres) Archerv Ranaes lb) Ballfields lc) Outdoor Basketball Courts (c) Bicvcle Trails (miles) Golf Courses lb) Indoor Ice Rinks Outdoor Ice Rinks-Art. Picnic Areas (tables) Plavorounds Cc) Rifle Ranaes lb) Shotaun Ranaes lb) Sleddina Hills lc) Soccer Fields (c) Outdoor Swimmina Pools Outdoor Tennis Courts lc) Boat Launches (oarkina) Camoarounds (camosites) (d) Cross-Countrv Ski Trails (miles) Fishina Access (feet) Fishina Piers Hikina Trails (miles) Horseback Ridina Trails (miles) Nature Areas (areas) Nature Trails (miles) ORV Areas (acres) ORV Trails (miles) Land Open to Snowmobilina (acres) Snowmobile Trails (miles) Swimmin!l Beaches (a) (b) (c) (d) Plan Standards (a) 10/1 000 1/50 000 1/3,000 1/5,000 1/40 000 1/25 000 1/50 000 1/20 000 1/200 1/3,000 1/50 000 1/50 000 1/40,000 1/20,000 1/40 000 1/4 000 1/400 1/150 1/5 000 1 000/1 000 1/100,000 1/5 000 1/20,000 1/50,000 1/20 000 1/7 500 1/10 000 10/1,000 1/3,000 1/25 000 Units/population. Includes private clubs and commercial establishments. Does not include facilities on school grounds. Includes commercial facilities. Source: Michigan Department Of Natural Resources, 1986, Building Michigan Recreation Future, Appendix 8, pages 100-101 5-14 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Overview Contrary to decades past when access between communities was several days travel by stagecoach and the activities of one community had little impact upon the quality of life of other communities, we now live in an environment of microcomputers, ·vehicular and mass transit, telecommunications, and urban sprawl. We often live in one community, work in a second, shop in a third, and our children attend school in still a fourth. Roadway corridors, employment centers, and retail trade centers link the activities of one community to the next and beyond. Similar1y, the growth and development patterns of an individual community can easily and directly impad growth and development in adjoining and nearby communities. As a result of this regionalism, a community does not exist unto itself but is intrinsically linked with the activities of communities beyond. This dictates the need for communities to cooperate and coordinate community planning and public service endeavors if maximum benefits are to be realized. The Intergovernmental Coordination component of the Public Services strategy establishes the framework within which Tyrone Township will realize the benefits of coordination with area municipalities and agencies. 1) Tyrone Township will develop a program whereby all adjacent communities and the County are provided the opportunity to comment on amendments to the Township's Comprehensive Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Ordinance, capital improvements plan, and related ordinances and programs of the Township which may have impacts on services or land use decisions of adjoining jurisdictions. 2) Tyrone Township will provide the opportunity for comment by adjoining jurisdictions on any development project wfthin 1000 feet of the edge of the Township and will formally request area municipalities to permit Township comment on any development project within 1000 feet of their borders. 3) Tyrone Township will pursue the development of an intergovernmental coordination committee, composed of area municipalities and county agencies, aimed at addressing comprehensive planning issues including the impacts of land development and coordinating planning and zoning programs. 4) Tyrone Township will pursue the coordination of public services to serve the Township and surrounding areas in the most practical and economically feasible fashion and in accord with the policies previously set forth. Analysis Tyrone Township exists within a web of regional forces which must be recognized and addressed through coordinated planning with area municipalities and agencies. Tyrone Township is a classic bedroom community; it is centrally situated within the Detroit, Flint, Lansing, and Ann Arbor metropolitan areas, is afforded excellent access to and from these major urban centers, and relies on these and other urban centers for employment and retail services. The Township's regional link is bolstered by its position in front of the path of expanding urban sprawl from the greater Detroit region. Still, the Township's immediate proximity to the City of Fenton, and the numerous day-to-day activities of the Township which are impacted by nontownship offices, including the Livingston County Road Commission, Drain Commission, and Public Health Department, further exemplifies the critical need for intergovernmental coordination. Policies The following policies will guide the Township in more effectively carrying out its municipal activities and responsibilities within the regional context that ft operates from: 5-15 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Appendix A LOCATION AND GEOGRAPHY Tyrone Township is situated in the northeast comer of Livingston County, which is located between Oakland and Ingham Counties on the fringe of southeast Michigan and the Greater Detroit Area. (see Figure A-1). Tyrone Township is surrounded by the townships of Deerfield to the west; Hartland to the south; Rose Township (Gakland County) to the east, and the City of Fenton and Fenton Township (Genesee County) to the north (see Figure A-2). The US-23 expressway, running north and south through the Township, serves as a major regional connector to employment centers in Detroit, Ann Arbor, Flint, and Lansing (see Figure A-1). Figure A-2 ~eou,ty c.c:MWAY COHOCTAH DEERRB.D HOWELL ocrotA ii Fowlervtlle I ! HANDY i Tyrone Township's location relative to transportation routes and employment centers has made it a popular place to live. An attractive natural setting of woodlots interspersed with the rolling terrain of past glacial activity and inland lakes add to the area's appeal. Some of the larger lakes are Lake Shannon, Runyan Lake, and Lake Tyrone (see Figure A-3). Large wetland areas are concentrated near Hoisington and Steams Lakes in the northwest part of the Township. j I ~D, B Howell MARION K)OCO i BRIGHTON GENOA enc;.ton PUTNAM r HAMBURG GREEN OAK ~Cotnty Figure A-1 Figura A-3 ,. :JD 21 a :Ill A-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ~ • i i as a M a • • ~ �Appendix B HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE lack of pride in the residents for their community it is quite likely that, when pressed to identity where they reside these same residents would most likely respond "just south of Fenton• or perhaps "north of Brighton.•... The lack of a community center is a common attribute of communities which are primarily residential in character... • HISTORIC PERSPECTIVE The Township's 1985 Master Plan provides insight into the history of Tyrone's development. Portions of this text which are taken directly from the plan are italicized. For a more detailed outline of the Township's history, refer to Tyrone Revisited: 18341976 A Blcentennlal Salute. Though no community center is discernible, development over the past forty years has generally been focused in the northern third of the Township. This is particularly true with regard to higher density development. While the majority of the Township still reflects much of the landscape of past generations, northern Tyrone Township has made the jump from a strong rural environment to one of significant suburbanization. Tyrone Township was first settled in 1834 when three men made purchases of the new territory; George Dibble, George Cornell and William Dawson. The following spring 15 more purchasers acquired territory and thus the Township's settlement began. By the end of 1836, 131 more entries were made for purchases, which took most of the remaining available land. By 1838 the first school was in operation and the first church was erected in 1844. By 1852 the Township had formal postal services. Agricultural activities dominated the economy of Tyrone and the majority of business was conducted to serve agricultural operations. Hay and grain, sheep, dairy cattle and horse rearing, and orchards were all part of Tyrone's early agricultural activities. The Township has no federally designated historical sites, but the old Township Hall (10408 Center Road, built in 1887) is on the State register of historic places. According to the Blcantannlal Tribute there was an Indian burial mound in the north part of section 5 of the Township, but it was destroyed. Numerous centennial homes in the Township are also part of Tyrone's rich history. Colwell Cemetery (Section 4) Clough Cemetery (Section 8), Gardner Cemetery (Section 27) and Parshallville Cemetery in Hartland Township are the final resting places for many of Tyrone's early settlers. There is an historic church at Tyrone center (Section 16). Tyrone was settled initially as an agricultural community, as was most of Livingston County. Early industry was an outgrowth of the agricultural activity, such as the grist mill in Parshallville. Of specific interest is the manner in which the Township has changed as agriculture declined as the pn'mary activity. As an agricultural community development was, by necessity, widely dispersed. Throughout its history the Township has had few settlement areas, Hailers Comers and Parshallville are obvious examples while sites such as Hill Top Orchards and the area around the original Town Hall might also qualify. With the exception of Parshallville these areas are no longer identifiable settlements. Nor have any new settlement, or community areas replaced them. Development in Tyrone continues to be dispersed. This is perhaps the most significant historical pattern that can be observed in the development of Tyrone Township. Despite continued growth there is no discernible community center, no "downtown,· no focus of community identity. While there is no evident B-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Appendix C PHYSICAL PROFILE- NATURAL FEATURES (Denton Hill, Section 11 ). Glacial deposit thickness increases from west to east across the entire Township. There are no outcroppings of bedrock. The proximity of the bedrock to the surface of the ground does not impose limitations for normal excavating or construction. CLIMATE The effect of the Great Lakes on weather in Livingston County is not as noticeable as in other parts of Michigan. As a result, the County receives 5 to 1O percent more sunshine than the western part of the state. Precipitation averages 33.57 inches per year, and 59 percent of the annual total is received during the April-September period. Snowfall averages 42.6 inches per year. Cloudiness is most prevalent in the fall and early winter months, and is least during the late spring and summer. Average daily maximum temperatures range from 30 degrees in January to 82 degrees in July. Below in Table C-1 is temperature and precipitation infonnation for Livingston County. Table C-1 - Climatic Information Temoerature Preci :>itation Month Average Average Avereqa Average Daily Daily Maximum Minimum 1° Fl 16.6 16.0 23.6 34.8 45.6 56.0 60.1 59.1 51 .6 41 .7 30.0 20.0 Monthly Total Snow Depth* llncheal 1.96 2.12 2.58 3.44 3.76 3.40 2.75 3.34 2.99 2.72 2.42 1.0 /Inches\ 3.7 4.5 3.7 1.8 2.0 0 0 0 0 1.0 2.6 3.0 0 C Fl Januarv Fabruarv March .6.nrij Mav June Julv A11n11st c::-t October November December 30.3 31 .6 40.8 54.8 67.2 n.3 82.1 80.5 72.4 60.7 44.4 32.8 The surface geology of Tyrone Township resulted from glaciation 13,000 to 14,000 years ago. When glacial retreat was uniform, rocks were deposited in an even fashion across the landscape. Gently rolling till plains, which make up most of the Township, was the general landform produced by that process. Three more distinct landforms resulting from glaciers are moraines, outwash channels, and kettles. Moraines are hills which divide drainage basins, or watershed areas. In addition to defining drainage patterns, moraines are highly porous and provide natural intake points for water to percolate into the groundwater table. Examples of moraines in Tyrone Township are Denton Hill in Sections 1 and 2, and the · hill formation between Foley and White Lake Roads, historically referred to as the Bluffs. There is also an elongated moraine with a ridge line running southeast from Runyan Lake to Section 36. Outwash channels were once watercourses resulting from glacial meltwater. The valley along Ore Creek and Lake Shannon are examples of outwash channels. Another outwash plain is the valley running from the top of Denton Hill to Runyan Lake. • on davs with snow cover Following glacial retreat, large blocks of ice occasionally broke from the glacier and became embedded in the depositional debris. As those ice blocks melted, depressions called kettles were formed. Kettles which form small lakes are natural reservoirs for the containment of surface water. Because they are usually shallow water bodies, they are easily susceptible to water pollution caused by development adjacent to their shores. Tyrone Township has numerous small kettle lakes, including Sullivan Lake and Lake Tyrone. Other kettle lakes are located along Tipsico Lake Road in Section 1, in an area of Sections 21 , 22, and 27 between Mabley Hill Road and US-23, and Sections 14 and 15. Source: LMngston County Soil SufV9y, Soil Conservation Service GEOLOGY Tyrone Township is located on the boundaries of two major bedrock fonnations; Marshall Sandstone and Coldwater Shale. These are the first bedrock fonnations to be encountered beneath glacial deposits. Approximately half of the Township (northern) is underlain by the Marshall formation, while the remainder (southern) is underlain by the Coldwater fonnation. The thickness of glacial deposits overlaying the sandstone and shale bedrock ranges from as little as 50 feet in outwash plains (Lake Shannon, Hoisington Lake) to as much as 375 feet on moraines C-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �TOPOGRAPHY Table C-2 - Lakes 5 Acres or Larger The relative steepness of an area has an impact upon drainage patterns, private costs of development, and public costs. Substantial areas of Tyrone Township have slopes of 12 to 18 percent or more (see Map C-1). These slopes place limitations on development. Generally, slopes exceeding 7% present special construction problems and require special measures to prevent soil erosion and surface water sedimentation. Careless hillside development can also lead to increased costs for providing various public utilities and services. Roads, sewers, and water lines require special engineering and construction in such areas. Preservation of the existing character of steep sloped areas in Tyrone Township is especially important because of the erodibility of gravely soils in those areas, and because of impacts on nearby watercourses (especially Runyan and Shannon Lakes). Excavation and removal of vegetation from steep-sloped areas for development would significantly increase runoff and sedimentation of lakes and streams and would ultimately undennine the attractive and distinctive character of the Township. This is particularty true where uplands slope abruptly to floodplains around Lake Shannon and near Hoisington and Steams Lakes. Lake Location ArN lacr• In Twn.) Lake Shannon Runvan Lake Hoisinaton Lake Lake Tvrone Stearns Lake Sullivan Lake Marl Lake Sections 19 30 3 1 Section 9 Section 6 Section 34 Section 5 Sections 12 13 Section 4 193 174 120 39 36 27 22 The shores of lakes, especially in Livingston County, are very popular for land development. They attract new development more than any other natural feature and often have a very high market value. Consequently, lakefront development is often built at a high density. Many lake lots in Tyrone Township, especially on Runyan and Tyrone Lakes, were created decades ago and are less than 50 feet wide. Faulty septic system siting (where sewer is not available) and storm water runoff are major concerns because small and shallow lakes are susceptible to pollution from runoff and migrating groundwater that has been contaminated. The cumulative effects of lakeshore development have intensified state-wide since the 1950's. Lakeshore homes previously were used only for weekends and vacations. After interstate highways were built, the lakes became more accessible and lakeshore homes became desirable as permanent homes. As a result, virtually all of the lakefront property in Tyrone Township is developed. Hoisington and Steams Lakes have not been desirable or feasible for development because they are surrounded by wetlands. The absolute topographic relief in Tyrone Township varies from a maximum elevation of 1,200 feet above sea level in Section 15 to a minimum of 858 feet in Section 6 at Hoisington Lake (see Map C-2). As might be expected, the principal lowlands in the Township follow water courses along the western periphery of the Township and across its northern third. The Township generally rises in an easterly direction. Along with new lakefront homes and existing lakefront homes being converted to pennanent residences, conveniences such as garbage disposals, clothes washers, and detergents were introduced. In addition, lawns were fertilized and mowed, and more roads and driveways were built near the lakes, exposing bare ground surfaces. Use of detergents, removal of vegetation from the landscape, use of fertilizers, and increased densities near lakes has ultimately resulted in diminished lake water quality. Most inland lake water quality problems are largely the result of inappropriate land use practices. INLAND LAKES A list of the lakes of 20 acres or more in size in Tyrone Township appears in Table C-2. The combined surface area of these 7 lakes is over 610 acres. The largest lakes are found primarily in the northwest portion of the Township. Lake Shannon, which covers 193 acres (remainder of Lake Shannon in Deerfield Twp.), is the largest lake within the Township. Runyan Lake is the second largest. Dense lakefront development often results in contamination of groundwater from septic systems located in high water table areas, which are commonly found on the shores of lakes. This groundwater often migrates into the surface water, resulting in an accelC-2 TY RONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 ,,,-...._ �threat to public health and safety. 100 year flood boundaries have not been mapped by the National Flood Insurance Program for Tyrone Township. The floodprone areas in Tyrone Township, if any do in fact exist, are relatively small because the Township includes some of the highest points in southeast Michigan, is not traversed by any major watercourses (and is actually near the top of the watershed), and has hilly terrain which facilitates runoff drainage. eration of aquatic weed and algae growth. Such was the case with Runyan and Tyrone Lakes, which now have sewer systems. Lakes that have steep slopes adjacent to them, such.as Lake Shannon, usually have problems with erosion and sedimentation on their shores rather than problems associated with high water table. Dredging and filling activities along most lakeshores are regulated by the Department of Natural Resources through the Inland Lakes and Streams Act, PA 346 of 1972, MCL 281 .952 et seq. The County Drain Commissioner, through the provisions of the Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Act, PA 347 of 1972, MCL 282.101 et seq, has authority to review land development and land uses regarding soil erosion and sedimentation issues, and prescribe conditions to minimize such conditions. Communities which have the greatest danger of flooding are those in the downstream areas of major watersheds. As a river travels down its watershed (toward its emptying point on the Great Lakes), it accumulates runoff water from many different sources, including tributaries, urban areas, and hills. Tyrone Township is at or very near the beginning of the Shiawassee River system, so it contributes floodwaters to downstream communities such as Owosso, while it receives no floodwaters from other areas. DRAINAGE The portion of Tyrone Township which serves as a floodwater storage area includes Lake Shannon, Runyan Lake, Steams Lake, and Hoisington Lake. This area is a vast contiguous system of wetlands and watercourses which is capable of holding huge quantities of water without severe flooding. Tyrone Township lies entirely within the major drainage basin of the Shiawassee River. Within this area are several smaller sub-watersheds including Denton Creek and Ore Creek. Watershed boundaries are shown in Map C-3. The primary watercourses in Tyrone Township are Ore Creek/Lake Shannon and a system consisting of Sullivan Lake, Denton Creek, Runyan Lake, Runyan Creek. Steams Lake, and Hoisington Lake. Significant wetlands are associated with these watercourses. One is along Denton Creek in Sections 2 and 3. The largest wetland system in the Township spans from Runyan Lake to the Township's western boundary. SOILS The resource use or development capacity of a specific parcel of land is largely dependent upon the characteristics of the soils present on the site. This is especially true of an area such as Tyrone Township where public services are limited. The Township was initially a sparsely populated agricultural community and is now a rural residential community which relies upon groundwater and on-site wastewater treatment. Sewers operated by the Livingston County Drain Commission on Runyan and Tyrone Lakes service only a very small portion of the Township. Substantial areas of surface soils in Tyrone Township suggest severe limitations for residential and urban development. The Livingston County Soil Survey identifies more than 80 soil units in the County, the majority of which can be found in Tyrone Township (see Figure C-1 tor listing of soil map units). Natural drainage systems perform important drainage and water storage functions that would otherwise have to be provided by costly public works projects, and thus they should be preserved. Streams and watersheds having flow characteristics that have been adversely altered can also contribute to flooding or flow problems downstream. Additionally, increased runoff and sedimentation from adjacent development can cause irregular flow and choke a watercourse's connection with groundwater formations, adversely affecting groundwater resources. FLOODPLAINS Land Use And Soils Each soil type has unique characteristics which pose opportunities for some uses and limitations for others. The most important characteristics making the Areas adjacent to creeks, streams and rivers are susceptible to periodic flooding that can cause extensive damage to buildings and can pose a substantial C-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Figure C-1 SOIL MAP UNITS Ad ApA ApB ApC Allwial land . Arkport fine sandy loam, O to 2 percent slopes Arkport fine sandy loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes Arkport fine sandy loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes Ba Be Bp BrA BrB BrC BsA BsB BtA BtB BtC BtD Barry sandy loam Serville loam Borrow pits Boyer loamy sand, Oto 2 percent slopes Boyer loamy sand, 2 to 6 percent slopes Boyer loamy sand, 6 to 12 percent slopes Boyer loamy sand, silty substratum, o to 2 percent slopes Boyer loamy sand, silty substratum, 2 to 6 percent slopes Boyer-Oshtemo loamy sands, O to 2 percent slopes Boyer-Oshtemo loamy sands, 2 to. 6 percent slopes Boyer-Oshtemo loamy sands, 6 to 12 percent slopes Boyer-Oshtemo loamy sands, 12 to 18 HIE HmB HmC Ho La Le Lm LoB Md MIB MnA MnB MnC MoA MoB Moc MoO MoE MoF MrB MwB OaB OkB percent slopes BtE CxA Boyer-Oshtemo loamy sands, 18 to 25 percent slopes Boyer-Oshtemo loamy sands, 25 to 35 percent slopes Brady loamy sand, 0 to 2 percent slopes Breckenridge loamy sand Bronson loamy sand, o to 2 percent slopes Brookston loam Carlisle muck Colwood fine sandy loam Conover loam, O to 2 percent slopes Conover loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes Conover-Miami loams, O to 2 percent slopes Ed Edwards muck FoA Fox sandy loam, O to 2 percent slopes Fox sandy loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes Fox sandy loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes Fox-Boyer complex, 2 to 6 percent slopes Fox-Boyer complex, 6 to 12 percent slopes Fox-Boyer complex, 12 to 18 percent slopes Fox-Boyer complex, 18 to 25 percent slopes Fox-Boyer complex, 25 to 40 percent slopes Gilford sandy loam BtF BuA Bv BwA By Cc Cr CvA CvB FoB Foe FrB FrC FrO FrE FrF Gd Gr HdB HdC HIB HIC HID OIA 018 OmA OmB Orne Omo Pc Rf Se SvB Svc svo SvE SvF Gravel pits Hillsdale loamy Hillsdale loamy HillsdaJe sandy Hillsdale sandy Hillsdale sandy sand, 2 to 6 percent slopes sand, 6 to 12 percent slopes loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes loam, 12 to 18 percent slopes Tm We WeA Wn Hillsdale sandy loam, 18 to 25 percent slopes Hillsdale-Miami loams, 2 to 6 percent slopes Hillsdale-Miami loams, 6 to 12 percent slopes Houghton muck Lake beaches Lamson fine sandy loam Linwood muck Locke sandy loam, 0 to 4 percent slopes Made land Metamora sandy loam, Oto 4 percent slopes Metea loamy sand, 0 to 2 percent slopes Metea loamy sand, 2 to 6 percent slopes Metea loamy sand, 6 to 12 percent slopes Miami loam, O to 2 percent slopes Miami loam, 2 to 6 percent slopes Miami loam, 6 to 12 percent slopes Miami loam, 12 to 18 percent slopes Miami loam, 18 to 25 percent slopes Miami loam, 25 to 35 percent slopes Miami-Conover loams, 2 to 6 percent slopes Minoa-Thetford complex, o to 4 percent slopes Oakville fine sand, 0 to 6 percent slopes Oakville fine sand, loamy substratum, O to 6 percent slopes Ottokee loamy sand, o to 2 percent slopes Ottokee loamy sand, 2 to 6 percent slopes Owosso-Miami sandy loams, O to 2 percent slopes Owosso-Miami sandy loams, 2 to 6 percent slopes Owosso-Miami sandy loams, 6 t? 12 percent slopes Owosso-Miami sandy loams, 12 to 18 percent slopes Pewamo clay loam Rifle muck Sebewa loam Spinks-Oakville loamy sands, O to 6 percent slopes Spinks-Oakville loamy sands, 6 to 12 percent slopes Spinks-Oakville loamy sands, 12 to 18 percent slopes Spinks-Oakville loamy sands, 18 to 25 percent slopes SpinksOakville loamy sands, 25 to 35 percent slopes Tawas muck Wamersloam Wasepi sandy loam, 0 to 2 percent slopes Washtenaw silt loam ? C-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ... �soil suitable or unsuitable for development are limitations on dwellings with basements, limitations on septic tank absorption fields, and suitability for farming. The degree of soil limitations reflects the hardship and expense of developing the land. Soil limitations can be classified into three categories: systems can be broken down into the following categories: Slight: Relatively free of limitations or limitations are easily overcome. C. Wet, ponding, heavier {clay} soils, slow permeability. Mod•rate: Limitations need to be considered, but can be overcome with good management and careful design. D. Very wet soils, organics, wetlands, floodplains, unable to support septic fields . S•v•re: Limitations are severe enough to make Soils in categories B, C and D are not able to support septic fields because of extreme wetness. Soils in category A are classified as severe by the Soil Conservation Service, but in most cases, sites with these soils can be modified to make septic systems feasible, depending on specific local conditions. A. Sandy, moderate to rapid permeability. 8 . Rapid permeability, wetness and high water table. use questionable. A modern soil survey was completed for Livingston County by the USDA Soil Conservation Service in 1974. The soil types present in Tyrone Township are shown on map C-4A and C-48, and further clarified in Table C-3. Soil types found in Tyrone Township are essentially glacial deposits acted upon by soil formation processes such as wind and water. As a result of glaciation, soil types vary widely from site to site in Tyrone Township. This, coupled with the fact that soil depths on USDA soil survey maps average 35 feet, make conclusive and accurate delineation of areas with severe limitations difficult. Site visits and inspections are necessary in nearly all instances to establish actual site conditions. Because of the diversity of soils found within most areas in Tyrone Township , conditions on a particular site may be completely different from what the soil maps indicate. Even though the site may appear to have severe limitations for development, there may be areas where development is suitable because the limiting soils are underlain by suitable soils within 12 feet of the ground surface. Such an occurrence would be an important consideration in determining site suitability for an on-site sewage disposal system. Therefore, the limitations maps are meant to serve only as a guide, and on-site inspection will be necessary in most cases to establish site-specific information. Limitations For Septic Systems Substantial portions of Tyrone Township have surficial soils that impose severe limitations on septic tank absorption fields. These soils are concentrated in large groups, as well as scattered, and comprise 59% of the Township's total land area. Surficial soils with moderate limitations for septic systems comprise 39% of the Township's land area, and surficial soils with slight limitations cover 1.4%. Soils pose severe limitations for a variety of reasons, including steep slopes, wetness, and slow or excessive permeability. Some densely developed areas of Tyrone Township have experienced problems resulting from soil characteristics. Densely populated lakeshore developments pose some very difficult problems for on-site sewage treatment systems. Most lakeshore developments have been built on low, poorly drained soils rich in organic materials. Runyan and Tyrone Lakes are served by public sewers, but other lakes in Tyrone Township are not. Some parts of Tyrone Township that are likely to experience future growth, such as the south-central area, have moderate to severe limitations for on-site septic systems. Map C-5 shows the septic system limitation areas for the Township. Soils with moderate and slight limitations also appear on Map C-5. Municipal sewer systems are necessary when residential densities exceed the inherent ability of soils to prevent wastes from reaching water supplies. For most soil types that means densities of more than one and one-half dwellings per acre. With less dense development and soils without extreme limitations for septic systems, sewage can be disposed of safely by individual private systems. The degree of soil limitations reflects the hardship and expense of developing that land for a particular use. Those soils classified as severe have varying degrees of development potential based on the nature of the limitation. Soils with severe limitations for septic C-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �..... strength, excessive slope, or shrink-swell potential. Severe limitations are not concentrated in any particular areas, but are scattered throughout the Township. Soils unsuitable for construction of dwellings with basements cover 25% of the total land area of the Township. Standards For Septic Systems The Livingston County Health Department has established standards for septic systems. These standards apply somewhat different site characteristics when determining the degree of limitations for septic systems, compared to the Soil Conservation Service approach, which focuses on soil types and slope. Applications for a septic permit will be rejected by the Livingston County Health Department if: Most Suitable Soils For Development The most suitable soils for development, with respect to both septic system and basement limitations, • The highest zone of groundwater saturation is less than 2.5 feet below the original ground surface. are depicted in Map C-7. Though dominantly In the southern half of the Township, the most suitable surficial soils are not particularly consolidated in the Township. • The stabilized percolation rate is in excess of 45 minutes per inch of fall. Hydric Soils • The proposed site is subject to flooding or is within the ten year flood prone area. Hydric soils present another limitation to development. They are very poorly drained, saturate easily and retain large quantities of water. They are generally unsuitable for structures. The Soil Conservation Service defines hydric soils as : • Where there exists less than 2.5 feet of naturally occurring permeable soil that is considered as suitable for the disposal of liquid sewage wastes as determined by the Soil Conservation Service. "A soil that is saturated, flooded, or ponded Jong enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part.· • Variances may be granted for existing structures where sewage disposal system repairs, corrections, and/or alterations are necessary (in the opinion of a Health Officer). If artificially drained, hydric soils can be suitable for farmland use. Map C-8 shows where these hydric soils are. In Tyrone Township, most of the hydric soils are found near watercourses and correspond to present or former wetlands. Hydric soils represent 12% of the Township's total land area. Residential, commercial and industrial development in areas containing hydric soils should be discouraged. Where the upper soil profile is considered unsuitable for the installation of a sewage disposal system, a •deep excavation• or •cutdown system " may be acceptable if: • Permeable soils encountered are within 12 feet of the ground surface and are not confined to an area less than 2400 square feet , except when the site is otherwise unsuitable. Prime Farmland "Prime farmland" soil types have been identified by the Soil Conservation Service as those best suited for food production; they require minimal soil enhancement measures such as irrigation and fertilizer. Some soils are considered prime farmland only if they are drained. "Unique farmlands" are based on certain soil types as well as other factors, such as landscape position (proximity to water supply, orientation to sunlight, slope, etc.), moisture supply, and present management practices. "Prime farmland" soils are shown on Map C-9. Prime farmland soils comprise approximately 50% of the area of Tyrone Township, and they exist in several large contiguous areas as well as in small areas. Though they are concentrated in several areas of the Township, expansive and contiguous areas of prime farmland soils do not generally exist and raises questions as to the • Water-bearing formations found within the 12 foot range are not artesian. • There is sufficient information to substantiate that contamination of existing or future water wells will not occur. • No less than 3 feet of permeable soils exist below the unsuitable soils. • The unsuitable soils above the permeable soils are not saturated (muck, peat, marl, etc.). Basement Limitations Limitations for dwellings with basements are shown on Map C-6. Some soils are rated by the Soil Conservation Service as having severe limitations on basements because of excessive wetness, low C-6 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN ,,,,,.... �appropriateness of stringent fannland preservation measures. Lands enrolled in the Fannland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116 of 1974) are depicted on Map C-10. The P.A. 116 program provides property tax relief to landowners in exchange for the landowner's development rights. A total of 833 acres in Tyrone Township is enrolled in the program . . WOODLANDS The wooded areas of Tyrone Township are predominantly hardwoods, with some small areas of conifers. There are several large (300-500 acres) contiguous tracts of woods in the Township, particularly around the highest point in the township in Sections 10, 11 , 14, and 15, and south of Stearns and Hoisington Lakes. In addition, wooded areas are scattered throughout the Township in patches of 150 acres or less. Woodlands, which cover 22% of the township's land area, are shown in Map C-11. 300,000 gallons of water. Wetlands provide this holding capacity inexpensively. If destroyed they can be replaced only with expensive structural public improvements. Wetlands also function as critical wildlife habitats. A significant portion of Tyrone Township (10% excluding lakes) can be characterized as wetland. These wetland areas are primarily associated with the river channels and lakes located within the Township. Some of the wetlands exist in a relatively large, contiguous area between Runyan Lake and the western boundary of the Township. The remainder are found in smaller areas of 250 acres or less. Some wetlands, such as fens or meadows, do not look very wet and may not be wet a large part of the year. Most of these areas are seasonally flooded-usually in the spring and fall, and in the summer they are often without standing water, although the organic soil usually stays near saturation. Because wetlands are a valuable natural resource, they are protected by the Wetlands Protection Act, PA 203 of 1979, MCL 281 .701 et seq. PA 203 requires that permits be acquired from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNA) prior to altering or filling a regulated wetland. The Wetland Protection Act defines wetlands as: Table C-3 - Woodland Use/Cover Codes Code 412 414 421 423 O..CrlDtlon Uoland Hardwood Lowland Hardwood Uoland Conifer Lowland Conifer - ArNlnTwn. 3 672 acres 1175 acres 214 acres 8 acres "land characterized by the presence of water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support and that under normal circumstances does support wetland vegetation or aquatic life and is commonly refeffed to as a bog, swamp, or marsh and is contiguous to the Great Lakes, an inland lake or pond, or a river or stream.• The importance attached to woodlands is a function of their demonstrated ability to stabilize slopes, retard erosion, conserve water quality and quantity, maintain local micro-climates, filter the atmosphere, decrease noise levels and provide wildlife habitats. Mature trees represent a valuable resource in maintaining the aesthetic character of Tyrone Township. Future development should not occur at the expense of existing tree cover. Wooded areas in Tyrone Township should be managed to insure their long tenn existence and to help preserve the rural character of the Township. Regulated wetlands _include all wetland areas greater than 5 acres or those of any size contiguous to waterways. Wetlands which are hydrologically connected (i.e., via groundwater) to waterways are also regulated. Activities exempted from the provisions of the Act include farming, grazing of animals, farm or stock ponds, lumbering, maintenance of existing nonconfonning structures, maintenance or improvement of existing roads and streets within existing rights-of-way, maintenance or operation of pipelines less than six inches in diameter, and maintenance or operation of electric transmission and distribution power lines. WETLANDS Wetlands include marshes, swamps, and the areas between dry land and open water. These are areas typified by poor drainage and standing water. They are important community resources for several reasons. Wetlands provide a filter to keep inorganic materials out of the water supply, act as a sponge to retain water during dry periods and hold water during floods. One acre of marsh is capable of absorbing Permits will not be issued if a feasible or prudent alternative to developing a wetland exists. A map of wetlands based on the DNR's land use/cover inventory is illustrated on Map C-12. Table C-4 shows the land use/cover codes pertaining to regulated wetlands in C-7 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �ENVIRONMENTALLY IMPACTED SITES the area. Some areas of hydric soils not shown as wetlands would likely be classified as wetlands if they were not artificially drained. · Water Supplies with High Nitrate Concentrations Table C-4 - Wetland Use/Cover Codes Cod• 414 423 611 612 621 622 DNcrfnlion Lowland Hardwood Lowland Conifer Forested Watland Shrub Watland Anuallc Bed Emaraent Wetlands Sites with elevated nitrate levels in groundwater · are scattered throughout Tyrone Township. The subdivisions southwest of Mart lake are a "hot spot• for such sites. High nitrate concentrations are often the result of inadequate sewage disposal or the use of agricultural fertilizers. Faulty septic systems do not always filter wastes adequately before they reach unprotected groundwater supplies (i.e. there is an inadequate impervious surface between the ground surface and the groundwater). Since the source of contamination is not known , the provision of public sewers will not necessarily correct the problem. The sites identified by the Livingston County Health Department are shown by symbols on Map C-13. Area In TWD. 1175 acres 8 acres 19 acres acres 0acres 275 acres na GROUNDWATER Wells within Tyrone Township supply all of the water for residential, commercial and industrial uses in Tyrone Township. Most of these wells draw from the confined glacial drift aquifer, which is separated from the ground surface by a •confining• layer of clay or rock. Some wells draw from the unconfined aquifer, which is more vulnerable to contamination from the ground surface. Wells which tap aquifers near Coldwater Shale bedrock in the southern half of the township generally draw water of mucti lower quality than the Marshall Sandstone bedrock. Groundwater is an unseen resource and is therefore particularly vulnerable to mismanagement and contamination. Prior to the 1980's, little was known about groundwater contamination in Michigan, and some important facts have recently been revealed. Act 307 The Michigan Environmental Response Act, PA 307 of 1982, MCL 691 .1201 et seq, provides for the identification, risk assessment, and priority evaluation of environmental contamination sites throughout the State. Following evaluation via a risk assessment model developed by experts from various state agencies, contaminated sites may be placed on one of two lists. The sites are given priority based on such factors as the availability of federal Superfund money, Act 307 funding , voluntary action by responsible parties, the likelihood of successful legal action, and the need to address immediate public health concerns. One list consists of sites where further evaluation and interim response activities are required, . The other list contains sites where response activities are ready to be undertaken. There are no sites in Tyrone Township included in the fiscal year 1991 Act 307 lists. The leading causes of groundwater contamination in Michigan are from small businesses and agriculture. More than 50% of all contamination comes from small businesses that use organic solvents, such as benzene, toluene and xylene, and heavy metals, such as lead, chromium, and zinc. The origin of the problem sterns from careless storage and handling of hazardous substances. On paved surfaces where hazardous materials are stored, substances can seep through or flow off the edge of the pavement. Materials can also get into floor drains which may discharge to soils, wetlands or watercourses. ~tyronelappendc.doc Many common materials used by homeowners are highly toxic and can also contaminate groundwater supplies, even when used in small quantities. Groundwater protection is everyone's responsibility, and prevention of contamination is the most effective way to protect groundwater supplies. C-8 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Livingston County, Michigan ~ Map C-1 STEEP SLOPES 6- 12% Slopes II ■ Slopes 18% and Greater 12-18% Slopes Data souce: USDA Sol S16Vey of Livingston County, MlchJQan PlonninO ll Zoning Cente,. Inc. Macf1, 1992 302 Souln \Nove"Y 1100d N A SCALI 1:55,096 1 heh ,. 4590 feet Lensing. Mlcnlgon �Livingston County, Michigan + f- T BENNE.TT L.4KE RO . 6 5 + +- Map C-2 D 850-949 feet II feet 950-999 RELATIVE ELEVATION 1000-1099 feet Ill 1100-1220 feet (above sea level) A SCAl.l Data source: U.S. Gedogcci SuNey 7.5 Minute Quactcnfje Mef)S Plonntng & Zoning Center. Inc. N 302 South Wover"'f Rood Mach, 1992 1:55,096 1 heh = 4590 feet LO.nslng. Michigan -' �Livingston County, Michigan ~ cg o~e . 7 G ~ + • o· + l) 11 + + n .:lii i! 1111f 11 !li Ul innlHl i: :. !~ !!l ill !ft l l !!Ill l ~ !1l ;!il !l i~ l !l l l!:. 0 .:i!i! i l l !l l i ' ;!ii,; 17 oD 16 + Ifi!l!!!i!!!!ii lili lil il li!!ll!l~l!!iltil!! 15 + 0 21 19 l!i!I 1111111 .. ,, /llllllllllllilllliilli!il .,,,,,,,,;ii i li i~i!I 1!1!11111111111: Map C-3 IZ] WATERSHEDS N Watershed boundary A I/' I Direction or point of outflow SCALI Mach, 1992 Data s ~ : MJchlQan Dt,pattrr-,t of Natura Resot.Xces Plo,VW,O & Zon,ng Center. Inc. 302 South Wove'"( Rood 1:55,096 l heh ,. 4590 feet Loneing . MJchlgon �Map C-4A �■ Map C-4B �MAP C-5 LIMITATIONS FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS Explanation and Key Points: The map graphically represents surficial soil limitations for residential septic systems. Limitations from slight to severe are shown, with severe limitations having the darkest pattern and slight limitations having the lightest. Lakes are shown in black. Areas with severe limitations for septic systems comprise approximately 50% of the Township's land area. These areas are considered to have severe limitations because of high water table, excessive slope, wetness, very high permeability, or very slow permeability. As a result, large portions of Tyrone Township are unsuitable for development on parcels smaller than two acres, without public sewer systems. Areas shown as having moderate or slight limitations are suitable for development at somewhat higher densities without public sewer systems. Methodology: The UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County contains a table, listing each soil type in the County and its limitations for septic tank absorption fields. The soil survey table was not used directly because local health department policies for issuing septic system permits vary considerably within Michigan. Specifically, the Livingston County Health Department considers some soils rated by the Soil Conservation Service (SCS) as having moderate limitations to actually have severe limitations. In other cases, soils rated as severe by SCS can have only moderate limitations. Because of the need for a more detailed analysis of septic system limitations, soils were divided into the following six categories: • Sandy, moderate to rapid permeability (moderate) • Sandy, rapid permeability, high water table (severe) • Wet, ponding, heavier (clay) soils, slow permeability (severe) • Very wet soils, organics, floodplains (severe) • Moderate limitations • Slight limitations Personnel at the Livingston County Health Department were consulted regarding the validity of the soils within the six classifications. Some of the soils were changed from one classification to another because the experience of the Health Department with those types of soil in Tyrone Township. In some cases, certain loams and sandy loams were considered by Health Department staff to have severe limitations rather than moderate. It was also noted by Health Department staff that the soil survey map units only cover a profile of no more than six feet below the surface, and soil types below that level vary widely in Tyrone Township because of glaciation. Sometimes, sites with severe soil limitations within the upper six feet are underlain by "good" soils for septic systems. However this is not often the case, since the areas rated as severe on Map C-6 have a high water table, are found in wetlands or swamps, or have steep slopes. Wetlands and areas with a high water table are very unlikely to be underlain with suitable soils. Using a computerized mapping system and a digital USDA soil survey map of Tyrone Township, soil map units defined as having slight, moderate, and severe limitations for septic systems, with respect to the above six classifications, were automatically located and filled with the appropriate patterns and printed. Source: UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County, Michigan Digital UDSA Soil Survey map of Tyrone Township Livingston County Health Department t llyrone\Mplimo.doc �Livingston County, Michigan Map C-5 LIMITATIONS FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS □ Sllght Ill Moderate/Severe [TI] Ill Moderate N A Severe SCAI.E Data source: USDA Sol SUNey of Livingston County, Michigan Planning & Zoning C..nter. Inc. ■ Water March, 1992 302 Sou th Woverty Rood 1:55,096 l heh ,. 4590 feet Lansing, Michigan �MAP C-6 LIMITATIONS FOR BASEMENTS • Explanation and Key Points: Map C-6 graphically represents surficial soil limitations for basements. Limitations from slight to severe are shown, with severe limitations having the darkest pattern and slight limitations having the lightest pattern. Lakes are shown in black. Areas with severe limitations for dwellings with basements comprise a significant portion of the Township's land area (approximately 25%). These areas are considered to have severe limitations because of high water table, excessive slope, wetness, shrink-swell potential, and the tendency of the soils to cave in. Soils with severe limitations for dwellings with basements are found primarily in steep sloped areas and wetlands. Thus, these soils could be considered unsuitable for development. Methodology: The Soil Survey of Livingston County contains a table listing each soil type in the County and its limitations for dwellings with basements. Using a computerized mapping system and a digital USDA soil survey map of Tyrone Township, soil map units defined as having slight, moderate, and severe limitations for basements were automatically located and filled with the appropriate patterns and printed. Source: UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County, Michigan Digital UDSA Soil Survey map of Tyrone Township ~\lyrone\baMli,,...doo �Livingston County, Michigan Map C-6 - R LIMITATIONS FOR BASEMENTS □ Slight IIIIIl] Severe ~ Moderate ■ Water N A SCAI! Data source: USDA Sol Sulvey of Livingston Coun/}', Mlchk;an PkJnnkig & Zoning Cent er, Inc. Mach, 1992 302 Sourn Waverly r?ood 1:55,096 l heh = 4590 feet Lonstng. Michigan �MAP C-7 MOST SUITABLE SOILS • Explanation and Key Points: Shaded areas on Map C-7 represent surficial soil areas most suitable for residential development with respect to limitations for basements and limitations for septic systems. The areas represented are places where limitations for both septic systems and dwellings with basements are considered moderate or slight. Lakes are printed in black. These "suitable" soils comprise approximately 50% of the Township's total land area and are found mostly in the southern 4 miles of the Township. Methodology: Using a computerized mapping system and a digital USDA soil survey map of Tyrone Township, soil map units defined previously as having moderate or slight limitations for both septic systems and dwellings with basements were automatically located and filled with the appropriate patterns and printed. Source: UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County, Michigan Digital UDSA Soil Survey map of Tyrone Township Livingston County Health Department ~\lyfone\nwutt.doc �Livingston County, Michigan Map C-7 a1 MOST SUITABLE SOILS N Data source: USDA Sol SUNey of Livingston County, Michigan Planning a A Solls most suitable for development Zoning Center. Inc. Mach. 1992 302 South Waverty f'?ood SCAIE 1:55,096 1 Inch • 4590 feet t.onslng. Mlchlgon �MAP C-8 HYDRIC SOILS • Explanation and Key Points: Shaded regions on Map C-8 represent areas covered by hydric soils. Hydric soils are generally very wet, or have been wet for extended periods in the past, organic soils which, in their natural state, are poorly drained, saturate easily, and retain large quantities of water. In Tyrone Township, these soils are found mostly near watercourses and wetlands. Hydric soils always have severe limitations for both basements and septic systems. They are generally unsuitable for any type of structural use. Areas with hydric soils are often a home for wildlife and may have a variety of recreational uses. If properly drained, they can be suitable for farming . Methodology: The USDA Soil Conservation Service publishes a list of all hydric soils in Michigan. Hydric soils in Tyrone Township were identified from that list and input into the digital soil map of the Township. Using a computerized mapping system and the digital USDA soil survey map of Tyrone Township, soil map units designated as hydric soils were automatically located and filled with the appropriate patterns and printed. Source: UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County, Michigan Digital UDSA Soil Survey map of Tyrone Township USDA Soil Conservation Service Michigan hydric soils list t ltyronelhydric.doo �Livingston County, Michigan [ , 3 ~T 1 ~ 2 ef -°' ~ P RSMALL..VIL.L Map C-8 IJJ 12 \ 'f'RO. HYDRIC SOILS Hydrlc Soils ■ Water Dato source: USDA Sol SUtvey of L.IY/ngston County, Michigan P\onntno & Zoning Center. Inc. ' Maren, 302 Souln Wovetty Rood rm SCALE 1:S5,096 1 nch .. 4590 feet Lonalng. Michigan �MAP C-9 PRIME FARMLAND SOILS Explanation and Key Points: Shaded areas on Map C-9 represent two types of prime farmland soils. The darker of the two patterns is prime farmland soils in their current state, while the lighter pattern represents areas that are considered prime farmland only if drained. Areas not requiring drainage comprise approximately 70% of all prime farmland soils. Prime farmland soils cover a significant portion of Tyrone township; approximately 35-40% of the total land area. Throughout most of th.a Township, prime farmland soils are not well related to parcel boundaries. This reduces the likelihood of profitable farming activities. Methodology: The UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County contains a table, listing each soil type in the County and its ranking as prime farmland . Using a computerized mapping system and a digital USDA soil survey map of Tyrone Township, soil map units defined as being prime farmland were automatically located and filled with the appropriate patterns and printed. Source: UDSA Soil Survey of Livingston County , Michigan Digital UDSA Soil Survey map of Tyrone Township j:\tyronelplarm.doo �...... Livingston County, Michigan Map C-9 Ill PRIME FARMLAND SOILS N Prime Farmland A. Prime Farmland, If Drained SCALE Data source: USDA Sol SuNey of Livingston Co!A'lty. Michigan Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. March, 1992 302 South Wov,.rt.t Rood 1:55,096 1 nch ,. 4590 feet Lansing. Mlct,lgon �MAP C-10 PA 116 FARMLANDS Explanation and Kay Points: Map C-10 shows land enrolled in the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program (PA 116 of 1974), managed by the Michigan Department of Commerce .. Methodology: Tax parcel maps were obtained from the Livingston County Equalization Department and entered into a computer mapping system. In addition, each parcel was labeled with its tax number. Following input of parcel boundaries and numbers, information from the Township's tax roll was added using database management software. Parcel numbers served as the link between the digital map and the remaining tax roll information. The end result is a "geo-database"; a map with all tax parcel information attached to each parcel. Data for parcels enrolled in the Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program was obtained from Township officials. Using a computerized mapping system and the digital tax-parcel map, a map was automatically generated using the parcel numbers for PA 116 land . Source: Livingston County Equalization Department Livingston Data Services USDA Important Farmlands map of Livingston County j:\tyrone\pa 116.doc �Lf\7@@~~ lJ@W~~C=ODCP Livingston County, Michigan + BENNETT LAKE RO. 5 ~ 2 3 ~- ~ ~ ~6 ~a \j TURNER RO. c:i ex: ~ w LL ~~ + 8 12 7 + HOGAN RO. c:i 18 ex: 16 z w F LEY RO. 14 15 0 z ::::; CENTER RO. c:i ex: c:i 0 w ~< ex: 19 20 ~ ~ c:i ex: z 21 2 ::i:: ~ w LL aJ z 29 24 j: it ...J < ::. ::, DEAN RO. ...J ...J ex: ROHN RO. 28 27 26 25 FAUSSETT RO. c:i ex: 34 32 36 PARSHALLVIU.E RO. Map C-10 HOLFORTH RO. PA 1 ·1 6 FARMLANDS N Land enrolled in the Michigan Farmland and Open Space Preservation Program A SCAI.! Dato source: MlchlQan Department of Commerce Planning & Zoning Center. Inc. Mach, 1992 302 South V\Joverty Aood 1:55,096 1 heh • 4590 feet Lonstng . Michigan �MAP C-11 WOODLANDS Explanation and Key Points: The shaded regions on Map C-11 represent five different types of wooded areas. The three general types of woodland cover are hardwoods (broadleaf trees), conifers (needle-leaf ·trees), and wooded swamps. Most of the woodlands in Tyrone Township are hardwoods, some of which exist in very large contiguous areas. Conifers are found in small patches scattered throughout the Township, and there are only two small wooded swamps. The largest wooded areas tend to be located on hilltops and near watercourses and wetlands. Methodology: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains the Michigan Resource Inventory Program, which contains land cover/use information for the entire state. The land use/cover information is based on interpretations of color infrared aerial imagery taken in 1978. The land .use/cover inventory for Livingston County was revised in 1986 by the MONA based on updated imagery. Subsequent minor revisions were made by the consultant based on aerial photographs of the Township taken in the spring of 1990 by SEMCOG. Each polygon area on the land use/cover inventory map has a unit label. This label is a three or four digit number which corresponds to the State's land use/cover classification system. To generate the map, a digital map was "downloaded" into a computerized mapping system from the MDNR's computer. All map units with woodland numbers were automatically located, filled with patterns, and printed. Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Resource Inventory Program 1990 SEMCOG aerial photographs ~ltyronelwoodland.doo �Livingston County, Michigan Map C-11 ■ rn::iiirn ;~;:; ~;: WOODLANDS Upland Hardwood nnm Upland Conifer Data source: Michigan Re$ource Inventory Progom. SEMCOG Aerld PhofOQraphs - 302 Sourn Wovetty ~ood N Wooded Swamp ~ II Lowland Conifer Lowland Hardwood P1onntno & Zoning Center. Inc. ■ SCA!! March, 1992 -- 1:S5,096 l nch = 4590 feet Lansing . Michigan I �MAP C-12 WETLANDS Explanation and Key Points: The shaded regions on Map C-12 represent wetlands. There are a variety of wetland types found in Tyrone Township, including surface waters, swamps, and lowland woodlands. All of the areas shown on Map C-12 are wetlands, based on vegetative cover. It is likely that they are protected by the Wetlands Protection Act of 1979, provided they are larger than five acres in size or are contiguous to an inland lake or stream. Most of the wetlands in the Township are greater than five acres in size and are found near watercourses. Large areas of lowland woodlands are found along Denton and Runyan Creeks in the northern two miles of the Township. A concentration of very wet areas exists in the northwest quadrant of the Township between Runyan and Hoisington Lakes. Methodology: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains the Michigan Resource Inventory Program, which contains land use/cover information for the entire state. The land use/cover information is based on interpretations of color infrared aerial imagery taken in 1978. The land cover/use inventory for Livingston County was revised in 1986 by the MDNR based on updated imagery. Subsequent minor revisions were made by the consultant based on aerial photographs of the Township taken in the spring of 1990 by SEMCOG. Each polygon area on the land/use cover inventory map has a unit label. This label is a three or four digit number which corresponds to the State's land use/cover classification system. To generate the map, a digital map was "downloaded" into a computerized mapping system from the MDNR's computer. All map units with wetland numbers were automatically located, filled with patterns, and printed. Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Resource Inventory Program 1990 SEMCOG aerial photographs �Livingston County, Michigan MOGAN RO . 11 18 17 ij ~ «~ ~20 ~~ ~ m OJN ~ RO . 11tOHN R O , 1-1a..f"<)R TH ,tO. Map C-12 WETLANDS 11 Lowland Woodlands Wooded Swamp ~ Shrub swamp PhofOQrq:Jhs 302 Sou t h Wov erty Rood N Water A II Emergent Data source: Michigan Resource Inventory Program. SEMCOG Aerld PkJnnlng & Zo ning Cen ter. Inc. ■ SCA!£ March, 1992 1:55,096 1 nch = 4590 feet Lansing . Michigan �Ll\J@@[ill[] LJ@W[ill~[X]O[P Livingston County, Michigan + ... BENNETT LAKE RO. R6 5 2 q,~- 3 ~ + TURNER RO. 7 d a: ~ !zw R ~ LL ... 8 12 + HOGAN RO. d a: 18 zw 17 16 F EY RO. 14 15 0 z :J CENTER RO. 13 CENTER RO. d a: d 19 20 a: 0 w ~< )<; ~ 21 :c ~ 22 5 (!) (.) 29 0 z m :l: a: 23 ... < ~ 24 w LL ROHN RO. 28 15 :f ~ a: ~ ci a: w a: ...J ...J ...J ::, DEAN RO. d ci a: z 27 26 25 GERMANY RO. 30 :l: FAUSSETT RD. ~, d a: 34 31 32 33 w 35 A 36 23 in 0.. i== PARSHALLVILLE RD. Map C-13 HOLFORTH RD. ENVIRONMENTALLY IMPACTED SITES I• I Water supplies with nitrates 5 ppm. or higher (large trlang/e denotes mu/ffp/e sites In close proximity) ~ Sites of suspected sell and/or groundwater contamination Data source: LMngston Co1.11ty H~affh Depatment Pk:Jnnlng & Zoning Centttf', Inc. SCAU: Mach, 1992 302 Sout h Wover,y Rood 1:S5,096 l heh • 4590 feet Lansing . Michigan �Appendix D Pt:IYSICAL PROFILE-MAN-MADE FEATURES The relative amount of urbanization in a community (i.e., number of acres devoted to urban uses) can be deceptive in that a relatively small amount of acreage devoted to a use can still have significant impacts on the character of an area (e.g., strip commercial development or an abandoned gravel pit that was not properly reclaimed after operations ceased).' Placement, design and timing of development can greatly affect visual quality, accessibility, cost of service delivery, as well as perceived, and real quality of life. LAND COVER/USE Tyrone Township has a typical Congressional Survey township configuration of approximately 36 square sections (square miles). The Township is 36.7 square miles (23,482.2 acres), the majority of which retains a rural character. General categories of land cover/use for the Township are as follows: • 32.6% in open shrub or herbaceous areas (7,632 acres). Concentrated residential development in Tyrone Township is centered around Runyan, Shannon, Tyrone, and Marl Lakes, and adjacent to the City of Fenton. More dispersed •strip" residential development is located throughout the Township along county roads, especially White Lake Road. Agricultural uses are located in all areas of the Township. The only land in commercial use is located along Old US-23 in Section 29. Recreational uses include a golf course (Section 20), a ski area (Section 15), and campgrounds (Sections 32 and 34). • 21.5% in forest cover (5,070 acres). This includes upland and lowland hardwoods, upland and lowland conifers. • 21.1 % in agriculture (4,947 acres) including cropland, orchards, confined feedlots and pasture. • 13.8% in residential uses (3,242.8 acres) including single family, duplex, and multi-family. • 4.6% in wetlands (1,071.8 acres). This includes forested, shrub, and emergent wetlands. Map 0-2 presents land according to its tax classification. The majority of land in the Township is taxed as residential. In 1991 , Tyrone Township had a total State Equalized Value (SEV) of $131,808,178 (this figure includes real and personal property). Commercial development accounted for 0.96% of total SEV; industrial, 0.69%; residential, 90.2%; and agriculture, 3.4%; the remaining SEY can be attributed to personal property. • 3.1% in surface water (734.4 acres). • 1.2% in transportation and utilities (282.2 acres). • 1.2% in recreation and open space (293 acres). • 0.6% in open pit extraction (136.8 acres). • 0.35% in commercial, institutional or industrial development (82.9 acres). LAND DIVISION A detailed account of specific land uses can be found in Table 0-1 and Figures O-1A and 0-1 B. Figure 0-1 C provides an overview of land cover/use in Tyrone Township by way of a patterned map. Analysis of natural features such as slopes, woodlands, wetlands, prime farmland, soils and other soil limitations can be found in Appendix C. In 1930, large tracts of land primarily devoted to agricultural use prevailed in Tyrone Township. By 1960, many of these large parcels still remained or had been split once, but certain areas of the township became intensely developed. Subdivisions were platted in the area surrounding Runyan Lake, Tyrone Lake, along White Lake Road, and adjacent to the City of Fenton. Lake Shannon was created by damming Ore Creek. Ten acre parcels were beginning to appear in 1960, but by 1971 they had become common in all parts of the township. The area around Lake Shannon was also developed during the 1960's. Between 1985 and 1990, the most significant change in land use was in the residential land use classifications. Land devoted to single family or duplex use increased over 46%, while most other land us81'cover classifications had only small fluctuations. This growth resulted in approximately 1,000 additional acres or approximately 1.6 square miles of residential land use. 0-1 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �----. The result of land divisions into 3-1 O acre lots is that uses requiring large areas of land (agriculture and forestry) are squeezed out because it is not feasible to manage those uses on small parcels. Such lot split patterns also facilititates congestion and traffic hazards along area roadways, raises costs of providing public services such as sewer and water, and fosters an urban landscape in place of previously expansive rural vistas. The Township experienced more development during the 1970's than in any other period of time. Many new subdivisions were created along White Lake Road, around Marl Lake, and in smaller areas throughout the Township. Many of the large agricultural parcels were split into ten acre lots. In 1991 , parcels of 3-10 acres were the dominant parcel size although many large tracts still remain. Table D-1 1991 LAND USE/COVER TYRONE TOWNSHIP Code URBAN 1133 112 124 126 13 141 144 146 AGRICULTURE OPEN FOREST WATER WETLAND 171 193 194 21 22 24 29 31 32 412 414 421 423 51 52 53 611 612 622 Land Use/Cover Single Family, Duplex Multi-Family Strip Commercial Institutional Industrial Air Transportation Road Transportation Utilities Open Pit Extractive Outdoor Recreation Cemeteries Cropland Orchard, Ornamental Permanent Pasture Other Herbaceous Shrub Upland Hardwood Lowland Hardwood Upland Conifer (Pine, etc.) Lowland Conifer (Cedar, Etc.) River Lake Reservoir Forested Shrub Emeraent 1991 area (acres) % 3,240.2 2.6 5.0 57.5 20.4 19.1 251.7 11.4 136.8 288.6 4.4 4,482.6 396.4 20.1 48.3 4,965.4 2,667 3,671 .9 1,175.3 214.4 7.9 0.0 732.0 2.4 19.0 778.2 274.6 13.8 0.01 0.02 0.24 0.09 0.08 1.07 0.05 0.58 1.22 0.02 19.1 1.69 0.09 0.21 21 .1 11 .4 15.6 5.00 0.91 0.03 0 0.03 0.01 0.08 3.31 1.17 ::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::1:oi:At;::• :::::• •::::::::::••:•:::•: •:::•: •:::::::•: :: ::• :::::::•:•:•::•••::::::::: :: ::::: ::•:•• :::::;2~;iisi2•: •••••••· TRANSPORTATION • White Lake Road from the Oakland County line to Bennett Lake Road The Michigan Department of Transportation classifies roads in Michigan communities for the purposes of state funding. US-23 is classified as a state trunkline. There are 26.5 miles of Primary Roads and 53.29 miles of Local Roads in the Township. Primary roads include: • Bennet Lake Road from Deerfield Township to the Genesee County line • Old US-23 from the Genesee County line to Hartland Township D-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �• Faussett Road Township from US-23 to All other roads in the Township are classified as local. See Map 0-3. Deerfield • Parshallville Road from US-23 to Hartland Township The Livingston County Road Commission has performed 24-hour traffic counts along most of the principal corridors in the Township. The most recent figures available are from 1986 and 1990, and are listed' in Table D-2. US-23 is the most heavily travelled road. • Fenton Road from the City of Fenton to Hartland Township • Center Road from Old US-23 to Fenton Road • Tipsico Lake Road from Foley Road to Hartland Township - this road is designated for Rose Township, not for Tyrone. Table D-2 24 Hour Traffic Volumes Location US-23 between Clyde Rd. and Faussett Rd. US-23 between Center Rd. and White Lake Rd. Faussett Rd. between US-23 and Linden Rd. Faussett Rd. between Linden Rd. and McGuire Rd. Center Rd. between US-23 and Hartland Rd. Center Rd. between Hartland Rd. and Mabley Hill Rd. Center Rd. between Mablev Hill Rd. and Fenton Rd. Fenton Rd. between Holforth Rd. and Germanv Rd. Fenton Rd. between Germanv Rd. and Center Rd. Fenton Rd. between Center Rd. and White Lake Road Fenton Rd. between White Lake Road and Citv of Fenton White Lake Rd. between Tiosico Lake Rd. and Fenton Rd. White Lake Rd. between Fenton Rd. and Hartland Rd. White Lake Rd. between Hartland Rd. and US-23 White Lake Rd. between US-23 and Section 5 White Lake Rd. between Section 5 and Bennet Lake Rd. Whittaker Rd. between Bennet Lake Rd. and Genesee Countv Bennett Lake Rd. between White Lake Rd. and Deerfield Two. Bennett Lake Rd. between White Lake Rd. and Citv of Fenton White Lake Road, Fenton Road, and Bennett .Lake Road are the most heavily traveled primary roads, respectively. The traffic volume capacity of adequately paved roads is generally 5,000 vehicles per day. Gravel roads are generally considered sufficient to handle 300 vehicles or less per day, by Livingston County Road Commission standards. Based on this information, inadequate areas are apparent at Center Road between Hartland Road and Fenton Road, and Whittaker Road near Genesee County. 1986 Vehicle Count (24 hour) 26,300 24,400 477 859 1 166 572 246 1 051 1 015 1 456 1,830 1,585 1,324 2784 1,156 465 393 1,875 665 1990 Vehicle Count (24 hour) 40,068 1 471 Road, and Center Road between US-23 and Hartland Road. Runyan Lake Road is paved between White Lake Road and Hartland Township, but is in very poor condition south of Foley Road. Excluding Runyan Lake Road, this represents slightly less than 22 miles of paved primary roadway. County road rights-of-way are 120 feet for primary roads and 100 feet for secondary roads. Platted subdivisions along county roads must provide for a 120 foot right-of-way. Roads within platted subdivisions must have a minimum right-of-way of 66 feet. Where the Livingston County Road Commission purchases land for new roadways, a 100-foot wide area is purchased. Most of the roads in the Township are gravel, except for several primary roads and roads in some of the platted subdivisions. Paved primary roads include Old US-23, Bennett Lake Road, White Lake Road, Fenton Road, Parshallville Road, Faussett Road, Hartland Road from the City of Fenton to Carmer D-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �North/south routes through Tyrone Township are contiguous and provide good access to interior areas. East/west routes are more irregular, with breaks at US-23 and in the less developed southern portions of the Township, rendering some areas not very accessable. Some of these roads have breaks for one mile or more and have different names on either side of the break. Examples of this are Holforth and Parshallville Roads, Rohn and Dean Roads, Foley and Hogan Roads. Transportation access, patterns and frequency of use greatly impad land uses in a community. In fact, they often drive land use decisions. There are approximately two dozen private roads in the Township. They are generally scattered throughout the Township though the majority are located in the southern half of the Township. Private roads are getting increased attention in townships throughout the state. Private roads that are not properly marked or constructed can cause serious problems in emergency situations. If a drive is too narrow, not properly maintained or marked, then emergency vehicles (ambulance, fire trucks) may not be able to find and/or properly access properties in need of assistance. School bus service can also be greatly affected by private road development. . At the time of writing, no major road improvements were scheduled within the Township aside from routine maintenance. DRAINAGE POLICE & FIRE _-- Tyrone Township gets fire protection from two different departments; the City of Fenton and Hartland Township fire departments. There are no fire stations located in the Township. Map 0-5 shows fire department service areas. The Fenton fire station is located in the City of Fenton, approximately 1.5 miles from the northern Township boundary. The Hartland fire station is located near the Hartland Township Hall approximately 2.5 miles from the southern Township boundary. Fire service areas are shown on Map D-7. Police protection is provided by the Livingston County Sheriff Department and the Michigan State Police. The Livingston County Sheriff is located in Howell, although there is a satelite post in Hartland Township at M-59 and US-23. The nearest state police post is located in Brighton. The Insurance Services Organization (ISO) evaluates communities with regard to fire protection and insurance agencies then use these evaluations, or ratings, to establish fire insurance protection rates. ISO has rated portions of Tyrone Township a "9, • on a scale of 1 (best) to 1O (worst), except for areas located more than 5 road miles from the City of Fenton and outside of the area serviced by Hartland. That area has been rated a "10. • Map 0-5 includes 5-mile radius lines from each of the fire stations, which can be used to approximate the fire insurance ratings. Lack of easily available water for fire protection in the majority of the Township is the principal condition resulting in the low rating. The county drainage system in Tyrone Township is limtted, although a new drainage district is proposed. Very few streams or creeks have been substantially modified by channelization excE:pt for the outlet to Tyrone Lake in Section 34. The channel, which was altered at some point far in the past, flows into a tributary of Ore Creek. The only existing county drain in the Township is located in Section 31 near Parshallville. It is part of Livingston County Drainage District #3 and is depicted on map 0-4. A new drainage district, the East Shore Drain, is proposed for the east side of Tyrone Lake in Sections 34 and 35. The secondary portion of this drainage district (area not assessed) covers a large area of more than 1,800 acres of the Township in Sections 23, 25, 26, 27, 35, and 36. The proposed drainage district is also depicted on Map D-4. ~ SCHOOLS Tyrone Township is served by three public school districts; Fenton, Linden and Hartland (see Map D-6). The Fenton Area Public Schools serves most of the Township residents. There are no school facilities located in the Township. Appendix E provides additional information on the area school districts. COMMUNITY FACILITIES There are three cemeteries in Tyrone, all operated by the Township. Colwell Cemetery is located on White Lake Road, west of US-23 in Section 4. Clough Cemetery is located at the intersection of Linden and Turner Roads in Section 8. Gardner Cemetery is located at Hartland and Germany Roads in Section 27. Other public buildings include the Township halls-the 0-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1r �newer facility on Center Road and adjacent the old hall, now a muse.um and historic place. (See Map D7). In 1991, the Township was given a lot on Runyan Lake, also shown on Map D-7. • SEWER AND WATER None of Tyrone Township is served by public sewer or water systems. Portions of the Township are served by collective private sewer systems. These are located in the vicinity of Runyan Lake and Lake Tyrone and are operated and maintained by lake associations. Fenton Heights Apartments, located on Fenton Road in Section 11 , maintains a small lagoon type sewage treatment system. Township residents rely on private wells for water. This should be a critical consideration in planning efforts. High density development or residential development near commercial or industrial land uses can lead to contamination of wells. RECREATIONAL FACILITIES & HISTORIC SITES Tyrone Township contains no public recreational facilities. Private recreational facilities in the Township include: • Tyrone Hills Country Club, at Center Road and US-23 • Kanadahar Ski Club, in the northeast corner of Section 15. • Church of God youth campground in Section 32 While Tyrone Township has several historic resources (see Appendix 8), only one site appears on the state register of historic sites-the old Township Hall at Center and Hartland Roads. D-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �MAPS D-1A to D-1C LAND COVER/USE Explanation and Kay Points: The land cover/use map shows land use according to the Michigan Resource Inventory Program, managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). Maps D-1a thru 0-1 care the actual lines and land use classification numbers from the MDNR. Map D-1c is a graphical representation of the data in Maps D-1A thru 0-18. Detailed land use classifications have been generalized for Map D-1C into agricultural , commercial, residential , etc., categories. Methodology: The Michigan Department of Natural Resources maintains the Michigan Resource Inventory Program, which contains land cover/use information for the entire state. The land use/cover information is based on interpretations of color infrared aerial imagery taken in 1978. The land use/cover inventory for Livingston County was revised in 1986 by the MDNR based on updated imagery. Subsequent minor revisions were made by the consultant based on aerial photographs of the Township taken in the spring of 1990 by SEMCOG. Each polygon area on the land/use cover inventory map has a unit label. This label is a three or four digit number which corresponds to the State's land use/cover classification system. To generate the map, a digital map was "downloaded" into a computerized mapping system from the MDNR's computer. All map units were automatically located, filled with patterns, and printed. Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Michigan Resource Inventory Program j:\lyrone\lucov.doo �Livingston County, Michigan Map D-lC LAND COVER/USE ~ Agricultural lfm Commercial, Industrial, mffil Extractive, or lnstltutlonal ■ Residential ■ Transportation/ Utllltles Outdoor Recreation/ Cemeteries lllill] [TI] Woodlands D Lakes Date source: MDNR. Michigan Reso1.rce Inventory Program Pk)nnlng & Zoning center. Inc. Wetlands Open Land March, 1992 302 South Woveny Rood SCALE 1:55,096 1 heh = 4590 feel Lansing . Michigan �,,,,,.......__ 412 32 412 1133 21 8 U33 1133 31 414 21 21 Map D-lA �MAP D-2 LAND USE BY PARCEL-TAX CLASS Explanation .and Key Points: Map D-2 shows land use in Tyrone Township according to how parcels are taxed. It is evident from the map that a substantial amount of land in the Township is taxed for agricultural use, while land in the residential category is dominant in terms of the area occupied. Methodology: Tax parcel maps were obtained from the Livingston County Equalization Department and Tyrone Township and entered into a computer mapping system. In addition, each parcel was labelled with its tax number. Following input of parcel boundaries and numbers, information from the Township's tax roll was added using database management software. Parcel numbers served as the link between the digital map and the remaining tax roll information. The end result is a "geodatabase"; a map with all tax parcel information attached to each parcel. Contained in the tax roll information is a code which specifies how (for which use) the parcel is taxed. Using a computerized mapping system and the digital tax-parcel map, a map was automatically generated using the land use/tax code. Source: Livingston County Equalization Department Livingston Data Services Tyrone Township j.'\wont.lyronellupar.doo �Livingston County, Michigan • T 3 0 f7 0 \ 24 ~ 31 ,Map D-2 B] LAND USE BY PARCEL - TAX CLASS Agricultural D Residential ■ Commercial ,,,,, mH Developmen a II Industrial ~ lnstlMlonal Data sou-ce: LMOQSton Co1.11fy Equalzatlon Department Plonrilno & Zoning Center. Inc. t I SCAl! 1:55,096 June, 1993 1 heh • 4590 feet Lono1n0. Michigan �Livingston County, Michigan + + ~ BENNETT LAKE RD. fJ6+~ + I " I d a: ~ w u. 8 '-. !!:!.B_N§£!._RD~ . 7 2 3 I I +~AL+--16 - 15 - - --~,,-CENTER RD. CENTER RD. I DAI OD AO. s ~ 20 21 _Q.EAN__8D.:...- ~ I ci a: ~I ~I ::> 29 c5 23 22 + ci a: ; 24 w u. I I 26 ~ - }!_ -1- ~M~~ I • 28 r: • 25 --- - - ./ FA~~~+---+ 30 I I I ~ ~~t 0 ::> -13 -- - I ol a: I I I 19 _1j - EQL.EY_fil). - I ~~ t+ + 17 18 I 12 11 I -1 I ~ ci a: 35 31 _L __ _ . Map D-3 ~ ~ ~ ~ ROADWAY CLASSIFICATIONS (ACT 51) state Trunkllne [Z] County Local - Paved County Primary - Paved □ County Local - Not Paved . County Primary - Not Paved Date source: Michigan Deparlrnent or Trcnsportaffon Pk:mnlng & Zoning Center~ Inc. - June, 1993 302 South Wov eny Rood - N ~ $CAL£ 1:55,096 1 heh "' 4590 feet Lonelng . Michigan �Livingston County, Michigan R'- +- - - + - - - + - --u. ~ -\ ) BENNETT LAKE RO. 5 2 3 d a: ~ w u. + 1URNER RO. 8 12 7 + HOGAN RO. 18 ci a: z w 17 16 LEY RO. 14 15 0 z ::; CENTER RO. CENTER RO. c:i a: 19 20 c:i a: w s 21 22 ..J ..J :i: Cu 23 i u. 24 ..J ~ ::. ROHN RO. 28 29 a: <( if c:i a: w ~ J: ~z DEAN RO. ci a: 0 27 26 25 GERMANY RO. 5 8 30 ::. FAUSSETT RO. d a: 34 32 33 36 23 PARSHALLVILLE RO. Map D-4 COUNTY DRAINS Livingston County Drainage District #J N A ~ Proposed East Shore Drain - Assessment District Dato SOI.JIC8: June, 1993 Tyrone Township Plonnno & Zoning Center. Inc. 302 south Wov e rfy RooQ SCALE SS,096 1 nch • .• Xl feet Lansing , Michigan �Livingston County, Michigan Map D-5 [SJ FIRE DEPARTMENT SERVICE AREAS Fenton Fire Dept. N l:;:::i:!jiijj Hartland Fire Dept. A ~ 5 mile radius from fire stations Data sourca: Tyrone Towrnhlp P1onnlng & Zoning Center. Inc. SCA!z Morch, 1992 302 South Wove,ty Rood 1:55,096 1 heh = 4590 feet Lonshg. Michigan �Livingston County, Michigan 2 3 ~- ~ ~ 0 a: z 0 !zw u. t-s ~ 12 + F LEY RD. 14 15 13 CENTER RD. 0 0 a: a: 22 ..J ..J :i: i:i ..J 23 ~ 24 w u. a, < :::;; ROHN RD. 25 ~, 0 a: w 35 36 ci5 11. ~ Map D-6 D Fenton \ SCHOOL DISTRICTS !:!::;;;;;::::! N Hartland A Linden Data source: Tyrone Township Ptonnfng & Zoning Center. Inc. Mach, 1992 302 South Woveny Rood SCAI.E 1:55,096 1 hd'I ~ 4590 feet Lonshg. Michigan �Livingston County, Michigan 5 2 3 d a: ~ w u.. Clough Cemetery 11JANEA AO. 8 12 7 + HOGAN RO. 18 ci a: z 16 17 F w EY AO. 14 15 0 z 13 :::; CENTER RO. c:i a: c:i a: 19 w 20 "':5 21 ~ 22 <( c:i a: i:; 23 i 24 u. CD <( ::. ROHN AO. 28 29 ...J ...J :i: ...J if DEAN RO. w a: 5 a: :c z~ c:i a: d 0 8::. 30 27 26 25 GERMANY RO. Gardner Cemetery FAUSSETT RO. ci a: 34 32 31 33 35 36 23 PARSHALLVIU.E RO. Map D-7 ■ HOLFORTH RO. COMMUNITY FACILITIES N A Public Facilities Data s00/C6: Tyrone Towmh/p PIOnnlng & Zoning Center, Inc. March, 1992 302 SOutt, 1/Vove,ty Rood SCALE 1:55,096 1 nch • 4590 feet LoneW'1g 1 Mfchtgan �Appendix E DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE POPULATION CHANGE OVER TIME RACE In the last four decades Tyrone Township has experienced significant growth. In 1950 the Township population was 1,039. By 1990 it had reached 6,854an increase of over 6 1/2 times in 40 years. Comparatively, the County's population increased by about 5 1/2 times from 1950 to 1990 (See Figure E-1 and Table E-1). With respect to race, Tyrone Township is relatively homogeneous; 98.5% of its population is white. As of the 1990 Census Asian and Pacific Islanders, and Blacks each represented 0.2% of the Township's population, and; 0.6% was American Indian, Eskimo or Aleut. Persons of Hispanic origin (who may be of any race) amounted to 0.7% of the population. Although there have been population increases in Tyrone each decade, they have been sporadic. The largest percentage increases occurred from 1950 to 1960 and from 1970 to 1980. From 1940 to 1950 the population increased 13%; 1950 to 1960, 47%; from 1960 to 1970, 26%; from 1970 to 1980 TT%; and from 1980 to 1990; 13%. County increases during the same time periods vary slightly from Tyrone's figures in that the County had higher growth rates than the Township for the decades of 1940-1950, 1960-1970 and 19801990; and, lower growth rates than the Township in the decades of 1950-1960 and 1970-1980. (See Figure E-2 and Table E-2). Projections by the Livingston County Planning Department estimate that Tyrone's population will reach 11,281 by the year 2010, representing an additional increase of nearly 65% from the 1990 figure. The County's population is 86.7% white with 0.6% Black; 0.6% American Indian Eskimo or Aleut; and, 0.4% Asian or Pacific Islander. Those of Hispanic origin amounted to 0.8% of the County population. Minority populations became a slightly larger percentage of the total population between 1980 and 1990. In 1980 Tyrone was 99.4% white. The age structure of Tyrone Township suggests a high percentage of families with children (but fewer children per family than in previous decades) and a relatively low percentage of persons 65 years and over. As of 1990, 28. 7% of the population (1,970 persons) was 18 years or younger. The County's percentage of persons 18 years and younger was 28.6; the State, 26.5%. The percentage of persons 65 years and over in the County amounted to 8.2%. Tyrone Township's percentage of persons 65 years and over was less at 6.6%. The State's figure was 11.9%. Additionally, median age of the Township (33.9 years of age) is higher than the County and State figures (32.9 and 32.6, respectively). This suggests the presence of "baby boomers• raising families who pull up the median age vs. an increase in the number of persons over 65 years of age (See Figure E-5 and Table E-5). When looking at surrounding community population changes over time, it becomes evident that Brighton Township has experienced the most growth and urbanization. Hartland and Tyrone Townships are close in terms of population totals. Deerfield and Unadilla Townships have experienced lower growth rates than surrounding communities (See Figure E-3 and Table E-3). Density (the number of persons per square mile) is a good measure of urbanization. As can be seen from Figure E-4 and Table E-4 Tyrone Township density has closely paralleled the County's since the 1900's. In 1900, the Township had 25 persons per square mile while the County had 34. By 1990 total persons per square mile had reached approximately 187 in Tyrone and 198 in the County. Density in the Township increased just over 7 times while density in the County increased nearly 6 times in 90 years. Age/sex pyramids present a more detailed profile of a community's age structure. See Figures E-6 through E- 8 and Tables E-6 - E-8. In 1960, the single largest age group in the Township was represented by people 5-14 years of age (23.4%). Additionally, nearly 13% of the population was under 5 years of age. Those adults in the family rearing age groups; 25-34 and 35-44 accounted for 24% of the population. It can be surmised that in 1960 (as in 1990) Tyrone Township E-1 1YRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �had a relatively large number of families in its population. By 1980 the age/sex pyramid displays a tighter range in age distributions. The percentage of persons 5-14 is still relatively high, but it has dropped, as has the percentage of persons 5 years and under. The number of persons in the 15-24 and 25-34 age groups have increased (those previously in younger age groups moving through the pyramid). In 1990 the percentage of persons 5 years and under had not changed much from what it was in 1980 (around 7%). The percentage of persons 5-14 was down to 16.6%; and those in family rearing ages (2544) was up to 34.4%. Smaller percentages of age groups 14 and under, in light of an increase in adults in child-rearing age, reflects state and national trends toward couples waiting to have children, smaller families and childless couples. 2.94; the state's, 2.66, Tyrone Township's average number of persons per household was 3.05. As indicated previously, state and national trends of smaller households have affected Tyrone. In 1980 the average household size was 3.46 persons and 1970, 3.83. See Figure E-10 and Table E-10. ~ SCHOOL ENROLLMENT Three school districts serve Tyrone Township; Hartland, Fenton and Linden. Each school district experienced enrollment drops during the early and mid-1980s but, with the exception of Linden, enrollments rose again in the late 80s (See Figure E11 and Table E-11). Cumulative enrollment for the districts over the last two decades has been around 8,000 students (K-12). See Figure E-12. HOUSING HOUSEHOLDS Between 1980 and 1990 the number of housing units in Tyrone Township went from 1,960 to 2,352; an increase of 21 %. Over the ten-year period the Township had 565 new single-family home building permits issued (an average of 56 per year) with 309 permits issued between 1988-1990. See Figure E-13 and Table E-12. Between 1980 and 1990 Tyrone Township's population increased 13%. In this same time period, the number of households increased by 21% (See Figure E-9 and Table E-9). This is a significant increase in households when compared to the population increase. This means that fewer people are taking up more space and these households, although smaller, are still likely to need a certain level of base services regardless of the fact that less people are in them (e.g., it still takes X amount of money to lay water and sewer lines along a street). In terms of public services, the household is generally the measure of service units rather than individuals. As of the 1990 Census, 97.2% of all occupied housing units in the Township were single-family homes. Of all the housing units in the Township, 94.1% were owner occupied. This is meaningful considering county and state averages of home ownership in 1990 were 84.5% and 71% respectfully. Median value of owner-occupied housing in Tyrone was $97,300 (the same as the County). Comparatively, median value of owner-occupied housing in the state was $60,600. Households are increasing at a faster rate than the population because of state and national trends of increases in single-person and single parent households in addition to a general decrease in the size of households. See again Figure E-9 and Table E-9. ECONOMY The Tyrone Township work force is, for the most part, a commuting work force. In 1990 the average travel time to work was 30 minutes. The county average is 28.4 minutes. The majority of the work force (85.4% in 1980) also indicated that they worked outside Livingston County, reporting to employment centers primarily in Genesee, Washtenaw and Oakland Counties, and the Detroit metro area. By 1990, 88.4% of the labor force reported to work outside the county. Married-couple families represent 81.7% of all households in the Township. This is significantly higher than county and state percentages of 71 .3% and 55.1%, respectively. As would be expected, because of the high percentage of married-couples and families in the Township, the number of persons per household ls higher than state and county averages. In 1990 the county average number of persons per household was E-2 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN tC'\ �Although the percentage of persons employed in manufacturing in Livingston County decreased between 1980 and 1990, this sector still provides the highest percentage pf jobs. In 1980, 28.6% of all employed persons worked in manufacturing. By 1990 this figure dropped to 27.4%. The retail trade sector provided the second highest percentage of jobs in the County in 1980, but fell considerably by 1990 to 16.1 % becoming the 3rd largest source of jobs. To·e service sector was third in the County in terms of employment provided in 1980 at 21.6%. By 1990, it rose to 2nd place as the provider of jobs at 28.8%. See Figure E14 and Table E-13. Employment Security Commission calculates subsequent employment figures from the 1980 ratio, this trend is reported for remaining years in the decade. See Figure E-16 and Table E-15. As might be surmised by previously presented demographic information, Tyrone Township has a relatively high per capita income. Between 1979 and 1989 the Township's per capita income increased 100% (as opposed to an increase of 84.1 % for the state overall). In the same time period, the County's per capita income increased 108%. Since per capita income figures are derived by taking total income and dividing it by every adult and child, it is especially significant that Tyrone's per capita income remains relatively high since it has a higher than average median household size. See Figure E-17 and Table E16. In 1980, the percentage of Tyrone Township's work force employed in manufacturing was 36.8%, quite a bit higher than the county average. By 1990 this figure fell to 27.8%. In 1980, Tyrone had a higher percentage of its work force (26.6%) in the services sector than the county; by 1990 it rose to 31 .6%. Retail trade . (typically a lower income generator) provided only 14.1% of all Tyrone Township jobs in 1980 and rose to 17.8% in 1990 (see Figure E-15 and Table E-14). State equalized value in the Township has increased considerably since 1974, rising nearly twelve times in seventeen years. (See Table E-17) Revenue generated from the tax base has also increased considerably with the Township experiencing a nearly six-fold increase in revenues; the county a five-fold increase; and the schools a 6 1/2 fold increase. In 1980, the Township's unemployment rate was lower than the County's. Since the Michigan E-3 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Table E-1 HISTORIC POPULATION LIVINGSTON COUNTY 19 664 17736 17 522 19274 20863 26725 38233 58 967 100 289 115 645 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 Figure E-1 POPULATION GROWTH TREND LIVINGSTON COUNTY: 1900-1990 120,000 100,000 80,000 C = .5Z 0 ::, a. 60,000 0 Q. 40,000 20,000 1900 1910 1920 1930 1940 1950 1960 1970 Source: Uvingston County Planning Dept. E-4 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1980 1990 �Table E-2 POPULATION GROWTH TREND Livingston County Tyrone Township % increase in oooulation 13.00 47.00 26.00 77.00 13.00 1940-1950 1950-1960 1960-1970 1970-1980 1980-1990 28.00 43.00 54.00 70.00 15.00 Figure E-2 POPULATION GROWTH TREND LIVINGSTON COUNTY AND TYRONE TOWNSHIP 80.00 ■ Tyrone Twp. 70.00 [] Livingston County 60.00 Percent Growth 50.00 40.00 30.00 20.00 10.00 0.00 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 Sourcs: Uvingston County Planning Dept. E-5 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Table E-3 HISTORIC POPULATION Trone 1 039 1 523 3437 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 son 6854 Bri 1 645 2875 5882 11 222 14 815 Deerfield 919 1 149 1 734 2 611 3000 Unadilla T 1 078 1 216 1 793 2874 2 949 Hartland 1 098 1 436 2630 6034 6860 1 861 2282 2457 4268 5686 Figure E-3 POPULATION GROWTH TREND TYRONE TOWNSHIP AND AREA COMMUNITIES 16000 14000 12000 0 10000 C: 0 3 a.. 1950 ■ 1960 0 .:; 8000 IIIIIl 0 a.. 1970 6000 ■ 1980 4000 § 1990 2000 0 Tyrone Brighton Deerfield Unadilla Hartland City of Twp. Twp. Brighton Source: Uvingston County Planning Dept. E-6 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN hton Cit �Table E-4 PERSONS PER SQUARE MILE 1900 1920 1940 1960 1970 1980 1990 Tvrone Two. 25 20.2 25.2 41.7 94.2 166.5 187.2 Countv 33.9 30.2 35.9 65.9 101.6 172.7 198 Figure E-4 PERSONS PER SQUARE MILE TYRONE TOWNSHIP AND LIVINGSTON COUNTY ■ Tyrone Twp. 200 ifill County 150 100 50 0 1990 Source: Derived from Dscsnnia/ Census E-7 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Table E-5 MEDIAN AGE Tvrone Countv State 23.8 28.7 25.5 28.3 32.9 26.5 28.8 32.6 1970 1980 1990 33.9 Figure E-5 MEDIAN AGE DISTRIBUTION 1970-1990 35 BJ ■ 1980 30 lllffl 25 ., 20 ~ C . S! -.:::, Q) 2 1970 15 10 Tyrone County Source: Decennial Census E-8 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN State 1990 �Table E-6 AGE/SEX DISTRIBUTION BY PERCENT TYRONE TOWNSHIP: 1960 Male 6.63% 11.75% 6.89% 4.14% 7.62% 5.91% 4.79% 3.81% Under 5 5-14 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ Female 5.98% 11.69% 5.65% 6.17% 6.11% 5.65% 4.01% 3.22% Figure E-6 AGE/SEX DISTRIBUTION BY PERCENT TYRONE TOWNSHIP: 1960 ,..,.. ,..,.. ,.. ■ Female . ... ,... .... ■ Male ,, I ,I)' -~ ◄ r· ,., • . .. I ,1 ,.. l';;I 15 10 s 0 s Source: Decennial Census E-9 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 10 15 �Table E-7 AGE/SEX DISTRIBUTION BY PERCENT TYRONE TOWNSHIP: 1980 Under 5 5-14 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ Male 3.55% 10.93% 9.40% 7.24% 8.31% 6.06% 3.29% 2.25% Female 3.14% 10.43% 8.10% 7.82% 8.75% 5.20% 2.91% 2.62% Figure E-7 AGE/SEX DISTRIBUTION BY PERCENT TYRONE TOWNSHIP: 1980 ■ Female ml 15 10 5 0 5 Source: Decennial Census E-10 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 10 Male 15 �Table E-8 1990 AGE SEX DISTRIBUTION FOR TYRONE TOWNSHIP Female 4 8.6 6.1 7.7 9.4 7.1 3.7 3.4 Male 3.27 8.00 6.64 7.48 9.76 6.87 4.48 3.19 Under5 5-14 15-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ Figure E-8 1990 AGE SEX DISTRIBUTION FOR TYRONE TOWNSHIP ■ Female lilll -10 -8 -6 -4 -2 0 2 Sourcs: Dscsnnia/ Census E-11 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 4 6 8 Male 10 �Table E-9 NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS TYRONE TOWNSHIP 1960 1970 1980 1990 Trone 407 897 1756 2211 Figure E-9 NUMBER OF HOUSEHOLDS TYRONE TOWNSHIP 2500 2000 1500 1960 1980 1970 Source: Decennial Census E-12 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1990 �Table E-10 PERSONS PER HOUSEHOLD 1970-1990 1970 1980 1990 Tvrone State Countv 3.83 3.46 3.1 3.21 3.39 2.94 3.27 2.84 2.66 Figure E-10 PERSONS PER HOUSEHOLD 1970-1990 4 [ill 1970 ■ 1980 3.5 ■ 1990 3 -0 0 ..c: 2.5 ~ en ::::, 0 ::c .... ~ a.. 2 en C: 0 ....en ~ a.. 1.5 1 0.5 0 Tyrone State Source: DeCfHlnial Census E-13 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN County �Table E-11 SCHOOL ENROLLMENT BY DISTRICT 1971-1990 1971 19TT 1981 1986 1990 Hartland Scool District 2 016 3327 3457 3 017 3113 Linden School District 2200 2600 2685 2403 2 341 Fenton School district 3557 3488 3145 2738 2 874 Figure E-11 SCHOOL ENROLLMENT BY DISTRICT 1971-1990 . .fl C: 4000 D 3500 ■ Linden School District 3000 §! Fenton School district 2500 E ~ ..... 2000 C: -g ;x 1500 1000 500 0 1971 19TT 1981 1986 1990 Source: Respective School Districts (1971-1990) E-14 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Hartland Scool District �Figure E-12 SCHOOL ENROLLMENTS EJ 10000 ■ Linden School District 9000 11111 Hartland Scool District 8000 7000 ~ ., C: .s 6000 .s 5000 ~ 4000 ~ ~ 3000 2000 1000 0 1971 Fenton School district 19n 1981 1986 1990 Sourr»: Respective School Districts (1971-1990) E-15 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Table E-12 DWELLINGS UNITS ADDED TYRONE TOWNSHIP 1980-1990 Tvrone 39 19 9 13 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 17 31 66 62 100 110 99 Figure E-13 DWELLINGS UNITS ADDED TYRONE TOWNSHIP 1980-1990 ~ 120 100 80 ~ C ::::, "'" ~ 60 ~ 40 1980 1981 1982 1983 1984 1985 1986 1987 Source: Uvingston County Planning Dept. E-16 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN -- - - 1988 1989 1990 �• Table E-13 EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR LIVINGSTON COUNTY: 1980 & 1988 Industry of Employed Years Agricultural Services Fo~estrv Fisheries Mining Contract Construction Manufacturing TransportationCommunication and Other Public Utilities Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Finance Insurance Real Estate Services Public Administration Percent of Persons Employed 1980* 1990* 0.43 1.7 0.41 0.21 6.00 7.7 28.60 27.4 2.60 3.9 4.50 26.70 8.60 21 .60 7.70 5.40 16.1 6.2 28.8 2.5 * Number may not total 100% due to rounding Figure E-14 EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY LIVINGSTON COUNTY: 1980 & 1990 • 30.00 ■ Agricultural Services, Forestry, Fisheries 25.00 D Mining ■ Contract Construction (I.) u ._ 20.00 D Manufacturing Ill Transportation Communication and Other Public Utilities !:El Wholesale Trade 0 u... -"" ._ 0 3:: 0 15.00 (I.) C7\ .B c:: (I.) u ._ ~ Retail Trade (I.) 0... 10.00 5.00 IIIIII Finance, Insurance, Real Estate II Services 11'1 Pubic Administration 0.00 Source: County Business Psttems, Census Bureau E-17 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �Table E-14 EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR TYRONE TOWNSHIP Industry of Employed Persons Percent of Persons Emoloved 1980* 1 0.41 4.2 36.8 4 Aariculture Forestrv and Fisheries Minina Construction Manufacturina Transportation Communication and Other Public Utilities Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Finance. Insurance and Real Estate Services Health Services * numbers may not total 100% due to rounding . Percent of Persons Ernoloved 1990* 0.9 0 6.0 27.8 3.7 4.3 14.1 5.3 26.6 5.6 6.2 17.8 5.1 31 .6 0.92 Figure E-15 EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY TYRONE TOWNSHIP: 1990 40 ■ Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries 35 ii D 30 Mining ■ Construction D .. 25 ~ 11111 ~ Ill Transportation 1 20 'communication and Other Public Utilities (i .g' c ~ a.. Efl 15 Wholesale Trade ~ Retail Trade IIIIII Finance, Insurance and Real Estate L1 Services 10 5 Manufacturing . l:lil II Public Administration Source: Decennla/ Csnsus E-18 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN �• Table E-15 UNEMPLOYMENT RATES TYRONE TOWNSHIP & LIVINGSTON COUNTY: 1984-1990 • Countv Unemolovment Townshio Unemolovment 8.7% 7.0% -6.1% 5.75 5.45 5.0% 5.9% 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 7.6% 6.1% 5.3% 4.9% 4.7% 4.4% 5.1% Figure E-16 UNEMPLOYMENT RATES TYRONE TOWNSHIP & LIVINGSTON COUNTY: 1984-1990 • 9 Iii County Unemployment 8 ■ Township Unemployment a> 7 - 6 a:ii C Q) E 5 ~ a. 4 E a> C 3 ~ 2 :) 1 0 1984 1985 1986 1987 1988 1989 Source: Michigan Employment Security Commission (1984-1990) • E-19 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1990 �Table E-16 PER CAPITA INCOMES 1979 & 1987 Tyrone Two. 1979 1989 State Countv $7688 $14,154 $8323 $17 327 $8894 $17792 Figure E-17 PER CAPITA INCOMES 1979 & 1989 CJ 18000 1979 16000 ■ 1989 14000 12000 cu > cu _J 10000 cu E 0 u -= 8000 6000 4000 2000 0 County Tyrone Twp. State Source: CBnsus Bureau Table E-17 TYRONE TOWNSHIP TAX LEVY 1974 1978 1982 1988 1991 ~· County Taxes Stat Equalized Rate Taxes . Valuation 139349 27.593 950 5.05 44 852,340 5.25 235474 81 067724 5.40 438025 ._ 94152510 5.71 537234 651,996 131708558 4.95 Township Taxes Rate 1.00 1.00 1.18 1.29 1.20 School Taxes Taxes Rate Taxes 27593 44856 96057 121 880 158010 35.39 40.02 41 .n 45.68 48.29 976 502 1794991 3.386247 4 301185 6,359745 E-20 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Total Taxes Rate 41 .44 46.27 48.36 52.68 54.44 Taxes 1 143446 2,075,323 3,920,329 4,960299 7,169,753 �• Table E-18 SHARE OF TOTAL MILLAGE RATE FOR 1990 TYRONE TOWNSHIP 1990 School District 87.16% Livin ston Count 10.31% Figure E-18 SHARE OF TOTAL MILLAGE RATE FOR 1990 TYRONE TOWNSHIP 1990 ■ TyroneT~ . 11111 School District CJ • Source: Tyrone Township's Clerics Offlcs • K:llyronellyr~.doo E-21 TYRONE TOWNSHIP COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Livingston County � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wyckoff Planning and Zoning Collection Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Planning & Zoning Center (Lansing, Mich.) (Organization) Wyckoff, Mark A. Description An account of the resource Municipal master plans and zoning ordinances from across the state of Michigan, spanning from the 1960s to the early 2020s. The bulk of the collection was compiled by urban planner Mark Wyckoff over the course of his career as the founder and principal planner of the Planning and Zoning Center in Lansing, Michigan. Some additions have been made to the collection by municipalities since it was transferred to Grand Valley State University. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960/2023 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Subject The topic of the resource Michigan Comprehensive plan publications Master plan reports Zoning--Michigan Zoning--Maps Maps Land use--planning Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-240 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Language A language of the resource eng Text A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Tyrone-Twp_Comprehensive-Plan_1993 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Tyron Township Planning Commission and Board, Tyrone Township, Livingston County, Michigan Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1993-10-25 Title A name given to the resource Tyrone Township Comprehensive Plan Description An account of the resource The Tyrone Township Comprehensive Plan was prepared by the Tyrone Township Planning Commission and Board with assistance from the Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. and was published on October 25, 1993. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Planning & Zoning Center, Inc. (consultant) Subject The topic of the resource Comprehensive plan publications Tyrone Township (Mich.) Livingston County (Mich.) Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/870">Planning and Zoning Center Collection (RHC-240)</a> Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/NoC-US/1.0/">No Copyright - United States</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Language A language of the resource eng Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives https://digitalcollections.library.gvsu.edu/files/original/b1ea8ce78b7b45494a2d39148bb379f6.pdf a1c5bed16456b850621239ddfe1aaff8 PDF Text Text Grand Valley State University Veterans History Project George Ulrich (7:58) Basic training (00:12) • • • • George attended Basic training in Alabama. Here he learned how to fire weapons, including rifles and machine guns. (00:12) The men frequently marched at night. (00:40) George was sent to Fort McClellan, Alabama where he was taught about gas and how to maneuver around it. (1:05) From his training in Alabama he was sent to Korea for 15 months. (1:36) Service in Korea (1:55) • • • • • • George was stationed in Soul Korea while in country there he was taught how to crack safes. (2:15) He served as a chief electrician. This consisted of fixing machinery that broke down. (2:50) Though the war had ended in 1953, there were still U.S. soldiers in Korea concerned about North Korea crossing the DMZ line. (3:31) George arrived in Korea in 1954. In 1955 he was sent back to the U.S., specifically Washington Stat. He was stent sent to and then Fort Leopard Wood, Missouri. (5:05) George did reenlist. (6:03) It’s difficult to keep in contact with the men George befriended in service because they had been spread out so much after being discharged. (6:52) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Veterans History Project Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Grand Valley State University. History Department Description An account of the resource The Library of Congress established the Veterans History Project in 2001 to collect memories, accounts, and documents of U.S. war veterans from World War II and the Korean War, Vietnam War, and conflicts in the Middle East and elsewhere, and to preserve these stories for future generations. The GVSU History Department interviews are part of this work-in-progress, and may contain videos and audio recordings, transcripts and interview outlines, and related documents and photographs. Coverage The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant 1914- Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Subject The topic of the resource Afghan War, 2001--Personal narratives, American Iran Hostage Crisis, 1979-1981--Personal narratives, American Korean War, 1950-1953--Personal narratives, American Michigan--History, Military Oral history Persian Gulf War, 1991--Personal narratives, American United States--History, Military United States. Air Force United States. Army United States. Navy Veterans Video recordings Vietnam War, 1961-1975--Personal narratives, American World War, 1939-1945--Personal narratives, American Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Special Collections & University Archives Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Smither, James Boring, Frank Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context RHC-27 Language A language of the resource eng Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project interviews (RHC-27)</a> Oral History A resource containing historical information obtained in interviews with persons having firsthand knowledge. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context UlrichG1396V Title A name given to the resource Ulrich, George (Interview outline), 2012 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Ulrich, George Description An account of the resource George Ulrich took his Army basic training at Fort McClellan. He was sent to Korea in 1954 as an electrician. He returned to the U.S. in 1955 and reenlisted in the military. Contributor An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource Watson, Ian (Interviewer) Subject The topic of the resource Oral history Veterans History Project (U.S.) United States--History, Military Michigan--History, Military Veterans Video recordings Language A language of the resource eng Rights Information about rights held in and over the resource <a href="http://rightsstatements.org/page/InC/1.0/?language=en">In Copyright</a> Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Relation A related resource Veterans History Project (U.S.) Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2012-05-28 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://gvsu.lyrasistechnology.org/repositories/2/resources/455">Veterans History Project Collection, (RHC-27)</a> Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource application/pdf Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Grand Valley State University. University Libraries. Lemmen Library and Archives