In the past year, Enterprise readers have come to know about controversial developments in at least two communities.
The proposed expansion of the Northgate Leelanau Pines campground, was turned down twice by Centerville Township planners. The company later went on to file suit against the township.
A few miles up the road in Leland, developer J. Peterson proposed to build a three-story mixed use building at the north end of the unincorporated village. However, the building permit was denied after a review from the township planning commission found that the size and scope of the project did not fit the “character” of the village.
We recognize these as growing pains which are being felt countywide.
Local municipalities look to their master plans to determine future use. And while these plans have long been on the books, planners don’t have much experience in dealing with these issues.
In some communities, lack of a wastewater treatment system is a huge detriment for future growth.
The Village of Empire lost its only grocery store in 2018 and two of its iconic restaurants are up for sale.
And while this wasn’t a direct result of lack of a sewer, it does impact future use.
The community gathered last week in Empire during a forum for the upcoming election. Over and over again candidates related how they want to see Empire grow, but without losing its small town character.
No matter the politics, without a wastewater system there isn’t much growth to be had, which means the small town character may never be threatened.
In Cedar, there are a good number of commercial buildings and residential homes on holding tanks, requiring frequent pumping. Thus, increasing the cost of operations.
Leelanau’s residents and visitors feel very strongly about the place they call home, as evidence of a growing NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) crowd who prefer to quash projects, rather than encourage them.
This election season offers an opportunity to research the candidates to see where they stand on the issues important to you.
Perhaps this will ease our growing pains.
