Opposes Rezoning Hessel Property To Accommodate Boathouse
To the Editor:

You recently reported that the Clark Township Planning Commission denied a request for a special use to build a huge commercial boathouse on the shore strip in Hessel. The proposal would have violated several provisions of the zoning ordinance. The planning commission is to be commended for voting to enforce the Clark Township Zoning Ordinance rather than giving in to pressure from a single special interest.

There was considerable opposition to the proposal by many members of the community, particularly, those most directly and adversely affected. The height and size of the building would have obstructed the view of adjacent property owners, cottages up and down the shoreline, and otherwise diminish the beneficial use and enjoyment of the properties. The proposal would dramatically detract from the character and charm that is Hessel. It could only be a negative for the community as a whole.

Unfortunately, the proponents of the project have chosen to disregard the decision of the township planning commission and objections of neighbors and members of the community. We understand they have now petitioned to have the property rezoned from shore strip to commercial use. The shore strip zoning district is a cornerstone of the township zoning ordinance and is intended to keep the waterfront in its natural state as much as practical so that it may be enjoyed by all citizens, rather than being destroyed by commercial development for individual financial gain.

The proponents of this project chose to petition and schedule the hearings on this issue when the property owners that are most directly and adversely impacted are away and, therefore, unaware or unavailable to make their opposition known. I am confident that I speak for many of them in requesting that the proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance be denied, and in requesting that citizens voice their opposition by attending the hearing on January 8, 2008, writing, calling or e-mailing the Clark Township Planning Commission.

Please let me conclude by indicating that we are very much in favor of development and progress, so long as it is done in such a way that preserves the wonderful and unique character of the Les Cheneaux area.

David A. Wallace

Hessel and Hemlock

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