Development at Back Country Village advances; council and residents push for snowmobile signage and access controls

Developer M. Franchi told the Council that tree clearing is underway at Back Country Village in preparation for cabins and townhomes and that plans are in place to manage winter snowmobile traffic from the property. Franchi offered to assist with signage and said the annual firewood giveaway and an expanded two-day snowmobile event will return this year.

Council members and public commenters raised safety and noise concerns tied to snowmobile traffic. Public commenter J. Ciucci said speed bumps on Stanton Avenue have slowed traffic but reported drivers using Rangetown Apartments property to avoid the bumps; K. Aho expressed appreciation for the speed bumps and for Council efforts to address increased snowmobile traffic, and urged additional signage. Council and Franchi noted the Michigan Department of Natural Resources determined no additional trail connection to the Back Country Village property will be created. Trustee Parolini asked about restricting access toward Whealkate Bluff; Franchi said earlier barriers had been moved and a more permanent solution may be considered.

Council asked Clerk Schwandt to order signage for placement this winter and to review the snowbank pushback policy at the November meeting.