APC recommends Lakeville parcel rezoned to Office Buffer to enable new infill home

The Area Plan Commission voted to forward a favorable recommendation to the Town Council of Lakeville for a rezoning that would change a roughly 0.06-acre parcel abutting 102 South Michigan Street from TC (Town Center) to OB (Office Buffer) (APC 307025). Staff said the request would permit a new single-family home on the rear portion of a subdivided lot and serve as a transition between the downtown town-center district and adjacent residential neighborhoods.

"The goal for us is just to try to bring some value to the area," petitioner Cameron Dalrymple said, describing recent renovation of the structure facing Michigan Street. Area Plan Commission staff Fariel (Mario/Mario) Sharif said the change aligns with the Town of Lakeville's 2011 comprehensive plan policy favoring infill and reuse of vacant buildings, and staff recommended a favorable recommendation to the Lakeville town council.

Supporters in the chamber praised the owner's renovation work. Joe Satterall, who lives on East Patterson, said the petitioner had restored an abandoned house and added value to the downtown area. Commissioner Lori Kelly thanked the petitioner for the improvements.

The commission moved and seconded a favorable recommendation; roll call returned eight yeses, zero nos, and the APC certified the recommendation to the Lakeville Town Council for final action.

If the Lakeville council approves the rezoning, the rear parcel would permit a single-family structure that staff said would be "in character with the area" and would provide a buffer between the town center and residential blocks to the east. No substantive opposition was heard at the APC hearing.