Planning commission opposes special exception to regrade dunes at North Shore Drive cottages

The Ferrysburg Planning Commission voted on Sept. 3 to oppose a special-exception application by the owner of three North Shore Drive cottages that would have relocated dune sand and temporarily removed surface dune vegetation to shift the dune profile away from decks.

Zach Vandenberg, a representative of Peterson and Vandenberg Environmental, described the plan as a measured regrading that would "pull the vegetation off almost like sod" and then replant and supplement dune grass after moving sand westward. Commissioners and the city planner, citing David Jarosick27s written findings, focused on the project27s disturbance to established vegetation and uncertainty about long-term benefits. Chairman Post said the proposal "seems to me an outrageous proposal" and emphasized caution before authorizing excavation that could disturb steep slopes. Commissioner (S2), who moved to oppose the application, said the planner27s findings provided a sound basis for that motion. The motion passed on a roll call: Commissioner De Jong, Commissioner Tuggle, Commissioner Weber, Commissioner Hawley and Chairman Post voted yes; motion recorded as approved.

Staff and commissioners also discussed alternatives, including raising houses, and noted that even if EGLE later approved a state permit the owners would still need a local fill permit. Planning staff explained that if the planning commission records an opposition for the special exception, EGLE would likely deny the request. Zach Vandenberg thanked the commission for the opportunity to present and said the project team would continue with the EGLE process regardless of the local position.