by Austin Marsman

Mike Powers, owner of Bay Pointe Restaurant and Inn, Gun Lake, came before the Barry County Planning and Zoning Commission to seek approval for an expansion project, but with strong opposition the matter was tabled.

The project calls for a conference center, more hotel space and cottages.

“We try to support the local economy… and it will benefit from this project,” Powers explained.

He and his wife, Patti, purchased the old Bay Pointe Restaurant in November 2003 and started construction soon after. The new Bay Pointe Inn opened Nov. 8, 2004.

 Neighbors are not enthusiastic about this most recent development. Fourteen people told personal impact stories and others warned that the expansion would negatively affect the “whole community.” John Beck, also known as the man with rattling windows, told the board that he is sick of the noise from Bay Pointe.

Joe Farley was one of the most outspoken during public comment. He moved to the area with his wife about seven years ago and said he never imagined the chaos coming from Bay Pointe property.

“I only ask that they [the commission] look at the property as if it was their home,” said Farley. He raised the issues of excessive noise already booming from events, and littering and cars parking on his property.

Many business owners came out to show support for Bay Pointe’s project. Dr. Ron House, of House Chiropractic in Wayland, was one of at least three to speak on the record.

After hearing a lengthy public comment period, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted 5-1 to table the issue until its next meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 27.

In other business Tuesday evening, the commission:

·  Approved a proposal by Thornapple Valley Church (permanently located in Hastings and Middleville) to build its third campus. Currently, the third campus meets at Delton Kellogg Middle School. The executive Pastor, Joel Strickland said he expects almost 300 parishioners

· Denied the “Spoor Amendment” to zoning laws for marina expansion (check townbroadcast.com for the article)

(Photos courtesy of Austin Marsman)

COVER PHOTO: Bay Pointe owner Mike Powers (left)