by Austin Marsman
After granting initial approval for a planned unit development in late February, the Barry County Planning and Zoning Commission will meet Tuesday to discuss further the proposed Bay Pointe Woods development.
The commission had voted 5-1 to approve the Bay Pointe PUD request for the planned unit development expansion on Oarie Drive, calling for a 9,000 square-foot conference center, outdoor wedding venue, and five cottages. Bay Pointe owner Mike Powers often has referred to the proposal as a “Garden of Eden.”
For neighbors Joe and Diane Farley, the Bay Pointe Woods project sounds like anything but a “Garden of Eden” because their home and property will share a drive-way sized Oarie Drive with Bay Pointe Woods. From the beginning, the Farleys have been speaking out against potential for trespassing, drunk and disorderly guests, noise, and property damage.
An attorney representing the Farleys insisted last February that any such development is unlawful under the county zoning ordinance. He asserted that even if a PUD was granted, the private road and land are not complementary to the use. Oarie Drive is a private drive and has easements are restricted to residents living along it.
PUD approval for the project does not give Bay Pointe permission to start construction, but it gets owner Mike Powers one step closer. The commission has to review plans before giving a final nod.
According to the agenda, public comment will be allowed and each will be limited to five minutes.
The meeting will take place at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Tyden Building (121 South Church St.), in Hastings.
COVER PHOTO: Bay Pointe owner Mike Powers and his attorney speak to the Planning and Zoning Commission in February.
