PROPOSED HOUSING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS

NEXT STEPS

At their September 5, 2023 meeting, the City Commission discussed the proposed amendments to the Traverse City Code of Ordinances to allow additional dwelling types and to modify dimensional standards in the R-1a, R-1b and R-2 residential zoning districts.

Proposed Amendments to be Considered

The following proposed zoning changes will be introduced at the City Commission meeting on Monday, September 18, 2023 with possible enactment at the October 16, 2023 meeting.

Increase Density in the R-1a/b District

• Allow duplexes by right

Cluster Housing Modifications

• Reduce minimum lot size from five acres to one acre
• Switch from a City Commission SLUP to an Administrative SLUP

Two Principle Dwellings in R-1a/b

• Allow two single family dwellings on lots that are twice the minimum area without a lot split

Dimension Standard Modifications

• Reduce minimum lot width in the R-1a from 90 ft to 70 ft
• Reduce minimum lot width in the R-1b from 45 ft to 35 ft
• Reduce minimum lot area in the R-1a from 9,000 sf to 7,000 sf
• Reduce minimum lot area in the R-1b from 5,000 sf to 4,000 sf
• Increase maximum impervious area in the R-1a from 30% to 35%
• Increase maximum impervious area in the R-1b from 45% to 50%
• Increase maximum impervious area in the R-1a from 45% to 50%

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Modifications

• Remove the annual cap of 15 permitted ADUs
• Allow ADUs with duplexes in the R-2

Proposed Amendments on Hold

The following proposed zoning changes will not go before the City Commission on September 18, 2023. It is anticipated that the items will go back to the Planning Commission in the near future to review and discuss further.

Increase Density in the R-2 District

• Allow triplexes
• Allow quadplexes

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Modifications

• Allow ADUs with duplexes in the R-1a/b
• Allow ADUs with triplexes in the R-2
• Allow ADUs with quadplexes in the R-2
• Remove the owner-occupancy requirement for permitting an ADU

The demand for housing in our region remains high, particularly in locations that are convenient and accessible to one’s daily needs. Land use regulations as they relate to permitting housing types, densities, and locations are just one of the many levers influencing the housing needs in the City, and one that the City Commission and Planning Commission have direct influence over.

MDOT GRANDVIEW PARKWAY PROJECT UPDATES

Preparation work for MDOT's Grandview Parkway Rebuild Project will affect Railroad Avenue.

Contractors will be closing the 100 block and 400 block of Railroad Avenue on Monday, September 11, 2023 at 7:00 am. Work is anticipated to be complete by September 25, 2023. The 100 block will be closed from Franklin Street to the alley to the south. The 400 block will be closed from E. Eighth Street to the alley to the north.

There will be two pedestrian detours along the TART that will detour individuals across the street to the sidewalk on the west side of the road.

ROTARY SQUARE:

SEEKING

YOUR INPUT

In the past year, the Downtown Development Authority celebrated the opening of Rotary Square at the corner of Union Street and State Street, and kicked off a slate of community events. Events included the Downtown Tailgate, Traverse Symphony Orchestra Concert Series, and Movies in the Square.

The DDA is seeking input from area residents on how the events impacted you and and your neighborhood.

CITY MANAGER SEARCH: FINALISTS INTERVIEWED

The City Commission interviewed five finalists for the City Manager position on September 7th.

The names of the finalists are as follows:

• Elizabeth Vogel
• Benjamin Marentette
• Christian Wuerth
• Jessica Kinser
• Christopher Forsyth

Next Steps

After the first round of interviews,  the City Commission will narrow the finalists, or consider appointing a candidate at the Monday, September 11, 2023 meeting.

The City is a great place to work! As an employer, we offer a wide range of rewarding jobs. Our employees take pride in their work and in making Traverse City the best it can be!

The City of Traverse City is an equal opportunity employer. Full-time positions receive a competitive benefits package, paid time off, short-term leave, health, dental, vision, and life insurance, employer retirement contribution, and participation in Michigan’s Municipal Employee Retirement System pension benefit program. 

Open Full-Time Positions

• City Engineer
• Finance Director/City Treasurer
• Deputy City Assessor
• Firefighter
• Patrol Officer
• Equipment Operator
• Deputy City Planner/Sustainability Coordinator
• Vehicle Equipment Technician

Seasonal/Temporary/Part-Time Positions

• Temporary Customer Service Representative
• Seasonal Kitchen Lead

IN THE COMMUNITY

SENIOR CENTER GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY: JOIN US!

After years of planning, a new Senior Center is finally being constructed! This is a significant milestone for the City of Traverse City and our community. Join us for a ceremonial groundbreaking on Thursday, September 14th at 3 pm at the Senior Center property, 801 E. Front Street. 

The new Senior Center will increase square footage from 5,780 to over 18,114 and provide a central hub for seniors to come together and participate in a wide range of activities and programs. It will also serve as a place to socialize, make new friends, and enjoy a sense of community.

The City of Traverse City has always recognized the value of community and is committed to ensuring their well-being and quality of life. We are excited to embark on this new chapter together!