By Dennis Volkert
Sturgis City Commission on Wednesday approved amendments to two sections of the community’s zoning ordinance.
One revision pertains to updates to rules for color of roofing and siding to match between principal and accessory buildings.
The other is connected to change in specific regulations for driveway and parking area surfaces.
It was the second review of proposed changes. The first assessment took place at the board’s May 28 meeting.
At a public hearing May 20, Sturgis Planning Commission made a recommendation to the city commission to approve the revisions.
As it pertains to roofing, each structure (principal and accessory) must be uniform in color, but the accessory structure does not have to match the principal structure precisely. The rule is intended to prevent inconsistent or “patchwork” appearance, while allowing some flexibility.
Ordinance language, in part: “Accessory buildings greater than 200 square feet shall be designed to be harmonious with the principal structure.”
“Harmonious” is defined this way: Buildings on a property “should contribute positively to the overall character of the neighborhood, without causing visual discord or disruption to the neighborhood or each other.”
“Character” is defined as “consistency between existing and proposed development, or consistency in materials of construction and architecture.”
For parking areas and driveways, the primary goal was to establish guidelines for surfacing materials, paving and edge containment.
Side and rear yard areas may use approved aggregate material (such as 21AA, limestone and crushed concrete). The amended ordinance redefines the list of prohibited surfacing in front areas, including pea gravel and sand.
Commissioner Aaron Miller cast the lone “nay” vote on the overall measure. He disagrees mainly with restrictions on surfacing material for driveways.
In a separate matter, commissioners set a public hearing date of June 23 to consider property tax rate for 2025 summer tax bills. A hearing is required and provides residents with the opportunity to comment on the proposed millage level.
