By James Windell
For the first time in seven years, the South Haven Planning Commission has a new Chairman.
Tim Stegemen, who has been the Planning Commission Chair since 2018, nominated Planning Commission member Bob Sherman as his replacement at the regular meeting of the commission on July 10, 2025. Stegemen also nominated Larry Heinig to continue as the Vice-Chair. The vote was unanimous – and happened without discussion.
“As Chairman of the Planning Commission, Tim Stegeman has been a true leader and facilitator,” says Kelly Getman-Dissette, Planning and Zoning Administrator. “He ensured that meetings ran smoothly, discussions remained focused, and that all members had an opportunity to be heard.”
The Planning Commission consists of nine members, one of whom is a member of the City Council. The members are appointed by the mayor and City Council and serve three-year terms. Duties of the Planning Commission include developing and adopting a master plan for the physical development of the city, revise and update that master plan as needed, and recommend changes to the zoning ordinance. In addition, the Planning Commission reviews all site plans, special use permits, planned unit developments, condominiums, subdivisions and other projects as required by the zoning ordinance.
According to Getman-Dissette, during Stegeman’s tenure as Chairman, the City adopted a new Master Plan (2018), adopted a new Zoning Ordinance (2024), and updated the 2018 Master Plan (2025). “Furthermore, Tim’s knowledge of community history has been particularly valuable throughout the years,” adds Getman-Dissette, “and he has helped to inform decisions on specific projects and City-wide initiatives. While Tim is no longer Chair of the Commission, we are thankful that he remains a member of the group and will continue to contribute to land use decision-making in the City.”
Sherman, who is taking over as Chair, has served on the Planning Commission since 2023. “He has been a thoughtful contributor to the group,” Getman-Dissette says.”
