Van Buren Township approves Emerald Grading conditional use for contractor business

The Monroe County Board of Zoning Appeals convened on March 5, 2025, to discuss several agenda items, with a significant focus on a conditional use application for Emerald Grading and Seeding, Inc. The meeting was led by Mr. Myers, who presented the details of the case concerning a 12.14-acre parcel located at 8821 West Elren Road in Van Buren Township.

The petitioner, who resides on the property and operates the grading and seeding business, is seeking approval for a conditional use to allow for general contractor activities within the agricultural residential zoning classification. The property, purchased in 2007, has been the site of commercial activity without an official site plan, prompting the need for this application.

Mr. Myers outlined the history of the property, noting that the business has been operational since 2001 and employs three full-time staff members. He emphasized that customer visits to the property are not part of the business model, as employees report directly to job sites.

The Board reviewed the conditions required for the conditional use approval, as stipulated in local zoning regulations. Mr. Myers indicated that several conditions could be met, including the requirement for the property owner to reside on-site and the establishment of a minimum six-foot opaque fence or landscaping around the storage area. The Board noted that some conditions would need to be demonstrated during the commercial site plan review process.

Staff recommended approval of the conditional use application, contingent upon the petitioner obtaining necessary permits for structures that were built without prior approval. This recommendation was based on the assessment that the petitioner could fulfill the conditional use standards.

Following the presentation, Board members were invited to ask questions regarding the application. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with zoning regulations while accommodating local business operations. Further discussions and decisions regarding the application are expected in subsequent meetings.