About the Master Plan

The Master Plan process was recently completed with the approval of the document recommended to the Township Board by the Planning Commission.  This approval took place at the Board meeting on Monday, December 17, 2007.  This approval finalized a process that had been ongoing since the initial meetings in 2002.  After holding numerous public meetings reviewing and deliberating on property parcels and the needs of the Township, the Planning Commission is now ready to move on to working on the review of ordinances and policies that support the plan.  This will be done in an effort to ensure the proper and desired outcome for the future development of the Township.

As was evidenced by the most recent concern over segments of the new plan, public involvement through each step of this process is necessary to enable the best resolution of conflicts as well as for the protection of the ideals we hold dear.  Attendance at the Planning Commission and Township Board meetings is encouraged to allow opinions to be heard and addressed.    

About the Building Department

The Building Department handles inspections and compliance with general and zoning ordinances. It also handles the Fill, Sign, Open Air Vendor, Public Gatherings, and Solicitor permits.  Permits are available in the Public Documents area or at the Township Offices. Inspections are usually scheduled between 11:00 am and 2:30 pm. Appointments are suggested and should have 24-48 hours notice.

If you have code questions on a project you've already gotten a permit for or are planning to get a permit for, you can also leave a message for the appropriate inspector at 784-9090. 

  
Electrical Inspector: Frank Mileski (616-784-9090)
Plumbing & Mechanical Inspector: Vince Milito (616-784-9090)
Code Enforcement Officer: Bob Devereaux (616-784-9090 x116)

About the Planning Department

The Planning Department is responsible for coordinating requests for new projects and rezoning requests within the Township and must prepare the requisite public notices to the community at large.  The Planning Director also reviews and determines whether requested Land Divisions meet the standards in the Zoning Ordinance (available on the Public Documents page).  Open Air Vendor and Public Gatherings permits are also reviewed for Code Compliance.  Day-to-day questions from the public regarding zoning issues are also answered by the Planning Director.

The Planning Director works closely with members of the Planning Commission, who review site plans and rezoning requests and recommend approval or denial to the Township Board. The Director also manages the process of those asking for variances, which are heard by the Zoning Board of Appeals.

About the Planning Commission

This commission conducts public hearings and gives recommendations to the Township Board on rezoning requests and Zoning Ordinance amendments. It is also solely responsible for decisions on Site Plan Review and Special Use requests. The Planning Commission, or sub-committee of that body, reviews site plans for all commercial and industrial buildings or additions. They also review and approve fill-projects and sand-mining operations.

Alpine has seven commissioners that serve staggered, three-year terms, with members limited to two consecutive terms. These commissioners are appointed by the Supervisor, with the Township Board's approval. Six members are appointed from the Township-at-large and must represent various Township interests and localities. The seventh member is a representative of the Township Board.

The Planning Commission currently meets on the third Thursday of each month (see the Calendar for dates), with sub-committee or special meetings held on-demand. A pre-planning meeting is required with staff prior to Planning Commission reviews. Per diems are paid.

Planning Commission meeting agendas and minutes are available on the Public Documents page. If wish to have a copy of minutes for a meeting sent to you, please contact the Administrative Assistant, (p.kolkman@alpinetwp.org) with your request, and they will be e-mailed to you.

Current Members: Jim Townsend (Chair), Greg Madura (Vice Chair), Jim May (Township Board Representative), Nelda Johnson (Secretary), Max Dunneback, Jason Rosenzweig, and Dick Sedlecky.  Pat Kolkman offers staff assistance as the Recording Secretary.

About the Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals must hear and decide appeals from any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by any administrative official charged with Zoning Ordinance enforcement, based on the criteria set forth in State law. This board meets on the fourth Monday of each month if appeals have been received by their deadlines (see the Calendar for dates) and residents within 300 ft of the property requesting a variance have been notified. A fee for the hearing is also required:

• $200 for AG, RA, R-1 zones
• $400 for other zones
• 1-1/2 times respective fee above for special meetings

Appointments for three members from the community-at-large are made by the Township Board for three-year terms, and these appointees aren't eligible to serve more than two consecutive terms. In addition, the Township Board must approve a member of the Planning Commission, a member of the Township Board, and two alternate members. Per diems are paid.

Current Members: Bill Stachowiak (Chair), Fred Mowery (Vice Chair), Ted Wallace (Township Board Representative), Nelda Johnson (Planning Commission Representative), Matt VanHuelen, Doug Pointer (First Alternate), and Roger Parent (Second Alternate).

About the Construction and Fire Prevention Board

This Board hears appeals from property owners or their agents on matters concerning Building Code or BOCA Basis Fire Prevention Code enforcement and renders a written decision. Members are appointed by the Township Board. The Construction and Fire Prevention Board has seven members who serve staggered, three-year terms. The board meets on demand and are paid per diem.

Members: Gerald Hall (Chair), Jeff Parker (Vice Chair), Tom Baker, John Ball, Richard Rohloff, Ken Dieterman, and Joe Platte.