Watersmeet Planning Commission 2025 Annual Report

The Watersmeet Planning Commission has completed its 2025 annual report, as required under the Michigan Planning Enabling Act. This report provides an overview of the Commission’s activities over the past year, along with updates on ongoing planning efforts and recommendations for future actions.

The annual report serves several important purposes:

  • Keeps the Township Board, staff, and the public informed on planning activities
  • Improves communication between boards, commissions, and local government
  • Helps identify upcoming priorities and potential budgeting needs
  • Recognizes the time and dedication of Planning Commission members

Residents and interested parties are encouraged to review the report to stay informed about planning and development efforts within Watersmeet.

The full 2025 Annual Report can be viewed here>

Planning Commission Meeting Date Change Notice

At its March 12 meeting, the Watersmeet Planning Commission voted to change its regular monthly meeting date. Beginning in April, meetings will be held on the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m., instead of the second Thursday.

The first meeting under the new schedule will take place on April 2 at 5:30 p.m.

The updated meeting schedule is reflected below.

  • January 8, 2026
  • February 12, 2026
  • March 12, 2026
  • April 2, 2026
  • May 7, 2026
  • June 4, 2026
  • July 2, 2026
  • August 6, 2026
  • September 3, 2026
  • October 1, 2026
  • November 5, 2026
  • December 3, 2026

Reminder to Watersmeet Residents & Property Owners – Short-Term Rentals

Short-term rentals (rentals of 27 days or less) in Watersmeet Township are regulated under the Township Zoning Ordinance (Sections 4.02B, 5.02B, 6.01B, and 7.09 – Short-Term Rentals). A valid permit must be obtained from the Township Planning Commission and Zoning Administrator before renting any single-family dwelling.

The Township recently updated its Zoning Ordinance, including new guidelines specific to short-term rentals, and adopted a revised permit application form. These changes took effect on July 5, 2025.

If you are currently renting without a permit, please begin the permit process as soon as possible. A grace period is in place through December 31, 2025, during which applications can be submitted without penalties. Enforcement—including fines and legal action—will begin in January 2026. Short-term rentals that have previously been approved are also asked to update their information by completing the first page of the revised application before December 31st, 2025.

Penalties for Renting without a Permit are outlined in Article 10 of the ordinance.

How to Apply or if you have any questions:

  • Email: zoning@watersmeet.us
  • Phone: (906) 366-0262 (Zoning Administrator, Megan Zelinski)
  • Application Form: Short-Term Rental Application (fill-able PDF)
  • For additional ordinance details—including the full text of Sections 4.02B, 5.02B, 6.01B, and 7.09—see the official Zoning Ordinance published by Watersmeet Township: Watersmeet Zoning Ordinance (July 2025).

 

Planning Commission to Review Zoning Ordinance ~ Updated 7/10/25

The Watersmeet Planning Commission has adopted the task to review the current Zoning Ordinance, page by page to make revisions to clarify the ordinance.  A draft document is being kept tracking all proposed changes and will be updated after each Planning Commission meeting.

When a sufficient number of edits are ready, a public hearing will be held for the edits.  The draft will then be forwarded to the Board of Trustees for request for approval and adoption.

The Planning Commission invites the public to comment on the proposed changes by attending a meeting, mailing a letter or emailing the Board liaison at trustee1@watersmeet.us.

Click Here for Draft Edits>

Updated Zoning Ordinance Available

During its Regular Meeting on May 21, 2025, the Watersmeet Township Board of Trustees finalized and approved language modifying the Watersmeet Township Zoning Ordinance. Specifically, Sections 1.02, 3.02B, 4.02B, and 7.09B.

The 30-day review period has ended, and the changes are final.  Copies of the ordinance are available the township office.

Click here to download Zoning Ordinance>

Planning Commission Housing Survey Results and Request for Committee Volunteers

The results of the Watersmeet Planning Commission Housing Survey are available for review.  Housing Survey>

Based on the results from the housing survey, a volunteer group is being established to form a “Housing Improvement Committee”.  This committee will build a plan of options and ideas for improving the housing situation.  The committee is looking for volunteers from the township to participate and assist.  Meeting times and location will be determined after the committee is established.  If you are interested in joining the committee, please contact Simon Zelinski at trustee3@watersmeet.us

Zoning Violation Complaint Portal Now Available

The Watersmeet Zoning Administrator has implemented an online zoning violation complaint portal on the Watersmeet website.  A .pdf form is also available for download on this page.  A link to this portal is listed on the Planning & Zoning pages. Once submitted, the Zoning Administrator will be in contact with the complainant within 5 business days.

Please Note:  Anonymous submissions will not be accepted.

For questions or comments please contact Megan Zelinski, Zoning Administrator at 906-366-0262 or zoning@watersmeet.us