Zoning Board of Appeals

Meeting Times

3rd Wednesday each month as needed at 4:30pm
 

Location

Henry L. Brown Municipal Building
 1 Grand Street
 Coldwater, MI 49036
 City Council Chamber
 

Agendas & Minutes

Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval. 

View most recent agendas and minutes. 


Members


  • Jim Bilsborrow - Alternate
    Term: December, 2006 - May, 2026
  • David Cole
    Term: October, 2020 - May, 2024
  • Mike Eddy
    Term: June, 2004 - May, 2025
  • Joseph Hayes
    Term: May, 2016 - May, 2025
  • Jeff Holbrook - Alternate
    Term: August, 2016 - May, 2024
  • Dave Sattler
    Term: November, 2021 - May, 2026
  • Gordon Swan
    Term: February, 2004 - May, 2026

Term Length

Board Member term length is 3 years.

Overview


The City of Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals has two primary responsibilities. The first of these is to interpret the language of the City of Coldwater Zoning Ordinance (PDF) when its meaning is unclear, or when there is uncertainty as to whether the language applies to a particular situation. The board is also responsible for the interpretation of the zoning map, including questions concerning the location of zoning district boundaries.


The Zoning Board of Appeals also considers requests for dimensional variances. The City of Coldwater Zoning Ordinance contains dimensional requirements (distance, size, height and width) for items such as fencing, signage and building setbacks. A variance is required of anyone wishing to construct over and beyond the limits set forth in the ordinance. Residents are urged to contact the Neighborhood Services Department prior to the start of any project to ensure that it is compliant with the City of Coldwater Zoning Ordinance and, if necessary, inquire about the variance process.


Note: Please remember, if you plan to make any changes to your property, including new construction, additions to your home and/or garage, signage, fencing, home occupations, etc., contact the appropriate City office for information. In most instances certain regulations are in place, and prior approval is required.


Application Deadline

Zoning Board of Appeals applications are due three weeks in advance of the meeting to be considered to allow for proper notification in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.


Contact Information & Communications

All applications may be submitted to the attention of the Planning and Zoning Administrator at the Neighborhood Services Department window. For more information please contact Dean Walrack, at 517-279-6926 or [email protected].