We, the undersigned residents and property owners of Chikaming Township, respectfully request that the Township Board and Planning Commission pause adoption of the current Draft Master Plan and address key concerns raised by the community.

The Master Plan will guide land-use decisions for years to come and will have a lasting impact on the rural character, natural resources, and quality of life in our community. It is essential that this plan reflect sound planning principles and meaningful community input.

We are concerned that the current draft introduces significant land-use changes without sufficient transparency, clarity, or demonstrated alignment with community priorities.

Key concerns include:

Designation of “Transitional Areas” across hundreds of acres, including prime farmland, wetlands, and existing residential areas, without clearly defined criteria or limits on future development density.

Lack of notice to affected property owners whose land has been included in these new designations.

Insufficient explanation of how community input has been incorporated into the current draft.

Potential conflict with existing zoning, creating uncertainty and perceived pre-approval of future rezoning proposals.

Risk to the rural character of Chikaming Township, including the preservation of farmland and open space.

We respectfully request that the Township:

Pause adoption of the current Draft Master Plan.

Provide clear, objective criteria for any “Transitional Area” designations, including defined uses and density parameters.

Increase transparency by clearly documenting how community input has influenced the plan.

Conduct additional public engagement, including joint workshops with the Township Board and Planning Commission.

Ensure that future land-use designations align with existing conditions, including environmental constraints and established neighborhoods.