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This 24/7 facility could see arrival/departure of 200 trucks and 200 cars daily, has fuel pumps for 5 trucks, 12 cars and 2 RVs. It would allow parking for 81 trucks, 95 cars and 11 RVs. Its 10,000 sq.ft. structure would house a 145-seat restaurant, convenience store, drivers' lounge, showers and self-serve laundry.

The property targeted by Flying J is zoned C-2 for commercial development, but the size and nature of Flying J's plans demand a Special Use Permit. For that, Laketown's zoning ordinance requires proof that the proposed truck stop would:

1. Be designed, constructed, operated and maintained in a manner harmonious with the character of adjacent property and surrounding area.

2. Not change the essential character of the surrounding area.

3. Not be hazardous to adjacent property or involve uses, activities, materials or equipment which will be detrimental to the health, safety or welfare of persons or property through the excessive amount of traffic, noise, smoke, odor, fumes or glare.

4. Not place demands on public services and facilities in excess of the current capacity.

Flying J claims that its plans fit these requirements. Local residents and business owners say NO WAY!

In light of this threat to our neighborhood, the Laketown Alliance for Neighborly Development (LAND) was created to organize and direct the energies of Laketown and Saugatuck Township residents opposed to predatory development.

On Nov. 1, 2006, close to 200 residents packed a Laketown Township Planning Commission meeting to prevent granting Flying J the zoning exception it requested. More than 30 residents spoke against Flying J.

Since then, approximately 2000 people have signed petitions opposing the Flying J and many are gathering information to prove the illegality/unsuitability of a truck stop in our area. Community leaders also have expressed formal oppostion in letters to the Laketown Township Planning Commission:

• Douglas City Council
• Saugatuck City Council
• Superintendent of Saugatuck Public Schools
• League of Women Voters
• Saugatuck-Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau
• Goshorn Lake Homeowners Association
• Lakeshore Association
  

Laketown Township Planning Commission Meetings
First Wednesday every month, 7pm

Laketown Township Hall
4338 Beeline Rd.
South of 144th Ave. & 62nd St.
616-335-3050
See a map here