Panel plays important role in shaping Munising’s future
The Munising Planning Commission is currently seeking individuals to fill two vacant positions.
This is an opportunity for community members to participate in shaping the city’s future and influencing key decisions that affect land use, zoning and development.
The Planning Commission meets regularly to handle city planning and zoning matters. Meetings are held on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers at City Hall, located at 301 E. Superior St., Munising.
The commission is responsible for adopting and maintaining the Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance, reviewing site plans and making recommendations to the City Commission on planning-related issues.
“I believe the Planning Commission plays a vital role in shaping our city,” Planning Commission member Bob Wilkinson said. “I think anyone who can help with a vision of a nice place to live, enjoy the surroundings, which are quite evident, and who would like to see improvements that benefit all citizens.”
He added that the Planning Commission is tasked with exploring various ways to enhance the community and serves as an essential, yet sometimes overlooked, opportunity for residents to engage with their neighbors and influence local development.
Members of the Planning Commission serve up to three-year terms and are appointed by the City Commission.
“Becoming a Planning Commission member not only allows a resident to give back to their community but allows an individual to become part of the longterm planning process for the city,” City Manager Devin Olson said.
Olson noted that members are not compensated and that their primary role is advisory, though they do retain the authority to make determinations on land use through the city’s Zoning Ordinance.
The Planning Commission is currently finalizing a city-focused Housing Needs Assessment with a planning consultant, expected to be completed this month. Following its completion, the commission will begin revising and updating the City’s Master Plan, with a primary focus on housing needs.
“
Becoming a Planning Commission member … allows an individual to become part of the long-term planning process
for the city.
—Devin
Olson
” Additionally, members review development proposals, recommend zoning changes and balance growth while preserving natural resources and historic sites.
The Planning Commission typically meets once a month but may hold additional meetings as necessary. Outside of these meetings, members are encouraged to review agenda documents and attend specialized training in community development and land use. Depending on commission demands, appointees can expect to dedicate between one and 12 hours per month to their duties, including meetings, training and document review.
To be eligible for appointment, applicants must be residents of the City of Munising. Applications for appointment can be submitted to City Hall at 301 E. Superior St. or via email to clerk@cityofmunising.org. The deadline for submissions is 11 a.m. today, March 14.
Community involvement in the Planning Commission ensures that local voices are heard and that decisions reflect the needs and aspirations of Munising’s residents.
Those interested in serving as a Planning Commission member are encouraged to step forward and contribute their ideas and leadership to the community.
For additional information on requirements or how to apply for a Planning Commission position, interested individuals should contact Munising City Hall or visit the city’s official website at cityofmunising. org.
