Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

EDWARDSBURG — Off road vehicles and a possible new development were the main discussion at the Edwardsburg Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday.

A possible Off Road Vehicle (ORV) Ordinance was brought to the table after a recent request from a resident, who was not present at the meeting. Chairman Gordon Carr brought research to the discussion, noting that ORVs are not permitted on state or federal roadways without special approval, leaving the Commission’s scope limited to village streets. It was also noted that ORVs qualify as a specific type of vehicle, explaining the separate rules for vehicles such as golf carts and snowmobiles.

Sam Garwood suggested that the topic may need to be split into two items, with the village deciding whether they wish to pursue an ordinance allowing ORVs on local streets and, if so, then pursuing what would be required for allowance on state roads. Garwood noted the possible benefits to local businesses via increased traffic from ORV users, while wanting to ensure the vehicles did not create a nuisance.

The commission chose to table the issue for now, with an interest in continuing research and possibly speaking to local law enforcement and those interested in using ORVs before taking further action.

The commission also heard an initial proposal from Dyllan Micheal Design Construction, Inc. regarding a possible new development providing business and residential spaces. The proposed build would take place in two lots at the corners of Davis Street and Elkhart Road, and Elkhart Road and M-62, across from Taco Bell. Details were minimal, as Micheal Holt, President of Dyllan Micheal, explained that he was first seeking general feedback from the commission before further pursuing the project.

“The last thing we want to do is to build in an area where no one wants us to build,” said Holt.

Holt described the project as an approximately $3 million investment, creating a 10,000 square foot building for mixed use, with apartments upstairs and businesses downstairs. Dyllan Micheal has not created detailed design plans, but expressed a desire for “upper end” apartments and a property emphasizing safety, accessibility and walkability.

Garwood clarified that it would be inappropriate for the commission to make a decision based on the type of apartments or qualifications of tenants, emphasizing the requirement of non-discrimination. He also noted that the concept of refreshing the area would be a positive for Edwardsburg.

With few details to go on, the commission invited Holt to bring more details and plans as the project progressed.

The next Edwardsburg Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 15 in the village hall.