It has come to our attention that current zoning regulations do not specifically prohibit construction of boathouses on the Carp River - nor make any distinction between what is permitted for boathouses on the expanses of the Lake Leelanau shoreline vs. the tight quarters of the Carp River shoreline. In the past, construction of boathouses on the Carp River has been prohibited by the DEQ - and thus did not require any specific prohibition by local zoning ordinance. This is no longer the case today.

Also, for many decades by custom property owners on the river refrained from constructing boathouses - recognizing the fragile ecological environment of the river and its banks, the impact on neighboring properties of erosion and shoreline instability, and the visual encroachment of boathouses on neighbors enjoyment of their properties. The few boathouses that do exist on the river were built in another time, when sensitivity to environmental, water quality and other ecological concerns were not prevalent and the density of residents along the river was much less. Most have been in existence for many decades and are simply small "wooden garages" set atop piers. They are not large structures excavated out of the bank with cement foundations that require significant excavation, dredging and artificial reinforcement of the river bank.

The supporters of this petition feel the vast majority of township residents - including a majority of those owning properties on the Carp River, would be in favor of a general prohibition of boathouse construction on the river and we request the Leland Township Board put an immediate moratorium on any permits or construction approvals to allow the zoning board to review these issues in greater detail within the context of the existing ordinance, allow for public comment by interested parties, and contemplate any appropriate changes that may be prudent to make the zoning ordinance better reflect the general interests of the community.

Thank you in advance for your consideration of this very important issue.