The local newspaper said there was “roaring applause” this week when the Vienna, Michigan township Planning Commission voted 3-2 to reject a Wal-Mart application for rezoning 80 acres of land. The land is currently zoned agricultural and residential, and one Commissioner said simply, “To me, it doesn’t fit the master plan.” Wal-Mart promised “new” jobs and $400,000 in taxes — but these were the company’s figures, not an independent analysis of the net impact of this proposed superstore. But most of the people attending the meeting April 11th were against the Wal-Mart plan. “It’s not about the money, it’s about the community – family-owned businesses have supported Vienna Township and Clio for a long time,” one resident testified. “You go out to the ball diamonds and what do you see on the shirts? You see family-owned businesses, not Wal-Mart.” Residents were worried by the traffic explosion this project would cause, the nearby location of an elementary school, noise, and increased criminal activity near the 24 hour store. The project now goes to the township Board, which could take a vote on this project next week.
Although this is a preliminary win for the neighborhood, the Town Board is not bound by the Planning Commission’s recommendation. The Wal-Mart plan is inharmonious with the township’s Master Plan, and to rezone the land to C-2 commercial would violate that Plan, and radically change the character of that part of the township. For local contacts in Clio and Vienna, contact [email protected]
