The board heard from a planner who explained that the rezoning was a response to changes in the office industry, noting that many office buildings remain unoccupied. The recommendation to rezone was rooted in the township’s master plan re-exam from April 2022, which acknowledged shifts in business operations and encouraged re-evaluating zoning designations. The planner emphasized that the OG Zone, originally for general office use, should be opened to more commercial opportunities, particularly along the 516 corridor, to invigorate local business activity and better utilize existing spaces.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of updating the zoning map to reflect these changes and the need to streamline zoning classifications, as the township currently has an extensive number of zones. A board member inquired about when affected business owners would be notified. It was clarified that property owners would receive individual notices before the second reading of the ordinance by the council, allowing them to voice any concerns.

In addition to rezoning matters, the board addressed a typographical error in the resolution date, which was corrected during the meeting. The board unanimously approved the motion to advance the rezoning ordinance to the council for a second reading.