Zoning Board of Appeals: Nudist campground can expand

CADILLAC - A Wexford County campground has the go-ahead to expand after a ruling by the Wexford County Zoning Board of Appeals.

The ZBA voted 3-0 to grant a special use permit to Spruce Hollow Campground, a naturist, or nudist, campground located in Wexford Township.

Wexford County Zoning Administrator Michael Green said the decision allows Spruce Hollow to expand the campground by adding 28 recreational vehicle campsites and expand the total campground from 20 to 30 acres.

Area residents who have opposed the permit in writing and vocally can appeal the decision in Wexford County Circuit Court if they desire, Green said.

The original vote opposing the special use permit was 4-2. In deliberating on the matter, the planning commission decided the use would not be harmonious with the surrounding area, which is zoning forest recreation.

Commission members also said including 28 recreational vehicles would disturb nearby property uses.

The ZBA determined the special use permit was appropriate in the area, that the seasonal use of the property and that proposed buffers are enough to remain in harmony with neighbors.

"In general, they thought the project was harmonious with the surrounding area,� Green said.

At the hearing, neighbors spoke against the project and representatives from Spruce Hollow, including Pat and Janis Bell, spoke in favor of the special use permit.

Residents opposed to the project said RV were a concern because of disposal of solid waste. Others said they were concerned about the safety of their children and said the proposed use didn’t fit with existing uses in the area.

Spruce Hollow is located on West 6 1/2 Road in Wexford Township. The seasonal campground has 18 rustic campsites on 20 acres and several outbuildings, including a welcome center and pool area. The additional 28 RV sites are expected to be built on 10 acres located to the east of the existing campground.

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