Lot split Hearings not necessary
In recent months, the City Commission has scheduled hearings to let residents, neighbors, express their opinions about a property owner’s intention to split her property. CPR has been asked to determine from where the Commission derives its authority to hold such hearings by residents concerned by such statements as the following:

 “It’s just protocol. The Commission has always held hearings on lot splits.” — Mayor Cowan

 “I don’t like lot splits, and I will always vote against them.” -- City Commissioner

Addressing one proposed lot split, Cowan went on to assure the applicant that such hearings are simply routine and should pose no problem in her case. Months later, and only after lawyers became involved, the issue was resolved.

Here’s what CPR has found out so far:

There is no Royal Oak ordinance or requirement that hearings be held about lot splits, but Michigan law requires the governing body, in this case the City Commission, to make the final decision. Most other cities have the paid City Administration, operating with authority derived from zoning ordinances and the like, study the request and make recommendations for the governing body to accept or reject.

So in Royal Oak “protocol” and personal preferences add an unnecessary procedure and delay — all so the elected officials can demonstrate how much they care about (some) residents.