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Legal battle between Saugatuck Twp and private developer in front of federal judge Monday

Joe Gratz
/
Flickr

Monday a federal judge in Kalamazoo will hear arguments in a case that pits Saugatuck Townshipagainst a billionaire looking to develop his property that includes coastal dunes along Lake Michigan.

Aubrey McClendonowns more than 300 acres north of where the Kalamazoo River empties into Lake Michigan. He wants to builda marina, condos, houses, and a golf course there.

Township officials have to approve special zoning for him to develop his property. McClendon’s attorney Jim Bruinsma says the officials are biased against his client.

“We contend that we have been unfairly singled out for unique zoning restrictions and really unfair procedures.”

Bruinsma alleges the township worked illegally with an environmental group to restrict development and fund the township’s legal defense.

Saugatuck Township officials deny they’ve done anything illegal. They’re attorney Craig Nolandis asking the judge to dismiss the case, forcing McClendon to go through normal zoning procedures. 

“Our position is that they should be required like any other citizen to file an application and allow the township to consider the application and make a decision.”

Noland says Saugatuck Township’s attorney township officials are prepared to handle McClendon’s zoning request fairly and transparently.

Lindsey Smith helps lead the station'sAmplify Team. She previously served as Michigan Public's Morning News Editor, Investigative Reporter and West Michigan Reporter.
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