Reports of Orco Investments Inc. possibly bringing in a development near the Sashabaw Road and I-75 connection in Independence Township has spread like wildfire ? leading several area residents to begin doing a little research of their own.
According to a press release sent from attorney Neil Wallace’s office, Citizens for Orderly Growth (COG) scheduled an informational and organizational meeting on Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. in the Clarkston High School auditorium regarding the Troy-based developer’s possible intent to develop a currently residentially zoned 72-acre parcel near Sashabaw and Waldon roads with a WalMart, Lowe’s and 100-room hotel.
The release states that after hearing reports, a core group of residents decided to take action. These individuals researched ways to assist the community in becoming informed and to organize effectively to voice their opinions. Their work led them to reforming COG.
COG is a non-profit organization first formed in 2001. The press release states, ‘members consist of concerned citizens whose purpose is to actively monitor, analyze and respond to development proposals in order to be certain that decisions about how Independence Township is defined occur with substantial public input.? The press release continues to state that members hope to guarantee all development proposals are considered through the area’s values, standards, ordinances, master plan and Vision 2020 Plan.
The press release states the Feb. 23 meeting is to provide information about the township’s planning process, zoning ordinances and master plan, in addition to exploring ways to be heard by township officials. The Clarkston News spoke with several individuals involved with planning the public meeting; however, all refused to go on the record.
The Clarkston News also attempted to contact Independence Township Supervisor Dave Wagner for an update on the possible development and comments regarding COG; however, repeated phone calls have not been returned for the past two weeks.
At the last township board meeting, officials stated a formal proposal has yet to be presented.
For more information on COG, or for anyone unable to attend the Feb. 23 meeting, please send an e-mail to newall@aol.com.