Plymouth Plan Commission approves 2-lot subdivision at Western Avenue and Pilgrim Lane

The Plymouth Plan Commission approved a two-lot minor subdivision at its August 4th meeting, clearing the way for a new automotive business to establish operations on the city's northwest side.

The request, brought forward by Carl and Tanya Stockberger, sought to divide 7.39 acres from the southeast corner of the commercially zoned property at the northwest corner of Western Avenue and Pilgrim Lane, leaving 21.30 acres for future development. The split includes the building on the property currently being purchased by Wayne Nifong, owner of Intrepid Properties LLC, for V Tech Conversions LLC — a company that specializes in vehicle and trailer upfitting, manufacturing components, and automotive conversion services.

While the Plan Director recommended approval, the Technical Review Committee advised approving the request with the condition that easement matters be addressed before signing.

During the review process, officials discovered that documentation for easements dating back more than 20 years had never been completed. An original development agreement between the Plymouth Redevelopment Commission on behalf of the city, Lowe's, and the Stockbergers included the extension of Pilgrim Lane from its original stopping point west of the Lowe's property onto Western Avenue, as well as drainage improvements along Pilgrim Lane.

The agreement stated that once the north drainage was constructed, the Stockbergers intended to dedicate it to the city, and the city intended to accept the dedication. However, no documents have been found to show that the dedication was ever completed. Additionally, easements for drainage were supposed to be established, but City Attorney Jeff Houin said no documentation for those easements could be located either.

Although the drainage has been in place and functioning for over 20 years, Plan Director Ty Adley recommended creating the proper documentation to make it official as part of the property split approval.

The Plymouth Plan Commission voted 9-0 to approve the minor two-lot subdivision, with the stipulation that a perpetual easement for the stormwater utilities be included.