SUMMER COMMUNITY CORPORATION S.B. 658: FIRST ANALYSIS
Senate Bill 658 (as reported without amendment)
Sponsor: Senator Jason E. Allen
Committee: Economic Development, Small Business and Regulatory Reform
Date Completed: 7-12-05
RATIONALE
In 1875, a group of Methodists decided to establish a summer colony in an area northeast of Petoskey, on Little Traverse Bay. Today, the institution is known as the Bay View Association of the United Methodist Church. The Association operates summer musical programs, recreational activities, worship services, weekday lectures, and educational seminars, all open to the public. The Association is a National Historic Landmark community, and currently consists of more than 30 public buildings, 440 cottages, and two inns situated on 337 acres.
The Bay View Association is incorporated under Public Act 39 of 1889, which allows the incorporation of an association to purchase property for summer homes, camp meetings, and the meetings and assemblies of various associations and societies. Currently, an association incorporated under the Act may not own or hold more than 350 acres of land. Some people are concerned that the 350-acre limit could inhibit the Bay View Association's ability to obtain additional land to shield the colony from future development nearby, and have suggested that the maximum acreage be raised.
CONTENT
The bill would amend Public Act 39 of 1889 to allow an association incorporated under the Act to own or hold up to 1,000 acres of land, rather than the 350 acres currently allowed.
MCL 455.54
ARGUMENTS
(Please note: The arguments contained in this analysis originate from sources outside the Senate Fiscal Agency. The Senate Fiscal Agency neither supports nor opposes legislation.)
Supporting Argument
The township surrounding the Bay View Association has grown significantly over the years, and some people are worried that increasing development could spill into the colony's main campus area. At 337 acres, the colony is approaching its maximum allowable size. Increasing the acreage limit would give the Association the flexibility it needs to create a buffer zone against growth by obtaining more of the surrounding land. This would help to preserve the colony's historical character and ensure the continuation of its mission through its programs and activities.
Legislative Analyst: Julie Koval
FISCAL IMPACT
The bill would have no fiscal impact on State or local government.
Fiscal Analyst: David ZinAnalysis was prepared by nonpartisan Senate staff for use by the Senate in its deliberations and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent. sb658/0506