$2-Bil Development Allowed to Proceed

Pontiac voters in September already approved annexation of 80 acres in Bloomfield for a $2-billion dollar development to their city.

The property is supposed to have a 15-story office building, hotel and apartment buildings, a large movie theater, and other commercial uses built on the site.

However, the township did not want to give up the land.

David Payne, supervisor of Bloomfield Township, says the annexation proceeding initiated by the developer is a blatant attempt at circumventing established zoning ordinances with the goal of destroying the overall character and integrity of the township.

The commission approved another election for next February, one that could overturn the September annexation vote. The election only counted votes from a few township residents. A new election would have allowed the entire township to vote on the matter. Bloomfield leaders believe they can win back the land.

However, Patterson has veto power over commission decisions. A two-thirds majority could overrule his veto, but the override vote passed only by 13-8, not enough for a majority.

Bloomfield Park, a multi-use development, was formally proposed to the township nearly two years ago. The development is composed of retail, office, residential and recreational facilities.

Bloomfield Township does not have a multi-use ordinance in its zoning laws. After working diligently with the township officials, the developer was unable to reach an agreement that would allow the development to be built and be successful.

The property is located nearly one mile north of Square Lake Road, just east of Telegraph Road, bordering Pontiac on the north and east sides. It is in the Pontiac School District.