MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - A Special Use Permit allowing for group housing to accommodate a maximum of six international students located at 2500 Haslett Rd., has been approved by a 7 to 1 vote by the Planning Commission

Commissioner Diets was the only one opposed to this decision, due to concern with future uses of the specific use and property for the permit.

Mr. and Mrs. Friesen, the applicants whom requested this Special Use Permit, have been hosting international students in their own home in Perrinton, Michigan for more than 25 years.

"During that time they gain a greater understanding of American culture and values, we see that they go home with a much more favorable opinion of the United States, than when they came," Kim Friesen said. "More importantly, we have built long-term relationships with international students who feel they are part of our community and want to return to visit us. We want those international students to build those ties with Meridian Township."

There was concern expressed during the last Planning Commission meeting that restricting this Special Use Permit to accommodate only for international students may be in violation of the Fair Housing Act. However, as a result of the seven bedroom home being owned and occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Frisen, it does not.

The Planning Commission put in certain conditions within the permit for Mr. and Mrs. Friesen to abide by in order to refrain from any problems and concerns expressed by the public in recent meetings.