Plymouth, MI, USA – June 23, 2025 – In a bold new step to amplify community opposition to the Champion PUD development, Plymouth residents are displaying “STOP THE CHAMPION PUD” signs in their yards. These signs are a visible reminder of the widespread resistance to the proposed project and a wake-up-call for city officials and elected officials who are pushing the project.
Signs are popping up on areas closest to the development on W. Ann Arbor Trail, Sheridan Street, and Penniman Ave.
“The number of signs emanating from the project site outward should show the Plymouth Planning Commission, the City Commission and the city administration the opposition to this ill-conceived project,” says Scott Lorenz, third generation resident of Plymouth. “Only a fool would proceed with this project in the face of such opposition from city taxpayers.”
“Driving down Ann Arbor Trail and seeing house after house with signs against the PUD, it’s clear that this kind of overwhelming, unified opposition is something we haven’t seen since the ill-conceived redesign of Kellogg Park,” said Ron Picard, candidate for Plymouth City Commission.
“The zoning rules of our town require a clear and significant public benefit for this kind of project,” says David Pierce, nearby resident and former regulatory enforcement analyst for the federal government (SEC, FERC). “The Champion PUD simply doesn’t have a public benefit. In fact, one of the listed public benefits, a walkway behind residents’ homes along Tonquish Creek, is vehemently opposed by the people closest to the path calling it a security and safety issue. This is not a good project, and it doesn’t merit throwing out the rule book.”
Just last week, the group launched a groundbreaking new website, www.KeepPlymouthCharming.com as an informational and advocacy hub aimed at preserving Plymouth’s distinctive charm. The site takes a decisive stand against the proposed Champion PUD at the site of the Christian Science Church in the city of Plymouth. The platform was created for community members to access resources, updates, and clear calls-to-action on how to oppose developments that threaten the town’s identity and legacy.
“I find it deeply concerning the city is considering a PUD that effectively overrides community standards with unsightly barracks-style townhouses,” says Mike Gladchun, RE/MAX Classic ~ Plymouth. “The logo for Plymouth is the city of homes, not high-density condos that don’t fit the character of our community.”
“Plymouth is more than just a place on the map; it’s a community defined by its deep-rooted history and a commitment to maintaining its character,” said Kathryn Szary. “With the Champion PUD threatening to upend our cherished way of life, this website serves as a rallying point for locals who believe in protecting what makes Plymouth special. It’s about preserving our heritage and ensuring that our voices are heard in this critical debate.”
“Small-town America is under assault by ‘care-less’ developers who just want to maximize density to maximize their profits. The city of Plymouth taxpayers behind this website are dedicated to preserving the charm, character, and heritage that makes Plymouth so desirable,” says Bob Bake, longtime Plymouth realtor, now retired.
“The Champion PUD isn’t just a zoning issue—it’s a direct threat to the soul of our community,” said longtime resident Hank Jallos. “If we let this through, we’re opening the door to a future where Plymouth’s charm is paved over by profit.”
“This project isn’t just a traffic concern—it’s a safety red flag,” said Sam Barresi, former principal of nearby Bird Elementary School. “We’re talking about 1,400 students walking, biking, and getting dropped off near already-busy streets. Add a surge of new vehicles, and you’ve got a dangerous mix that puts kids directly in harm’s way.”
“We launched www.KeepPlymouthCharming.com as more than just a website—it’s our digital town square,” said Szary. “It’s where neighbors become advocates, where facts meet action, and where the spirit of Plymouth rallies to protect what makes this place extraordinary. We’re not just preserving charm—we’re defending our identity.”
Designed with a focus on clear communication and empowering residents, the website provides essential information on the potential impacts of the Champion PUD, strategies for community engagement, and ways for individuals to get involved in the advocacy efforts. This initiative underscores the community’s resolve to maintain Plymouth’s charm in the face of outside forces and greed that will marginalize the town’s unique identity.
Residents and supporters who are concerned about the future of Plymouth can visit www.KeepPlymouthCharming.com to learn more about the issues at hand and explore actionable steps to combat the Champion PUD.
The proposed highly dense project is located at 1100 W. Ann Arbor Trail on the site of the First Christian Science Church near the corner of Ann Arbor Trail and Harvey Street in the city of Plymouth. It consists of 20 units at 2.5 stories about 24.75 feet tall, (about 30 feet above grade), and a new 3,400-square-foot church. The project has met incredible resistance from taxpaying residents about its density and compatibility with the existing single-family zoning regulations. Currently the property is zoned R-1, single-family, which has a height limitation of two stories.
Keep Plymouth Charming is a community-driven effort dedicated to safeguarding the legacy and character of Plymouth. The website is the hub of information and advocacy for residents determined to influence the future course of development in their hometown.
For more information, visit: www.KeepPlymouthCharming.com
The Champion PUD is on the Plymouth Planning Commission agenda on July 16, 2025 @ 7pm.
Here’s the link to the submission: 1100 W Ann Arbor Trail Submission Received 6-18-25 2.pdf
Media Contacts:
• Scott Lorenz: Westwind Communications or [email protected]
• Kathryn Szary: [email protected]
Media ContactCompany Name: Westwind CommunicationsContact Person: Scott LorenzEmail: Send EmailPhone: (734) 667-2090Country: United StatesWebsite: https://www.WestwindBookMarketing.com
