Annual Meeting/Budget Hearing:3/23/2024 (Minutes)

The annual meeting and budget hearing of Cleveland Township, Leelanau County, Michigan, took place on March 23, 2024, and was called to order by Supervisor Tim Stein. The meeting covered several key topics, including the approval of the previous year’s minutes, the Supervisor’s annual report, and updates on various township projects. A significant focus was on the development of a Short-Term Rental Ordinance, which has been in progress for over a year. The ordinance, set to be discussed at a public hearing on May 14, 2024, aims to regulate short-term rentals with a proposed permit ratio of 3% of effective properties, an annual fee of $350, and mandatory septic inspections every five years. The township has contracted Granicus Corporation to assist with the ordinance’s administration, which is expected to be enforced starting July 1, 2024. Public comments during the meeting expressed concerns about existing summer reservations and the ordinance’s impact on neighborhoods.

Infrastructure updates included the completion of the East End of Little Traverse Lake Rd project in the summer of 2024, with Cleveland Township’s share estimated at $190,000. The township has budgeted $200,000 for this project. Plans for 2025 include finishing the West End of Little Traverse Lake Rd and repaving Scenic Mountain View Estate, with costs estimated at $354,000. The Leelanau County Road Commission’s involvement and funding splits were discussed, highlighting the financial burden on the township for road maintenance. Additionally, the meeting addressed the proposed route of Segment 9 of the Suttons Bay Heritage Trail, with a public meeting scheduled for April 29, 2024, to discuss the trail’s design and environmental impact. Concerns were raised about the trail’s potential disruption to the natural environment, prompting calls for a new environmental assessment.

The budget hearing reviewed the proposed 2024/25 fiscal year general fund budget, with a township taxable value of nearly $157 million, reflecting a 9% increase from the previous year. Key revenue items included a 0.5491 millage for general operations amounting to $79,050 and a 2.25 millage for fire/emergency services totaling $323,920. Major expenses included $392,490 for fire/emergency services, $93,105 for wages, and $200,000 for roads. The projected general fund balance as of February 29, 2024, was $565,601, with an expected balance of $521,732 at the end of the fiscal year. The meeting concluded with the approval of the amended 2024/2025 General Fund Budget. Public comments and concerns were noted, particularly regarding the environmental impact of ongoing projects and the need for updated assessments in light of climate change.