Executive Board (Minutes)

Executive Summary:

**Agenda and Administrative Updates:** The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners convened, with a focus on procedural matters, including the approval of the amended agenda. The meeting included updates from Interim Administrator Lewis, covering Point Broadband progress, Leelanau Tower developments, playground equipment upgrades, 2% grant awards, and the E-911 Public Service Plan. The FY 2023 Leelanau County Audit was presented by Rehmann Principal Steve Peacock, followed by a discussion on Senior Services and Meals on Wheels. Several public comments were received.

**Action Items & Recommendations:** The Board considered several action items, making recommendations regarding the Sheriff’s Office RAP Grant, the Child Care Fund Annual Plan and Budget, the West Bay/West Shore Brownfield termination, and the 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program. A motion to accept and approve the 2023 Audit was passed. The Board also approved a contract for a Parks & Recreation 5-Year Master Plan and set a public hearing date for the PACE program. The agenda also included a comprehensive discussion on the county’s goals for the next six months, with particular focus on financial systems modernization, the budget, staffing, and facilities management.

**Finance, Staffing, and Budget Discussions:** A major portion of the meeting focused on the Finance Department’s structure, including the permanent appointment of the Finance Director, stipends, and the potential transition to BS&A financial software. The Board discussed staffing levels, and upcoming union negotiations, and the process for the FY2025 budget. Discussions also covered facility management, with differing viewpoints on the need for a facilities manager, and the Board reached a consensus to support Interim Administrator Lewis’s plan for the Finance Director position and the related goals.

**Commissioner Comments & Public Comment:** The meeting closed with public comments, which included discussion and expression of opinions on the resignation of Commissioner Kramer, and ensuing issues. The commissioners addressed the comments, and Chairman Wessell highlighted the board’s commitment to respect and commitment to respect as per board rules. The board approved the claims and accounts and post audit claims and accounts.