The Empire Village Council convened its regular meeting on November 14, 2024, at the Empire Township Hall. The meeting commenced with standard procedural items, including the Call to Order, Pledge of Allegiance, Roll Call, and adoption of the agenda. Public comments were invited on the agenda items. The Consent Agenda included the approval of minutes from the October 22, 2024, regular meeting.
The proposed construction of a 200-foot cell phone tower in Northport, Leelanau Township, has elicited significant opposition from local residents. Paris Morse argues that the project violates the local Master Plan and Zoning Ordinances, while Anne Woods fears it could harm property values. Emily Robbins emphasizes the need for alternative solutions that preserve Northport’s natural beauty.
The Leelanau Township Board of Trustees will meet in a closed session to discuss a legal opinion by the township attorney under section 8(1)(h) of the Open Meetings Act. Topics include social security and issues related to the local Sportsman Club. The meeting is on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 9:00 am.
The Village of Suttons Bay Planning Commission convened on November 13, 2024, addressing key items, including zoning amendments for Bayview Stories and Wireless Communication. Public hearings for these amendments were scheduled, along with budget discussions and Master Plan priorities. The meeting included public comments, reports from Zoning Administration, and Village Council updates, adjourning with announcements for the next meeting.
The Village of Suttons Bay Planning Commission convened its regular meeting on November 13, 2024, at 420 N. Front Street. The primary focus was on zoning amendments for Section 5-3 Bayview Stories and Section 9-13 Wireless Communications. The amendments were deemed consistent with the district’s intent and character, and unanimously approved for recommendation to the Village Council.
The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) of Suttons Bay convened on November 13, 2024, to discuss the 2025 budget and potential development proposals. Key discussions included strategic budget allocations, community needs, and plans to counter misconceptions about DDA initiatives. The meeting aimed to foster transparency and engagement, ensuring community input in decision-making processes.
The Downtown Development Authority of Suttons Bay convened on November 13, 2024. The 2025 budget was adopted, focusing on a restroom facility and infrastructure improvements. Future meetings are set for the 2nd Wednesday monthly at 9:00 a.m. Manager’s updates included park enhancements and waterline repairs, while grant applications have faced rejections.
The Kasson Township Sidewalk Ordinance, Ordinance No. 2024-XX, aims to ensure the safety and usability of sidewalks within the township by regulating their construction, repair, replacement, and removal. Key definitions clarify its scope, while the Township Board is granted specific powers for maintenance, requiring property owners to keep sidewalks clear and liable for damages from negligence.
The financial report for the Township of Kasson reveals significant challenges, with total ordinary income reported at $131,373.90 versus a budgeted $535,919.00, creating an unfavorable variance of $404,545.10. Key income sources have underperformed, particularly “Taxes” at only 0.7% of the budget, highlighting the urgency for enhanced revenue strategies and stricter expense control moving forward.
The Township of Kasson’s financial obligations as of November 13, 2024, encompass various services and utilities, totaling $13,654.47. Key expenses include CenturyLink phone services, a Haz Mat Fee from Traverse City, and Complete Outdoor’s services for mowing. Other significant expenditures include fees for zoning administration, election supplies, and streetscape planning, reflecting essential operational costs.
