Regular Session (Public Comment – S. Mikowski, 1/21/2025)

Executive Summary:

A. Governance Challenges and Opportunities
– The document discusses several governance challenges and opportunities for Leelanau County, including:
– A May 2021 decision by the County Commissioners to waste $1 million of taxpayer money
– Restrictions on public input at County Commissioner meetings in January 2023
– A change in meeting times in January 2025 that appears to deny public access

B. Commissioner Governance Declaration
– The document includes a “Declaration” for elected County Commissioners to execute, which outlines their objectives and duties in serving the people of Leelanau County. Key points include:
– Focusing on mandated and essential services for the benefit of all residents
– Requiring a lawful petition from electors for any non-mandated, non-essential items/services
– Considering the principle of subsidiarity in all governance actions

C. County Meeting Times and Public Access
– The document criticizes the scheduling of various county committee and authority meetings at times that appear to make it difficult for the public to attend and participate. It suggests the meeting times are scheduled for the convenience of the members rather than the public.
– The document calls for an agenda item at the next County Commissioner Executive Meeting to address taxpayer/public accessibility and participation at all county meetings.

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