Parks & Recreation Committee: Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 5:30pm (Correspondence)

Buster Dame Park and 7th Street are central to a proposed land swap between Leelanau Township and the Village, which has sparked significant public concern. Buster Dame Park, easily accessible and the only full-sized ball diamond in the area, offers potential for various enhancements as outlined in the Parks and Rec Plan 2022-2026. These improvements include parking, sidewalks, picnic facilities, and more, which could significantly benefit both township and village residents. The park’s unique features, such as its flat, tree-free area, make it an ideal location for community activities. The public should be informed about these possibilities before any decision to swap the park is made, as once it is gone, it cannot be reclaimed.

The 7th Street parcel, currently owned by the Village, is fraught with issues and has been a point of contention for years. Despite being buildable, the site’s development is complicated by environmental concerns, public access to the Bay, and potential disruption to the neighborhood. The Village has considered various options, including selling off parcels for revenue, but the Township should not take on this troubled property. The proposed land swap would not only be a financial and liability burden but also lacks clear benefits for the Township. The Village should handle the 7th Street parcel independently, without involving Township resources or taxpayer dollars.

The discussion around removing park use restrictions and the potential for affordable housing at Buster Dame Park raises further concerns. The concept of “affordable housing” is misleading, and “sustainable housing” through appropriate zoning is a more viable solution. The Township should focus on zoning adjustments to encourage higher density and support local organizations working on housing initiatives, rather than engaging in land swaps. Both Buster Dame Park and 7th Street are within the Special Assessment District (SAD), making them unsuitable for sustainable housing due to high costs. The Township should prioritize exploring enhancements for Buster Dame Park and avoid the proposed land swap, which is not in the best interest of its residents.

Village of Northport website