Budget Workshop (Minutes)

The Leland Township Board convened a budget workshop on March 4, 2024, at the Leland Township Office to discuss and allocate funds for various township projects and expenses. The meeting, attended by key township officials including Treasurer Shirley Garthe, Trustee Clint Mitchell, Trustee Mariann Kirch, Supervisor Susan Och, and Clerk Lisa Brookfield, focused on setting the budget for infrastructure and operational needs. A significant portion of the discussion revolved around sidewalk projects, where it was decided to allocate $122,000 from ARPA and Metro funds for M204 sidewalks and previously approved sidewalk projects. Other notable budget items included $6,000 for painting crosswalks in Lake Leelanau, $1,200 for the removal of street lights, and $1,200 for Harbor restroom repairs.

Further budgetary considerations included $5,000 for preliminary seawall work, $500 for office building expenses, and an additional $5,000 for building repairs and maintenance. The board also addressed the need for locks on some inside doors of the office. Financial adjustments were made to account for increased insurance expenses, with an additional $1,000 added to the Clerk’s medical insurance and the Treasurer’s insurance expense rising to $16,500 from $15,750. A substantial $45,000 was budgeted for seawall designs, indicating a priority for infrastructure improvements along the township’s waterfront.

The Parks and Recreation budget was also a focal point of the meeting, with discussions on employee wages and maintenance services. Ken Hagstrom’s wages were reviewed, noting his current status on workman’s compensation. Trustee Clint Mitchell reported on his efforts to secure mowing services, having contacted several potential service providers including St. Mary’s, Plamondon, Schaub, and Spiniken. The board decided to wait for estimates before finalizing decisions on the maintenance position. The meeting concluded with a thorough review of the rest of the Parks and Rec budget, ensuring all aspects were considered before adjournment.