March 14, 2024 Reular meeting minutes CV (Minutes)

The Northport Village Council convened its regular meeting on March 14, 2024, led by President Christopher McCann. The session commenced with the approval of the previous meeting’s minutes and the agenda, which was modified to include an infrastructure report and exclude the March 7th meeting minutes. Correspondence received showed a mix of support and opposition to the proposed Social District, with community members like David Kwiatowski and Michael Chetcuti expressing support, while Anne Harper and John and Christine Woomer voiced opposition. Public comments highlighted a strong call for a public hearing on the Social District, with Karl Wizinsky and John Weber emphasizing the need for community input and transparency in the decision-making process. Concerns about the potential impact on Northport’s character and the accessibility of meeting documentation were also raised.

Staff and committee reports provided updates on various village initiatives. Village Manager Jim Dyer reported on his appointment to an affordable housing board, funding for rain gardens, and upcoming agenda items. The Finance Committee discussed budget preparation for the new fiscal year, aiming for a tentative budget by April. The Infrastructure Committee reviewed progress on wind turbine site clearance, electric car charger sponsorships, and the Capital Improvement Plan. Ex-officio reports from the Planning Commission and the Northport Leelanau Township Utility Authority (NLTUA) covered zoning ordinance amendments and utility service contracts, respectively.

The council deliberated on several key action items. A resolution to establish a Social District was passed with amendments to the management plan, including changes to common areas, hours of operation, and the use of environmentally friendly cups. Another resolution to explore a joint Township/Village Planning and Housing Commission for workforce housing was approved, aiming to address the community’s housing needs. Additionally, resolutions adopting the Leelanau County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan and authorizing a Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Waterfront Master Plan were passed. The meeting concluded with the approval of bills amounting to $132,264.40 and adjourned at 8:30 pm.