February 20, 2024 Minutes (February 20, 2024 Minutes)

**Executive Summary of Regular Board Meeting Minutes – Glen Arbor Township (02/20/2024)**

**Meeting Overview**
The Glen Arbor Township Board meeting was convened by Supervisor Tom Laureto at 7:32 PM on February 20, 2024. All board members, as well as Chief Ferguson and Captain Dykgraaf, were in attendance. The meeting agenda was amended and unanimously approved, following the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance and assurance of no conflicts of interest among board members. Public comment was not present, and minutes from the previous meeting were also approved without objections.

**Financial Reports and Recommendations**
The treasurer’s report for January 2024 indicated a significant balance across various funds, such as a General Fund total of $1,032,868.05. The Emergency Services Advisory Commission (ESAC) recommended payment of bills and payroll, while Clerk Laureto provided updates on reimbursements from the November 2023 election. A substantial number of bills spanning multiple departments, particularly in Emergency Services, were approved for payment. Chief Ferguson reported on the new fire engine and ongoing efforts to secure a FEMA grant for breathing apparatus, involving multiple counties.

**New Business and Resolutions**
Several initiatives were discussed, including the approval of Resolution 1-2024 concerning the Leelanau County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan, and the Financial Assistance request from the Glen Lake Association regarding the eradication of Eurasian Water Milfoil. The Board also scheduled a special meeting to amend the budget and finalize the FY25 budget. Noteworthy salary adjustments were discussed and passed for various township officials, reflecting the increased responsibilities and historical salary trends. The meeting further included discussions on the renewal of Chief Ferguson’s contract and anticipated improvements in township operations.

**Additional Reports and Community Engagement**
No reports were provided by the Park and Recreation Board due to their lack of meetings, while Trustee Hawley emphasized upcoming reviews by the Planning Commission. Public comments were absent; however, a reminder was given for the public budget hearing scheduled for March 19, 2024, featuring guest Brendan Mullane from the Road Commission. The meeting concluded with a testament of gratitude from the Glen Arbor Women’s Club and an outlined projection for township road repairs, highlighting ongoing community engagement and future planning efforts.