Executive Board (Public Comment – T. & M. Sutter, 4/9/2024)

In a letter dated April 3, 2024, addressed to the Leelanau County Commissioners, Tom and Marnie Sutter expressed their dismay regarding a photograph of Sheriff Mike Borkovich standing next to former President Donald Trump at a rally in Grand Rapids. The Sutter’s raised several concerns about the appropriateness of the sheriff’s actions, questioning whether he used a county vehicle to attend the event, if his wearing of the sheriff’s uniform implied Leelanau County’s support for Trump, and whether he was on duty during his time at the rally. These questions highlight the potential misuse of county resources and the possible political implications of the sheriff’s actions.

The letter also touches on broader political issues, noting that Leelanau County supported President Joe Biden in the last election. The Sutter’s criticized Trump’s stance on the border crisis, pointing out his rejection of a bipartisan congressional measure aimed at addressing the issue and continuing funding for Ukraine. They questioned whether Sheriff Borkovich aligns with Trump’s views, including the unfounded claim that the election was stolen, despite numerous court challenges proving otherwise. This raises concerns about the sheriff’s political affiliations and their impact on his role as a law enforcement officer.

The Sutter’s emphasized that Sheriff Borkovich was elected to uphold the law and protect the people of Leelanau County. They expressed uncertainty about how his appearance at the rally with Trump, whom they described as having engaged in insurrection, aligns with his duties. The letter calls for the county commissioners to address these concerns and ensure that the sheriff’s actions reflect his responsibility to serve the community impartially and uphold the law.