Township Board: Township Board: Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 5:30pm (Correspondence)

This document outlines perspectives on potential land use changes within the Village of Northport, with a focus on the BD Park and the former maintenance property on 7th Street. The primary concerns revolve around balancing the preservation of existing parkland with the need for housing and the current misuse of the 7th Street property. The original author suggests preserving the park and promoting development on the 7th Street lots.

Supervisor Conley acknowledges the importance of parks and highlights existing recreational areas in Leelanau Township. She emphasizes the critical need for affordable housing, citing the negative impact of housing shortages on the community, including the loss of teachers, librarians, and essential service personnel. She mentions a 24-acre parcel owned by New Community Vision (NCV) intended for housing development and notes the 7th Street property has been considered for a natural area. The supervisor suggests exploring a compromise for Buster Dame park land.

Tom MacDonald, a resident of 7th Street, expresses concerns about the misuse of the former maintenance property, which is being used as a dumping ground and unauthorized parking area. He is not necessarily against the potential land swap but emphasizes the need for responsible management of the property to align with the residential character of the street.

The summary underscores the complex interplay between maintaining community amenities, addressing affordable housing shortages, and ensuring responsible land management practices within the Village of Northport. It reflects the need for an open dialogue to find solutions that consider the needs of all residents.