Township Annual Meeting & Budget Hearing- 10am (Minutes)

The annual meeting and budget hearing of Cleveland Township, Leelanau County, Michigan, was convened on March 29, 2025, at 10:00 AM. The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and the approval of the previous year’s minutes. Supervisor Tim Stein provided an update on the Short Term Rentals Ordinance, which became effective on January 1, 2025, with 30 permits issued out of the allowed 36. The township plans to enforce violations starting April 1, 2025, with fines of $350 per occurrence. Additionally, a moratorium on development in B1 and B2 zoning districts was discussed, aimed at aligning future development with the township’s master plan. Improvements to the township hall were also reviewed, including recent flooring replacements and plans for a new furnace and air conditioning system in the upcoming budget.

The Cedar Area Fire and Rescue Department’s annual report was presented by Chief Doornbos, highlighting a successful year with significant achievements such as defining the department’s mission, vision, and values, and managing a payroll that constitutes 78% of the operations budget. The department secured several grants totaling $31,500 for equipment and technology, and responded to 584 incidents in 2024, with 66% being EMS responses. Plans for a second station were discussed, involving preliminary architectural designs and potential funding strategies. Public comments addressed ambulance ride costs and the implications of the second station on township budgets.

The Leelanau County Road Commission provided updates on road maintenance and projects, including the Scenic Mountain View Estates Subdivision and Fairway Drive, set for completion in the fall of 2025. Commissioner Gwenne Allgier discussed county activities, focusing on the goal to complete the broadband project with expected BEAD funding. The township’s 2025/26 salary resolutions were reviewed and approved, setting salaries for elected officials. The Planning Commission’s annual report highlighted recent amendments to zoning ordinances and ongoing environmental concerns, such as the preservation of Lime Lake’s shoreline and addressing beech disease. The budget hearing reviewed the proposed 2025/26 fiscal year budget, noting a slight increase in taxable value and key revenue and expense items, with total expenditures at 91% of planned expenses. The meeting concluded with the approval of the proposed budget and a new interlocal fire department agreement.

Cleveland Township