Township Board: Monday, March 18, 2025, at 5:30pm, to Interview Assessor Candidates (Minutes)

**Executive Summary of Leelanau Township Board of Trustees Special Meeting**

**Meeting Overview**
The Leelanau Township Board of Trustees convened for a special meeting on March 18, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The meeting was led by Chair Barb Conley and included all board members present, with no absences. The agenda was approved unanimously, facilitating a focused discussion on the interview and selection of a candidate for the assessor position.

**Discussion Highlights**
The meeting primarily focused on the assessment of Barry Wauldron as a candidate for the township’s assessor role. Wauldron discussed his qualifications, including his detail-oriented approach, strong communication skills, and practical experience with property assessments. He highlighted his commitment to face-to-face interactions with property owners and detailed his previous experiences in handling challenging taxpayer situations, including his training in de-escalation techniques from prior law enforcement roles. The board members expressed their confidence in his ability to fulfill the role effectively, noting his willingness to limit his commitments to ensure adequate focus on Leelanau Township.

**Decision and Community Feedback**
After deliberation, a motion to offer the assessor position to Barry Wauldron was made and unanimously passed. Community members present at the meeting expressed their support for the decision, emphasizing the importance of having an assessor who is personable and dedicated to the township. Suggestions for a potential one-year contract were raised, showcasing the community’s desire for accountability and effective governance.

**Conclusion and Next Steps**
The meeting concluded with no additional comments or reports from board members, and it was adjourned at 6:12 PM. This special meeting underscored the township’s commitment to careful selection of municipal staff, fostering trust and transparency within the community.