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The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners Executive Board Session convened on November 12, 2024, under Chairman Ty Wessell. A contentious debate emerged over stipends for the Chief Deputy Clerk and County Clerk. Interim County Administrator Richard I. Lewis suggested removing the item, but the board voted to maintain the stipends, recognizing their importance in county operations.
Timothy J. Lodge, P.E., a candidate for the Leelanau County Road Commission, presents his qualifications and over 39 years of civil engineering experience. He emphasizes his expertise in roads and bridges, his long-term residency in the county, and his commitment to local infrastructure, prioritizing projects based on public input amidst declining revenues.
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners held a special session on November 12, 2024, focusing on interviews for the Road Commission and reviewing applications for County Administrator. Following candidate interviews, Mel Black was appointed to fill an unexpired term. The Board also planned to interview nine candidates for the County Administrator position on November 18-19, 2024.
Kipling C. Belcher has over 25 years of command-level experience with the Michigan State Police, specializing in administrative, budgetary, and operational aspects. Currently a commander for the MSP Seventh District, he manages multiple task forces and resources while advocating for efficient county operations. His educational background in organizational management and business administration further enhances his leadership capabilities.
On October 15, 2024, the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners, led by Chairman Ty Wessell, convened to discuss the Leland Dam Walkway and Railing Project. The Board ultimately voted 4-2 to accept Easling Construction’s bid of $108,646 for Ipe, a South American product, opting for this choice after evaluating alternatives.
This memorandum summarizes the bid results for the Leland Dam Pedestrian Bridge repair project, conducted on September 27, 2024. Machin Engineering reviewed bids from various contractors. The board requested a review of composite products and walnut, aiming for sustainability. However, the firm advises against composite materials due to safety concerns and suggests Ipe or Thermally Modified Ash.
Kama Ross, a retired forester and Leelanau County Commissioner, is advocating for Black Locust wood for the Leland Dam pedestrian bridge. She criticizes current bids using Ipe or Thermally Modified Ash, emphasizing Black Locust’s sustainability and durability. Support from local businesses reinforces her campaign for this environmentally friendly option, despite concerns from project officials.
The primary goal is to replace the Leland Dam Bridge utilizing materials such as Ipe, Thermally Modified Ash, or Treated Southern Yellow Pine (SYP) to ensure long-term durability and low maintenance requirements. Both Ipe and Thermally Modified Ash have been identified as suitable materials. Various contractors submitted bids for the project based on different material options.
The Leland Dam Authority has proposed a contract with Fisher Contracting Company for the Dam Walkway and Railing Project, budgeted at $124,736.77. This project aims to replace existing materials with more durable options, focusing on sustainability. The recommendation for Fisher stems from their commitment to using 100% Thermally Modified Ash, enhancing durability and environmental responsibility.
The Northwest Regional Airport Authority (NRAA) is seeking to enhance the facilities at Cherry Capital Airport through a Terminal Expansion Project, which includes the addition of five new gates and various supportive amenities. This renovation aims to expand the airport’s functionality by improving passenger experiences with new concession areas, a larger security checkpoint, and enhanced passenger boarding facilities.
