The purpose of the special meeting is to collect public input on the types of housing needed in the Leelanau Township and Village of Northport area. The meeting will feature an open discussion on housing needs and potential solutions, as well as presentations from Housing North and non-profit developers.
Leelanau Township’s small airports serve crucial roles in emergencies and tourism, necessitating protective measures against development. Federal and local jurisdictions govern airspace and ground safety. The Woolsey Memorial Airport is integrated into the Transportation Plan, emphasizing the township’s priority of maintaining safety and operational integrity of these facilities.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission will meet on March 13, 2025, at 6:30 P.M. at 119 E. Nagonaba St, Northport, MI, with Zoom access for public participation. The agenda includes approval of the master plan workshop and minutes, along with public comment opportunities. Written submissions are welcome prior to the meeting for consideration.
This Executive Summary outlines the key elements of the Leelanau Township Master Plan, designed to guide the community’s future. The plan addresses demographics, housing, natural features, coastal resiliency, and more. It identifies priorities and provides recommendations for policy updates, aimed at promoting efficient resource use, environmental quality, and informed zoning decisions.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission submitted its annual report for 2024, detailing membership changes, meeting schedules, and key projects. With one resignation and two new appointees, the Commission met 18 times, focusing on the Master Plan update, zoning amendments, and community engagement. Continuing education efforts enhanced commissioners’ skills in planning and zoning.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission reviewed a Special Land Use Permit Application for a proposed 200’-3” communications tower. The commission found that the tower would change the character of the Agricultural Zoning District. Despite previous approvals, a majority voted against it, citing impacts on scenic views, agricultural land, wetlands, and inadequate stormwater management plans.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on Thursday, February 27, 2025, at 6:30 P.M., located at 119 E. Nagonaba St, Northport, MI 49670. Public participation is encouraged, with comments limited to three minutes. Meeting packets are available at the official website for public viewing and participation via Zoom.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission convened on February 13, 2025, with options for public participation via Zoom. The agenda included essential items such as the call to order, roll call, and approval of the agenda, along with public comments. Key discussion items included a Special Land Use Permit Application for a Wireless Communications Tower and the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget recommendation.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission had an active year in 2024, focusing on the Master Plan, housing, agriculture, and commercial development. They reviewed a special use permit for a communications tower, faced public opposition, and examined a zoning amendment for farm stay camping. Additionally, they participated in leadership meetings and continued their education efforts.
In January 2025, Leelanau Township issued six land use permits, showing a slight increase from five in January 2024. Ongoing land division initiatives reflect the township’s commitment to growth and active community engagement. Staff is also reviewing a Special Use Permit, highlighting a need for clarity in short-term rental regulations associated with land use policies.
