2/8/2024 - Northport Village | Council Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Northport Village Council meeting held on February 8, 2024, involved several significant discussions and decisions, particularly focusing on property development, housing initiatives, and finance-related matters. The Council approved necessary resolutions, contracts, and budget amendments, while engaging with community members and addressing concerns raised by various stakeholders.

Public Comments

There were no public comments made during the initial session. However, later in the meeting, Mary Betzoldt inquired about the public hearing scheduled for March 7 regarding 7th Street. Furthermore, Mike McMillan, the Leelanau Township Supervisor, expressed support for ongoing collaboration between the village and the township, especially concerning housing initiatives and shared auditing efforts.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

Several letters of support were received regarding affordable housing at the village-owned property on 7th Street. Kristi Fischer and Suzy Moffett, among others, voiced their endorsement of developing or selling these lots. Village Manager Jim Dyer highlighted discussions around a Housing North partnership, advocating for a joint planning commission with the township to address issues related to workforce and attainable housing.

Infrastructure Projects

A significant agenda item was the resolution of a property line dispute related to Park Street. Village Manager Jim Dyer presented a proposed agreement to resolve ownership and use issues by quitclaiming parts of the property to Three Rivers Properties LLC and Karl Wizinsky, with a five-year lease for remaining areas. The resolution was adopted after discussions over the lease's terms and implications, with Trustee Harper abstaining due to a conflict of interest.

Other Business

Among other agenda items, the Council approved contracts with an auditing firm, UHY, to the amount of $18,007.50, and resolved to amend the fee schedule concerning various application fees. Additionally, the 2024-25 Council meeting schedule was established, and the budget for 2023-24 was extended by four months.

Financial Summary

The Council considered and approved payments totaling $48,853.91 for the month of December, ensuring the prioritization of utility payments as proposed by Trustee Cavendish. Also discussed were the amendments to the fee schedule, including an increase for Zoning Board of Appeals interpretation requests from $100 to $500.

Action Items

- Village Manager Jim Dyer to investigate the billing process for wind turbine cleanup. - Continue collaboration with the township for housing initiatives. - Follow through on the property line dispute resolution as approved. - Implement the approved contracts with auditors and adjust the fee schedule as established in the meeting.