8/7/2025 - Northport Village | Work Session Meeting Minutes Draft

Summary

The Village Council Work Session focused on several key topics including the future of the Leelanau Community Energy monopole, attainable housing initiatives, short-term rental regulations, budget amendments, and the ongoing treasurer recruitment process. No public comments were recorded during the meeting.

Public Comments

No public comments were made during the meeting; therefore, there were no speaker names or concerns to report.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

Manager Jered Ottenwess discussed the amendment to Ordinance 141 regarding Attainable Housing Facilities Exemption. The proposed changes aim to clarify that residential properties with up to four dwelling units, while owner-occupied, may qualify for tax exemptions if rented to income-qualified tenants. The council agreed to prepare a simple amendment for reading at the next regular meeting.

Infrastructure Projects

The discussion surrounding the Leelanau Community Energy monopole considered options for its future, including removal or repurposing for solar energy. Financial implications and cost estimates for removal and repurposing were reviewed. The council decided to gather further information and explore alternative proposals before transitioning to the next steps.

Other Business

Other discussions included the need for a consent agenda to streamline routine items, the condition of outdated trail signs and options for replacement, the hiring process for the treasurer position, and an update regarding a recent FOIA request. The council also expressed general concerns about communication issues raised by the UHY audit invoice.

Financial Summary

Clerk Joni Scott presented an overview of budget amendments highlighting variances between revenues and expenses across different funds, including: - General Fund: Revenues exceeded expectations; expenses for professional services and DPW salaries surpassed the budget. - Major/Local Streets: Increased winter service costs were noted. - Water Fund: Revenues were below projections with increased expenses. - Marina and Vehicle & Equipment Fund: Varying performance noted with increased revenues and decreased expenses, respectively. A resolution for budget amendments will be presented for approval at the next meeting.

Action Items

1. **Leelanau Community Energy Monopole**: Gather additional information and explore alternative proposals for the future use of the monopole. 2. **Ordinance 141**: Prepare a one-reading amendment concerning attainable housing for the next regular meeting. 3. **Short-Term Rentals**: The Planning Commission to review and propose amendments regarding STR regulations. 4. **Treasurer Position**: Manager Ottenwess to present a candidate's resume and employment agreement for council approval at the next meeting. 5. **FOIA Request**: Council members to submit relevant texts or emails by noon the following day.