7/15/2026 - Leelanau Township Board | Supervisor Report Summary

Summary

The meeting on July 9, 2026, focused on key decisions regarding millage rates, facilities management, and potential development projects. The presence of County Commissioner Ty Wessel highlighted a collaborative approach to zoning issues, while dialogue with housing consultant Susan Leithauser Yee aimed to address application review processes. Upcoming proposals for various community enhancements were set for discussion and potential voting.

Public Comments

No specific public comments were recorded in the provided document, hence no speaker names or concerns were noted.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

The board reviewed three proposals for the construction of attainable housing on township land at 824 N. Warren Street. Two proposals met the township's criteria and will be considered moving forward. Next steps include discussing these proposals and potentially selecting a finalist for contract negotiations at the August board meeting. The process may include public meetings or direct inquiries from developers.

Parks and Recreation Matters

The Parks and Recreation committee requested approval for a $300 membership to Survey Monkey, which would facilitate public input for the forthcoming Parks and Rec plan. Additionally, a proposal was received regarding a tennis court reservation for lessons, which requires a permit from the Board due to current Parks and Rec ordinances.

Infrastructure Projects

1. **Communications Tower**: A public hearing is scheduled for August 11 to discuss the proposal for renting land at Braman Hill for a communications tower. The board will establish an agenda that includes a 15-minute presentation from a representative of “The Towers” and public comment.

2. Road Maintenance: The board addressed routine maintenance costs for gravel on the road at Braman Hill amounting to $5,000. The board aims to reallocate this expense from another budget line. Additionally, up to $10,000 is proposed for maintenance of the tennis and pickleball courts, covering routine maintenance twice a year.

3. Woolsey Terminal Building Roof: The board is tasked with deciding on a roof for the Woolsey terminal building, weighing options between a cost-effective reinforced polyurethane roof and a historically accurate standing seam roof. A decision is needed shortly to advance the bidding process.

Other Business

Additional agenda items included deciding on unpaid checks amounting to $24,879.62 and budget amendments. The Board will also finalize the position description for the Assessing Assistant, which includes salary consideration and funding derived from a tax payment fee.

Financial Summary

Key financial figures discussed involve the following: - Millage rates projected to generate approximately: - Operating millage: $315,338 - Fire/Emergency Service millage: $1,954,487 - Extra voted operating millage: $304,324 - Library millage: $312,228 - An estimated $2,400 allocated for closing costs associated with the land swap with the Michigan DNR. - Ongoing membership costs for EMS-related services, totaling approximately $6,150, were presented for approval.

Action Items

1. By September 30, confirm the millage levies to the county. 2. Establish a final position description for the Assessing Assistant and initiate the hiring process. 3. Finalize plans for the roof construction decision for the Woolsey terminal. 4. Prepare and lead a public hearing for Braman Hill’s communications tower proposal. 5. Address the tennis court usage proposal and decide on permit issuance. 6. Organize future discussions on attainable housing proposals and set an agenda for the public engagement process. 7. Assess and potentially amend the current purchasing policy to suit operational needs.