Summary
The Cleveland Township Board met on October 13, 2026, with all five members present. Key actions included approving the September 30, 2026 Treasurer's Report, approving a 19% total increase (5% standard plus a one-time 14%) for the proposed 2027–2028 Cedar Area Fire and Rescue (CAFR) budget, advancing a proposed amendment to the 2025 CAFR interlocal agreement to November for a public hearing, rescinding the resolution of intent to establish a special assessment district (SAD) for the Little Traverse Lake culvert project, and discussing compensation for the Zoning Administrator's future land-division work.
Public Comments
No public comment was offered on the agenda. During the Open Public Forum, Ken Smith asked whether a target or normal lake level had been established for Little Traverse Lake and how downstream flow related to lake levels. Supervisor Tim Stein responded that the Township had voted not to take further action on the culvert matter and that the engineering work addressed the downstream flow issue.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Supervisor Tim Stein reported attending the October 9th unveiling of the Leelanau Conservancy Sugar Loaf Mountain Recreational Area. The Maintenance Report noted the Township anticipates shutting off water at the cemetery and removing portable toilets from the township park on November 1.
Infrastructure Projects
The Board rescinded its resolution of intent to establish a special assessment district for the Little Traverse Lake culvert project (motion by Todd Nowak, seconded by Tracy Olsen; Ayes 5, Nays 0), having previously canceled the related public hearing. Supervisor Stein shared a memo from engineering consultant Gosling-Czubak recommending water-level thresholds for Little Traverse Lake and Shalda Creek to support possible National Park Service authorization to remove downstream obstructions. Leelanau County Road Commission representative Brenden Mullane was reportedly comfortable with the thresholds and proposed meeting with the National Park Service and the Supervisor regarding a possible memorandum of understanding.
Other Business
The Zoning Administrator reported staffing changes at the firm assisting with land divisions; Scott Sheehan is taking MSU training to handle this work. A draft short-term rental renewal checklist/acknowledgment form (November 1 deadline) was discussed but not formally approved; the Board suggested increasing the font size. Six applicants remain on the short-term rental waiting list. A December Board of Review meeting was noted as required.
Financial Summary
Treasurer's Report (September 30, 2026): Beginning Balance $512,459.20; Disbursements -$33,984.84; Revenue $55,422.53; Ending Balance $533,896.89 (approved 5-0). The Board approved a 19% total increase for the 2027–2028 CAFR budget (5-0), reflecting a one-time 14% increase above the standard 5% cap, citing rising costs including advanced life support services. Proposed Zoning Administrator stipends: $340 per land division and $170 per lot-line adjustment, based on MTA recommendations and existing fees of $450 and $175 respectively, with an anticipated start before January 1.
Action Items
- Zoning Administrator Scott Sheehan to complete MSU land-division training and begin handling applications, with stipend compensation ($340/land division, $170/lot-line adjustment) anticipated to start before January 1.
- Short-term rental renewal checklist/acknowledgment form to be revised (font size increase) before inclusion with applications; renewal deadline November 1.
- CAFR interlocal agreement amendment scheduled for consideration and public hearing at the November meeting.
- Supervisor Stein to pursue meeting with National Park Service and Road Commission's Brenden Mullane regarding water-level thresholds and a possible memorandum of understanding.
- Board of Review meeting required in December.