5/11/2026 - Leland Township | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Leland Township Board meeting held on May 20, 2026, addressed several key concerns, including public comments regarding pickleball courts, various action items, and community engagement. The Board approved several motions, including grant applications and the request for dock work on the Carp River, while also interacting with community members regarding their preferences for park space.

Public Comments

1. **Tom Bischoff** expressed concerns over the construction of 12 pickleball courts at Hancock Field, asserting that green space would be more beneficial for the community. He encouraged Board members to attend the Leland School Board meeting that evening for further discussions.

2. Mathew Hogan also voiced significant community concerns about the pickleball courts, stating the public was not adequately included in the planning process for Hancock Field.

3. Kate Vilter-Stassen echoed concerns about pickleball courts and their impact on the available green space, arguing that the courts would limit its flexibility for other uses.

4. Lauren Conner supported the previous speakers’ concerns, advocating for alternative locations for the pickleball courts to preserve green space.

Action Items

1. **Grant Request for Harbor Dredge**: The Board approved a 2% grant application to offset dredging costs, moved by Scales and supported by Garthe. Motion carried.

2. Purchase of Hand Dryer: A motion was passed to purchase a hand dryer for the Harbor Ladies' bathroom for $505.00, moved by Brookfield and supported by Garthe. Motion carried.

3. Boat-Wash Station Events: The Lake Leelanau Lake Association's request to host boat-wash events at Leland launch sites was approved. Motion carried.

4. Cultural District Overlay Zoning Amendment: After deliberation, the Board approved the amended language for the zoning amendment, which allows food trucks in the Cultural District without requiring Township approval. Scales and Brookfield supported the motion, which passed with Kuntz recusing himself.

5. RFP for Dock Work: The Board approved an RFP for dock work on the Carp River, with emphasis on engineering oversight. Motion carried.

Other Business

During board comments, Supervisor Clint Mitchell reassured that the plans to improve Hancock Field included consideration of maintaining the baseball field and cleaning up the park. He also mentioned the continuous communication with Leland School regarding park design. Trustee Kuntz emphasized the need for a joint discussion between the Township and the School to address mutual needs.

Action Items

- **Public Housing Discussions**: The Board will continue to address the concerns raised about the pickleball courts and involve the public more in planning discussions. - **Follow-Up on Community Engagement**: Board members are encouraged to attend the Leland School Board meeting as mentioned in public comments to discuss the plans further with community and school representatives.