Summary
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners held a Special Session on July 9, 2026, chaired by Steve Yoder, with all seven commissioners present. The meeting centered on a closed session to discuss a privileged attorney-client communication concerning County Administrator James Dyer. Following closed session, the Board took two key actions: authorizing negotiation of terms with Mr. Dyer, and accepting the findings of investigation reports related to personnel matters.
Public Comments
Before closed session, public comments were given by Jim Kobberstad, Curt Raftshol, Tim McCalley, Jim White, Steve Tostige, and David Kiessel; the minutes do not detail their specific remarks. After open session resumed, Jim White read a statement on behalf of Kim Rozanski. Commissioner Allgaier referenced remarks made to her by an audience member and responded by describing a longstanding "hostile environment" within County government, citing a staff survey from three years earlier and stating the problem predates Mr. Dyer. Commissioner Campbell apologized for the closed-door nature of proceedings and stated he would request and vote to release as many related documents as legally permissible once matters are resolved.
Other Business
The Board entered Closed Session at 9:54 a.m. under MCL 15.268(1)(h) to consider a written attorney-client privileged communication from corporation counsel dated July 9, 2026 (Motion #175, moved by Bunek, seconded by Robbins, 7-0). Open Session resumed at 11:55 a.m. (Motion #176, moved by Bunek, seconded by Wessell, 7-0).
Action Items
- Motion #177 (Walter/Wessell, 7-0): The Board Chair, Vice-Chair, and County Attorney were authorized to meet with James Dyer and present proposed terms consistent with the closed session discussion, subject to Mr. Dyer's acceptance and final Board approval at a future meeting.
- Motion #178 (Campbell, 7-0): The Board accepted the findings and recommendations of investigation reports dated June 16, 2026 and July 9, 2026, and authorized appropriate County officials and legal counsel to provide necessary notices regarding the outcome and take related actions consistent with the Board's direction.
- Commissioner Campbell stated he intends to request and vote for release of related documents to the public where not legally shielded, once the matter concludes.
The Special Session was adjourned by Chairman Yoder at 12:01 p.m.