The Cleveland Township Annual Meeting and Budget Hearing held on March 29, 2025, focused on various topics including financial updates, community services, infrastructure, and the approval of the fiscal year 2025/26 budget. Key decisions included the endorsement of proposed salary resolutions for elected officials, a new interlocal fire department agreement, and approval of the township budget. Significant developments concerning zoning, short-term rental (STR) regulations, and community safety were also discussed.
Public Comments
Several public comments were received during the meeting. Concerns included:
- The fine for operating unpermitted short-term rentals, noted to be $350 per occurrence.
- The cost structure of ambulance rides; Chief Doornbos provided clarification on billing related to different service levels (BLS and ALS).
- Safety on Maple City Road raised by Mark Fisher, highlighting issues with traffic due to boat ramp access.
- Gwen Allgaier thanked the county road commission for their efforts and discussed broadband expansion plans in the county.
- Lisa Jennison raised issues regarding shoreline preservation for Lime Lake in connection to a renovation project that may violate the setback law.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
(No details available for affordable housing initiatives were discussed in this meeting.)
Parks and Recreation Matters
Updates on the Planning Commission’s efforts included amendments related to parks and conservancy natural areas, although specific projects or initiatives were not detailed in this document.
Infrastructure Projects
- Updates from the Leelanau County Road Commission highlighted ongoing challenges in funding local roads amidst inflation. Reports indicated that Scenic Mountain View Estates and Fairway Drive would be included in road improvements slated for fall 2025.
- Chief Doornbos of the Cedar Area Fire and Rescue Department discussed plans for a second station to enhance emergency response, which requires further approvals and funding assessments.
Other Business
The meeting included discussions on:
- Supervisors Annual Report detailing STR ordinance enforcement and updates on the moratorium for B1 and B2 development zoning, which is expected to be lifted soon following a review.
- Changes and improvements to Township Hall facilities to enhance usability for community events.
- Review of salaries for elected officials resulting in proposed salary increases.
Financial Summary
- The 2025/26 General Fund Budget was discussed, with key figures including:
- Total Revenue: $1,013,058
- Total Expenditure: $798,856
- Fire/Emergency Services Budgeted: $392,490
- Projected General Fund Balance as of 2/28/25: $455,014
- Significant funding sources noted are State Revenue Sharing ($121,261), PILT/Reimbursement ($13,650), and other fees.
- The approved salary for elected officials included the Supervisor at $16,500 and the Clerk at $22,350, among others.
Action Items
- Supervisors to implement STR violation notices starting April 1, 2025, for unpermitted operators.
- The Planning Commission to conduct a review of zoning ordinances concerning B1 and B2 districts to align with the township’s master plan by year-end.
- Follow-ups to secure funding and further discussions regarding the construction of a second fire station.
- Public inquiries regarding ambulance services to be directed to Chief Doornbos for assistance.
Source Document
This summary was AI-generated from the official meeting record. The full source document is the authoritative version.