Summary
The Cleveland Township Board met on October 8, 2024, to discuss various matters affecting the township. Key decisions included the approval of the September minutes, the Treasurer's Report, and motions to pursue a lower speed limit on Little Traverse Lake Road and to renew the Granicus contract for monitoring short-term rentals (STR) in 2025. The board addressed public comments, zoning issues, and planned maintenance.
Public Comments
Several residents, including Cathy Anderson, Cookie Currier, and Billy Peplinski, attended the meeting. There were discussions about monitoring compliance with STR applications, concerns about policing unregistered rentals, and an expression of gratitude for road paving and discussions on speed limit reduction.
Cathy Anderson emphasized that commercial properties should adhere to the same regulations as residential rentals concerning STRs. Cookie Currier raised concerns about residents who do not submit STR applications and how those would be enforced. Dave Skjaerlund presented data on traffic trends related to speed limit considerations and highlighted the need for reconsideration of the speed limit due to increased pedestrian activity.
Infrastructure Projects
Tim Stein reported the completion of the East Traverse Lake Road Project, with a pending bill amounting to $198,000, which was covered by the existing road fund. Discussions included a review of the speed limit on Little Traverse Lake Road, which may be adjusted from 40 to 35 mph. The request for this adjustment aimed to reflect the increased residential and recreational usage of the road over the past 20 years. The board ultimately voted to authorize further exploration of this speed limit lower adjustment.
Other Business
The board approved the renewal of the Granicus contract for STR monitoring for 2025. Additionally, they agreed to pursue internet services from Spectrum for the township hall.
Financial Summary
- Treasurer's Report showed a beginning balance of $405,627.64, disbursements of $13,536.53, and revenues of $36,111.55, resulting in an ending balance of $428,202.66.
- The Granicus renewal contract was approved for $5,073.71, reflecting an increase from the previous year.
Action Items
- Tim Stein to report back at the next meeting on the progress of the speed limit evaluation for Little Traverse Lake Road.
- The board will monitor compliance and enforcement measures for the newly implemented STR regulations, ensuring all applicants adhere to the rules moving forward.
- Follow-up on pursuing internet services with Spectrum is to be conducted post-election.