Summary
The Cleveland Township Board met September 10, 2024, with Supervisor Tim Stein presiding. The board approved the August 13 minutes, the Treasurer's report, the L-4029 tax rate request, and payment of bills, all by 5-0 votes. After extensive public comment, the board voted 5-0 by roll call (Jan Nowak, Todd Nowak, Tim Stein, Tracy Olsen, Angie Diotte all "Aye") to rescind its September 10, 2019 resolution supporting Segment 9 of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail and to formally oppose its completion, citing fiscal and environmental concerns.
Public Comments
Roughly 30 residents attended, most speaking on Segment 9. Kim Hayes urged rescinding support, citing new environmental data, opposition from the GTB of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, the National Parks Conservation Association, and Sleeping Bear Naturally, and the trail's roughly $14 million cost. Gwen Allgier described 16 years of road/trail conflict and the loss of beech trees. Marian Sutter (45-year resident) and Rob Slate supported the trail for safety and recreation. Julie Emons Finch and Neil Hanna opposed it, citing family land-taking history and wilderness-area intent. David Tabolt argued opposition was "eco scare mongering" and noted over 1,000 people had contributed $4 million toward the project. Scott Martin detailed personal property impacts (garage access, privacy) and asked the board to reconsider the route. Doug Verelle questioned wetland and retaining-wall impacts and noted the EGLE permit had not been submitted. Michelle Irwin and Gary Flores supported a trail generally but opposed this route. Multiple letters and emails were submitted, mostly opposing the trail. In open forum, Nancy Janus and Nancy Bueller (Glen Arbor) supported rescinding support; Tom Sutter expressed frustration with the board's vote; Barbara Stemeris (Solon Township) praised the board.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The board discussed Segment 9 of the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail at length. Board members (Jan Nowak, Todd Nowak, Tracy Olsen, Angie Diotte) stated they are not opposed to the trail overall but object to the current route's impact and cost. Angie Diotte proposed a resolution rescinding the 2019 support resolution specific to Segment 9. Motion by Tim Stein, seconded by Todd Nowak, passed 5-0 by roll call, formally opposing completion of the recommended Segment 9 route.
Infrastructure Projects
The Leelanau County Road Commission's Little Traverse Lake Rd East End project has an elastomeric pad in place, two culverts replaced, gravel base laid, and ditch trenching complete; paving by Elmers is expected in early October. Kim Hayes raised erosion-control concerns about the road commission's removal of an orchid area.
Other Business
The board accepted the Cedar Area Fire and Rescue audit by Tobin and Company. Discussion continued on a possible second fire station near Kasson, deemed premature given unclear costs to the four participating townships. The Planning Commission is prioritizing master plan goals, with members to bring three favorites next month. Land permits were issued to Jeff Beights (4099 S. Sugarloaf Rd) and Bender Trust/Hlavak Rd for new homes; an online land-use permit application is nearing launch.
Financial Summary
Treasurer's report (Aug 31, 2024): Beginning balance $398,647.25; disbursements $14,945.86; revenue $21,926.25; ending balance $405,627.64 (approved 5-0). L-4029 Tax Rate Request approved 5-0: operating millage .5402, fire/emergency millage 2.50 (through 12/2/26), road maintenance millage .50 (through 12/2/28). QuickBooks fee increased to $65. A county calculation error required additional tax bills for Leland schools, due with winter taxes without penalty.
Action Items
Julie Swanson to complete an affidavit for a cemetery lot deed. Zoning Administrator to finalize the online land-use permit application. Kim Hayes offered to consult on erosion control for the road project. Planning Commission members to submit top three master plan priorities next meeting. Second fire station discussion to continue among the four townships. The Segment 9 opposition resolution stands as a case of record.