Summary
The Parks and Recreation Committee of Leelanau Township convened on January 21, 2026. Key decisions were made regarding approval of previous meeting minutes and the election of new committee officers for 2026. Updates were shared on various parks, ongoing projects, and future planning initiatives including grant applications.Public Comments
There were no public comments during the meeting.Parks and Recreation Matters
- **Woolsey Airport**: The committee discussed a planned Dune Bird fundraiser for early summer and noted that the Twp applied for the America 250 grant. It was clarified that Woolsey Airfield remains a park, governed by its own separate ordinance.-
Braman Hill: Projects are currently on hold due to winter conditions. The committee is still investigating tower updates with no decisions made yet.
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Christmas Cove: No updates provided for the winter.
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Omena Beach: Ian has been contacted regarding budgeting efforts to refresh the area.
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Buster Dame: A temporary plastic windscreen has been placed. Eric expressed a preference against a permanent screen due to its ineffectiveness in winter conditions. Suggestions were made to keep snow cleared around the main picnic table and to consider other uses for the building, with discussions around whether it is worth saving.
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Peterson Park: Similar to Braman Hill, projects are on hold for winter.
Other Business
The committee approved new budget items, including consulting fees of up to $5,000 for a 5-year plan focused on mailings and surveys. There is still $50,000 allocated for capital improvements at Woolsey.New officers for 2026 were confirmed:
- Chair: Eric nominated Tom.
- Vice Chair: Eric nominated Jon.
- Secretary: Dan nominated Julie. All nominations were supported unanimously.
Action Items
1. Seek updates on various park projects as winter conditions allow. 2. Follow up on budget allocation for the Christmas Cove matching grant. 3. Continue preparations for the upcoming Dune Bird fundraiser at Woolsey Airport.Next meeting is scheduled for February 18, 2026, at 5:30 PM.