Summary
The Leelanau Township Parks and Recreation Committee met May 20, 2026, with Dan, Julie, Tom, Eric, Court, and Elizabeth present, and Jon Thatcher joining by Zoom. The committee approved prior minutes, reviewed park conditions across six sites, discussed a new $100,000 playground grant opportunity, and clarified committee bylaws regarding voting membership. The next meeting is scheduled for June 17, 2026.
Public Comments
No public comments were made during either public comment period on the agenda.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Woolsey Airport: Dan reported initial repairs are nearly complete and expected to finish by end of spring. A fundraiser at Dunebird on June 4 will direct $2 per bottle of Woolsey Red to SWAT. Approximately $275,000 is still needed, with a further $225,000 required to complete repairs. The park totals 180 acres, with 60 acres designated as airport; a recent inspection passed, though tree removal and light replacement are still needed. Dan motioned, seconded by Eric, to suggest the township board amend the ordinance to clearly include public recreation use of the 120 acres outside the airport facility.
Braman Hill: Jon Thatcher is unable to continue halfpipe work due to injury; Court will assist Ian and Eli in preparing the skatepark for summer use. Tom reported that Pat Castella biked the trail and gave finishing recommendations; the township board approved $5,000 to complete the bike trail.
Christmas Cove: Awaiting word on matching grant funding.
Omena Beach: No major updates; a new road and improved crosswalk near the beach are planned, along with painting and maintenance of the pit toilet.
Buster Dame: Basketball court is up and the baseball infield has been restored and is ready for use.
Peterson Park: No changes reported.
New Business: A five-year grant program will award $100,000 to 10 communities statewide for a playground. Buster Dame and Peterson Park both have space, with Buster Dame favored. Dan motioned, seconded by Court, for the township to apply.
Bylaws were clarified to confirm the committee has seven voting members; Elizabeth and Ian are non-voting. A five-year plan survey (up to $5,000) was discussed; the old survey will be distributed to members for review before the next meeting.
Financial Summary
- Woolsey Airport repairs: approximately $275,000 still needed, plus $225,000 to complete full repairs; $2 per bottle of Woolsey Red sold at Dunebird fundraiser (June 4) benefits SWAT.
- Bike Trail (Braman Hill): $5,000 approved by the township board to finish the trail.
- Playground grant: up to $100,000 available through a statewide five-year grant program for one of 10 communities.
- Five-year plan survey: budgeted up to $5,000.
Action Items
- Complete Woolsey Airport repairs and remove trees/replace lights near the runway.
- Township board to consider ordinance amendment clarifying public recreation use of the 120 non-airport acres.
- Court, Ian, and Eli to prepare the Braman Hill skatepark for summer use.
- Township to apply for the $100,000 playground grant, likely for Buster Dame.
- Distribute the old five-year plan survey to committee members and gather ideas for the next meeting on June 17, 2026.