Summary
The Suttons Bay Village General Services Committee met on October 6, 2026, covering a DPW staff report, a general service update (VSB-2026-30), and several agenda items including marina fee increases, water/sewer fee increases (VSB-2026-29), and an ethics policy review (VSB-2026-25). Staff reported progress on infrastructure, staffing, and contract negotiations, with further details to follow once items are finalized.
Infrastructure Projects
The DPW Director reported ongoing work on multiple infrastructure items. The bathroom project structure was backfilled, with drain installation underway to avoid de-watering; water and sewer lines are being installed for the new bathrooms, requiring temporary closure of Front St. from the Marina entrance to Adams St., and a one-day closure of Marina Park parking lot for storm line work. Planned upcoming infrastructure work includes a stormwater project in front of Village Hall, fire hydrant replacement (3 of 4), and a bollard project. At the treatment plant, the South Aeration Basin was cleaned, air diffuser repairs and liner inspection were completed, water chlorination and hydrant flushing are beginning, and the WWTP biological system is being adjusted for cooler temperatures. Water production well sites will receive updated emergency alarm systems integrated into cellular service. Two sewer manhole lids along M22 were raised to improve accessibility for inspection. The agenda also listed a marina fee increase proposal for 2027 and a water/sewer fee increase proposal (VSB-2026-29), though no votes or specific figures were recorded in the document.
Other Business
The DPW reported completion of salt truck V-Box and hydraulic repairs, tree stump grinding, and ongoing tree trimming and brush cutting. Monday curbside pickup has ended; bulk leaf pickup dates will be announced by robo-call. Swim buoys were removed and parks are being prepped for the off-season. The committee also planned to discuss an Ethics Policy (VSB-2026-25) and conduct a Manager's Review/Discussion, with status updates expected from other committees.
Financial Summary
The Village has budgeted for electronic/solar speed signs on Elm and S. Shore Drive. Contract negotiations for agreements expiring January 1 are ongoing; a three-year extension is expected with one longtime partner, while another partnership may be severed due to late contract demands, prompting adjustments to the proposed 2027 budget. Marina fee increases and water/sewer fee increases for 2027 were on the agenda for discussion, though no amounts or votes were specified in the document.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Swim buoys have been removed and parks are being prepared for the post-season. Marina Park parking lot will see a temporary one-day closure due to storm line work connected to the bathroom project.
Action Items
- DPW Director to provide an update later in October regarding a new DPW hire currently in informal agreement stage.
- A detailed report on contract negotiations will follow finalization in the coming weeks.
- Bulk leaf pickup date to be announced via robo-call this fall.
- Committee to review and discuss the Ethics Policy (VSB-2026-25) and proposed marina and water/sewer fee increases for 2027.