Summary
The Suttons Bay Village Committee of the Whole met on September 9, 2025, chaired by Christensen. Members discussed ongoing traffic speeding concerns on South Shore Drive, Elm Street, and St Marys Street, and reviewed updated cost estimates for the Boater Service & Public Restrooms project, opting to retain the fuller design option despite higher costs.
Public Comments
Kim Eike spoke about speeding on South Shore Drive, noting he bikes and walks in the area and requested traffic calming measures. No formal response or decision was recorded beyond council's later discussion of the issue. No public comment was offered during the second comment period.
Parks and Recreation Matters
No parks and recreation items were discussed at this meeting.
Infrastructure Projects
Manager Larrea reported that cost estimates from Abonmarche for the Boater Service & Public Restrooms project (VSB-2025-26) came in higher than originally anticipated. Rob presented two design options: Option 1 (the original, fuller design) and Option 2, which would eliminate the roof overhang, an architectural roof structure, and a stall and sink in both the men's and women's restrooms. Committee members unanimously agreed to keep Option 1. Next step is to bid out the project, with a hoped-for Spring start.
Manager Miller reported South Shore has been resurfaced and striped, and staff are preparing equipment for winter, with hydrant flushing scheduled for next month. The Marina report noted the season is winding down and was slower than previous years.
Deputy Bob Nuemann discussed speeding concerns on Elm Street, St Marys Street, and South Shore Drive after speaking with staff and residents. Council members shared their own observations, citing issues such as vehicles running stop signs and poor visibility at corners. Council agreed Deputy Nuemann's visible presence would serve as a traffic calming measure and decided a formal speed/traffic study was not necessary. Council suggested a newsletter be sent to residents addressing traffic speeds and monitoring areas. Deputy Nuemann noted that enforcement itself serves as education.
Other Business
Committee member Smith raised concerns about speeding on South Shore Drive during committee member information time.
Action Items
- Manager Larrea to bid out the Boater Service & Public Restrooms project (Option 1), targeting a Spring start.
- Village staff to prepare equipment for winter and conduct hydrant flushing next month.
- Council to develop and send a newsletter addressing traffic speed concerns and monitoring areas.