Summary
This document is a written correspondence submitted to the Leelanau Township Board ahead of the March 11, 2025 meeting. Resident Elizabeth Mallek raised concerns about a proposed land swap between Buster Dame Park and 7th Street, urging the Board to pause discussions pending further public input and clarification from the Village of Leland.
Public Comments
A written letter was submitted by resident Elizabeth Mallek opposing the proposed Buster Dame Park and 7th Street land swap. She argued the swap is not in the Township's best interest, noting that appraisals were based on DNR requirements rather than market value, and that the Village would retain 7th Street frontage while swapping only back acreage. She recommended the Township wait until the Village decides what to do with its 7th Street frontage before pursuing any swap discussions, arguing the Village could act independently at no cost to Township taxpayers. Mallek also opposed joint municipal ownership of the parcels, citing past experience with the Township "drawing the short stick" in sewer arrangements with the Village. No Board response to the letter is documented.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Mallek expressed support for housing at all economic levels but stated no parcels within the Special Assessment District (SAD) are truly "affordable," citing hookup fees near $20,000 and yearly user fees near $2,000 after 8% increases. She noted no SAD fee discounts have been given to other developers and warned that offsetting fees could raise legal concerns. She cited Bill Collins' joint packaged septic system development as a successful alternative outside the SAD. She referenced NCV's (Northwestern Community Village) purchase of 24 acres for "attainable" housing and its planned community focus group sessions. She also referenced the Township Planning Commission's draft Master Plan proposing a 5-acre density core near the Village, and pending Michigan legislation (Senate Bill 23/House Bill 4081) that could allow increased density (10 units per 10 acres instead of 4 units per 10 acres) for metes-and-bounds parcels, which local governments could optionally adopt.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Mallek requested that the Parks and Recreation Committee provide feedback to the Board and community regarding future plans for Buster Dame Park's usage and improvement, stating the park has been left in limbo due to swap discussions. She emphasized the park is fenced, accessible to the community, and could be enhanced rather than swapped.
Other Business
Mallek suggested the Board use time before further land swap discussions to examine zoning changes and explore other Township parcels suitable for affordable housing, as well as potential donations or philanthropic partnerships.
Action Items
- Mallek requested the Board pause further land swap discussions pending public input on community housing needs (type: single family, duplexes, coach homes, or apartments).
- Mallek requested the Board obtain results from NCV's planned community focus group sessions before proceeding.
- Mallek suggested allowing the Village of Leland to independently decide the fate of its 7th Street frontage and back acreage without Township involvement.
- Mallek requested the Board direct the Parks and Recreation Committee to include Buster Dame Park in discussions on township park improvements.
- Mallek asked the Board to consider zoning changes and identify Township parcels outside the SAD for potential affordable housing, including potential donor involvement.