7/3/2025 - Northport Village | Work Session Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Village Council Work Session held on July 3, 2025, focused on several key items, including the potential transfer of property for remediation, the update of the recreation plan, and issues surrounding short-term rentals. The Council took definitive steps towards infrastructure improvements and community engagement, highlighting a proactive approach to governance while addressing public concerns.

Public Comments

During public comments, Trustee Cavendish noted correspondence from Meg Jean regarding a proposed water filling station near the Farmer’s Market. Additionally, Anne Harper raised concerns about potential legal fees associated with the Second Street encroachment and emphasized the importance of finding a reasonable resolution.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

While affordable housing was discussed in relation to short-term rentals (STRs), the Council concluded that STRs are not significantly affecting affordable housing at present. However, they acknowledged the need for oversight on the matter and discussed potential business-like regulation of STR properties.

Parks and Recreation Matters

The Council discussed updating the Village’s 2015 recreation plan, emphasizing the need for universal access and collaboration with local entities such as the township and schools. Staff was tasked with drafting revisions to the plan to ensure it meets current community needs.

Infrastructure Projects

1. **Seventh Street Property and Land Bank Authority Transfer**: The Council supported the transfer of a 1.2-acre portion of the property to the County Land Bank Authority for brownfield remediation.

2. Sanitary Sewer Rates - Debt Collection: A proposed quarterly increase of $20.48 per REU to address sewer debt service shortfalls was discussed and agreed to be brought to the next regular meeting for action.

3. Water Filling Station at Marina: The Council approved the installation of a water filling station near the marina, estimating costs between $4,000 and $5,000.

4. Second Street Encroachment: The Council agreed to send a demand letter to a property owner encroaching on Village land and discussed potential legal actions if compliance was not met.

Other Business

Additional discussions included the Affinity invoice exceeding the Village Manager's $3,000 spending limit, which is to be addressed in the upcoming regular meeting. The proposal for street banners to honor community members was also discussed, with the Council supporting further research into feasibility.

Action Items

- Village Manager Ottenwess is to pursue the water filling station project and bring back information on street banners' feasibility. - A draft revision of the public participation plan will be presented for approval once finalized. - Ottenwess will send a compliance letter regarding the Second Street encroachment and consider legal actions if necessary. - The proposed sewer rate increase will be discussed at the next regular meeting for formal action.