Summary
The Suttons Bay Village Council met on September 21, 2026, with all seven members present. The council approved the consent agenda, including the August 17, 2026 minutes and invoice payments, and approved the agenda as presented, both by 7-0 votes. Key discussion centered on marina and dock infrastructure projects, an Elm Street neighborhood walkthrough, and the Village Manager's upcoming annual review process.
Public Comments
Tim Lodge, a candidate for Drain Commissioner, introduced himself, citing 35 years of experience as a civil engineer, and expressed hope to bring transparency and experience to the position. Bill Crackel thanked Manager Rob for information provided during the Elm Street walkthrough and raised a concern regarding drainage on St. Mary's. During Good of the Order, Karl asked whether rate increases for sewer and water services would be considered for the 2027 budget to help offset costs for future improvements; Rob responded that increases will be proposed and that he will also seek additional grants to help with funding.
Infrastructure Projects
The Village Manager's update covered several infrastructure items: bid openings for the A-Dock project, spring implementation of the Coal Dock Grant, future dredging projects, and a request to evaluate the Port Suttons trail crossing on M-22, which involves discussions with TART and MDOT. An Elm Street walkthrough with neighbors was also held; Christensen noted good conversation and useful information was exchanged, and Rob will follow up with various entities to discuss options. Water and sewer rate increases were flagged as a likely topic for the 2027 budget to help fund future improvements, with Rob planning to pursue additional grant funding as well.
Other Business
President Lutke recommended that the Manager's annual review be forwarded to the next administrative committee meeting for discussion of the manager's review, achievements, and goals.
Action Items
- Administrative committee to take up the Manager's annual review, achievements, and goals at its next meeting.
- Rob (Village Manager) to follow up with various entities regarding options discussed during the Elm Street walkthrough.
- Rob to propose water/sewer rate increases as part of the 2027 budget and to seek additional grant funding.
- Discussions to continue with TART and MDOT regarding the Port Suttons trail crossing evaluation on M-22.