Summary
The Leelanau Township Board held a regular meeting on March 10, 2026, where several key decisions were made regarding local infrastructure, public safety, and housing initiatives. The board unanimously approved multiple motions including the Deputy Supervisor position description, hiring for the Fire Department, collective bargaining agreements, and funding for various projects. Public comments highlighted community concerns about road maintenance and development projects.
Public Comments
Mark Krueger expressed support for the proposed local road policy and a 0.3 mill road millage to address road maintenance. He recommended clarifying the $4 million professional estimate for road projects and asked for improved transparency by posting the Road Commission’s presentation online.
Brendan Mallane, Managing Director of the Road Commission, presented a PowerPoint on various funding challenges, gas tax changes, road conditions, and planned projects.
Dan Ray, a resident of Cherry Homes, voiced opposition to the proposed road project based on a survey indicating 53% of lot owners disapproved. He raised concerns about assessment calculations and suggested that current chip seal conditions were adequate.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
The board approved a Request for Proposal (RFP) for builders for housing at 824 Warren Street, which indicates a push towards supporting affordable housing initiatives in the township.
Infrastructure Projects
The board discussed various infrastructure projects including:
- A motion was passed to approve funding for engineering plans for road improvements at Cherry Home Shores, taking financial responsibility from township funds.
- A unanimous decision was made to support a resolution for local road maintenance funding, highlighting the need for budget allocations and revenue matching for local road improvements.
Other Business
Additional discussions included:
- Concerns regarding delays in notifications from the assessor.
- Educational expenses for Fire Instructor training.
- A review of current millages related to facilities, roads, and police funding.
Financial Summary
The board approved various financial expenditures, including:
- Up to $3,000 for a veterans’ plaque, contingent on a $6,000 grant application.
- $643 for title insurance related to a land swap at Woolsey Memorial Airport.
- Annual costs related to fire hose testing, postage meter lease, and service agreements.
- MERS (Michigan Employees Retirement System) agreements and resolutions, including a defined contribution plan adoption effective April 1, 2026.
Action Items
1. Post the Road Commission presentation online to enhance public access to information.
2. Follow up on community concerns regarding road maintenance and specifically address the BUR survey results for Cherry Homes.
3. Ensure timely notifications from the assessor's office regarding changes and processes moving forward.
4. Continue discussion on the implications of the approved road policies and millages for community engagement and budgeting.