Summary
The Elmwood Township Board met on August 11, 2025, approving the consent calendar and agenda unanimously. Major actions included adoption of a new parks regulation ordinance, several marina-related rate and contract updates, approval of new accounting software, and authorization to hire a receptionist/deputy treasurer.
Public Comments
Rick Robbins, Leelanau County Commissioner for District 1, requested a “Welcome to Leelanau County” sign near the roundabout, noting coordination with Traverse City on placement. Trustee Lautner responded that the roundabout area at M-72 and M-22 must remain a clear vision zone, so any sign would need to be placed off to the side. During Extended Public Comment, Doug Roberts spoke, though no details of his remarks were recorded.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The Board adopted Ordinance 2025-01, a police power ordinance regulating township parks, following a motion by Trustee Lautner, seconded by Clerk Preston, passed unanimously. Notice of adoption will be published. Supervisor Shaw also reported he will attend the MDNR Trust Fund Board meeting in Cedarville to present a $400,000.00 grant request for the Cherry Bend Trail Connector.
Infrastructure Projects
Harbormaster Dan Jenuwine recommended maintaining 2025 slip holder rates for the 2026 season, since DNR’s 2026 rates now match township rates; approved unanimously. The Board also approved adopting the State’s new transient slip rates (an increase of about $2.00 per foot) and purchasing the Dockwa reservation system for $3,948.00 per year to replace CAMIS, aiming to boost occupancy. Jenuwine will confirm with the State whether the township can set its own cancellation policies under Dockwa. The Board approved the Sunrise logo (Exhibit B) for marina signage, not to exceed $30,000.00. Updated winter storage price lists, 2026 marina rules, the winter dry storage contract (retaining section 15.B.2), and the updated summer slip/buoy rental agreement were all approved unanimously following motions by Trustee Lautner and various seconds.
Other Business
Clerk Preston presented two options to replace outdated accounting software, recommending BS&A for its user-friendliness and integration with the tax program despite a $10,000 higher initial cost than the Tyler Technologies option. The Board authorized $54,050.00 for the new accounting software. The Board also authorized the Personnel Committee to interview and hire a replacement receptionist/deputy treasurer at $20.00–$23.00 per hour. Fire Chief Keith Tampa presented a fireworks permit application for a September 6, 2025 wedding at Brengman Brothers, which was approved after confirming compliance with requirements.
Financial Summary
Approved expenditures included $3,948.00 annually for the Dockwa system, up to $30,000.00 for marina signage, $54,050.00 for accounting software, and $72,950.08 in invoice payments. A $400,000.00 grant request for the Cherry Bend Trail Connector was noted as pending presentation to the MDNR Trust Fund Board.
Action Items
- Supervisor Shaw to present the $400,000.00 grant request for the Cherry Bend Trail Connector at the MDNR Trust Fund Board meeting in Cedarville.
- Harbormaster Jenuwine to verify with the State whether the township may set independent cancellation policies after moving from CAMIS to Dockwa.
- Publish notice of adoption for Ordinance 2025-01.
- Personnel Committee to interview and hire a new receptionist/deputy treasurer at $20.00–$23.00 per hour.