Summary
The Suttons Bay Village Council met on May 18, 2026, with President Pro Tem Christensen presiding. The council approved the consent agenda, heard a manager's update on staffing and the boater service/restroom project, and approved a contract to repair the Coal Dock Pier following ice damage. Elm Street traffic speed was raised as a concern under Good of the Order.
Public Comments
No public comment was offered during the formal public comment period. Under Good of the Order, Deputy Newman stated that the LCSD placed a speed monitoring sign at Elm and Herman Road the previous week. Resident Bill Crackel observed that a 25 mph sign is positioned such that drivers are already at the Village limits by the time they see it, raising a concern about its placement/effectiveness. No formal council response or action was recorded on this matter.
Infrastructure Projects
Manager Larrea reported that the Fishing Pier suffered substantial ice damage approximately six weeks prior. A cost estimate for repair was obtained and the Army Corps of Engineers issued the required permit. The repair company, currently between jobs in the area, was expected to begin work on Friday. Yoder moved, Bahle seconded, and the council voted to accept a proposal from 45th Parallel Marine, Inc. in the amount of $43,986.00 to repair the Coal Dock Pier per estimate #3090. Roll call vote: Christensen-Yes, Bahle-Yes, Perkins-Yes, Yoder-Yes, Smith-Yes, Suppes-Yes. Ayes: 6, No: 0, Absent: 1 (Lutke). Separately, the boater service and public restroom project has advanced to the next step, with the village seeking bids and pursuing several grant opportunities.
Other Business
Manager Larrea reported the hiring of part-time worker Grace Periard to replace Maryann Korson, and the hiring of Tom Bumgardner part-time to work on vehicles. No Planning Commission report was given. Perkins requested that Elm Street discussion be added to the General Service Committee agenda. Smith noted there is a 25 mph ahead sign on Elm Street.
Financial Summary
The council approved payment of invoices as part of the consent agenda (amount not specified). The council approved a $43,986.00 expenditure to 45th Parallel Marine, Inc. for Coal Dock Pier repair, funded via contract as outlined in estimate #3090.
Action Items
45th Parallel Marine, Inc. is to begin Coal Dock Pier repair work on Friday following the approved contract. The Elm Street speed sign discussion is to be added to the General Service Committee agenda per Perkins' request. The boater service and public restroom project remains in progress, with staff continuing to seek bids and grant funding.