Summary
The Empire Township Board held a special meeting on May 2, 2026, chaired by Supervisor Kathy Wiejaczka. The board approved a resolution language for the Glen Lake Fire Department millage renewal, approved an amended Campground Host contract, and reviewed a mold inspection report on the Campground Host building. No members of the public attended.
Public Comments
No members of the public were present for either public comment period (on agenda items or on any topic), so no public remarks were recorded.
Parks and Recreation Matters
The board discussed the Campground Host Contract, focusing on Item 2 (Personal Performance of Duties, regarding whether employees, sub-agents, or family could perform duties without Board consent) and Item 4 (the requirement that the host live at the campground). Section 3A was flagged for reformatting. Motion by Noonan, supported by Wolterink, to approve the contract as amended passed by unanimous voice vote. By consensus, the Board agreed to let the Campground Host interview committee negotiate the residency requirement with the top candidate and report back.
Regarding building maintenance, 911 Restoration of Northwest Michigan reported no serious mold issues with the Campground Host Building. Recommendations were made to improve airflow during winter, and the possible need for a dehumidifier was briefly discussed. No formal action was taken.
Other Business
The agenda and April 14, 2026 minutes were approved by unanimous voice vote. Supervisor Wiejaczka and Trustee Wolterink will conduct interviews for the Campground Host position on Saturday, May 9.
Financial Summary
The Glen Lake Fire Department millage, which funds fire protection and emergency medical services, is set to expire this year. Monthly expenses have risen from $103,000 to $118,000. Last year's levy was 5.12 mils. The board approved Resolution #5 requesting authority to levy up to 7 mils, subject to attorney review and confirmation of total revenue by the Leelanau County Equalization Director. Roll call vote: Ayes: Price, Noonan, Bacon, Wolterink, Wiejaczka; Nays: None. Motion passed.
Action Items
- Wiejaczka to seek clarification from attorney Tim Figura and County Equalization Director Andrew Giguere on dates and estimated revenue for the millage resolution.
- Campground Host interview committee to negotiate the residency requirement with the top candidate and update the Board on results.
- Wiejaczka to provide the written mold inspection report to the office once received.
- Wiejaczka and Wolterink to interview candidates for the Campground Host position on May 9, 2026.