Summary
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners convened on October 7, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, including administrative updates, financial recommendations, and community projects. Key outcomes included the approval of several contracts and initiatives in the areas of public safety, health, and parks. Additionally, a closed session was held to discuss attorney-client privilege matters, and recommendations for creating a new County Policy for Complaint Procedures were forwarded for future discussion.Public Comments
Two individuals, Tim McCalley and Renee Wyler, presented public comments during the allotted time. Specific concerns or topics they addressed were not detailed in the minutes. Written comments submitted can be accessed through the provided link.Infrastructure Projects
1. **Sheriff's Office Contract**: The Board recommended approving a one-year contract for services with the Village of Suttons Bay for 2026. The motion passed unanimously.-
Drain Revolving Fund Creation: A motion was approved to create a revolving drain fund for the maintenance of county drains, with an initial transfer of $30,000 from the general fund.
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GEI Contract for Services: A one-year contract renewal with GEI Consultants for $15,000 was also set to be approved pending legal review.
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Courthouse Lighting Upgrade: The Board authorized the issuance of a request for proposals to upgrade the courthouse lighting management system.
Parks and Recreation Matters
1. **Old Settler’s Park Gazebo Refurbishment**: A motion to waive bid requirements and partner with local contractors for refurbishing the gazebo at a maximum cost of $14,000 was passed.- Myles Kimmerly Disc Golf Course Upgrades: The Board approved a $22,000 expenditure for upgrades to the disc golf course, funding the initiative from the Parks and Recreation Commission’s capital outlay budget.
Other Business
The Board discussed the need for a new County Policy for Complaint Procedures, emphasizing the importance of independent investigations and adherence to established policies. An agreement was made for further discussion and policy drafting in upcoming meetings.Financial Summary
1. **Claims and Accounts**: The Board recommended approval of claims and accounts totaling $134,898.42, as well as post-audit claims amounting to $6,819,808.34. Both motions passed without opposition.- Benzie Leelanau District Health Department Financial Update: An overview was given regarding budget challenges, including not replacing staff members and significant healthcare cost increases.
Action Items
1. **Follow-up on Public Complaint Policy**: Administrator Dyer will collaborate with Commissioner Campbell to review and amend the current Non-Union Personnel Policy as it pertains to handling complaints.-
Contract Reviews: Legal counsel will review contracts approved by the board in this session before finalization.
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Union Negotiations: A closed session was recommended for discussion regarding union negotiations at the next regular session.
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Community Projects: Implementing the approved infrastructure and parks projects, including hiring contractors and managing upgrades, will be the focus of ongoing efforts in the coming months.