Summary
The Leelanau Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting on March 18, 2025, primarily to interview assessor candidate Barry Wauldron. Following an extensive interview covering his qualifications, experience, and approach to the role, the Board voted unanimously to offer him the assessor position.
Public Comments
Phyllis Rebori stated she was unsure of the contract length being offered but encouraged a one-year contract. Paul Rebori spoke favorably of Barry Wauldron, noting he appreciated that Wauldron does not wish to work for multiple townships and stating that he will work well with the public and the Board, calling it an excellent choice. A speaker identified only as Betsy stated that the right choice had been made. No written or letter comments were noted.
Other Business
The Board interviewed assessor candidate Barry Wauldron in detail, covering topics including his approach to public interaction, response times to taxpayers, experience with the BSA cloud system, Michigan Tax Tribunal cases, agriculture and timber property assessments, taxpayer education, aerial assessment work (GIS and photography), and handling of buildings under construction or unbuildable lots. Wauldron indicated he would not serve as assessor for more than one jurisdiction and estimated Leelanau Township would require a day of fieldwork and paperwork. He also noted he typically would not attend Board of Trustee meetings but would remain available to the Board of Review and Township Board as needed.
Action Items
- Gans moved to offer the assessor position to Barry Wauldron; seconded by Wilson. Roll call vote: Ugalde, Wilson, Schwind, Conley – Yea: 5, Nay: 0. Motion passed unanimously.
- Contract length for the assessor position was not finalized in the meeting; resident Phyllis Rebori suggested a one-year contract, but this was not addressed as a Board decision.