The Leelanau Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting on May 27, 2025, where key decisions were made regarding budgetary matters, community events, and upcoming retreats. The board unanimously agreed to amendments to the agenda, discussed an audit and training options for the Clerk and Treasurer's office, approved a race event permit, and approved hiring an engineer for a terminal renovation project.
Public Comments
There were no public comments during the first opportunity for comments. During the second round, Eric Potes expressed his concern about potential changes to the restrictions on Buster Dame Park, asserting that using public parks for housing would set a problematic precedent. Jen Wack thanked the board for considering the use of Buster Dame Park for events.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Trustee Gans presented a file on properties owned by the Village of Northport suitable for affordable housing. She encouraged the board to explore similar initiatives within the Township.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Discussion on the proposed baseball event at Buster Dame Park led to a motion being passed to approve the event, including use of equipment for which a follow-up cleanup plan was requested. Trustee Schwind highlighted the need for clear priorities on park uses. Additionally, a Parks Ordinance is in the process of being updated to provide better management and rules for park usage.
Infrastructure Projects
The board addressed the urgent need for financial support for training and audits in the Clerk and Treasurer's office, approving up to 60 hours of work from auditors at $200 per hour. There is an ongoing discussion about necessary repairs and enhancements for infrastructure projects, particularly related to community events.
Other Business
Other notable agenda items included discussing the need for permits for various events at local parks and recognition of the necessity for improved communications regarding board member appointments.
Financial Summary
Financially, the board approved several expenditures, including payment of bills that amounted to $14,721.79. UHY Auditors were authorized for a maximum of 60 hours to assist with financial reconciliations at the rate of $200/hour, reflecting an agreement to ensure proper management of township finances as tax collections begin in July. Additionally, there was a proposed budgetary allocation for infrastructure improvements including road repaving, with a total estimated cost of $2,712,900, subject to further assessments and homeowner agreement.
Action Items
1. Schedule a Board retreat on June 25, 2025, to discuss critical issues including the scope of housing partnerships, facility planning, and strategic board effectiveness.
2. Clerk Wilson is tasked with issuing a permit for the Rock the Light race event.
3. Supervisor Conley will follow up on the creation of a Special Assessment District for road repairs in Cherry Homes.
4. Review housing initiatives for potential contracts with Housing North for additional support on affordable housing projects.
5. Move forward with the engineer hiring for the Woolsey Airport Terminal renovation process.
6. Notify residents about the upcoming community meeting on Housing North on August 26, 2025.
Source Document
This summary was AI-generated from the official meeting record. The full source document is the authoritative version.