Summary
The Leelanau Township Board of Trustees held a special meeting on March 17, 2025, primarily to interview assessor candidate David Yack. The board unanimously approved the agenda (5-0, motion by Conley, seconded by Ugalde). The bulk of the meeting consisted of a detailed Q&A with the candidate covering his experience, assessment practices, and technology proficiency. The meeting adjourned at 6:16 p.m. on a motion by Schwind, seconded by Ugalde, carried unanimously.
Public Comments
Phyllis Rebori asked how many hours the assessor would work and expressed hope for a more physical presence in the township. Barb Conley responded that hours would depend on time spent per property and travel time between properties.
Other Business
The board conducted an extensive interview with assessor candidate David Yack. He cited over 11 years of experience, strong active listening and organizational skills, and attention to detail. He described his approach to taxpayer education (primarily via phone calls), typical response times (within a week or a few days), and his process for site visits, inaccessible properties, and construction assessments. Yack noted limited experience with agriculture and timber exemptions, stated he is not proficient in BSA Cloud or Pictometry aerial technology, and currently inspects about 20% of properties yearly. He discussed his history with Michigan tax tribunal small claims cases, stating outcomes varied but many were favorable. Board of Review members present emphasized the importance of consistency and customer service, and asked for clarification on his prior experience running Board of Review meetings. Yack also asked the board questions regarding the budget, contracting arrangements, and assessor salary, which led to further discussion.
Action Items
- Board members to continue evaluating assessor candidate David Yack, including follow-up on budget, contracting, and salary questions he raised.
- Next Special Board Meeting scheduled for March 18, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. EDT at the Town Hall.