Summary
The Leelanau Township Board met October 14, 2025, using a newly revised agenda format. Key items included acceptance of a Leelanau Township Community Foundation (LTCF) grant of $45,677 ($11,377 from the Woolsey Airport Endowment fund and $34,300 from the SWAT fund) for Woolsey Airport Terminal repairs, approval of a services agreement between the Township Treasurer's office and NLTUA, appointment of Meg Jean to the Planning Commission, discussion of an EGLE grant application for Christmas Cove resiliency/accessibility improvements, and approval of EMS equipment for emergency intubation. Non-voting discussions covered a HomeStretch affordable housing proposal, the future of the Township Hall, a revised Employee Handbook, and a township communications app (GoGov).
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Jon Stimson presented a proposal from HomeStretch Nonprofit Housing Corp. for township-owned land on Warren Street north of the Fire Hall. The plan outlines up to 26 townhouse rental units for households earning up to 120% of area median income (AMI), with preference to existing Township residents and those employed in the primary market area. The proposal outline includes land division, a 2-year purchase option, site engineering, zoning entitlements, tax incentives (PILOT/TIF), and grant submissions (MSHDA, FHLBI, MEDC). This was a non-voting discussion item; the Board was asked to consider next steps.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Supervisor requested Board approval to pursue an EGLE grant application (due mid-December) for Christmas Cove, aimed at increasing bluff resilience and handicapped beach accessibility following 2017 erosion damage. Total requested funds are anticipated at no more than $40,000, with the Township contributing 50% (money or in-kind work) and EGLE funding the remainder. GEI Consultants' Brian Ceci has agreed to help write the grant without compensation, contingent on GEI performing the work if awarded. Parks and Rec chair Thatcher and secretary Preneta were consulted and are supportive; further input to come at the next Parks and Rec committee meeting.
Infrastructure Projects
Woolsey Airport Terminal: The Township was awarded $45,677 from LTCF (of a total request including $69,323 from the LTCF general fund, which was not awarded). Combined with the Township's committed $100,000 and prior contract with Hallmark (up to $152,700, engineer Mark Krueger), this funds Phase 1 of repairs, totaling $131,960. Work has begun; SWAT and the Township continue fundraising for further repairs.
NLTUA Deputy Treasurer Services Agreement: The Township Treasurer's office will process NLTUA deposits and provide bi-monthly financial reports at $58.40/hour, up to 6 hours/month, with anticipated quarterly payment of $1,051.20 (18 hours/quarter).
Woolsey Land Swap: A DNR-cognizant appraiser is now engaged, and surveyor Nick Onon is preparing materials; the swap (runway land for a township parcel) is expected within a couple of months, with survey/appraisal costs hoped to stay under $5,000.
Other Business
Meg Jean was proposed to fill a Planning Commission vacancy (term through June 30, 2027), citing her work as Northport LIFT Coordinator and interest in inclusive community space and affordable housing options. The Board reviewed a draft revised Employee Handbook for missing policies. The Supervisor reviewed three communication platforms (GoGov, IndiGov, RepUS); GoGov ($3,600/year, plus $400/year for texting) was favored based on positive references from Escanaba and Fenton Township officials.
Financial Summary
September 2025 check register: 45 disbursements totaling $58,464.22. Unpaid check run (10/1–10/17/2025) totals $39,731.54, including $15,493.02 to Priority Health and $3,510 to Dale Scheiern, Architect for a proposed barn addition. Year-to-date (through 9/30/2025) figures show total revenues of $343,184.14 against an amended budget of $3,037,766.00 (11.30% used), and total expenditures of $1,832,134.68 against $4,283,756.78 budgeted (42.77% used), leaving a net deficit of $1,488,950.54 for the period.
Action Items
- Board to consider next steps on the HomeStretch Warren Street housing proposal following Jon Stimson's presentation.
- Board to develop next steps regarding the future of the Township Hall (repair vs. relocation).
- Board/staff to review the draft Employee Handbook for missing policies.
- Board to decide on adoption of GoGov communications platform.
- EGLE grant application for Christmas Cove due mid-December; further input needed from Parks and Rec committee.
- Woolsey Airport land swap materials to be finalized with DNR; survey/appraisal costs to be monitored (target under $5,000).