Summary
The Leelanau Township Parks and Recreation Committee met on April 16, 2025, with Jon Thatcher, Julie Preneta, Elizabeth Schwind, Dan Toole, and Court Wengreen present, and Tom Mayhew absent. The committee approved previous meeting minutes and discussed updates on Woolsey Airport, Braman Hill park improvements, and the Buster Dame property. The next meeting is scheduled for May 21, 2025.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Dan Toole gave an update on Woolsey Airport, noting the Township hired grant writer Wendy Brice, though few grants are currently available for townships. It was suggested that linking SWAT with NAHA could open up additional grant opportunities. The Leelanau Township Community Foundation (LTCF) is not in a position to fundraise but can hold funds. The committee discussed exploring additional uses for the non-landing-strip portions of Woolsey Airport, and whether a landing fee and payment system could be added, as well as how the Township could be involved with public fundraising efforts.
For Braman Hill, Mike McMillan presented a proposal for a pergola for shade between the pickleball and tennis courts. The committee had previously approved $2,000 for this project; McMillan requested an increase to up to $2,500 for a gray or brown pergola and site preparation from the Township, with volunteer labor to be used for setup. Construction of the half pipe has not yet begun. Court Wengreen will speak with Chad Jordan and Nick from SB Bikes about starting work on mountain bike trails. The skatepark is being prepared to be moved back into place, with Court, Jon, and Ian coordinating that effort.
Regarding other park updates, the Buster Dame DNR designation will not change, and the previously planned housing development for that property is no longer planned.
Other Business
No old or new business items were recorded beyond the park updates discussed above.
Financial Summary
The committee had previously approved $2,000 for a pergola at Braman Hill; Mike McMillan requested an increase to up to $2,500 to cover the pergola and site preparation, with volunteer labor offsetting some costs. No formal vote on the increased amount was recorded in these minutes.
Action Items
- Court Wengreen to speak with Chad Jordan and Nick from SB Bikes regarding starting mountain bike trail work.
- Court, Jon, and Ian to coordinate moving the skatepark back into place.
- Committee to consider request for increased pergola funding (up to $2,500) at a future meeting.
- Continued exploration of grant opportunities for Woolsey Airport, including potential linkage between SWAT and NAHA.
- Next meeting scheduled for May 21, 2025.