Summary
The Leelanau Township Parks and Recreation Committee met January 15, 2025, welcoming new members Julie Preneta and Elizabeth Schwind. The committee approved 2025 meeting dates, heard updates on Braman Hill Recreation Area (shooting range, single-track bike trail, skatepark, and shade shelter plans), discussed Woolsey Airport/Mud Lake funding uncertainty, and noted a new fence at Peterson Park. Several funding requests were approved for further action, and new business items on AEDs and park policies were assigned for follow-up.
Public Comments
During Tom Gremel's presentation on the Northport Sportsman Club, a member of the public asked whether the club has taken steps to encourage shooters to use non-lead bullets. In the formal public comment period, Matt Barolli thanked the committee and Tom Gremel, and asked who is responsible for managing the sportsmen's club property; Elizabeth Schwind responded that the township is responsible, but the agreement with the club involves shared responsibility.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Dan Toole reported that $100,000 previously approved for Woolsey Airport/Mud Lake by the prior board is no longer designated, per Supervisor Conley, since the new board is not bound by the prior decision. Dan will share private funding/donation options later and is seeking grant-writing help. Julie Preneta asked who is responsible for "saving" Woolsey; Dan clarified the township holds responsibility, with the committee acting in an advisory role.
At Braman Hill, Tom Gremel detailed the Sportsman Club's activities, EPA compliance, and lease history. Kristi Holmstrom presented water testing and EPA Best Management Practices data, concluding club activities pose no risk to residents or the environment; she moved that the township not proceed with the Gosling proposal, and the committee unanimously agreed.
Tom Mayhew reported on a site visit for a proposed single-track bike trail (about 0.8 miles, hybrid beginner/advanced design), estimated at $5,000–$7,000 per mile if volunteer-built. Court moved to request funding, Julie suggested up to $10,000, Tom seconded, and the committee unanimously agreed; Tom will draft a formal request.
Jon Thatcher requested $6,000 for materials to build a half-pipe at the skatepark, which he will build himself; Kristi will follow up on funds previously set aside per Mike's statement. Court will work with Ian on a shade shelter estimate. Dan noted Ian's suggestion that the pickleball courts need resurfacing. Jon reported the new fence at Peterson Park is installed.
The committee approved 2025 meeting dates (Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 19, Apr 16, May 21, Jun 18, July 16, Aug 20, Sept 17, Oct 15, Nov 19, Dec 17), moved by Jon, unanimously agreed.
Other Business
The committee discussed installing AEDs at the parks and reviewing posted park policies. Visitor-counting devices were discussed but agreed not to be a priority at this time. The committee agreed to rotate giving monthly reports at TWP meetings, with Kristi giving the February report.
Financial Summary
$100,000 previously approved for Woolsey Airport/Mud Lake is no longer designated. The single-track bike trail is estimated at $5,000–$7,000 per mile, with the committee requesting up to $10,000 in funding. Jon Thatcher requested $6,000 for skatepark half-pipe materials. Tom Gremel noted the club's annual fundraiser has historically raised $30,000 for veterans.
Action Items
- Dan Toole to share private funding/donation details for Woolsey and seek grant-writing assistance.
- Tom Mayhew to draft a formal description and funding request for the single-track bike trail.
- Kristi Holmstrom to send information on previously set-aside skatepark funds and give the February TWP report.
- Court to confer with Ian on shade shelter size and material cost estimate.
- Elizabeth Schwind to check with Hugh Cook on AED needs at the parks.
- Jon Thatcher to review posted park policies for updates.