Summary
The Leland Township Board convened on April 8, 2024, to address various local concerns and operational matters. Key decisions included the approval of several action items such as easements, sidewalk repairs, and the initiation of youth soccer for the spring season. Concerns were raised during public comment regarding zoning regulations and the removal of a dock at the Lake Leelanau launch.Public Comments
- **Steve Mikowski** expressed his ongoing request for a referendum on the Leland Township Zoning Ordinance 96-1 and correction of a longstanding variance error. He noted inaccuracies in previous meeting minutes due to his comments being truncated. - **Cal Little** inquired about the status of the Peterson lawsuit, which had been separated into two cases, and was awaiting further deliberation. - **Kathy Dawkins** read her previous public comment from March 3, asserting that another trustee’s remarks were taken out of context.Parks and Recreation Matters
Tim Zywicki reported that the Lake Leelanau Community Association is willing to partner with Parks and Recreation to fund improvements at Grove Park. A survey on community needs received 228 responses, but there was criticism regarding lack of notification to the public and that Ms. Kirch did not receive the survey in the mail. The survey has been extended to April 30 for further responses.Infrastructure Projects
The Board discussed the repair needs for the Harbor restrooms, specifically prioritizing an RFP focused on potentially serious underlying issues rather than just cosmetic repairs. Discussion regarding sidewalk repair for Grand Avenue and River Street led to approval, but seeking additional bids for a specific area on the north side of M204.Other Business
- The meeting highlighted routine business such as ordinance updates and maintenance of financial accounts. - Concerns were raised over the removal of a dock by the DNR at the Lake Leelanau launch.Financial Summary
- Legal services incurred around $4,000 over the past month. - Routine bills for utilities, payroll, and health insurance were discussed without any unusual expenditures noted. Approval was given for payment of bills from March 12, 2024, to April 8, 2024.Action Items
1. Complete the easement approval for Borres; signed and filed. 2. Table RFP developments for restroom repairs to gather more clarity and estimates. 3. Approve sidewalk projects and direct other bids for sections of M204. 4. Confirm the Spring season Youth Soccer program. 5. Facilities usage approved for the Leelanau Historical Society with noted concerns about deteriorating structures. 6. Authorization provided for a stipend plan for employees needing phones. 7. No action taken on zoning fee updates; proposal failed. 8. Arrange a closed session meeting to discuss sea wall easement terms.Additionally, there were calls from community members for the formation of committees to advise on building maintenance and repairs, indicating a proactive approach to issues facing the township.