Summary
The Leland Township Board meeting on January 13, 2025, focused heavily on the contentious issue of the potential elimination of the full-time maintenance position. Public comments revealed significant community dissent regarding this decision. Resolutions to confirm the Sunset Shores Special Assessment roll, approve the Leland Chamber of Commerce's requests for the Wine & Food Festival, and establish a new Park Ordinance were discussed and passed effectively.Public Comments
Several residents voiced concerns: - **Steve Mikowski** requested a referendum on the Leland Township Zoning Ordinance 96-1, highlighting it as a long-standing issue. - **Cal Little** presented a letter from **Bob Schlueter**, expressing opposition to the elimination of the maintenance position. - **Sharon Kalchik** and **Keith Ashley** echoed concerns about the decision to eliminate the maintenance position, the lack of Parks and Rec Committee consultation, and questioned the decision being grounded in accurate facts. - Community member **Mark Morton** supported the maintenance worker, praising his extensive contributions. - **Carolyn Telgard** criticized the availability of the Parks ordinance document to the public.Responses from board members indicated acknowledgment of the concerns, though a move to eliminate the position was made nonetheless.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
(No discussion was recorded related to affordable housing.)Parks and Recreation Matters
The Parks and Rec Committee reported on a need for budget work and dock repair at Schneider’s Beach while opposing the cost analysis used to justify the maintenance position's elimination. The new Park Ordinance 2025-01 was approved, which clarified various rules and regulations. This ordinance was seen as a necessary response to previously vague language regarding park use.Infrastructure Projects
Sewer infrastructure discussions included identifying sources for inflow problems and ongoing software setups for asset management. The acquisition of a new administrative fire department vehicle was also mentioned.Other Business
The meeting included approvals for several resolutions concerning the collection of summer taxes for the Leland School district, Northwest Education Service, and Suttons Bay School District. The scheduling of the annual meeting for March 29, 2025, at the Old Art Building was approved.Financial Summary
- The Township received a revenue-sharing check; expenditures and income reports were noted as normal. - An upcoming authorization for the purchase of an administrative vehicle for no more than $70,000 was discussed and approved.Action Items
- A decision was made to eliminate the maintenance position effective April 1, 2025, despite public opposition. A motion to offer a severance package to the affected employee was requested to ensure a respectful transition. - Public concerns were raised about ensuring the Parks and Recreation and the community at large were adequately consulted regarding the maintenance decision. - The appointment of Doug Matthias to multiple positions within the Harbor Commission was agreed upon to assist with lease negotiations.In summary, the meeting captured evolving community sentiment around township management and the importance of adequate public services versus budget constraints.