Summary
The Suttons Bay Township Board meeting on August 14, 2024, addressed various local concerns, particularly those related to road maintenance on Lovers Lane, parks and recreation improvements, and infrastructure planning. Key decisions included approving the payment of bills, hiring an excavating firm for the Ice Rink Park, and discussions on a proposed Pilot Ordinance. The Board also appointed a trustee to the local library board.
Public Comments
- **Martha Ramsdell, Lovers Lane**: Raised concerns about the poor condition of Lovers Lane and requested county intervention for proper resurfacing.
- **Bridget Klassen, Lovers Lane**: Reported that residents cannot afford the estimated $148,000 cost to repair the road themselves and questioned if it would be included in the county's budget.
- **Terry Mathes, Lovers Lane Court**: Emphasized that all residents pay taxes and highlighted the road's significance for Nanagosa residents and visitors.
- **Karen Broad, Lovers Lane Court**: Inquired about reimbursement processes if residents were forced to pay for repairs and expressed frustration over the state of potholes and inadequate repairs.
Response by Supervisor Periard: Acknowledged the residents' concerns. Clarified that Lovers Lane is a Township Road and encouraged them to communicate with the County Road Commission.
Parks and Recreation Matters
A report from the August 8th Parks & Recreation meeting detailed various upgrades at Herman Park, including improvements to the dog park, sports courts, and the introduction of an invasive species sign as part of an Eagle Scout project.
Infrastructure Projects
1. **Ice Rink Park**: Two bids were received for excavation work; concerns were raised about the comparability of bids. Ultimately, the board decided to proceed with Kal Excavating for a project cost not exceeding $7,000 due to their familiarity with the site.
Other Business
- The minutes from the July 10, 2024 meeting were approved with one amendment.
- Payment of August bills totaling $62,955.32 was approved.
- Discussions on the Pilot Ordinance continued, and it will be reviewed at the next meeting.
- The board retained Giffels Webster for new zoning and master plan development, despite costs exceeding initial budgets but recognized potential cost savings with coordinated efforts.
- Deon Vaughan was appointed as a trustee to the Suttons Bay Bingham District Library.
Financial Summary
- Approved bills for August totaled **$62,955.32**.
- Giffels Webster's bids presented for the new zoning ordinance and master plan totaled **$61,820**.
Action Items
- Encourage further communication between residents of Lovers Lane and the County Road Commission regarding road repair.
- Follow up on the Pilot Ordinance discussion next meeting.
- Monitor the progress of the Ice Rink Park project with Kal Excavating.
- Coordinate with the Leelanau Historical Society for cleaning headstones at local cemeteries.