Summary
This packet covers the Suttons Bay Village Council's June 15, 2026 regular meeting, a June 26, 2026 special meeting, and background reports prepared for the July 20, 2026 regular meeting. Key actions included approval of two dedicated staff parking signs, scheduling a public hearing on a revised Marina Ordinance for July 20, and adoption of Resolution 2 of 2026 committing $1,325,000 to the Boater Service/Public Restroom project with Eckler Building Solutions as low bidder. The July 20 agenda includes the Marina Ordinance public hearing, a related Marina Slip Rental Policy update, and a Manager's request for authority over the restroom/boater services contract.
Public Comments
At the June 15 meeting, resident K. Eike raised concerns about speeding on S Shore Drive, a sidewalk issue in Sutton Park, sprinkler spray encroaching on sidewalks, and snow removal on sidewalks; no formal Council response or vote followed. Chava Bahle offered thanks for those helping during the busy season. No written or letter comments were noted as submitted.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Under Good of the Order (June 15), Council Member Smith referenced Housing North and possible avenues for affordable housing, including forgiving property tax, and asked for further discussion. No motion or decision was made; the topic remains open for future discussion.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Staff reported the fishing pier has been completed, and the Invasive Species Network visited the Water Wheel Park stream to identify invasive species. The Manager's Update (VSB-2026-18) noted the Farm Market vendors have opted to remain at Ice Rink Park for the rest of the season, citing satisfaction with shade, walkability, and parking.
Infrastructure Projects
The Utilities/Marina Committee recommended adoption of a revised Marina Ordinance (No. 30); Yoder moved and Smith seconded amending the process to hold a public hearing on July 20, 2026, carried 5-0. The ordinance updates format, harbormaster duties, licensing procedures, and conduct rules, and would repeal Ordinance No. 21. A companion Marina Slip Rental Policy (VSB-2026-11) was updated to match the ordinance and would take effect the same date. At the June 26 special meeting, Council adopted Resolution 2 of 2026 (Lutke moved, Christensen supported) accepting the low bid of $1,325,000 from Eckler Building Solutions for the Public Building and Boater Service Project (#WVW24-0008); roll call passed 7-0 (Bahle, Christensen, Lutke, Perkins, Smith, Suppes, Yoder all yes). Staff noted soil samples were taken for the dredging project. Report VSB-2026-17 requests Council formally authorize the Village Manager as Owner's Representative for day-to-day contract administration on the restroom/boater project. The Manager's Update also flagged early-stage consideration of converting roughly 220 feet of Front Street (Dame Street to Madison) from one-way to two-way traffic.
Other Business
Council approved (4-1) placing two reserved parking signs with posted office hours for Village staff, after Perkins suggested a cone-and-sign alternative. The Planning Commission's 2025 Annual Report noted 13 land use permits issued, four Zoning Board of Appeals meetings, and several 2025 zoning ordinance amendments (spatial requirements, wireless communications, setbacks, marihuana facility prohibition, off-street parking). The Manager's Update reported a law enforcement contract extension of three years is being finalized, an early office closure on July 16 due to hazardous air quality, and cancellation of the Tour De Tart race on July 17 for the same reason.
Financial Summary
The consent agenda approved payment of invoices; the check register for 6/12/2026–7/15/2026 totaled $203,126.41 across 91 disbursements, covering utilities, marina/coal dock repairs, water meters, well testing, propane, and other operating costs. Council adopted Resolution 2 of 2026 committing $1,325,000 to the Boater Service/Public Restroom project (low bid from Eckler Building Solutions of six bidders); staff noted the cost was higher than originally expected and said they would pursue additional financing.
Action Items
Discussion of Leo Creek culverts was moved to the next General Service Committee meeting (Perkins moved, Bahle seconded, carried 4-1). Staff will seek additional financing for the Boater Service/Public Restroom project. Smith requested further Council discussion on affordable housing options via Housing North. The Marina Ordinance public hearing is set for July 20, 2026. Council is asked to vote on authorizing the Village Manager as Owner's Representative for the restroom/boater services contract.