Summary
This document consists of correspondence to the Leelanau Township Board (April 8, 2025) concerning a proposed land swap involving the Village of Northport's 7th Street property and discussion of Buster Dame Park's future use. Township Supervisor Barb Conley responded to resident David Brigham's letter, and resident Tom MacDonald separately wrote to Supervisor Conley about misuse of the 7th Street property. No formal board votes or decisions are recorded in this correspondence.
Public Comments
David Brigham wrote to oppose any land swap involving Buster Dame (BD) Park, recalling its historic use by Northport's girls softball team and citing memories shared with massage therapist Janet Stowe, a former player. Brigham argued established parks should never be eliminated and noted that New Community Vision now owns a 24-acre parcel near Camp Haven Road and M-22, with public meetings planned this summer regarding potential housing development there. He proposed the Village instead promote development of the remaining four lots on 7th Street while preserving the wetland area to the north, concluding a swap is unnecessary.
Supervisor Barb Conley responded directly to Brigham, listing the township's existing parks (Braman Hill, Christmas Cove, Peterson Park, Buster Dame, Omena Beach, and Woolsey Airfield) plus Village and State parks, and noting the Parks and Rec committee's ongoing work. She stated Buster Dame field, while flat and well-located, is not heavily used currently and suggested a possible compromise where part of the park is preserved and part converted to housing.
Tom MacDonald wrote to Supervisor Conley regarding the Village's 7th Street property, stating he and his wife Michelle have lived at 201 East 7th St for 26 years. He reported the former maintenance property has been misused as a de facto dump and informal parking area for private vehicles and trailers, and said the village president and village manager had not responded to his prior concerns. He submitted photos documenting the property's condition and asked that whoever assumes responsibility for the property maintain it in a manner appropriate for a residential street.
Affordable Housing Initiatives
Conley noted an estimated need for about 100 homes for residents earning $50,000-$100,000, plus a lack of senior downsizing options and year-round rentals. She stated the school, township library, and township clerk's office have all lost staff due to unavailable affordable housing, and that only one township firefighter/paramedic lives in the county. She noted New Community Vision's 24-acre parcel could potentially fit 18-24 homes, and that prior Village discussions of the 7th Street property indicated public preference for a natural area there rather than housing.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Discussion centered on Buster Dame Park, originally acquired by the township via tax sale, with a baseball field built in 1991 using a DNR grant. Conley noted declining school enrollment means there are no longer enough children for a basketball or baseball team, and the field sees little current use despite its flat terrain, road access, and utilities. She suggested exploring a middle ground where part of the park is retained and part redeveloped for housing.
Action Items
Public meetings are expected this summer for community input on New Community Vision's 24-acre parcel development. Tom MacDonald requested responsible parties address ongoing misuse of the 7th Street property, having received no prior response from the village president or village manager.