6/4/2026 - Northport Village | Work Session Meeting Notes

Summary

The Village of Northport Council met on June 4, 2026, to discuss various critical issues, including the proposed Mill Pond dam millage, ongoing infrastructure projects, and the FY 2026-27 budget. Public comments highlighted the importance of clear communication regarding millage proposals, and the Council agreed to work on ballot language revisions. Additionally, a proposed amendment to the Attainable Housing Facilities Exemption Ordinance was introduced, and a Citizen of the Year selection process was discussed but no final action was taken.

Public Comments

Several residents voiced their concerns: - **Vickie Slot** questioned the perception of a millage proposal as an endorsement by the Council and emphasized the need for clarity about the implications of both approval and rejection of the millage. - **Elizabeth Mallek** addressed legal considerations related to the ballot language and urged that voters be educated on the consequences of their decision. - **Barbara Weber** supported efforts to inform voters about the Mill Pond dam and encouraged placing the Council’s intentions on record.

Infrastructure Projects

Village Manager Ottenwess reported on several ongoing infrastructure initiatives, including: - Preparation for the marina for the boating season and a repair of a damaged glass door. - Updates on the electric vehicle charging station initiative, which is under evaluation for future discussions. The Northport/Leelanau Township Utilities Authority will review wastewater capacity analysis in their upcoming meeting.

Action Items

1. **Mill Pond Dam Millage**: Village Manager Ottenwess was directed to collaborate with legal counsel to refine ballot language and prepare a resolution articulating the Village's stance should the millage fail. The Council plans to discuss this further in their June 18, 2026 meeting. 2. **Attainable Housing Facilities Exemption Ordinance**: Ottenwess is tasked with bringing the proposed amendment back for formal consideration in a future meeting, enabling clarity in owner-occupancy requirements. 3. **Citizen of the Year Policy**: Ottenwess is to develop a formal policy regarding the nomination and selection process for the Citizen of the Year award based on Council discussions.

Other Business

- The Council approved postponing the Closed Session performance evaluation discussion due to time constraints. - The proposed FY 2026-27 budget was reviewed with plans for a public hearing on June 18, 2026.

Financial Summary

The budget discussions included: - Projected revenue increases from taxable value growth. - A proposed 20% increase in water rates pending a study. - Plans for funding various capital improvement projects, including a culvert project, marina improvements, and Master Plan updates. No financial items were voted on during this meeting.