Summary
The Suttons Bay Village Council held a regular meeting on November 18, 2024, and a special meeting/Truth in Taxation hearing on December 3, 2024. Key actions included adoption of 2024 fiscal year-end budget amendments, scheduling of the Truth in Taxation hearing and 2025 budget hearing, adoption of the 2025 budget and fee schedule (Resolution 9 of 2024), and a Resolution of Appreciation for outgoing 35-year council member Will Case.
Public Comments
At the November 18 meeting, Kim Eike raised concerns about speeding on South Shore Drive and requested traffic calming measures; no formal Council response was recorded. Kelly Slater, speaking for Green Suttons Bay, offered to plant more trees and continue rain garden maintenance, and thanked Council member Smith and the DPW for help with tree watering. Sue Chapman asked whether maple trees near the new bathroom location would need removal; Green Suttons Bay offered to replace any trees removed. No responses from staff or Council were recorded for these comments.
Parks and Recreation Matters
Staff reported the Waterwheel Park project came in $40,000 under budget. Will Case, in his final meeting, expressed hope that Waterwheel Park signage would be installed and that donated sculptures be placed in Marina Park along the trail. The 2025 budget includes ADA park improvements and a Parks & Recreation appropriation of $186,313.
Infrastructure Projects
The 2025 budget report notes continued investment in water infrastructure to meet state-mandated testing and prepare for a water line replacement project. Village water rates are expected to increase in 2025 for the first time in 17 years, though not effective January 1; a revised rate structure will be presented to Council in early 2025. The Marina/DDA budget funds a new Marina/public restroom project supported by State Waterways division funding, with marina slip fees rising 2%–5% per the Waterways fee schedule.
Other Business
Council approved 2025 committee appointments: General Services – Bill Perkins and Karl Bahle; Utilities – Debra Smith and Pat Yoder; Administrative – Roger Suppes and Colleen Christensen; President Lutke serves on all three. A Resolution of Appreciation honoring Will Case’s 35 years of service (Council, Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals) was adopted 7-0. Case was presented a ceremonial gavel by Sharon Sutterfield and adjourned his final meeting at 5:53 p.m.
Financial Summary
2024 FYE budget amendment: revenue $3,304,182; expenses $3,757,928 (adopted 7-0). 2025 Budget (Resolution 9 of 2024): revenues $3,366,540; total expenditures $3,947,426, based on a millage rate of 8.7647 mills (maximum allowable under Headlee, not an increase). Fund appropriations include General Fund $1,175,299, Major Street $309,845, Local Street $199,013, Sewer Fund $833,051, Water Fund $286,720, Marina Fund $920,096, Property Replacement $82,000, and DDA $141,402.
Action Items
Staff to finalize the 2025 water rate structure in early 2025 for Council review and amend the Fee Schedule accordingly. Waterwheel Park signage installation and placement of donated sculptures in Marina Park remain pending per Will Case’s request. Council scheduled the Truth in Taxation hearing and 2025 budget adoption for December 3, 2024, 8:30 a.m.