6/19/2025 - Northport Village | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Northport Village Council meeting held on June 19, 2025, focused on community engagement, budget approvals, and new ordinances relating to housing. Key decisions included the approval of the FY 25-26 budget, first readings of new housing-related ordinances, and the selection of the Citizen of the Year.

Public Comments

The meeting included public comments from Sawyer Scott regarding the Bay to Braman Bolt event scheduled for August 31, 2025, which was approved by consensus. Additionally, Trustee Dean moved to approve the street closure for the Buster Dame baseball event on July 19, 2025, which also passed.

Affordable Housing Initiatives

A first reading of Ordinance 140, the Workforce Housing Pilot Ordinance, was discussed, allowing flexibility in tax rates of 0% to 10% for income-qualified households. Trustee Cavendish moved to approve this reading, which passed unanimously. The first reading of Ordinance 141, concerning Attainable Housing Facilities Exemption, was also approved. Village Manager Jered Ottenwess highlighted the need for certified mail notification to property owners, presenting a cost implication for the implementation process.

Infrastructure Projects

President McCann reported that the Northport/Leelanau Township Utilities Authority approved a proposal from Jacobs Engineering for a comprehensive sewer system evaluation and growth capacity study, which is essential for future infrastructure planning. Financial assistance for residents struggling with municipal water and sewer bills was also noted.

Other Business

The council discussed the adoption of new resolutions including the social media policy and the investment enrollment with MI Class. The Citizen of the Year award was presented to Bob Newell for his community contributions, showcasing the council's appreciation for local volunteers.

Financial Summary

The FY 25-26 budget was approved, with no comments received during the public hearing. The budget serves as a standard operating budget, and no major capital improvements are specified at this time. A total of $49,038.91 in bills for May was also approved for payment.

Action Items

1. Executor of service agreement with BS&A for financial software conversion, with anticipated initiation by late 2025 or early 2026. 2. Village Manager to bring forward a proposal for a consistent appointment process for various village boards and commissions. 3. Implementation of the social media policy to be expedited as discussed by Trustee Ager.