This memorandum summarizes the bid results for the Leland Dam Pedestrian Bridge repair project, conducted on September 27, 2024. Machin Engineering reviewed bids from various contractors. The board requested a review of composite products and walnut, aiming for sustainability. However, the firm advises against composite materials due to safety concerns and suggests Ipe or Thermally Modified Ash.
Kama Ross, a retired forester and Leelanau County Commissioner, is advocating for Black Locust wood for the Leland Dam pedestrian bridge. She criticizes current bids using Ipe or Thermally Modified Ash, emphasizing Black Locust’s sustainability and durability. Support from local businesses reinforces her campaign for this environmentally friendly option, despite concerns from project officials.
The primary goal is to replace the Leland Dam Bridge utilizing materials such as Ipe, Thermally Modified Ash, or Treated Southern Yellow Pine (SYP) to ensure long-term durability and low maintenance requirements. Both Ipe and Thermally Modified Ash have been identified as suitable materials. Various contractors submitted bids for the project based on different material options.
The Leland Dam Authority has proposed a contract with Fisher Contracting Company for the Dam Walkway and Railing Project, budgeted at $124,736.77. This project aims to replace existing materials with more durable options, focusing on sustainability. The recommendation for Fisher stems from their commitment to using 100% Thermally Modified Ash, enhancing durability and environmental responsibility.
The Leland Township Board held a regular meeting on October 14, 2024, approving key items including the purchase of a new fire department truck for $660,000 and the transfer of the Munnecke property for library repairs. A public hearing on the Sunset Shores project is set for November 11, 2024, at 6:30 p.m.
The document discusses Cherry Republic’s expansion plans for its facility in northern Michigan, adding 15,000 square feet of fulfillment and storage space. This expansion will create up to 20 new full-time manufacturing jobs, benefiting Michigan farmers and the economy by increasing opportunities and allowing for greater production and distribution of Montmorency tart cherry products globally.
This document summarizes the Empire Village Council Work Session held on October 10, 2024. Key discussion items included the Sign Ordinance enforcement and a review of the Treasurer Job Description. New business topics included RAP Grant opportunities and a request from Cherry Republic for an Industrial Development District, which the council decided against pursuing.
The Solon Township Board convened its regular meeting on October 10, 2024, at the Solon Township Hall. The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and proceeded with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting. The Treasurer’s report highlighted the township’s financial status, with total current assets amounting to $404,345.80.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission submitted a proposal to amend zoning regulations to permit Farm Stay Campgrounds as a special land use within the Agricultural Zoning District. This initiative arises from discussions by Philip and Sarah Hallstedt, who proposed a campground project encompassing around 30 sites on their farm, reflecting growing interest in agritourism.
The economic landscape of Leelanau Township is multifaceted, with tourism being the predominant economic driver. The 2015 report by Networks Northwest emphasizes enhancing the business climate, talent attraction, and community asset strengthening. Nature-based tourism, eco-tourism, food tourism, cultural tourism, and agritourism each uniquely contribute to the local economy, particularly through the region’s natural attractions.
