This document addresses a potential conflict of interest involving Mr. Joe DeFors, chair of the Leelanau County Energy Futures Task Force, who is alleged to have lobbied for a state grant pertaining to the County’s solar project. The correspondence highlights Leelanau County’s policy on conflicts of interest, which stipulates a conflict arises when a public servant advocates for a program that benefits them personally.
The Elmwood Township Board held a meeting on June 10, 2024, approving various topics including a Brownfield grant for Discovery Pier. New business featured zoning ordinance amendments, on-premise tasting room permits, and updates on Marina Upgrades. The board adopted regulations on Multi-Dwelling Development and approved equipment upgrades before scheduling a special meeting for June 18, 2024.
The township reviewed proposals from TKS Security to replace security cameras at the township hall, garden, and park. The board approved the proposal from TKS Security and Netlink for IT components, not to exceed $35,000 and $11,000 respectively. Additionally, the board authorized the removal of a tree in front of the township hall that had uprooted.
The regular board meeting for Glen Arbor Township commenced at 7:30 PM, led by Supervisor Tom Laureto, with all board members present. The meeting included a swearing-in ceremony for new firefighter Angelika Diehl, who completed extensive training with the Glen Lake Fire Department. The agenda for the meeting was unanimously approved following an amendment.
This document contains the agenda and supporting materials for the Empire Village Council’s Public Hearing and Regular Meeting on May 28, 2024. The meeting covers various topics, including a public hearing on a Mass Gathering Ordinance, financial statement reviews, and several items requiring council action, such as approving the ordinance and discussing beach parking fees.
On May 28, 2024, the Empire Village Council convened for a regular meeting, following a public hearing regarding the Mass Gathering Ordinance. The meeting commenced at 7:00 p.m., with all council members present except for Webb, who was excused. Public comments addressed the ordinance’s fee structure and evaluation processes for waivers, before the hearing concluded.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission convened on May 23, 2024, at 7:00 P.M. to discuss the proposed amendment allowing farmstays in the Agricultural District. The meeting also covered draft master plan revisions and included public comments to foster community engagement. Plans for the next session on June 13, 2024, were announced, focusing on a communications tower.
James and Ann Flutur, residents of Northport Shores, seek Zoning Board approval for the Kitchen Road Tower, emphasizing the necessity of cell service for safety and emergency access. With many seniors in the area and landline services declining, improved connectivity is vital. Additionally, township plans for “hot spots” in local parks are underway through Point Broadband.
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners convened for their regular session on May 21, 2024, at the Government Center in Suttons Bay, Michigan. The meeting included public comments, agenda-specific discussions, and the board approved several agreements, budgets, and contracts. The session concluded at 9:36 P.M., with all motions and approvals documented in the minutes.
The Leelanau County conflict of interest policy is clear against public servants advocating for programs that would personally benefit them. Joe DeFores, chair of the Energy Futures Task Force, has been identified as engaging in such a conflict, participating in writing a state grant that would pay him $45 per hour, explicitly mentioned in the documentation.
