Regular meeting (Memo Handout with Documentation, 05/21/2024)

Security Concern at Register of Deeds Office: A public comment was made at a recent Executive Board Meeting regarding a potential security breach on a public computer. Investigation revealed no breach; instead, it was a false alarm triggered by a Microsoft notification. The County has disabled notifications on public computers to prevent future issues.

Regular meeting (Conflict of Interest – S. Quinlan, 5/21/2024)

The Leelanau County conflict of interest policy defines a conflict of interest as when a public servant advocates for a personally beneficial program. Joe DeFors, chair of the Leelanau County Energy Futures Task Force, has been identified as having a conflict of interest by lobbying for a state grant that financially benefits him directly.

Regular meeting (Conflict of Interest – Unknown, 5/21/2024)

Conflict of Interest Violation – Joe DeFors, chair of the Leelanau County Energy Futures Task Force, helped write and lobbied for a state grant that personally benefits him, violating county policy. Commissioners Kama Ross and Gwenne Allgaier were complicit, undermining the investigation’s integrity. This document serves as notice of the violation and suggests removal of Mr. DeFors.

Regular meeting (Conflict of Interest – R. G. Swiat, 5/21/2024)

The Leelanau County conflict of interest policy defines a conflict as occurring when a public servant advocates for a program benefiting themselves. Joe DeFors, chair of the Energy Futures Task Force, participated in writing a grant that benefits him financially. It is recommended he be removed from the task force following an investigation into this violation.

Regular meeting (Conflict of Interest – J. Kobberstad, 5/21/2024)

The Leelanau County conflict of interest policy defines a conflict as a public servant advocating for personal benefit. Joe DeFors, chair of the Energy Futures Task Force, has a clear conflict, having lobbied for a grant that benefits him financially. Ethical violations also implicate county commissioners who must be recused from the investigation.

Public Hearing & Regular Meeting:5/14/2024 (Minutes)

The Township Board of Cleveland Township held its regular meeting on May 14, 2024, with Supervisor Tim Stein presiding. Key decisions included delaying action on the Short Term Rental Ordinance, approving a 60/40 agreement with the Leelanau County Road Commission, and discussions regarding the Four Township Fire Department’s anniversary and interlocal agreement changes.

Township Board: Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 5:30pm (MEETING PACKET)

On April 9, 2024, the Leelanau Township Board convened to address municipal issues, including public comments on a proposed tower construction site and the review of expenses totaling $115,072.78. Discussions included employee policies, budget updates, and potential tax fee adjustments, while reports indicated smooth operations in emergency services and facilities management.

Executive Board (Minutes)

The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners convened on May 14, 2024, to discuss key updates and action items affecting the county. Highlights included progress on the Leelanau Tower Project, plans for the demolition of the former hospital, and various public concerns. Financial endorsements also concluded the meeting, demonstrating the Board’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.

Special Session (Ahmed Abou-Ismail – Resume, 5/14/2024)

Ahmed Abou-Ismail is an Executive, Financial, and Operational Leader with over 20 years of experience. He seeks a new challenge to leverage his strengths in strategic leadership, financial planning, and risk management. His roles as CEO, CFO, and General Manager demonstrate his ability to drive results and improve financial performance across various industries.