The Glen Arbor Township Board held a regular meeting on March 19, 2024. Key attendees included Supervisor Tom Laureto, Clerk Pam Laureto, Treasurer Don Lewis, and Trustee Bob Hawley. The meeting addressed road projects, financial reports, and emergency services, along with approving the GLFD Budget Amendments and a new ambulance RFP. The Board also discussed various ongoing matters.
The Empire Village Council convened for a Budget Hearing and Regular Meeting on February 28, 2024, at the Empire Township Hall. Key items on the agenda included financial statements, department head reports, and both old and new business. The meeting focused on budget amendments, fiscal year budgets, and the allocation of “ACT 51” funds.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission held its regular meeting on January 25, 2024. A quorum was established, and the agenda was approved with additional items on renewable energy legislation and zoning ordinance consolidation. Residents voiced concerns regarding the Shoreline Residential District and the Planning Commission’s website. The next meeting is scheduled for February 8, 2024.
Key sections include meeting details for the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners on February 20, 2024, consent agenda items from various departments, action items needing a roll call vote including renewable energy grants, and resolutions related to senior citizens and hazard mitigation. Additionally, there is a pre-payment request for the South Bar Lake Drain project.
The meeting, which began at 7:00 p.m., covered various topics, including approval of minutes and the agenda, communications, public comment, and commissioner comments. Key motions passed involved the approval of the consent agenda, which included grant applications, contract renewals, and travel approvals. The board addressed action items, with significant discussion centered on a grant application for renewable energy.
The Wellmans support the grant proposal for the solar energy project, seeing it as a win for the county in saving money as well as an example for local individuals and businesses. They note that the project also benefits the Sheriff’s office by covering their vehicles. The Wellmans urge the Commissioners to support the application.
The Leelanau County Energy Futures Taskforce has proposed a solar energy project for the Government Center, featuring a 367 kW solar system expected to supply 30% of its energy use. Funded by a $1.2 million grant, the initiative emphasizes financial savings, estimated at $35,310 annually, while promoting environmental sustainability and renewable energy in Michigan.
Michael Radke, a former school board member, advocates for solar panel installation at Leelanau County offices, leveraging his energy initiative experience. He underscores potential financial and environmental benefits, urging immediate action to capitalize on available grants. Radke’s commitment and insights highlight the significant impact this solar energy project could have on the county’s sustainability efforts.
Susan Wheadon expresses gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to environmental protection through the solar grant application process. She acknowledges the challenges posed by the fossil fuel industry’s efforts to spread disinformation about climate change and undermines the benefits of clean energy sources like solar power, appreciating the county’s commitment to a thorough approach to solar energy.
Support for Solar Project at the Government Center – The authors, Bill Sawyer and Michele Hulsey, are urging the Commissioners to approve the grant submission for a solar installation at the Government Center. They believe the government center property is the perfect place for this worthwhile project and installation. The authors provide their contact information.
