Work Session (Packet)

The Empire Village Council’s work session on April 11, 2024, will cover public comments, department reports, and issues around short-term rentals, infrastructure, and procedures. Key topics include proposed ordinances, committee formation for enforcement, and community engagement, allowing residents to voice their concerns. The Council aims for transparency and accountability in decision-making processes.

Work Session (Minutes)

The Empire Village Council convened on April 11, 2024, at the Township Hall, with all members present. The agenda included a request from the ABCD Group and public comments on various items. The council discussed the Short Term Rental registration ordinance and voted to purchase the Field Trip building, approving the purchase agreement. The meeting adjourned at 9:42 p.m.

Regular meeting (April Check Journal)

The document presents the monthly check journal for Centerville Township for April 2024, detailing various transactions including paychecks, checks, and liability checks. The total debits for the month amount to $17,651.27, while the total credits are $18,575.61, indicating a net credit balance. Notable entries include payments to employees such as Beth Chiles, Daniel Hubbell, and Julie Krombeen.

Regular meeting (Zoning Administrator Report)

This report provides an overview of the land use permits issued by the Kasson Township Zoning Administrator for March 2024. A total of five permits were processed, encompassing home occupation changes and land divisions. Notably, permit fees collected totaled $1,375, contributing to the township’s operational revenue, indicating ongoing development within the township.

Executive Board (Minutes)

The meeting, called to order by Chairman Ty Wessell, began with the approval of the amended agenda, including the placement of the Northwest Regional Airport Authority (NRAA) agenda item as an action item. Administrator Allen provided updates, introduced new staff, and discussed upcoming events and communications. Interim Administrator Richard Lewis was also introduced.

Executive Board (Public Comment – A. Heins, 4/9/2024)

The document is a letter addressed to the Leelanau County Commissioners from Alison Heins, expressing significant concern regarding Sheriff Borkovich’s appearance at a recent Donald Trump rally. Heins highlights the troubling nature of the sheriff’s association with inflammatory rhetoric, particularly a sign that depicted a “bloodbath,” which she vehemently disputes as a factual narrative surrounding President Biden.

Executive Board (Public Comment – S. Johnson & R. Babich, 4/9/2024)

Sarah Johnson, a concerned citizen of Leelanau County, has written to the Commissioners expressing worries about the Sheriff’s conduct at a rally with former President Trump. She seeks assurances that taxpayer resources were not used. Johnson emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability, arguing that any misuse of public funds would necessitate disciplinary measures or resignation.

Executive Board (Public Comment – M. Barnes, 4/9/2024)

Maryann Barnes expresses her concerns about Sheriff Michael Borkovich’s participation in an event while in uniform, implying he misrepresented Leelanau County’s views. She questions the use of county resources for political endorsements and critiques misinformation propagated by the former president, stressing the importance of ethics and professionalism in public service representation.

Executive Board (Public Comment – P. Kemler, 4/9/2024)

Sheriff Mike Borkovic’s public endorsement of a political candidate while in uniform has raised concerns about a potential violation of the Hatch Act. Paula Jo Kemler emphasizes that his decision to support candidate Trump is inappropriate, as it blurs the lines between personal views and professional responsibilities, undermining public trust in law enforcement.

Executive Board (Public Comment – M. Tonneberger, 4/9/2024)

Sheriff’s Attendance at Trump Rally
– The sheriff travelled to a Trump political rally in Grand Rapids on April 2, 2024, while in uniform and with his badge, indicating he was representing the county.
– Trump’s remarks at the rally were “vicious and contemptible,” and the sheriff’s attendance implies that Leelanau County residents share Trump’s positions.