This document comprises several reports and communications pertaining to Elmwood Township’s finances, planning, and administrative matters for January and February of 2025. The Treasurer’s Report provides account balances and investment summaries across various funds, totaling over $10.8 million. The Planning and Zoning Report highlights permit activity, Zoning Board of Appeals meetings, and Planning Commission activities.
The Charter Township of Elmwood held its regular board meeting on February 10, 2024, at the Township Hall, with Supervisor Shaw presiding. Attorney Bryan Graham announced his retirement and introduced Catherine Kaufman from the municipal firm Bauckham, Thall, which will take over his clients. The board also approved the Advanced Life Support Intercept Agreement with MMR.
The Leland Township Board meeting on February 10, 2025, saw significant public comments regarding concerns over township issues, including salary increases and the need for a street light. Residents voiced dissatisfaction with financial transparency and decision-making processes, while reports highlighted ongoing budget planning and a tentative agreement with Fire Department employees, addressing key local concerns.
The Leelanau Township Planning Commission has announced a Special Meeting on January 30, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss a Special Land Use Permit application for a 200-foot wireless communications tower. Public comments will be accepted in-person or via Zoom, with details accessible on the township website.
Section A highlights the general compliance of plans with stormwater ordinances and special land use permit standards, along with driveway access details. Section B presents documentation of ownership and agency reviews affirming permit eligibility. Section C outlines key environmental assessments ensuring minimal impact, bolstering the application’s viability for the proposed project.
This document presents the budget reports for the Village of Empire across various funds, including the General Fund, Major Streets Fund, Local Streets Fund, Water Fund, and Equipment Fund. The General Fund shows total estimated revenues of $638,300.00 for the original budget and $709,670.78 in activity through February 28, 2025, indicating a financial deficit.
The author expresses concerns regarding a petition among Village residents to remove specific Action Items from the Recreation Plan. They argue this undermines the public participation process mandated by the DNR, emphasizing that these items stemmed from public input. The author questions ignoring survey results showing resident support and advocates for studying the proposals before making decisions.
The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners meeting on January 21, 2025, will address a comprehensive agenda covering various administrative, operational, and financial matters. Key discussion points include the approval of employee health plans, multiple departmental work agreements, and grants. Public comments can be submitted in person or via email, ensuring transparency and adherence to the Open Meetings Act.
Governance challenges in Leelanau County include a $1 million taxpayer money decision by County Commissioners, restrictions on public input, and changes in meeting times that limit access. The proposed Commissioner Governance Declaration emphasizes essential services, lawful petitions for additional services, and prioritizes public participation, urging agenda discussions on improving accessibility at upcoming county meetings.
The document transcribes Mark Cook’s public comment at the Barry County Board of Commissioners meeting on September 10, 2024, where he highlighted vulnerabilities in the Dominion voting system. Cook challenged Election Source representatives, who acknowledged these issues yet continued selling the equipment, raising concerns about vendor control over elections and the involvement of organizations like the Atlantic Council.
