The Leelanau Township budget report for the fiscal year 24-25 reveals a strong General Fund performance with actual revenues surpassing estimates significantly. However, the Emergency Services Fund faces challenges, showing a deficit due to high operational costs. Other funds also display varied financial activities, highlighting the ongoing fiscal management efforts within the township.
The Buster Dame ball park property in Northport Village is an ideal location for housing development due to its strategic location and accessibility. The need for workforce housing has been highlighted by local business operators, emphasizing affordable options for employees. Initial discussions indicate a positive direction towards collaborating with the Village on developing this important property.
Community concerns regarding housing, parks, and governance have been voiced to the Leelanau Township Board. Residents emphasize the urgency for attainable housing solutions and improved parks, while expressing dissatisfaction over the restructuring of governance roles. Engagement with constituents is critical as the board navigates its budgeting process, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.
Dalia Menchaca addresses Sheriff Mike Borkovich, expressing concerns over deportation procedures in Leelanau County and their implications on community ties. She questions the limits of enforcement, the nature of anticipated raids, and the potential use of census data for targeting. Her inquiry underscores the need for transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.
Heather Pineda, a licensed clinical therapist, expresses concern about the trauma faced by families in Leelanau County due to threats from the new administration. She urges the county to stop assisting ICE, emphasizing that local law enforcement should prioritize community needs. Pineda advocates for better representation for residents and their children.
This document, written by Perry Samson, addresses the actions of Leelanau County Sheriff Mike Borkovich and their potential impact on the community. The central argument of the document is a call for consistency in the Sheriff’s stance on executive orders, urging him to oppose a hypothetical Trump administration executive order mandating cooperation with ICE.
Michael Greer, a retired attorney and magistrate, has voiced concerns about Sheriff Borkovich’s collaboration with ICE. He questions whether the sheriff will require valid arrest warrants before involving staff in ICE actions, emphasizing the need for legal safeguards to protect individual rights and minimize county liability for potential constitutional violations during immigration enforcement efforts.
Leigh Fairey, a 36-year resident of Leelanau County, argues that the Sheriff’s policy is rooted in racism and is not beneficial to the community. The letter emphasizes that undocumented individuals contribute positively to the local economy and that the policy promotes fear rather than unity. The author specifically requests that the letter be read aloud.
Allison Zimpfer expresses her strong opposition to Sheriff Borkovich’s support for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities within Leelanau County. She emphasizes that the role of local law enforcement should not extend to immigration enforcement, arguing that complicity in such actions undermines public safety, instills fear among immigrant communities, and infringes upon civil rights.
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.
