Residents can take pride in their county government. Our elected officials (Clerk, Sheriff, Prosecutor, Courts, Treasurer, Register of Deeds) and our staff are outstanding. We have low tax rates, little debt, balanced budgets, and a well-funded retirement system. We provide efficient delivery of services vital to the county’s economy and our citizens’ wellbeing.
As the year ends, we can celebrate many accomplishments benefitting residents. A septic ordinance that ensures water quality has been adopted. An Energy Committee that will work to reduce energy costs, consider clean energy options, and help to identify grant opportunities has been established. We have highspeed fiber and tower projects scheduled for completion in 2024.
Through collaboration with non-profits, Land Bank Authority, Brownfield Authority and Housing Action Committee, we are seeing progress in developing attainable housing options. We have restructured the Dam Authority and are working closely with the Lake Leelanau Lake Association to ensure the future health of Lake Leelanau.
We have demonstrated a commitment to building successful partnerships with local governments, regional organizations, and the Grand Traverse Band.
In a collaborative partnership with the Benzie/Leelanau Department of Health, we are completing a project that will expand the BLDHD Health office and improve accessibility to the Environmental Health staff.
We know the quality of staff is what makes the difference in performance and we appreciate their dedication! They are hardworking, informed, service-oriented, and proud of the work they do to serve our businesses and residents.
We have experienced some short-term challenges occasioned by the the retirement of the long-time County Administrator and other senior employees as well as the reorganization of the Finance and Human Resources departments. In response, the Board has approved a plan to transition the management of these departments over the next four months.
All commissioners have the best interests of residents as our primary goal and know we must set an example for professionalism and civility, model respect, and demonstrate our personal best when conducting the public’s business. Those attending our meetings have seen Commissioners prepared and working well together. We don’t always agree, but we work to ensure that respectful deliberations take place. We seek to understand all points of view, consider the options, and make informed decisions.
Civility is more than just politeness. It is about disagreeing without being disrespectful, listening more than talking, seeking common ground, considering opposing viewpoints, learning from others, and understanding the rationale for divergent views. The Commissioners are committed to civility, responsible decision- making, and building consensus on solutions to improve the lives of our constituents.
I feel fortunate to serve as a County Commissioner and I encourage all residents to attend our meetings, speak out about concerns, help us stay informed, volunteer for committees, and hold us all accountable.
Ty Wessell Leelanau County Commissioner, District 4 Note: Although Ty Wessell currently serves as the Chair of the Board of Commissioners, the views above are his personal views and he is not speaking as Board Chair.
