The next term will introduce some new faces to local government, but it’s also time to bid some “adieus.”
Suttons Bay Village Council member Will Case chose not to run for reelection this year, meaning his 35 years in local government will end in January. The village council celebrated his service at their regular meeting Monday.
Case has served the people of the village of Suttons Bay in many different capacities over the years, including councilmember, liaison, planning commissioner, and member of the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Case’s peers shared some kind words at the Nov. 18 meeting, with Roger Suppes describing him as “a great mentor and a great friend.” Village Council President Steve Lutke told Case that he “appreciate(d) your perspective, your input, and your optimism.”
The village council adopted a resolution of appreciation noting that Case has “shared his vision for the community in a thoughtful and passionate manner that often included past contributors and artists of this community,” and that he helped introduce many policies and procedures to the village, including three zoning ordinances.
In further show of appreciation, Lutke allowed Case to close this meeting. Since they had no gavel, township resident Sharon Sutterfield supplied a club hammer from her workshop that Case used to pound the table and signal adjournment.
The village council also:
• Approved year-end budget amendments to reflect unforeseen expenditures and increased revenues. The total revenues were in the amount of $3,304,182 and expenses were in the amount of $3,757,928. Village Manager Rob Larrea noted in meeting documents that the village is “in good fiscal standing,” and the increase is associated mostly with the public/marina bathroom project.
• Scheduled a Truth in Taxation hearing to support the 2025 budget for Dec. 3 at 8:30 a.m. Immediately afterwards, the village council will have a special meeting and public hearing to consider adopting the proposed 2025 budget.
• Appointed Bill Perkins and Karl Bahle to the general services committee, Debra Smith and Pat Yoder to the utilities committee, and Colleen Christensen and Suppes to the administrative committee. According to meeting minutes, President Lutke will also serve on all three committees.
