Eric Bjorn

The Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners meeting focused on several administrative and financial actions. Key decisions included the election of the Vice Chairman for 2026, establishing that county board meetings will occur on the third Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m., and confirming committee appointments for the year. The Board designated several banks as depositories for County funds. New business included the approval of two agenda additions: a Change Order for the Security Project and sharing GIS data with the Western UP Health Department. The Board authorized increasing mileage reimbursement rates to $.72 per IRS guidelines, reappointed members to the Board of Canvassers, tabled the wording for residency guidelines at Canal View pending consultation with the attorney, and developed a resolution opposing the sale of Canal View. The Sheriff Department received approval to purchase a Chevy Tahoe and to apply for a grant to fund a part-time deputy's training academy expenses. A net savings of $12,499.68 was realized from Change Order #1 for the Courthouse Security Upgrades through various substitutions and additions. Finally, the Board approved paying audited bills totaling $250,061.18 across various funds.

The public hearing was held for the 2026 General Fund and Special Fund budgets. There were no budget amendments. The regular meeting included reports from the Treasurer, Sheriff, Maintenance, and Mine Inspector. The board discussed and approved paying the approved and audited bills. Health insurance issues were discussed, and bids for a generator were reviewed but tabled. The board adopted various budgets for 2026 and authorized the County Treasurer to make budget transfers. A resolution opting out of PA 152 was adopted. The 2026 grant application for the Survey and Remonumentation Grant Program was approved. Reappointments were made to the Planning Commission, Veterans Affairs Committee, UP 911 Authority, and Department of Health and Human Services. An appointment was made to the 911 Committee. The board also discussed potential consolidation of Houghton Township, approved the revised Union Contract, and approved the property/liability insurance.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on short-term rental (STR) rules and regulations, featuring insights from MSU Extension. Public comments addressed concerns about permit approvals and zoning compliance. Reports were given by the Zoning Administrator, BOC, and ZBA, covering zoning permits, courthouse security renovations, and recent variance approvals. The STR Subcommittee presented on legal frameworks, enforcement, and the potential for licensing/registration of STRs. The Bylaws Subcommittee distributed revised bylaws for review, and the Master Plan was reviewed with a proposed schedule for future meetings. Additional public comments touched on ZBA matters and the possibility of a tourism tax for STRs.

The Keweenaw County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to hear public comment on the proposed 2026 General Fund & Special Fund Budgets prior to their adoption. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be the subject of this hearing.

The meeting focused on putting the generator project out to bid with a clarification that the generator will have its own 1,000-gallon propane tank. Bids are due by December 17, 2025. The board also approved vision and dental coverage benefits for employees for 2026, detailing the costs for single, double, and family coverage under the Western Michigan Health Insurance Pool and The Pool Dental Insurance.