Margaret M. Doud

The council discussed and took action on several items including the Marine Rescue slip rental agreement, service and repair orders for Otis Elevator, and the adoption of a poverty exemption resolution. Other business included reviewing use permits for Marine Rescue equipment storage, requests for drone shows, and multiple annual vehicle and trailer permit applications from entities such as Cummins Sales & Services, Mission Point Resort, and the Grand Hotel.

The Planning Commission meeting covered several agenda items, including a staff report regarding public works and project updates. The commission tabled a new cafe project pending further documentation. Approval was granted for a lot reconfiguration recommendation to the City Council, repairs for a church deck and steeple, and the installation of storage sheds at a local inn. Additionally, the commission approved a change of use for two residential units to hotel units, with discussions regarding employee housing and bike parking requirements.

The council addressed ferry boat service matters, including rates, fees, and schedules for the 2025 season. A resolution was adopted to freeze rates at 2024 levels with specific exceptions. Other key discussions involved the acceptance of a consulting contract, the adoption of the 2025 regular meeting schedule, and the approval of various permits for construction, vehicle use, and hauling at multiple locations across the city.

The meeting is convened to enter into a closed session for the discussion of ongoing litigation and a confidential attorney opinion. Additionally, the agenda includes open discussion and potential action regarding an amendment to the Ferry Boat Ordinance and other ferry boat matters.

Key discussions and actions taken during the meeting included the adoption of the agenda and the approval of bills and payroll, including specific payments from the Forest Way Townhomes (FWTH) Debt Account. The Finance Committee reported a low fund balance, citing legal/litigation, Ice Storm costs, and Police Department overtime as primary issues, and proposed strategies including a potential mileage levy increase and a 2.8% wage increase for the 2026/2027 budget. Old Business addressed the 2026 Marine Rescue Slip Rental Agreement negotiation with the DNR and tabled a Competitive Event Application from the Knights of Columbus. New Business saw the approval for reapplying for $70,000.00 in grant funding for FWTH landscaping, adoption of the 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals schedule, acceptance of a Labor Council Union Letter of Agreement and a Chief of Police contract addendum, approval for the 2026 season Hanging Basket Contract, and approval of a one-year cleaning contract for restrooms, with a commitment to bid out future multi-year contracts. Discussions also included proposed fee increases for tourist snowmobile permits and bike licenses, and decisions regarding bicycle impound fees and civil infractions, as well as general support for increases suggested by the Building Department. The Council adopted a resolution authorizing a Lot Split & Reconfiguration for the Steiner property and adopted an easement for a Hoban Hill utility relocation. Approval was granted for the Recreation Department to seek further assistance for Turtle Park Playground updates. Finally, agreements regarding the K9 Program renewal and a grant application submission were approved, and the Zoning Board of Appeals schedule was set for an appeal submission.