Victoria Bishop

The agenda for the meeting scheduled for March 3, 2026, included several key review items pertaining to zoning ordinance amendments from various townships. Discussions included a review of Milton Township Zoning Amendment 2025-06 regarding the definition of 'Vacation Rental' and regulations for dwelling unit rentals, and a review of Banks Township Zoning Ordinance Amendment concerning front yard setbacks in Agricultural and Conservation/Recreation Zoning Districts. Additionally, the commission was scheduled to review Helena Township Zoning Ordinance Amendments related to supplemental waterfront, lake, stream, flood plain, and wetlands regulations, as well as definitions. The agenda also covered procedural items such as the approval of the previous month's minutes and general public comment periods.

This Capital Program Assessment for the Antrim County Public Safety Project reviews the proposed capital program plan, providing detailed findings and recommendations concerning the project's space program, budget, schedule, and facility operations. The assessment identifies significant budget shortfalls, particularly within owner-related soft costs and contingencies, and outlines a recommended timeline for the project. It emphasizes the development of a model rural justice center that balances security with a human-centric design, prioritizing mental health and substance abuse treatment for inmates, with an anticipated occupancy by mid-2028.

Key discussions during the meeting included committee reports covering the NCCH plan to renew their vehicle fleet via a 5-year lease with Enterprise, updates on the Public Safety Center where the board is awaiting PM Realpoint reports before presenting to the March 5th meeting, and a report on the Alpena Jail facility design concept. The board approved claims and accounts totaling $93,111.64. A Resolution of Intent was approved for Antrim County Transportation (ACT) to apply for State and Federal financial assistance for FY2027, including a county appropriation of $100,000. Authorization was granted for the Commission on Aging to execute a Purchase of Service Agreement with Reliance. Action was taken to authorize an appraisal and listing for sale of the airport's old maintenance hangar, and to approve an electrical easement agreement with Great Lakes Energy for a new taxiway transformer. Finally, the board directed the Designated Planning Agency to communicate with EGLE regarding the reduction of members on the Materials Management Planning Committee and subsequently voted to reorganize and reappoint the committee members.

The meeting focused on EDC Education as a priority within the Strategic Plan, featuring presentations from area chambers of commerce regarding their activities. The Mancelona Chamber provided updates on downtown revitalization efforts, new business openings, and the acquisition of the former Dura property by the Village for park expansion. The Bellaire Chamber reported on successful Marketing Mondays workshops and expanding summer music events. The Elk Rapids Chamber detailed strategies for business retention, including collaborations with the DDA and supporting affordable housing. Discussions ensued regarding EDC support for chambers, including sponsoring a countywide event. Regarding the 2026 Strategic Plan, members suggested incorporating education on the aging population ('Silver Wave'), increasing EDC awareness via the Antrim County Bulletin, updating the EDC webpage, establishing an annual roundtable with DDAs and chambers, and updating the existing elevator speech. The board also reviewed information on ADA compliance rules for websites and updates regarding local projects like the Shanty Creek Resorts ownership transition and the Nakwema Trail proposal.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and a review of the proof ballots for the upcoming Tuesday, November 4th, 2025 Election. Specific proposals reviewed and accepted included the Antrim County Public Safety Center Bond Proposal, various millages for Central Lake and Bellaire Public Schools, and a ballot proposal for Cheboygan, Otsego, Presque Isla. The commission decided to order 100% of registered voter ballots to prevent shortages. Additionally, a motion was passed to seek a legal opinion regarding the responsibilities of the Election Commission.