Special Meeting Request
(I was supported by one commissioner, Will Bunek, in this request. Signatures from three commissioners are needed to schedule a special meeting. The request was mailed to the offices of the County Clerk and County Administration (Lauren Cypher) for dissemination to other commissioners.)
Dated: Wednesday, March 25, 2026
I am requesting a special meeting of the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners that is needed before our April meetings, which are set as far into next month as provided by the calendar. The three subjects that need more immediate attention are:
• Discussion of the Drain Commission meeting
Rationale: While a committee, including yourself, has selected a new drain commissioner, both he and the only other candidate stated they have no interest in running for the position. The deadline to file a petition to run for the position comes shortly after our regular board meeting on April 21. Drain Commissioner Chet Janik has agreed to prepare a report with options for the position, which may include staffing, compensation (which can be increased), and bid solicitation that potential candidates may find helpful in their decision process. Should a recommendation be reached, it could be finalized before or after our executive meeting on April 14.
• Review of Administrator Evaluation Process
The one-year anniversary of our administrator’s hiring is April 1. The administrator’s contract calls for an evaluation 90 days prior to or after the one-year anniversary of his hire date. The County Board has not begun the process of what type of evaluation process to use or if outside consultation should be sought. It is imperative that commissioners begin this responsibility in a timely manner.
• Dissemination of information explaining an ongoing personnel investigation involving legal representation
This investigation was begun without involvement of or notice provided to the full County Board. While some commissioners may have requested the investigation and been involved in its authorization, others (including myself) have not received notice from counsel explaining its need, depth, liability risk, and investigative design. As we have no “super commissioners” and share equal authority on this issue, it’s imperative that we also have equal access to information involving the creation and advancement of the investigation.
As to the timing of the meeting, it’s imperative that all commissioners can attend. Two dates that I have totally open are Thursday and Friday. We will need to coordinate with Mr. Janik, but I believe those two days are open for him as well.
