Building Safety Committee, 10/15/2026

At the Leelanau County Building Safety Committee meeting on October 15, 2026, members reviewed a preliminary draft ordinance for civil enforcement of building-safety violations. Discussion focused on whether fines should have a maximum, how repeated violations should escalate to court or the prosecutor, and how to ensure fair notice and consistent procedures. The stated goal is compliance and public safety, not revenue; the draft was not adopted. Staff will research outstanding legal and procedural questions and return with department procedures, likely in January. The committee approved the June 2 minutes; no vote was taken on the draft ordinance.

The committee also discussed the department vehicle fleet and future purchasing. Members favored retaining reliable Toyota Tacoma vehicles and discussed using about 125,000 miles, rather than 100,000, as a replacement guideline. Two vehicles were identified for surplus, including a vehicle that will not run and a high-mileage vehicle; proceeds from sales would return to the department fund. Leasing was described as less cost-effective, and the Sheriff’s Office is expected to purchase vehicles outright for 2027. The Building Safety Department will revisit its needs during the 2028 budget process. No vehicle purchase or surplus action was approved at this meeting.