Special Meeting – Three-Member Panel Re: Drain Commissioner Vacancy, Leelanau County, 3/24/2026

This was a special meeting of a three-member panel in Leelanau County held on March 24, 2026, to appoint a new Drain Commissioner to fill a vacancy until the November 2026 election. The panel heard public comments expressing concerns about excessive consultant fees, transparency, and communication regarding drainage projects. Two candidates were interviewed: one with extensive engineering and budgeting experience, and another with long-term county administrative experience and familiarity with the Drain Act. The panel discussed budget constraints, consultant use, and the scope of the position, which is mandated as a part-time elected role with a salary of about $22,000. After deliberation, the panel voted to appoint Chad Janick as the interim Drain Commissioner until the election. The meeting also addressed the need for improved communication with the public and potential collaboration with the road commission to manage drainage issues more effectively.