07172026_BOC_Special Session Strategic Plan

This was a special session of the Leelanau County Board of Commissioners held on July 18, 2026, focused on reviewing and narrowing down proposals for a county strategic planning project. The board discussed eight proposals that met the financial threshold of under $50,000, evaluating them based on county experience, community engagement strategies, pricing, and local connections. Key firms considered included Guidehouse, DZ Strategic Planning, and Unleashing Potential, with the board expressing preference for those with strong local ties and relevant county experience. The commissioners agreed to narrow the list to two finalists for further engagement and planned to conduct in-person interviews before making a final contract award. The meeting also touched on budget planning and the importance of aligning the strategic plan with county priorities. No immediate contract was awarded, but the board aimed to finalize a selection and begin work in the upcoming year.