Leelanau County Commission race: Peachy Rentenbach vs. Bob Hawley

From staff reports

The following are interviews conducted via email with Leelanau County Commission incumbent Peachy Rentenbach (Democrat) and her challenger Bob Hawley (Republican). Rentenbach, the lone Democrat on the current Commission, also beat Hawley in this election two years ago. She currently represents, Glen Arbor, Empire and Cleveland Townships.

Sun: What do you view as the role of the Leelanau County Commission? What are its most important responsibilities objectives? And how has the previous Commission faired in accomplishing that role?

Rentenbach: The role of the County Commission is to make policy and conduct the business of the county. We enter into contracts, budget expenses and act as fiduciaries for the taxes collected.

Hawley: The board of Commissioners hire and supervise the County Administrator. Develop an annual budget with the other elected officials. Set and develop policies which provide guidance and direction for all segments of Leelanau County government.

Sun: The previous Commission (2012-2014) generated negative coverage in the press, locally and statewide, after disbanding the Economic Development Corporation. To what degree was that attention deserved or not deserved?

Rentenbach: I voted to retain the Economic Development Corporation. I believe that the corporate structure could have been of benefit. The attention was deserved. Leelanau County needs a plan for economic development.

Hawley: The Leelanau County EDC had a long record of ineffective performance. It had been over 25 years since it helped with financing for Lake States Insurance building in Elmwood Twp. The Leelanau County Chamber is much better equipped to provide the kind of economic support and help our small businesses need.

Sun: What have you done, or will you do, to help businesses create jobs in Leelanau County?

Rentenbach: Of my 27 years as a County resident, I have owned and operated a business for 18 years in the county. Employees that I hired are still working in that business that we sold 9 years ago. They are paid a fair wage and have benefits. There are sectors of already existing business that could be expanded. There is a lot of opportunity in value-added agriculture, recreational activity and the arts. The County needs to work with the townships and non-governmental groups as well as individuals to create jobs.

Hawley: The County Board should make our county as business friendly as possible. That includes maintaining our infrastructure, keeping taxes at a reasonable level and encouraging positive support from county departments with which business people need to interact.

Sun: What have you done, or will you do, to increase affordable housing in Leelanau County?

Rentenbach: I would encourage cooperation from the townships and villages, as well as County efforts. Tax incentives, zoning allowances and private investment will all be needed.

Hawley: Affordable housing has always been a major agenda item for the Board and the County planning department. Over the years Leelanau County has coordinated with the Michigan State Housing Authority, funding numerous projects throughout the county. High real estate and housing costs are a double-edged sword for our county.

Sun: Should public transportation or alternative commute options be enhanced or expanded in Leelanau County?

Rentenbach: Absolutely. BATA has grown in the past few years but still needs more buses and routes.

Hawley: BATA has worked very hard to create as workable a public transportation system as possible given the low ridership and large area covered. Leelanau County gets good value for the funds we provide in support of the system.

Sun: What is your awareness of, and how might you be thinking about, the politics of water quality and water rights as the state and country grapple with the growing awareness of these issues?

Rentenbach: We need to provide more funds to Leelanau Clean Water to protect our greatest natural resource. The watershed has to be protected. Septic inspection upon sale has been authorized in Empire Village and Glen Arbor Township. The entire County should embrace these inspections.

Hawley: While a member of the County Board I championed the formation of the Leelanau Clean Water effort and helped secure initial funding to support that group’s efforts. Clean water is a major driver of our economy and I would like to see more recognition of that at the township level with appropriate zoning to protect our wetlands and streams.

Sun: Once the biggest job provider, and popular destination, Sugar Loaf resort, has been closed for 14 years now. What role should/can the County Commission play to re-open it?

Rentenbach: The County has Brownfield Funds in place for a clean up of the property. This is a good incentive to a new owner. Tax abatements could be offered.

Hawley: The County Commission and Cleveland Township should be prepared to work with a qualified developer to secure financing (TIF or Michigan EDC Bonds), as well as make sure county departments provide a pro-active and supportive atmosphere for development of the property.

Sun: Would you support a bond proposal whereby local taxes could be increased slightly to allow the County to acquire Sugar Loaf from its current owners (whomever that may be) and redevelop the resort? Why or why not?

Rentenbach: The best solution is to have a qualified buyer with development experience revive the resort. The County is really not in a position to purchase, re-build and manage a resort.

Hawley: I would support letting the taxpayers decide if they want to increase taxes on a countywide basis to support development of Sugarloaf. I personally would not support the County becoming the owner/operator of the resort.

Sun: What does the Leelanau County of tomorrow look like? What role should the County Commission play to make that happen?

Rentenbach: We all hope that Leelanau County continues to be financially sound, retain its clean water and natural beauty. The County Commission needs to promote a sound budget, continue to reduce debt, retain our low tax level and make policy that benefits the people.

Hawley: We will continue to be a vacation/recreation/retirement community. Our proximity to Traverse City, Munson Medical Center and the diversity of our agriculture and recreational assets will ensure that Leelanau County will continue to be a great place to live, work and play.

Sun: Anything more you’d like to add?

Rentenbach: I would like your vote and continued support on November 4. I have enjoyed being of service these past two years and look forward to moving the county forward in the next two.

Hawley: Leelanau County has had the good fortune to have solid, conservative leadership from its County Commission over the years and while many of our neighbors struggle with failing infrastructure and financial deficits we are on solid financial ground with adequate fund balances and an excellent credit rating. Overall, we who are fortunate enough to call Leelanau County home enjoy a high level of public services including EMS, Law Enforcement and highway maintenance provided by well compensated, well equipped and well trained public servants. I hope to have a part in keeping that tradition alive and well.