Residents and program partners urge council to continue Escanaba Yacht Club lease

During general public comment, several speakers urged the council to continue the longstanding lease arrangement with the Escanaba Yacht Club (EYC). John Anthony introduced himself as "a resident of Escanaba and a member of the Escanaba Yacht Club" and described the club's history, volunteer maintenance of the clubhouse and public use: "Since 1948...the EYC's history goes back even further...the club plays a valuable role in the boating community, the marina...and is available for public rentals." He told the council the club pays roughly $1,000 per year in taxes and approximately $900 per year in utilities and asked for continued support during lease negotiations.

Rachel Branstrom, who said she lives in Escanaba, described how the club welcomed newcomers and provided community benefits, saying she had been "welcomed with open arms" and that forcing the club to seek commercial revenue would risk the club's community character. Troy Grubbenstedt, director of a Gladstone sailing program, described the EYC's support for youth classes and said the club's volunteer assistance had helped regional sailing and adaptive programs. Tyler Anthony, a club director, recounted community events and emphasized the club's volunteer stewardship of the facility.

Commenters asked the council to preserve the club's role as a community organization rather than push it toward a commercial venue model. Council members acknowledged the comments and noted the lease negotiations will continue with staff and the club.