Leelanau County commissioners enter closed session over attorney-client communication, accept investigation findings and authorize talks with administrator

The Leelanau County Board of Commissioners entered a closed session on July 9, 2026, citing MCL 15.268(1)(h) to consider a written attorney-client privileged communication from the county’s corporation counsel. The meeting began at 9:30 a.m.; the board went into closed session at 9:54 a.m. and resumed open session at 11:55 a.m.

The board voted unanimously on a series of actions after returning to open session. Commissioner Mark Walter moved, seconded by Commissioner Ty Wessell, to authorize the board chair, the vice-chair and the county attorney to meet with Administrator James Dyer and present proposed terms consistent with the closed-session discussion, subject to Mr. Dyer’s acceptance and final board approval at a future meeting. The motion passed 7-0. Commissioner Alan Campbell then moved that the board accept the findings and recommendations of the investigation reports dated June 16 and July 9, 2026, and authorize the county, through its officials and legal counsel, to provide necessary notices and take related actions consistent with the board’s direction; that motion also passed 7-0.

Commissioner Gwenne Allgaier, speaking during commissioner comments, said the county has long-standing staff concerns and a difficult workplace climate that predate the current administrator. Allgaier said, “I just believe that I heard from the man who walked up to her and said she looks stupid sitting up here,” and referenced a survey three years ago in which many employees reported sadness and described a hostile environment. She urged the board to address core issues rather than repeatedly focusing on the latest incident.

During public comment, Jim White read a statement on behalf of Kim Rozanski. In a closing comment, Commissioner Alan Campbell said he regretted that so much of the matter had been handled behind closed doors, and pledged to request and vote for the release of as many documents as legally permissible so taxpayers can follow the government’s work; he said some materials may remain shielded by law or attorney advice.

Votes at a glance: • Motion to enter closed session (Motion #175 by Commissioner William Bunek, seconded by Commissioner Rick Robbins): Passed 7-0 on roll call. • Motion to resume open session (Motion #176 by Commissioner William Bunek, seconded by Commissioner Ty Wessell): Passed 7-0. • Motion to authorize chair, vice-chair and county attorney to meet with James Dyer (Motion #177 by Commissioner Mark Walter, seconded by Commissioner Ty Wessell): Passed 7-0. • Motion to accept investigation findings and authorize notices (Motion #178 by Commissioner Alan Campbell): Passed 7-0.

The board adjourned at 12:01 p.m. The authorized meeting between county leadership and Administrator James Dyer and any future board action on proposed terms were left as next steps.