Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Government Operations topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents press county on helicopter-tour contract enforcement and flight impacts
Summary
During public comment on June 11, residents questioned the county’s helicopter-tour contract and asked why the contract allows a 60‑day cure period for violations; Chief Deputy Clerk Stephanie LaTour said she believes the agreement has been signed by both parties, and a commissioner noted rising helicopter traffic may be broader than the contracted operator.
Two residents raised concerns about a county contract with a helicopter tour operator at the Mackinac County Committee of the Whole meeting on June 11, asking whether the agreement adequately protects residents from flight disruptions and why the contract allows a 60-day period to correct violations.
Cindy Snyder told the board that while the existence of a contract is positive for local business, it lacks protections against disruption of flight patterns. Alan Turf asked why the time to remedy contract violations is 60 days and whether that period could be shortened. Chief Deputy Clerk Stephanie LaTour said she believes both parties have signed the contract. Commissioner Austin Kimberling cautioned that an increase in helicopter traffic has been observed generally and may not be attributable solely to the county’s contracted operator.
The board did not amend the contract, change enforcement terms, or take a vote during the meeting. Commissioners and staff discussed the questions raised and left follow-up to staff to verify contract status and enforcement language if further action is requested.
