Emmet County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Emmet County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Camping Contracts and Permit Renewal
Camping contracts went out and are due August 1, with a growing waitlist. The county is reapplying for the camping permit.
Alpena fairgrounds sale attempt raises corporate-buyout concerns
A large venue company almost bought the Alpena fairgrounds until the MAFE Board and fair advocates intervened. The state rep brought this forward so county boards know corporations are eyeing fairground land.
Fairgrounds event funding and contracts
The board committed nearly $40,000 in contracts with Sanborn Entertainment for the grandstand speaker system and Travis Tritt concert production. Ticket sales — 955 concert and 751 rodeo so far — will help offset costs.
Seasonal staffing at county parks
County parks are hiring for the summer season at $17.34/hour starting wage, with a 50-cent-per-hour bonus for workers who stay through Labor Day. About 10 of 19 last year's seasonal staff are returning.
Community Service Impact Events Calendar
Volunteers completing community service hours will clean up Camp Petosega, NCMC trails, the Bear River and the Little Traverse Wheelway from April through July.
2026 Park Events Schedule
The county's parks calendar for 2026 spans year-round programming, from the February Ice Fishing Day at Camp Petosega to holiday events in December at the fairgrounds.
Sound system purchase
The board committed up to $13,522 for a new fairgrounds sound system, contingent on IT sign-off, with a possible extra pit-facing speaker adding cost.
Maintenance staffing and succession
The maintenance crew is down two people during fair week, and the fair needs to find Art Shaw's eventual replacement as he retires within two years.