Three Candidates, One Hot-Button Race for Drain Commissioner
By Craig Manning | Oct. 21, 2026
An oft-overlooked elected position is shaping up to be one of this fall’s most competitive races in Leelanau County.
Following the March resignation of former county drain commissioner Tim O’Non – as well as controversy around the county’s handling of the Lake Bluffs Drain in Solon Township – all eyes are on this November’s three candidate race for drain commissioner. The winner will serve out the remainder of O’Non’s term, which runs through December 31, 2028.
The Ticker sent a brief questionnaire to the candidates – Democrat Kristy Burns, Republican Melinda Lautner, and independent hopeful Tim Lodge.
Kristy Burns, Democrat
Profile: A 37-year resident of Leelanau County, Burns spent 34 …
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