Hudsonville City Council approves Brownfield Plan for new housing development

The Ottawa County Finance & Administration Committee convened on April 10, 2025, to discuss key financial matters, including a proposed Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Landings at Rush Creek Development in Hudsonville. The meeting focused on the financial implications of the project, local contributions, and community concerns regarding demographic changes.

The committee began by reviewing the financial contributions from various entities, including the city of Hudsonville, which is set to contribute $375,000. Discussions highlighted the complexity of funding, with a breakdown of local millages and state contributions, emphasizing the importance of capturing school taxes to accelerate project funding.

Concerns were raised about the project's impact on the community, particularly regarding the demographic shift in Hudsonville. Commissioner Wenzel noted constituents' apprehensions about the development altering the town's character, which has traditionally been family-oriented and conservative. This sentiment was echoed by other committee members who expressed the need for careful consideration of community values alongside development goals.

The committee also discussed the procedural aspects of the project, including the necessity of a public hearing scheduled for April 22, 2025, during the upcoming board meeting. This hearing is mandated by statute and aims to gather public input on the proposed development.

A significant point of contention was the perceived imbalance in the financial ratios associated with the project. Some committee members expressed skepticism about the 90% Area Median Income (AMI) target for affordable housing, suggesting that it may not adequately address community needs. However, others argued for the importance of allowing the city to utilize available tools for development, emphasizing the need for housing in the area.

The committee ultimately voted to forward the Brownfield Plan Amendment to the Board of Commissioners, with a majority in favor despite some dissenting votes. The motion passed, indicating a willingness to proceed while acknowledging the need for further discussions to address community concerns and refine the project parameters.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing dialogue between development needs and community values in Hudsonville. As the committee prepares for the upcoming public hearing, it remains committed to balancing economic growth with the preservation of local character and addressing the housing shortage in the region.