Senior Resources of West Michigan outlines support plan for older adults in Ottawa County

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners convened on June 24, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding services for older adults and address ongoing administrative challenges. The meeting highlighted the efforts of Senior Resources of West Michigan, which serves Ottawa, Muskegon, and Oceana Counties, in planning for the upcoming year to enhance support for the aging population.

Pam Curtis, CEO of Senior Resources, introduced Amy Fleurier, the Community Services Director, who detailed the agency's initiatives funded by federal and state dollars. The agency collaborates with local organizations to ensure older adults receive necessary services to remain in their homes. Fleurier emphasized the importance of community input in shaping their services, noting that transportation and affordable housing remain significant gaps in support for older adults.

The board expressed appreciation for the agency's work, with commissioners highlighting the importance of addressing isolation among the elderly and the need for ongoing communication about available resources. The discussion underscored the agency's commitment to advocacy, particularly in light of stagnant funding amid rising service costs.

In addition to the focus on senior services, public comments raised concerns about a recent trip taken by several commissioners to Washington, D.C. Questions were posed regarding the funding of this trip, with calls for greater transparency and fiscal responsibility from the board.

Another significant topic was the ongoing search for a new county administrator, which has faced setbacks, including the withdrawal of candidates and the termination of the search firm's contract. Public comments reflected disappointment over the stalled process and emphasized the need for a merit-based selection to ensure effective governance.

The meeting concluded with a call for the board to consider more frequent updates from Senior Resources and to address the administrative search process with renewed focus. As Ottawa County navigates these challenges, the discussions highlighted the importance of community engagement and accountability in local governance.