Council adopts Northwest Ottawa County joint recreation plan

Grand Haven City Council voted on Jan. 6 to adopt the Northwest Ottawa County joint recreation plan, a five‑year plan compiled in partnership with neighboring municipalities to inventory parks, set shared priorities and guide grant applications.

City staff described the plan as a regional collaboration developed through a public survey and multiple stakeholder meetings. Dana, a city staff member responsible for parks planning, told council the Frost Center survey and public engagement work informed the plan and that the partner units include the cities of Ferrysburg and Spring Lake and Spring Lake and Grand Haven townships.

Supporters at the public hearing emphasized regional cooperation. “One of our most important valuable things… is our parks,” said Oliver Champine, who recommended council approve the plan. Council members praised the collaborative approach and the project list, which includes trail improvements and wayfinding signage.

Council discussion focused on two themes: first, several members praised the inventory and regional approach as a useful tool for seeking outside funding; second, a subset of council members asked for clearer recognition in the plan of the city’s role as custodian of its urban forest and for a better distinction between formal parks and city‑owned “parkland.” One councilmember asked staff to provide a follow‑up clarifying which city‑owned parcels are formally designated parks versus unimproved parkland, noting different disposal and management rules apply.

The vote to adopt the plan was unanimous by roll call (Fritz — yes; Lowe — yes; Manetza — yes). City staff said comments gathered during the public process would be incorporated into future planning and implementation steps. Councilmembers noted the plan will be useful for grant applications and to avoid duplication of facilities across jurisdictions.