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Commissioners approve $28,000 contingency for Crockery Lake litigation after debate over prior board’s authority
Summary
The Ottawa County Board approved a $28,000 contingency for legal counsel related to the Crockery Lake matter (contract O8787). The vote followed debate: several commissioners opposed further legal spending and urged focus on restoration funding; others said litigation is ongoing and requires counsel.
The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners voted on June 24 to authorize an additional $28,000 contingency for legal expenses tied to the Crockery Lake matter (contract O8787).
Commissioner Allison spoke against the appropriation, saying the earlier 2023–24 board had approved the project and she did not support further legal spending to oppose that prior decision. Allison told colleagues she preferred to direct county funds toward water restoration efforts rather than continued litigation.
Other commissioners, including Commissioner Josh, said they would vote yes, arguing the county was already engaged in litigation and counsel needed funding to continue. County counsel and staff said briefs had been filed and the case was awaiting a scheduled hearing date.
Several commissioners requested that county counsel provide an estimate of additional legal costs before the board approves any further appropriations. County counsel and administration agreed to return with cost projections and to notify the board before seeking more funds.
The motion to authorize the $28,000 contingency passed on a roll call vote.
