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Vice Chair Hatfield: Joint Planning Alliance advances Meijer site review; commissioners briefed on local boards and security concerns
Summary
Vice Chair David Hatfield told commissioners the Joint Planning Alliance completed first readings of ordinance changes tied to a proposed Meijer store and expects the company to submit a site plan in early 2026; commissioners also discussed committee meetings, a staff retirement and recurring office security concerns.
Vice Chair David Hatfield reported to the Barry County Board of Commissioners on Dec. 16 that the Joint Planning Alliance discussed a proposed Meijer store and related ordinance amendments and that first readings have passed in the City of Hastings and Rutland Charter Township. Hatfield said second readings are scheduled and Meijer is expected to submit a site plan to the Joint Planning Alliance in February or March 2026.
Hatfield also summarized activity at recent local meetings: he attended a Hastings City Council discussion on developing a Tax Increment Financing policy with the Brownfield Development Authority and the Economic Development Alliance met with Commissioner Marsha Bassett attending as a prospective new board member. He reminded commissioners the Board’s annual organizational meeting is scheduled for Jan. 2, 2026 and asked members to review board rules and committee assignments.
Separately, County Administrator Eric Zuzga recognized Deputy County Administrator and Finance Director Luella Dennison on her upcoming retirement and thanked her for years of service and assistance during his first 16 months. Commissioner Bob Teunessen and others raised ongoing concerns about security in county office spaces; Teunessen said Commissioner Jon Smelker will attend a Court Security Committee meeting to address separation of employees from the public.
Public comment during the meeting included remarks from Gary White of Castleton Township about surplus funds and county fee regulation. Zuzga also informed the board that Barry County had not provided funding support in the Pung v. Isabella County court case, per the minutes.
The board adjourned at 10:07 a.m.
