Norton Shores council approves routine business, appoints three to Building Authority and hears update on potential $28 million for La Colombe project

At its March 17 meeting the Norton Shores City Council approved routine business items, recorded several appointments, and received staff updates, including a report about potential outside funding for a local development project.

Council Member Sowa moved to approve the minutes of the March 3 meeting (item 26-30); Council Member Fisher supported the motion and it carried unanimously. The council then approved the consent agenda (item 26-31), which bundled department reports (Police, Fire, Public Works, Administrative Services), authorization of bids for water service materials, Hot-in-Place/Milling and Resurfacing projects for FY27, a liquor license for the Arts and Drafts Festival, and a short-term rentals registration checklist. Council Member Sowa moved the consent agenda and Council Member Kasher supported the motion; the record shows the vote carried unanimously.

Mayor Nelund recorded appointments to the Building Authority (item 26-32), appointing Anthony Chandler, Rachel Pavlich and Ted Woodcock for unlimited terms. The appointments were made on the record; no separate roll-call vote is recorded in the transcript for that item.

During general public comment MADL Lead Librarian Holly Pelkey shared library updates. City Attorney Doug Hughes stated he will serve as interim Chairman/Director of MADL. Council Member Sowa reported 37 in-person Board of Review cases; Finance Director Chris Lyonnais explained the Board of Review process and how residents may appeal decisions to the State Tax Tribunal.

City Administrator Anthony Chandler reported that at the March 24 meeting the Michigan Strategic Fund may approve $28 million in funding for Muskegon County and the City of Norton Shores for the La Colombe project; the transcript records this as a report about a future meeting and a potential funding decision rather than a final award.