Caro City council approves application for kayak-launch grant; members debate budget reallocation and match

Caro City Council on March 16 voted to authorize submission of a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant application to install a kayak launch at Chippewa Landing and associated accessibility improvements. The project estimate from Rowe is $288,635; staff said the grant would cover roughly 74% (approximately $213,590) and the city’s maximum match was set at $75,045.

Council discussion focused on timing and fiscal exposure. One council member expressed concern that earlier reallocation of $45,000 (an amount originally set aside for a dock purchase) left the city with less readily available match funding. City Manager Scott Susag said the $45,000 had not been tied to the grant and that budgeted but unspent money would roll back into fund balance if the grant is not awarded. “The reallocation was done at council’s direction. So, I can’t promise that you guys won’t reallocate in the future,” Susag said, and he added that he would generally not ask to spend earmarked match funds unless council instructed otherwise.

Staff explained the grant is a reimbursement program; the city would pay costs up front and seek reimbursement if awarded. Council discussed including non‑cash (force account) match such as DPW labor. Parks & Rec and consultant staff said they would pursue letters of support, including from the Disability Action Network of Eastern Michigan, to strengthen the application by highlighting accessibility improvements.

The council adopted Resolution 2026-02 authorizing the application by roll call (Parker absent). The motion sets a maximum local match of $75,045; final design, engineering, and budget appropriation would follow only if the grant is awarded and council approves project funding.