Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Local Projects topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Norton Shores council discusses trails, redevelopment interest and pedestrian safety
Summary
During general council comment on June 16, members asked for updates on a missing person case, redevelopment interest at former commercial sites, trail extension planning with consultant Spicer, fundraising for a proposed Lake Harbor Park splash pad, and pedestrian safety near McCracken Street; a joint meeting with Roosevelt Park and the Mona Shores Board of Education was scheduled for Oct. 6.
Council members used the general-comment portion of the June 16 meeting to raise several local project updates and safety concerns.
Council Member Halloran asked for an update on the missing person case involving Lee Longmire Jr.; Police Chief Marc Vanderstelt said there were no new developments to report. Council Member Jurkas asked about the Harris property and the former Plaza strip mall; Mayor Nelund said there were no updates on the Harris site and that site plans remain valid for two years after approval. City Administrator Anthony Chandler reported recent meetings with RD Management indicating interest in redeveloping the commercial portion of the former Plaza site and the former Kmart property. Zoning Administrator Ted Woodcock explained renovations are underway at the former Tony's location for a new business.
On active projects, Council Member Hylland asked about a leaf bag left on Lake Harbor Road and an update on extending the Lake Harbor Trail. Chandler said staff has been working with consultant Spicer on project planning and that authorization to bid would be brought forward in the future. Mayor Nelund said he would meet with the West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission (WMSRDC) to discuss potential funding for a trail connection between Dune Harbor Park and the Roosevelt Park trail system.
Council Member Jurkas asked about fundraising for a proposed splash pad at Lake Harbor Park. Chandler said fundraising efforts are ongoing; Mayor Nelund added that certain donated funds are tied to an estate and therefore cannot yet be used for other purposes, such as parking improvements. Council Member Kasher asked whether the city has a formal trail master plan; Chandler said the city has not adopted a trail master plan. Kasher and Council Member Fox also raised concerns about children crossing McCracken Street and supported studying a crosswalk; Council Member Fisher asked whether a crossing guard could help, and Mayor Nelund said crossing guards are typically located closer to school properties.
Chandler also informed council members that a joint meeting with Roosevelt Park and the Mona Shores Board of Education is scheduled for Oct. 6 following the regular council meeting.
The minutes do not record votes or formal directives tied to these discussions; they reflect informational updates and requests for follow-up actions.
