Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Community Priorities topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Barry County keeps broadband, housing and recreation among 2020 priorities
Summary
At goal-setting sessions, commissioners identified broadband expansion, workforce development, housing affordability, transportation and parks/recreation as priority areas to pursue alongside facility projects; staff noted potential state and federal grant opportunities and regional partnerships.
Beyond facilities and the proposed millage, commissioners highlighted a set of continuing priorities carried forward from the 2014 Strategic Plan: expanding high-speed internet access, supporting economic development with townships and regional partners, developing a premier recreational destination, addressing housing needs for seniors and millennials, and improving transportation and workforce training.
Minutes record discussion of pursuing Michigan state broadband grants and noting federal funding opportunities (a federal USDA program and a referenced $14 million federal pool). Commissioners discussed coordinating with utilities and fiber providers, leveraging DDA and MEDC partnerships for economic development, and using consolidated park master plans to secure DNR grant funding. The minutes also record concern about fragmented local jurisdictions and the need to engage underrepresented areas of the county through additional forums.
The board noted previous accomplishments (circuit court and Tyden Center renovations), workforce salary adjustments made to improve competitiveness, and partnerships with local colleges for training. Commissioners asked staff to continue outreach and to refine priorities alongside the millage outreach work.
