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Big Rapids commission pins new captain, welcomes full-time firefighter and approves contracts for housing rehab, sewer lining and well inspections
Summary
The commission promoted Bethany Hamilton to fire-captain rank, introduced new full-time firefighter Cooper Thomas, presented a Beacon Award proclamation to Big Rapids Lumber & Hardware and approved a series of contracts and resolutions including a lease for a former jail apartment, a state rehab-grant amendment, tree-removal and sewer-lining contracts, and an inspection contract for wells 2 and 3.
The Big Rapids City Commission on July 6 recognized two fire-department personnel moves and approved multiple routine but material public-works and utility actions.
Fire Chief (introduced during the meeting) presented Cooper Thomas as the department’s newest full-time firefighter, noting Thomas was hired in March 2026 and previously served as a park-paid firefighter in April 2023. The chief also announced the promotion of Bethany Hamilton to captain, citing her years with the department, role in public-safety education and performance as acting captain at a recent structure fire. Captain Hamilton thanked colleagues and mentors after a pinning ceremony.
The commission also read a proclamation honoring Big Rapids Lumber and Hardware, owner David VanderWeel received the Beacon Award for best new store and spoke to the commission, crediting his team and the community for the recognition.
On business matters the commission approved the following items (votes recorded at the meeting):
Votes at a glance - Lease of former jail apartment: approved by roll call (names recorded during the vote). The motion authorized a one-year lease between the city and a resident. - State rehab grant resolution amendment (require 100% occupancy by low-income households for included homes): approved after staff explained the state requirement and the commission agreed to add the language. - Tree removal contract award (low bidder: Chris Tree Removal, Tustin): approved; one commissioner disclosed prior personal use but stated no pecuniary interest. - Sewer-lining contract (recommended: GFL Environmental Services): approved; staff said lining is typically less expensive than excavation and noted most local sewers are 8 inches. - Wells 2 and 3 inspection/rehab (recommended: Peerless Midwest): approved; staff said the wells were operating at about 25% of designed capacity and an inspection is the appropriate next step. - Wastewater treatment plant change order (additional CIP items while contractor onsite, including stairs and lighting; grant leverage noted): approved. - Consumers Energy demand-response agreement (two-year term starting 06/01/2027): approved; staff said the program has historically yielded about $13,000 to the city for participation.
Most motions were moved and seconded by commission members and passed on roll-call votes recorded in the transcript as unanimous or by recorded yes votes.
