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Parks director seeks $400,000 state grant for Madeline Bertrand pavilion
Summary
Parks Director Jill Adams asked the Berrien County Board to support a $1.83 million pavilion project at Madeline Bertrand County Park and to apply for the maximum $400,000 MNRTF grant; the grant requires a 25% local match and notifications may not arrive until late 2026. Commissioners pressed staff on timing and matching funds.
Jill Adams, Berrien County Parks Director, presented a Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grant application for an all‑seasons, multi‑use pavilion at Madeline Bertrand County Park, proposing expanded parking, additional bathrooms and accessible pathways to replace a demolished river shelter. "Estimated project cost is $1,830,000," Adams told the Committee as she outlined scope and uses ranging from school field trips to community events.
Adams said the County will request the maximum $400,000 MNRTF award and fund the remainder from the Park Budget, the Berrien County Endowment Fund and fundraising. She described the grant timeline: "MNRTF Grant deadline is April 1, 2026," with award notifications beginning at the end of 2026 and into January 2027; if awarded, a grant agreement would be signed in spring 2027 and construction anticipated to begin in fall or winter 2027. Commissioner Mamie Yarbrough expressed concern that the state notification timeline "hinders projects being scheduled during the typical construction season," and Commissioner Robert Harrison asked whether a financial match is required; Adams confirmed the grant requires a 25% match.
The Committee recessed to open the public hearing on the application and later voted to conclude the public hearing and return to regular session. No members of the public spoke during the hearing. Adams said the pavilion would support year‑round programming including scout outings, cross‑country meet check‑ins and small private gatherings, and she said the project is consistent with goals in the county's five‑year parks plan. The Board did not vote on the project application during the Committee of the Whole meeting and directed staff to proceed with the application process.
