The primary contractor for the Township′s Transmission Main #3 project (i.e., McCormick Sand) had a final invoice that was about $425k below↓ their bid amount. This was primarily due to the elimination of the portions of the project that called for “bore and jacking” and allowing for “open cut construction.” Further, the costs for treating the contaminated groundwater within the City from the dewatering activities was less than expected.

These savings will remain with the Township′s Water Fund.

The Ottawa County Election Board of Canvassers announced that the Township had a “clean” November election without problems or issues. It is interesting to note that the Township has 15,969 registered voters and a total of 12,135 voted in the Presidential election (or 76%).

Kudos to Clerk Laurie Larsen, Deputy Clerk Kristi DeVerney and three key election workers – Sharon Lash, Cheryl Slater, and Amy Smith.

In addition to administering the Township′s busiest election, this team managed over 6,000 Absentee Voter ballots that were mailed, numerous changes of addresses, new voters, name changes, surrendered licenses, deceased notifications, etc.

Northwest Ottawa County Communities, which includes Grand Haven Charter Township, have been working cooperatively to update the five-year Grand Region Recreation Plan. This plan aims to enhance our recreational facilities, expand program options, and promote accessibility and sustainability for everyone in our community.

The goal is to enhance the quality of our recreational spaces, expand program offerings, and ensure accessibility and sustainability across all the Township parks. The Parks and Recreation Committee will be engaging with community members throughout the process, so please reach out if you have any questions or suggestions.

As part of the planning process, there is 40-day public notice period starting November 25th. During this time, the Township invites all community members to share their thoughts, feedback, and suggestions. Your input is invaluable in shaping a recreation plan that truly meets the community′s needs. 

The 5-year Recreation Plan will soon be accessible through the Grand Haven Township website. 

If you have any questions or would like to suggest updates or changes, please feel free to contact Public Services Director Matt Wade directly at mwade@ghtmi.gov or 616-604-6313.

Grand Haven Charter Township will once again participate in the Salvation Army Angel Tree Toy Drive. 

The Township has added Angel Tree Tags on the Christmas tree in the lobby of the Administrative Building at 13300 168th Avenue. Simply select a tag and purchase the item(s) on the tag. Items must be returned to the Township offices (or any other Angel Tree location) by December 12th. All donations remain in our Northwest Ottawa community. 

The Angel Tree Toy Drive is also in need of volunteers to help with Toy collection, shopping, and distribution during the month of December. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Kristi Walsh at kwalsh@ghtmi.gov

The North Ottawa Water System had a “clean” financial audit and will be rebating just over $11k to the Township.

However, the wholesale water rate for 2025 will be increased↑ from $1.08 to $1.17 per 1,000 gallons, which is about an 8.33% increase. The main reason for the increase was the proposed hire of another Maintenance Relief Operator to assist with maintenance and repair of the NOWS water treatment facility – which, although well-maintained, is over 38 years old with an increasing number of maintenance and replacement projects scheduled.

The Township received $24,500 from the State of Michigan for a “Turnout Gear” grant. The Township applied for this grant last July … and the monies will be used to purchase seven (7) sets of new turnout gear for fire fighters.

The Township will once again be snow plowing the pathways throughout the winter. For residents that live along these pathways, the Township requests that you place a visible marker by your sprinkler heads, landscaping, and other items along the path, as a precaution. Keep in mind, this marker must be visible during a snowstorm. 

If you are unable to do the marking yourself, please contact the Township by calling 616.604.6326 and staff can schedule a time to meet with you and mark the items you would like to have marked.

Township Questions?

If you have specific questions about Township operations, please send an email to bcargo@ghtmi.gov .

(616) 842-5988  | info@ghtmi.gov | www.ghtmi.gov