Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office training in Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is paying off in Spring Lake, where murals line the Lakeside Trail. Sheriff’s Deputy Cory Allard says, by bringing people into the area to see the art, there’s less opportunity for crime to occur.
Social districts allow businesses to sell alcoholic beverages that can be consumed in publicly owned common areas. Proponents say this makes the wait more bearable for restaurant patrons who are up to an hour away from being seated, and it benefits nearby shops.
The Ottawa Conservation District and its partners have set broad goals for the five-year initiative set to start this fall. This “small first step” aims to address water quality, improve habitat for fish and wildlife, and preserve farmland.
The $66,625 Grand Haven Area Community Foundation grant will fund research aimed at determining if the Momentum Center’s community-based model can be replicated in other municipalities across the nation. The center’s program focuses on fostering a sense of community to help disenfranchised people experience healthy relationships.
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for reliable, affordable internet. Many Lakeshore communities are looking at ways they can provide the broadband infrastructure that’s essential to education and business.
Though wages increasing 5.2% in the past five years, the average home sale price shot up 64.5%, leaving homeownership out of reach for most moderate wage-earners — particularly those who earn $15-$20 per hour. Several Lakeshore nonprofits and trade associations are spearheading initiatives to help this “missing middle” navigate the path to buying a home.
Several developments are in the works in or near Grand Haven’s downtown. Peerless Flats features housing units and amenities. Other projects are still in development. City leaders say having more people living downtown means more year-round foot traffic for the area’s retailers, restaurants, and other businesses.
Ottawa County employees “thrive on being in a learning environment,” says HR Director Marcie VerBeek. E-learning opportunities and Zoom classes allowed county staff to soak up new knowledge in spite of pandemic constraints.
Restricted water use in 2020 reinforced Grand Haven leaders’ resolve to increase reliance on renewable energy sources. Public Works and GHBLP officials share how the community is looking to make water and energy utilities more sustainable.
Bringing a community college to Ottawa County expands options for students, educators say. GRCC’s location along commercially rich U.S. 31 is also a plus.
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