Ottawa County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ottawa County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Grand Haven Pride expenditure and sponsorship policy gap
A $150 table fee at Grand Haven Pride exposed a policy gap dating to 2022 over how the county decides to spend money at culturally contested events. The payment passed 5-3, and commissioners of both viewpoints agreed a discretionary event-participation policy is needed.
August 25 Budget Public Hearing
The board officially scheduled the public hearing on the 2027 budget for August 25 at 9 a.m., giving residents a chance to weigh in before adoption on September 22.
Citizen Survey questions and methodology
Staff walked through the draft survey tied to the strategic plan. Barry pushed back hard, saying 400 random respondents can't tell him anything his constituents haven't; Moss and others said the data can't hurt. No formal decision, but staff indicated it can proceed.
State budget and property tax reform outlook
The county's lobbyist flagged a $1.8 billion state deficit, possible revenue-sharing trust fund legislation, House GOP property tax elimination proposals, and grant asks for Coopersville infrastructure and an aquifer recharge study.
Board Ethics Complaint Against Commissioner Moss
Dan Zimmer returned with an online petition — now 302 signatures — pressing the board to revisit its November decision not to pursue an ethics complaint against Commissioner Moss. The board did not respond or act.
2026 Committee Assignments
The Chair's committee assignments leave Joe Moss off both standing committees — the only commissioner without one — drawing public criticism and a split 8-3 vote.
Property tax deferment awareness
The board renewed a program waiving fees and interest for seniors, veterans and disabled residents who pay property taxes with their state credits, and asked staff to publicize it more widely since few eligible people use it.