Ottawa County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ottawa County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Silver Maple Solar Project Intervention
The county is intervening in the MPSC case over RWE's Silver Maple Solar project in Zeeland Township, securing a seat at the table before the November 12 deadline. The board reserved final say on the county's positions and any settlement to itself, and will spend up to $50,000 in developer-provided intervener funds.
Community Mental Health authority transition and autism services
The county is weighing converting CMH from a county department to an independent authority, largely over who's on the hook for CMH's roughly $5 million annual deficit. Hearings are set for Jan. 19, Jan. 20, and Feb. 5, with a decision expected Feb. 26. Critics say it's rushed and risky for staff and clients; supporters say it shifts Medicaid deficit risk to the state.
Fiscal Year 2027 Operating Budget
Because the mental health millage passed, the proposed budget needs an amendment to pass that revenue straight through to the CMH authority — revenue-neutral, to be added before or after the public hearing.
Grand Haven Township Tragedy Response
The meeting opened with acknowledgment of the loss of eight family members, including six children, in Grand Haven Township, and a shooting in Robinson Township; commissioners thanked first responders and highlighted mental health resources.