Council Talks Transparency, Business Concerns, and New City Manager
The Whitehall City Council met on July 22, 2025, covering a full agenda that included city finances, transparency issues, community input, and leadership changes. Here’s a breakdown of the main takeaways:
Agenda and Consent Items Approved
The council quickly approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, but there were a few questions raised. Some members felt that the planning commission minutes lacked detail, and others wanted more financial information shown in the accounts payable report — like how much money is coming in, not just what’s being spent.
Frustrations with Meeting Access and Board Attendance
Council Member Tom Ziemer raised concerns about transparency. He pointed out that three city boards (TIFA, LDFA, and the Brownfield Authority) hold their meetings during the workday, making it hard for the public and even some board members to attend. A recent meeting was even canceled because not enough members showed up.
He also questioned why big expenses — like a $99,000 engineering project — aren’t discussed more publicly and why the city doesn’t request competitive bids more often.
Residents Speak Up: Speeding, Access, and Communication
Speed Signs Noticed and Appreciated
Multiple council members and residents praised the new speed radar signs around town. They help remind drivers to slow down, especially on busy residential streets like Alice Street.
Business Impact from Street Closure
Meredith Kyper, owner of Healthy Roots, explained how the closure of First Street has caused a big drop in her business. Customers are confused about where to park or how to access the store. She offered ideas for how to keep outdoor seating for nearby restaurants without fully blocking the street.
Ongoing Communication Problems
Resident Christina Norman expressed frustration over not getting responses from Scott Hubler. She asked the council how they plan to fix it.
City Contracts and Resolutions
Live Streaming Contract Put on Hold
The council discussed whether to renew a three-year contract for live streaming meetings. Members brought up complaints about poor video and sound quality and questioned why it wasn’t put out for bids. In the end, the council agreed to hold off and discuss it more at an upcoming work session.
Dump Truck Equipment Purchase Approved
The council approved a resolution to buy and install dump beds on two city trucks. Some members were unhappy that the full cost wasn’t shared up front when the trucks were originally approved, but staff explained it had been budgeted all along. The resolution passed.
Street Closure for Cornhole Event Approved
The council approved a request to close part of North Mears Avenue for a cornhole event on August 17. One council member again shared his general concern about closing public roads for private events, but the rest of the council supported the request.
New City Manager Contract Finalized
The council officially approved the contract for incoming city manager Daniel Tavernier. His start date will be July 29. A small wording change was made to ensure consistency about the 60-day resignation notice. Daniel will take over from Scott Hubler, who will help during the transition.
Other Updates and Comments
During public comments, one citizen gave thoughtful comments about the importance of working together as a community. He encouraged the council to continue supporting what makes Whitehall a great place to live.
Council gave updates on regional planning efforts, including work to improve public transportation between Muskegon and Ottawa counties and concerns about local air quality monitoring.
Looking Ahead
Two items were added to a future work session agenda:
First Street closure and its effect on downtown business access
Council meeting livestreaming
Closing Comments
A resident thanked DPW crews for doing a much better job this year on filling potholes with long-lasting hot patch repairs. The meeting wrapped up with a welcome to new city manager Daniel Tavernier.
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