Summer Improvements Continue Across Whitehall
Whitehall City Council approved the city’s 2026-27 budget Monday night while also hearing updates on several projects and summer initiatives that continue reshaping downtown Whitehall ahead of the busy summer season.
The May 26 meeting focused heavily on investment in the city’s future, from ongoing downtown improvements and marina upgrades to library growth and community programming.
Council Approves City Budget
One of the evening’s largest decisions came with the approval of Resolution 26-27, formally adopting the city’s annual budget and millage rates for the upcoming fiscal year. The budget includes 14 mills for general fund operations and 3 mills for street improvements.
Before the vote, Councilmember Scott Brown publicly voiced support for City Manager Dan Tavener after previously expressing concerns during earlier budget discussions about expanding responsibilities connected to the Playhouse director position.
“I don’t think I should be standing in his way, especially in this first year trying to run it the way he sees fit,” Brown said during discussion, adding that he trusted Tavener’s leadership and judgment.
The budget passed unanimously.
Downtown and Marina Projects Moving Forward
City Manager Dan Tavener also provided updates on several visible city projects that are helping shape Whitehall’s summer season.
Tavener said the West Colby Promenade project continues progressing and is expected to be structurally complete by Fourth of July weekend, though some finishing features such as lighting and shade sails may arrive later because of supply chain delays.
The marina also officially opened for the season over the weekend. Tavener noted vending and ice service are not yet available while the city waits for deliveries from suppliers.
Councilmember Bryan Mahan said he has enjoyed watching the downtown park project continue to take shape and praised the strong turnout and atmosphere surrounding the first FAN Club gathering at Fetch Brewing Company.
Mayor Pro Tem Jeff Holmstrom also pointed out recent improvements at the marina parking lot, which has been resurfaced. Tavener later added during the meeting that all park parking lots throughout the city are expected to be resurfaced over the next month.
Library Highlights Growth and Community Investment
The council meeting also included a presentation from the White Lake Community Library, where library board member Norm Kittleson highlighted several accomplishments from 2025. According to the annual report included in the council packet, the library welcomed nearly 50,000 visitors and circulated more than 97,000 borrowed items during the year.
Kittleson discussed the library’s recently installed solar panels, a new front canopy project designed to improve accessibility and protect the building, and an $830,000 partnership grant supporting out-of-school childcare programming through White Lake Area Community Education.
Council members praised the library’s continued role as a community asset and highlighted the growing variety of services and technology now available there.
Public Comment Brings Forward Kayak Storage Idea
During public comment, resident Lance Bernhard proposed exploring public kayak storage near launch areas around Whitehall. Bernhard said other communities have installed affordable storage rack systems allowing kayakers to keep equipment near the water rather than transporting it each trip.
Council members responded positively to the suggestion and indicated it could become a future work session discussion.
Alley Sale Approved for Downtown Business
The council also approved a request from Colby’s Hokey Pokey to temporarily close the alley between its business and Gilroy’s Hardware June 13 through 14 for the annual Alley Sale event downtown.
Another action item approved Monday involved Resolution 26-28, allowing delinquent utility and inspection related balances to be added to property tax rolls for collection. City officials said the process is a routine annual procedure.
Continued Investment Shapes Summer Season
The meeting reflected a broader theme that has become increasingly visible across Whitehall this spring and summer: continued investment in downtown development, recreation, and community gathering spaces as the city prepares for another active tourism and event season.
The Whitehall City Council will next meet June 9, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Whitehall City Hall. A work session will be held beforehand beginning at 5 p.m.
Follow along on social media for daily updates, community highlights, and moments that happen between the headlines.
Facebook • Instagram • YouTube • TikTok • LinkedIn • X
Stay connected to what’s happening in our area by visiting CatchMark Community.
Powered by CatchMark Technologies — helping people, solving problems. Explore more on our website.
