WHITEHALL — As Whitehall continues investing in its waterfront, roads, and downtown development, city leaders spent much of Tuesday’s work session and regular council meeting discussing how to connect residents with resources while considering projects that could shape the city’s future.
From assistance programs designed to help struggling households to a proposed veterans memorial and redevelopment incentives aimed at encouraging investment, the evening centered on a common theme: how Whitehall can continue building momentum while meeting the needs of residents today.
Work Session
Connecting Residents with Available Resources
The council’s work session featured a presentation from Heather Stevenson, outreach coordinator for Mid Michigan Community Action Agency, which serves Muskegon and Oceana counties as part of a larger eight county network.
Stevenson outlined programs available to residents facing financial hardship, including foreclosure prevention assistance, homebuyer education, utility assistance, weatherization services, plumbing repairs, material assistance vouchers, senior food distribution, and home accessibility modifications through the agency’s newer Ramp Up program.
While the presentation focused on available services, much of the council discussion centered on a different challenge: making sure residents know those resources exist.
Several council members noted that many people facing utility shutoffs, housing issues, or financial struggles may not realize help is available.
Councilwoman Tanya Cabala, who invited Stevenson to speak, said she became familiar with community action agencies while working on water affordability issues and wanted residents to learn about the programs.
The conversation quickly shifted toward ways Whitehall could help connect residents with those resources. Ideas included partnerships with the White Lake Senior Center, participation in community events, outreach through city communications, and potentially hosting agency representatives at City Hall.
Council members also discussed the possibility of expanding senior food distribution opportunities on the White Lake area’s north side, noting transportation challenges can make it difficult for some seniors to access existing distribution sites.
The discussion reflected a broader concern shared by council members: resources only help if people know where to find them.
Regular Meeting
MCC Seeks Millage Restoration
The regular meeting opened with a presentation from Muskegon Community College Chief Financial Officer Beth Dick regarding an August ballot proposal that would restore a portion of the college’s operating millage that has been reduced through Headlee Amendment rollbacks over the years.
The proposal would restore 0.298 mills, returning the college to the original 2.4 mill rate approved by voters in 1993.
According to Dick, the restoration would generate approximately $2.1 million annually for facility improvements, technology upgrades, security enhancements, ADA accessibility projects, and infrastructure needs across campus.
Dick noted that many of the college’s buildings and systems date back decades and require significant upgrades to meet modern educational and workforce training needs.
Council members asked questions about the Headlee rollback process and the impact the restoration would have on taxpayers. According to college officials, the proposal would cost the owner of a home with a market value of $250,000 approximately $37 per year.
Waterfront and Infrastructure Projects Continue Moving Forward
City Manager Dan Tavernier reported that construction of the West Colby Promenade remains on schedule and should be ready for use by Fourth of July weekend.
Although landscaping work will continue beyond that point, the project is meeting construction milestones and is expected to be usable during one of the city’s busiest summer weekends.
Tavernier also provided updates on road improvement efforts and potential funding opportunities that could support additional infrastructure projects.
The city continues to pursue economic development grants and congressional funding requests, including a potential $3.053 million funding package supported by both U.S. Sen. Elissa Slotkin and U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar.
Council members also celebrated several recent community successes, including the dedication of the Paul Kissel memorial drinking fountain along the bike path, strong attendance at the Feet on the Street event, and a sold out Motown performance at The Playhouse.
Mayor Tom Ziemer also reported that replacement of the White Lake Drive bridge deck has been moved up from 2028 to 2027, accelerating a major infrastructure project that has been anticipated for several years.
Veterans Memorial Proposal Sparks Debate
The evening’s most extensive discussion centered on a proposal that could bring a permanent veterans memorial to Whitehall.
Tavernier presented plans connected to endurance swimmer Jim “The Shark” Dreyer, who hopes to complete a 22 mile swim while towing 250 commemorative cannonballs as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The cannonballs would eventually become part of a permanent memorial honoring combat veterans.
According to Tavernier, Whitehall was selected from several communities being considered for the project.
The fundraising concept involves selling 250 commemorative cannonballs for $750 each, potentially generating $187,500. A portion of the funds would support construction of the memorial, while remaining funds could support veteran related causes or future maintenance.
The 22 mile swim carries additional significance. Tavernier explained that the distance represents the estimated number of veterans lost to suicide each day, with Dreyer towing 249 cannonballs and carrying one on his back.
While several council members expressed support for continuing discussions, the proposal generated debate over process and timing.
Cabala said she was uncomfortable voting on a project of that scale without additional discussion and an opportunity to gather more information.
She emphasized that her concerns were not about supporting veterans or the project itself, but rather about making a decision before having what she felt was adequate discussion.
Tavernier responded that information had been shared with council members over several weeks and that discussions had already taken place.
After considerable discussion, council approved Resolution 26-29 by a 6 to 1 vote.
The resolution does not establish a final design or location for the memorial. Instead, it expresses support for Whitehall serving as the future home of the project while reserving final council approval over design, placement, and other project details.
Additional information about the proposed memorial, including conceptual designs and project details, can be found in the council packet linked at the end of this article.
Redevelopment Incentives Move Ahead
Council also approved Resolution 26-30, scheduling a June 23 public hearing regarding the potential creation of an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District.
City officials said the district could provide tax incentives to encourage redevelopment and investment in selected properties near East Colby Street.
Tavernier described the proposal as a tool that could help property owners make significant improvements without immediately facing higher tax assessments tied to increased property values.
Officials said the goal is to encourage private investment and redevelopment while supporting broader economic growth within the city.
Additional information about the proposed rehabilitation district, including district boundaries and supporting documents, can be found in the council packet linked at the end of this article.
Residents Highlight Environmental and Safety Concerns
Public comment touched on several community issues.
Muskegon County Commissioner Kim Cyr discussed a proposed countywide parks and trails millage that could appear on a future ballot. If approved, the proposal could create additional funding opportunities for local park and trail improvements.
Jim Rose, representing the Environmental Impact Committee focused on the Chemours site, encouraged residents to attend a June 11 meeting regarding proposed cleanup efforts at the former industrial property. He argued the proposed cleanup plan does not go far enough and urged residents to make their voices heard.
Another resident raised concerns about pedestrian safety at the crosswalk near WaterDog Outfitters, describing the crossing as uncomfortable and potentially dangerous for walkers and cyclists.
The comments prompted discussion among council members about whether additional signage or visibility improvements could be pursued.
Looking Ahead
Tuesday’s meeting reflected a city balancing immediate needs with long term opportunities.
The discussions ranged from helping residents access assistance programs to supporting redevelopment, investing in infrastructure, and considering a memorial that could become a lasting landmark.
Each topic pointed toward a larger question facing Whitehall as it continues to grow: how can the city build on recent momentum while ensuring investments continue to serve residents for years to come?
That question will remain at the center of several projects discussed Tuesday as they move from concept and conversation toward implementation.
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