Bret Rietkerk

The council presented and approved the 2025-26 Amended Budget. Additionally, a member provided an update regarding the successful rental of a municipal apartment.

The council reviewed and approved the payment of bills totaling $57,913.16. Updates were provided on the Barry County Zoning Ordinance draft, which includes changes regarding districts, mixed-use development, short-term rentals, and data centers. The council received an update on the new HOMES program and an MOU with the BCCEDA. Approval was granted for the 66 Unique Antique Festival. Several appointments were made, including a Council Pro-tem, a Director of Public Works, and a member of the Cemetery Board. Committee reports addressed the burning ordinance and park maintenance issues, and the council received updates on a local celebration committee.

The meeting involved approving the agenda and the minutes from the January 8th, 2026 session. Bills totaling $77,420.89 were authorized for payment. Department reports were presented, followed by updates from the Barry County Commissioners regarding county matters such as solar power installations and farmland preservation. A public hearing was held regarding the Proposed Budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year, which was subsequently approved. The council also accepted the Rehmann Engagement letter for the 2025-26 fiscal year audit, set meeting dates for 2026-2027, and approved the 6-year capital improvement plan. Additionally, ordinance # 02-12-2026 concerning Water Cross Connections and the Portable Road Spike Deployment Police Policy (Section 45) were accepted. A special meeting was scheduled for February 26th, 2026, to approve the amended budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year.

The meeting covered the approval of the agenda and authorization for payment of bills totaling $174,404.33. Department reports were presented, including one from the Police Department. The Commissioners reported on their organizational meeting and schedule changes. Audience commentary included concerns regarding the budget adjustment for a new jail. A public hearing was set for February 12th, 2026, regarding the 2026-2027 proposed budget. The Council accepted the Thornapple River Trail Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Roundtable discussions included inquiries about a laundromat, comments on snow removal, and appreciation for sidewalk updates.

The council discussed various topics, including a possible move for Shane's Auto Repair, for which they provided a letter of support for zoning approval. An update was given on the 250 America event planned for July 11, 2026, with a call for donations and funding. There were discussions on county matters, including the Thornapple Manor millage and the jail. The council also heard department reports from the Police Department and DPW, and the DPW was commended for their snow removal efforts.