John Paul Damveld

The board meeting agenda and documentation included an informational session regarding the Michigan State University Extension Annual Report for 2025, which detailed programming in 4-H, youth development, agriculture, health and nutrition, and community outreach. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved administration claims and interfund transfers, discussed the appointment of a representative to the Material Management Planning Committee, and reviewed language for the Allegan Conservation District Millage.

The Board of Commissioners received an annual update for the 48th Circuit Court and an administrative update covering the animal shelter and facility renovations. They addressed claims and interfund transfers, approved an intergovernmental agreement with Ottawa County and the City of Holland for inmate housing, and discussed a request for a formal traffic study at a specific intersection. Additionally, the Board appointed a representative to the Material Management Planning Committee and finalized the closeout and carry-over of projects for the board strategic planning cycles. A closed session was held to discuss collective bargaining strategy.

This document outlines Lakeshore Advantage's strategic framework, referred to as the 'Lakeshore Region's GPS,' to cultivate a bright economic future. The strategy centers on three core pillars: 'GROW,' focusing on primary employer retention, attraction, and expansion; 'PLAN,' dedicated to entrepreneurship and innovation; and 'SOLVE,' addressing talent retention, attraction, and career pathways. The organization aims to achieve its goals through extensive collaboration, business retention and expansion assistance, attraction efforts, and robust entrepreneurial development and startup support.

The Board meeting included an informational session on economic development provided by Lakeshore Advantage, focusing on business and talent retention, expansion, and entrepreneurial support. Consent items approved included the audit of claims and interfund transfers, an appointment to the OnPoint Board for community mental health, and an amendment to the Michigan Department of Corrections Comprehensive Community Corrections Grant to include pretrial services. Additionally, the Board discussed and expressed support for the sale of the Calkins Dam from Consumers Energy to Confluence Hydro, LLC, highlighting the importance of the dam for local water ecosystems and the regional economy.

The agenda for the Board of Commissioners includes an informational session regarding economic development, followed by consent items such as the review of claims and interfund transfers, an appointment to the OnPoint Community Mental Health board, and an amendment to a grant for the Sheriff's Department. Discussion items include supporting the sale of Calkins Dam from Consumers Energy to Confluence Hydro, LLC. Additionally, the board will address strategic planning, including the closeout of the 2025-29 plan and the addition of new projects for the 2026-30 planning cycle.