Michael Dopp

This meeting was convened to address the community regarding the current structure of water and sewer rates and fees for the South Haven area. Key discussion points included the significant ongoing investments in water and wastewater infrastructure, many of which are required by the State of Michigan, such as the replacement of an old storage tank and a systemwide lead service line replacement project. The presentation provided historical context on the infrastructure dating back to the 1890s, the formation of the Water and Sewage Treatment Authority (SHASA) in the 1980s, and the 2011 construction of the current water filtration plant. The discussion emphasized that SHASA operates on a cost-of-service model, not a profit model, and that current rates reflect existing debt obligations from prior generations of investment, which totals approximately $30 million from before SHASA's formation, in addition to $22 million in new debt related to current projects. The authority has adopted a five-year rate stability plan, with recent increases approved, and forecast further increases due to wastewater treatment plant needs. The presentation also detailed the service area, noting the lack of a major industrial customer, which spreads costs across residential accounts serving a peak population of 70,000 people.

The South Haven City Council held a meeting where they discussed and adopted Ordinance No. 1083. Key points of the ordinance include regulations on the use of golf carts within the city, specifically prohibiting the towing of trailers or passenger carts, negligent operation, and requiring insurance coverage for golf carts operating on city streets. The ordinance was declared adopted with a vote of approval from Jeff Arnold, Steve Schlack, George Sleeper, and Scott Smith, and disapproval from Wendi Onuki, Joe Reeser, and Letitia Wilkins.

The City Council held a meeting to discuss and amend the City of South Haven Media Policy. The council recognized the importance of communicating with the community through various media channels, including the city's cable channel, website, newsletters, mailing inserts, kiosks, and bulletin boards. The resolution aimed to lessen restrictions on distributing information regarding city activities, programs, and construction projects. The council voted to repeal Resolution 2009-32 and replace it with a revised policy, directing the City Manager to authorize informational notices in City media under the new guidelines.

The strategic plan for the South Haven Downtown Development Authority outlines its role in fulfilling the City of South Haven Municipal Plan by planning, funding, and developing projects within the DDA District to promote economic growth. It focuses on five key areas: Central Business District, Tourism, Infrastructure/Transportation, Public Facilities, and Real Estate. The plan aims to encourage a strong, healthy economy, provide advocacy, and build community value through a five-year rolling plan of 'Bricks and Mortar' projects, ultimately leading to lower business turnover, greater community stability, increased revenue, job development, and industry relocation.

This Master Plan for the City of South Haven, in collaboration with South Haven Charter Township and the South Haven Area Recreation Authority, outlines a strategic direction for parks and recreation from 2023 to 2027. The plan aims to guide improvements, address community needs, and enhance the overall green infrastructure network, including trails, sidewalks, open spaces, and waterways. Key focus areas include assessing current parks, incorporating public and stakeholder input, identifying needs and deficiencies, and establishing goals, objectives, and an action plan for implementation. A core principle is ensuring universal and equitable access to natural resources and outdoor opportunities for all residents, regardless of age, income, or physical limitations, while balancing quality with quantity and ensuring sustainable maintenance.