Ottawa County voters back schools, services — pass on big construction projects

OTTAWA COUNTY — Ottawa County voters delivered a split verdict at the polls Tuesday, May 6, backing school operations and community services while rejecting major construction bonds. 

The special election saw residents weigh in on a series of funding proposals, revealing a cautious approach to new debt.

Across the county, school districts secured crucial operating funds, but faced a resounding "no" on building projects. Meanwhile, voters in Grand Haven and Port Sheldon townships approved local initiatives aimed at supporting seniors and fire protection.

Grand Haven Township residents overwhelmingly approved a renewal of property taxes for the Four Points Center for Successful Aging. The measure, which passed with 66.1% of the vote (2,877-1,474), will allow the center to continue and potentially expand its services for the aging population.

Port Sheldon Township also saw success, with voters backing a .55-mill increase for the fire department. The proposal, approved by 65.8% (824-429), signals a commitment to bolstering fire protection services in the community.  

School district operating millages fare well

Holland, West Ottawa, Zeeland, Grand Haven and Spring Lake all secured renewals of their 18-mill non-homestead levies. 

These renewals, which are vital for daily operations and state funding eligibility, saw support exceeding 60% in all districts.  

Voters draw firm line at new bonds 

Allendale Public Schools' $88.1 million bond proposal, Fruitport Public Schools' $82 million plan and Otsego Public Schools' $46.5 million request were all defeated. Opposition was particularly strong in Allendale and Otsego, where the proposals garnered only 41% support.

In a key regional decision, the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District secured a renewal and increase of its special education millage. The proposal, which will fund services for students with disabilities across Ottawa, Allegan and Muskegon counties, passed with 59% support.  

While Ottawa and Allegan counties showed strong support for the OAISD levy, Muskegon County, with a smaller portion of its area within the OAISD, saw less enthusiasm, with only 49.4% voting in favor.  

School districts facing rejected bond proposals may now need to explore alternative funding strategies for capital improvements. 

Voter turnout was reported at 22% in Ottawa County and 20% in Allegan County, suggesting a moderate level of engagement.

— Heather VanDyke covers northern Ottawa County for the Ottawa News Network. Contact her at newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.