Big Rapids advances six-year Capital Improvement Plan for budgeting City commission moved the six-year Capital Improvement Plan forward to the budget process, highlighting near-term projects including radios, downtown event barriers, wastewater and water work, and paving in the 200 block of Division and North Michigan Avenue.

Big Rapids is on the move with a new six-year Capital Improvement Plan that promises exciting projects from downtown upgrades to essential infrastructure improvements!

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #CommunityEngagement #BudgetPlanning #CitizenPortal #InfrastructureDevelopment

Big Rapids declines Consumers Energy renewable subscription after staff flags contract risks Commissionors rejected a resolution to join Consumers Energy's voluntary renewable program after city staff warned the agreement locks a subscription price with reconciliation that could increase charges and obligates up to 90% of power for 20 years with steep early-termination fees.

Big Rapids city officials have voted against a renewable energy program, citing major contract risks that could lead to soaring costs and long-term obligations.

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #ContractRisks #CitizenPortal #MunicipalDecisionMaking #RenewableEnergy

MODA seeks public input as feasibility study examines merger with Dial‑A‑Ride Macassa-Osceola Transit Authority (MODA) updated the Big Rapids commission on a feasibility study by HDR that explores service changes, facility options and a possible merger with Dial‑A‑Ride; MODA urged broad public and stakeholder participation in a survey and announced stakeholder meetings Jan. 15 and Jan. 22.

The Macassa-Osceola Transit Authority is inviting the community to shape the future of local transportation as it explores a potential merger with Dial-A-Ride—your voice matters!

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Commission discusses 'Sandy Acres' development, $1 million infrastructure commitment and TIF payback timeline Staff outlined a proposed development agreement for the 'Sandy Acres' site in which the city would provide $1,000,000 in infrastructure funding (split among streets, water and sewer over two budget cycles) while the developer would install sidewalks, street trees, underground utilities and an on‑site detention basin; commissioners asked about stormwater, HOA maintenance and a TIF repayment schedule starting in roughly 22–27 years.

Big Rapids is considering a bold new development, 'Sandy Acres,' that could reshape the community with a $1 million investment in infrastructure, but the payback timeline has some commissioners concerned.

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City hears central dispatch update as state radio encryption mandate looms Bill Rowley, the city appointee to the central dispatch board, told commissioners the board has finished contracts and replaced dispatch workstations but continues to troubleshoot a new mapping system; staff and commissioners warned a federal/state encryption mandate for radios could cost roughly $350,000 and a study session was scheduled.

The city's central dispatch board is making strides with new workstations and contracts, but a looming $350,000 encrypted radio mandate and persistent coverage gaps might complicate the future.

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #TechnologyUpgrade #BigRapidsDispatch #PublicSafety

Council approves Sandy Acres Brownfield TIF to support 54‑home development After a public hearing, the council approved a Brownfield TIF plan for the Sandy Acres development that would support construction of 54 single‑family homes, including six income‑restricted units for 15 years, with up to $7.2 million in eligible reimbursements and a city contribution up to $1 million.

Big Rapids is set to transform with a new 54-home development, including affordable options, thanks to a recently approved Brownfield redevelopment plan!

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Robin Hood Airport: Runway extension, fuel upgrades and community outreach drive new traffic City airport manager Kendra told the council the runway extension and new fencing have improved safety and attracted larger charter jets, increased fuel sales and boosted community events such as Airfest and weekly 'Chili Saturdays.'

Big Rapids' Robin Hood Airport is soaring to new heights with a runway extension that attracts larger jets, boosts fuel sales, and brings the community together like never before!

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Big Rapids commission schedules public hearing after detailed Brownfield financing briefing Consultant Samantha briefed the commission on Brownfield tax‑increment financing and the state review process, explaining 2023 changes that allow housing projects to qualify and outlining how administrative captures and a local Brownfield revolving fund would work. Commissioners were told a proposed developer request was reduced and that the city’s

Big Rapids is on the verge of a housing revolution, thanks to new state laws enabling Brownfield tax financing for development projects!

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Votes at a glance: Big Rapids Commission approves grant acceptance, snow-removal contract and multiple infrastructure proposals The commission approved acceptance of a $10,000 cybersecurity grant, awarded snow-removal services to a sole bidder, accepted a study proposal for fish passage funded by a $13,000 stewardship grant, and approved water-main replacement proposals; the minutes from the Oct. 6 meeting were also approved.

Big Rapids City Commission took major steps forward, approving a $10,000 cybersecurity grant, a snow-removal contract, and a $13,000 study for fish passage improvements!

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #CitizenPortal #WaterManagement #CybersecurityGrant #BigRapidsInfrastructure

Big Rapids Housing Commission seeks duplex variance at 402 Second Avenue Commission requests zoning variance for duplex on substandard lot size and width.

Big Rapids is taking bold steps to expand housing options, with the Zoning Board approving new single-family rentals and tackling the challenges of duplex development!

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #HousingDevelopment #CitizenPortal #BigRapidsHousing #ZoningReform

City Council Approves Duplex Variance with Safety Conditions on Second Avenue Council approves duplex application with designated parking and privacy fence requirements.

Big Rapids is taking a significant step towards enhancing its housing landscape with the approval of a new duplex that prioritizes community safety and accessibility!

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City Officials Discuss Land Use Variances and Neighborhood Compliance Issues Officials review land use impacts, neighborhood aesthetics, and compliance with zoning regulations.

Big Rapids officials are grappling with land use variances that could reshape the community's aesthetic and environmental landscape.

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #CitizenPortal #ZoningRegulations #SustainableDevelopment #BigRapidsCommunity #LandUse

Staff Recommends Approval for Duplex Parking Variance in R2 District Staff supports duplex parking variance using adjacent housing commission overflow parking.

City officials in Big Rapids are debating a controversial duplex development that could change the neighborhood forever, with parking solutions stirring both excitement and concern.

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Jack Frizzell Seeks Use Variance for Duplex at 128 North Lorne in Big Rapids Frizzell requests to use both sides of duplex for single family occupancy.

A pivotal zoning variance in Big Rapids could transform a duplex into much-needed residential units, igniting a conversation about the future of community development.

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Big Rapids Housing Commission proposes duplex development near Parkview Village Commission seeks to increase housing stock through a new duplex with educational partnership.

Big Rapids is set to break ground on a new duplex aimed at providing housing for local educators and city employees, all while giving students hands-on construction experience!

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City Commission Reviews Zoning Ordinance Rewrite with Williams and Works Consultants City commission discusses layout and updates of new zoning ordinance with Williams and Works.

Big Rapids is taking a major step forward by rewriting its zoning ordinance to better serve the community and align with the city’s future vision!

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #CitizenPortal #LocalGovernance #CommunityEngagement #UrbanPlanning #BigRapidsZoning

Zoning Board Discusses Variance for East-West Duplex Development Plans Zoning Board reviews variance requests for duplex construction amid discussions on property setbacks.

The Zoning Board of Appeals in Big Rapids is grappling with a controversial variance request that could reshape community living as we know it—will they prioritize development or uphold zoning standards?

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #CitizenPortal #ZoningRegulations

Saint Andrews Church Proposes Parking Lot Expansion for Manna Pantry Accessibility Saint Andrews Church seeks approval to add six parking spaces to support community services.

Saint Andrews Church is pushing for a parking lot expansion that could transform accessibility for both worshippers and local food pantry users—will it get the green light?

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#BigRapidsMecostaCounty #MI #CommunityAccessibility #CitizenPortal #PublicSafety #BigRapidsMannaPantry

Local Businessman Proposes Septic Treatment Facility in Big Rapids Township Nick Rowley plans to create a septic treatment facility to manage waste locally.

A local businessman is proposing a groundbreaking septic treatment facility in Big Rapids Township that could revolutionize waste management and save transportation costs.

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