COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – Branch County Commissioners tied 2-2 Tuesday afternoon when they voted on submitting a state grant application that would have been used in the purchase of 27 acres on Corn Island. The tie vote means the county will not proceed with the grant process.
It was mentioned during the February 17 work session there is a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant program that would allow municipalities to purchase and or develop property.
There would be a 25 percent local match under terms of the grant. The land has been appraised at about $1.1 million. The land owners had offered to contribute the difference for the grant match. Josh Zuiderveen of South Peat
Environmental, LLC, had worked with the property owner and the county. He said there would be more control over the property, if the county owned it instead of a private individual. He also stated last Thursday the grant would have some deed restrictions that would not allow for certain types of development without DNR permission. But some residents raised concerns with boat traffic, development, access to the property. maintenance and security.
Mixed opinions were expressed during the public hearing from audience members and the Commissioners. After more comments both for and against were made on Tuesday, Commissioners Randall Hazelbaker and Jon Houtz voted yes but Tom Matthew and Leonard Kolcz voted no. Kolcz said before voting he was torn because he thought it was great idea but on the other hand he was worried about it.
Commission Chair Tim Stoll was absent Tuesday but he had already expressed his misgivings during last Thursdays Commissioner work session. He voted against bringing the matter forward to Tuesday’s meeting.
Comments