COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The Branch County Board of Commissioners formally approved a nine year draft lease between Branch County and Michigan State University for the county’s Bater Road property during their meeting on Tuesday.
The agreement calls for M.S.U. to lease the property for it’s Forestry Department from the county starting on December 15, 2026. The lease may be extended for an additional nine years upon approval by both parties.
The Forestry Department at M.S.U. first expressed an interest in the 168-acre property last November.
M.S.U. would lease the land for free and it would only be used for educational purposes. The University would not be allowed to erect structures or remove any trees without permission from the county.
Branch County has owned the property since 1975. The County has leased it in the past for limited farming and hunting activities.
In other business, the Commissioners accepted annual reports from the Drain Commissioner, the Board of Public Works, the 3A District Court as well as from the Probate and Juvenile Court.
Drain Commissioner Mike Hard reported 2025 was the first year during his tenure of over 20 years that all lakes under his office’s jurisdiction were below legal levels due to drought conditions.
Branch County is now drought-free following an active winter and a rainy start to spring, according to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor. The county received more than 30 inches of snow this past winter while over seven-and-a half inches of rain has fallen since March 1.
In other business, County Administration Frank Walsh told Commissioners they can expect an emergency order to fix the leaky roof at the Branch County Courthouse during their next work session on April 16. He said one of the leaks was above the new Circuit Court room. Walsh reported the roof vents were about 50 years old and they are looking at replacing all of them.
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