City applies for DNR grant to expand Hartshorn Park and boat ramp; request would cover $908,200

The commission voted Aug. 12 to authorize staff to apply for a Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund acquisition grant to expand Hartshorn Park and the Hartshorn boat ramp.

Kyle Kaczewski, director of parks and recreation, described a time-sensitive, out-of-cycle grant application for a parcel valued at about $1.2 million. Kaczewski said the state DNR would fund about $908,200 and that the seller has agreed to donate the difference, meaning the city would not be committing cash for the acquisition if the grant award is secured.

Commissioners asked staff about potential effects on existing agreements and infrastructure. Director Kaczewski and the city manager said they do not expect the city’s shared-use agreement with Adelaide Point for the launch ramp to change immediately; they also said a temporary driveway used for exiting trailer traffic has been intended as temporary and is unlikely to change with the application.

Commissioners raised valuation concerns and asked whether the seller would accept a lower price if the appraisals come in under the asking price; staff said the formal state appraisal process will determine allowable grant funding and that the seller is aware of the appraisal requirement but that negotiations about price have not yet occurred. The motion to apply for the grant passed unanimously.