Council approves $5,000 Chamber agreement; library reports expanded hours and new makerspace

Grand Haven — The City Council approved a one-year, $5,000 agreement with the Grand Haven–Spring Lake–Ferrysburg Chamber of Commerce to support chamber-led programs, and heard a library update on expanded services enabled by a supplemental millage.

Ashley (city staff) introduced the $5,000 agreement and said the funds would support the chamber’s housing forum, career fair and a forthcoming industry trends report. Mark Allen, the chamber’s president and CEO, told council that four neighboring municipalities are participating in similar arrangements and that the funds also support workforce and school‑business linkages. Allen said the city’s contribution often yields complimentary admissions to chamber events for staff and officials.

Councilmembers emphasized the value of the chamber forums and workforce programming. One member noted that the city’s investment can reduce other event costs because staff attendance is included in the agreement's benefits.

In an earlier presentation, Ellen Peters, executive director of the district library, said a supplemental millage approved in August 2024 enabled expanded hours (open earlier on weekdays and later on weeknights), increased outreach to assisted‑living centers and preschools, higher use of digital materials, and the creation of a makerspace and art studio funded by a private donation and community foundation support. Peters said the makerspace is scheduled to open by June 1.

Council voted to adopt the chamber funding resolution on roll call.