Fruitport Council adopts 2026–27 budget, approves parade and $8,990 pavement contract

The Village of Fruitport Council unanimously adopted the fiscal-year 2026–2027 budget and approved several routine operational items during its March 30, 2026 meeting.

Treasurer Ann LaCroix presented the proposed budget during the budget hearing; the council approved a budget resolution that adopts operating appropriations for the General Fund, Major Street Fund, Local Street Fund and Debt Service Fund and authorizes a 7.000-mill levy to be spread against the Village assessment rolls for collection in the normal manner. The resolution also designates LaCroix as the Village Chief Financial Officer for 2026–2027.

The council recorded no public comment during the budget hearing. Following the hearing, President Roger Vanderstelt moved to adopt the budget resolution; the motion was supported and passed on a unanimous roll-call vote by councilmembers Jeff Guiles, Chris LeFaive, Bill Overkamp and Carl Rothenberger.

Council members also approved several operational items on the consent and regular agendas. The council granted a request from the Fruitport Lions Club to hold the OFD parade with necessary road closures after Kevin Nelund presented the details; Carl Rothenberger noted it is important the Lions provide adequate staffing for the event. The motion to permit the parade passed by unanimous roll call.

Public works business included approval of a quote from PK Contracting for pavement markings and curb painting in the amount of $8,990, presented by DPW Supervisor Jacob Griffis. Councilmember Carl Rothenberger moved to accept the quote and Jeff Guiles supported the motion; the roll-call vote was unanimous.

Separately, President Vanderstelt moved and the council approved an authorization allowing the Treasurer to transfer funds as necessary to pay garbage, utility, Fuelman, insurance, payroll and withholding liabilities, and other bills to avoid late fees, as well as to purchase postage and office supplies. Jeff Guiles seconded that motion; roll-call responses recorded Guiles, LeFaive, Overkamp, Rothenberger and Vanderstelt.

In staff reports earlier in the meeting, Clerk Amy Haack said she had become chairperson of the Lower Grand River of Watershed Organizations (LGROW) public education committee and that the village is pursuing stormwater infrastructure grants. DPW Supervisor Griffis said a village white truck will be listed for auction April 21 or 22 and that engineers are being asked to estimate repairs for the southern portion of 3rd Avenue. In public comment, Kevin Nelund commended the DPW for doing a "great job of plowing roads throughout the harsh winter."

The meeting concluded after routine business; Carl Rothenberger moved to adjourn, supported by Chris LeFaive. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m.