Grand Haven council approves street closure for World Book Day, awards pavement-marking contract and reserves waterfront stadium for summer concerts

The Grand Haven City Council on May 4 approved three separate resolutions to accommodate community events and public-works work this summer.

The council voted to allow a partial closure of Fourth Street between Columbus Avenue and Washington Avenue on June 28 for World Book Day, an event organized by Brilliance Publishing. Brian, Waterfront Events Manager, told council organizers expect to distribute as many as 20,000 books and requested the closure to provide space for loading and unloading. He said setup would begin at about 8:00 a.m., the event would run roughly 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and staff expected the area to be cleared by about 2 p.m. Council approved the closure by roll call.

Council also approved a contractor services agreement with PK Contracting of Lake City, Michigan, for citywide pavement marking and striping in the budgeted amount of $58,940.95. Logan Cington, Streets and Utilities Manager, presented the contract and staff explained that only one bid was received; PK Contracting had bought the prior vendor (Advanced Paving), and staff said the lead operator, Don, is continuing with the same work under the PK name. Council approved the contract by roll call; members noted pricing for striping has been relatively consistent in recent years despite increases on some items, such as crosswalks.

Finally, council reserved Lynn Sherwood Waterfront Stadium for an open-mic style concert series—three Monday nights in July and three in August—intended to bring additional downtown foot traffic and provide performance opportunities for local bands. Brian said bands will not be paid and attendance is free; councilmembers supported using the venue more frequently. The reservation passed unanimously.

Votes at a glance:
- Amendment to move item 11D to new business: Motion by Dora, second by Calio; roll call: Fritz yes, Dora yes, Calio yes, Lion yes, Manza yes; outcome: approved.
- Consent agenda approval (minutes, bills memo $147,449, delinquent invoices resolution): Motion by Fritz, second by Dora; roll call unanimous; outcome: approved.
- Partial closure for World Book Day (June 28): Motion by Calio, second by Fritz; roll call unanimous; outcome: approved.
- Accept low bid and approve contract with PK Contracting for pavement marking ($58,940.95): Motion (mover/second not specified on record); roll call unanimous; outcome: approved.
- Reserve Lynn Sherwood Waterfront Stadium for Monday-night concert series (three nights in July and three in August): Motion (mover/second not specified on record); roll call unanimous; outcome: approved.

The council concluded its business and adjourned after a second call to the audience produced no speakers.