Village News &
Announcements
2025 Public Participation Plan
On August 6, 2025, the Village Council approved the Public Participation Plan (PPP), a framework designed to strengthen transparency, communication, and trust between the Village and the community. The PPP outlines how residents, business owners, and stakeholders can be meaningfully involved in planning, zoning, redevelopment, and other land use decisions. It establishes clear goals for inclusive engagement, ensures compliance with state laws such as the Michigan Open Meetings Act, and aligns with Redevelopment Ready Communities best practices. By providing multiple opportunities for input, using both traditional and digital tools, and committing to share results openly, the PPP will serve as a guide to ensure the voices of Elk Rapids residents remain central in shaping the community’s future
Elk Rapids Island House Committee Recommendations
The Island House Committee has shared its recommendations for the future of the historic Island House. Following months of community input, the committee proposes repurposing the building as a flexible community space that can host gatherings, cultural events, creative programs, and quiet study areas while preserving its historic character. The committee also recommends maintaining regular public hours, supporting use by local organizations, and ensuring the property remains a welcoming space for youth, families, and residents. The Village Council will review these recommendations as planning for the Island House moves forward.
MORE INFORMATION: CLICK HERE
📢 Applications Now Open – 2025 Citizens Academy
Applications are now open for the 2025 Elk Rapids Citizens Academy! This free, six-week program gives residents and those who work in our community a behind-the-scenes look at how Village government works. Meet department leaders, tour facilities, and learn how decisions are made on everything from budgeting to public safety.
Program Details:
Dates: Wednesdays, October 1 – November 5, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Applications Close: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Link to Application: HERE
📍 Space is limited, so don’t wait—apply today! Applications are available on the Village website and at the Government Center, 315 Bridge Street. Submit to Lori Dawson, Deputy Clerk at ldawson@elkrapids.org.
Water & Sewer Improvements Update – August 18, 2025
Work is progressing across several locations in the Village:
🔹 Iroquois St. (Lake St. to Ames St.) – Water improvements are complete, paving is done, and final restoration is underway.
🔹 Golf Course Dr. – Watermain loop is in place. Testing and final connections are happening this week, followed by service connections. Expect intermittent traffic impacts.
🔹 Park St. (Buckley St. to Third St.) and Third St. – Water improvements are complete, paving is finished, and final restoration is underway.
🔹 Charles St. – Preliminary sanitary sewer improvements are beginning this week. Road will be closed to through traffic during construction.
We ask all residents to stay alert for workers in these areas and use caution when traveling near active construction sites. Thank you for your patience as we continue this important infrastructure work.
Schedule and timing are weather dependent and subject to change as needed
Mitchell Drive Water & Sewer Improvements Update 08.19.2025
Construction is underway on Mitchell Drive for water and sewer main improvements. This week, crews will be testing the water and sewer mains and then moving forward with installing new services. Work will begin near 120 Ames and continue south.
🔹 Service box locations are being staked in the field, marked with addresses for each property.
🔹 During working hours, sections of Mitchell Drive may be closed. Please use alternate access points when needed.
🔹 Residents will continue to have access to their driveways at the end of each day.
We ask that everyone be alert for workers in the project area and use caution when traveling through. Thank you for your patience as this important infrastructure work moves forward!
All work is weather permitting. Schedule and timing are subject to change as needed.
Share Your Voice on Waste, Recycling, and Composting
Do you throw away trash, recycle plastics, or compost food waste? Your input matters.
Northwest Michigan is working to improve how our region manages materials such as trash, recycling, and organics. By sharing your feedback, you can help shape smarter resource use, reduce waste, and improve efficiency in our communities.
Take the Survey
Learn More
Your voice is vital in building a more sustainable Northwest Michigan. Thank you for taking a few minutes to participate.
Congratulations to John Mach – Recognized as a 2025 Leader of Northern Michigan
Big congratulations to our DDA Executive Director, John Mach, for being recognized in the Record Eagle’s 2025 Leaders of Northern Michigan!
John’s passion for Elk Rapids shines through in everything he does, from bringing people together around projects like our new wayfinding signage to creating opportunities for businesses and residents to collaborate through events like Stronger Together.
This honor celebrates not only John’s leadership, but also the energy and spirit of our entire community. Elk Rapids is truly stronger together, and we’re grateful for the dedication that helps keep our downtown thriving.
Check out John’s full feature here: https://record-eagle-cnhi.newsmemory.com/?special=leaders
Wrapping Up a Great Season of Open Water Safety Lessons!
This summer, dozens of kids jumped in, learned new skills, and built confidence in the water through our Open Water Safety Lessons. It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces enjoying the river while learning how to stay safe.
A special thank you goes to Laura Shumate for coordinating sign ups and registration, and to Allie Shumate for leading the lessons with patience, energy, and care. Your efforts made this program possible and created such a positive experience for families.
📸 Here are a couple of snapshots from classes this summer!
Thank you to all the families who participated and supported this program. We’re already looking forward to making next year’s lessons even better. 💙
ELK RAPIDS DDA CONGRATULATES BOS WINE ON $25,000 MATCH ON MAIN GRANT AWARD
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is pleased to announce that Bos Wine has been selected to receive a $25,000 grant through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) Match on Main Program. This investment underscores Bos Wine’s commitment to elevating the downtown experience and exemplifies the spirit of innovation and community that drives Elk Rapids forward.
Grant Award Highlights
Recipient: Bos Wine (Le Bos LLC)
Award Amount: $25,000
Program: Match on Main, administered by the Michigan Strategic Fund and MEDC
Purpose: Support working capital needs, specifically inventory expansion to meet growing demand
Bos Wine has requested a $25,000 Match on Main working capital grant to support a targeted expansion of its operations, specifically increasing production by 250 cases and driving an estimated 15 percent growth in annual sales by covering key inventory and operational expenses, and will implement the project over a 15-month timeline beginning April 15, 2025, and concluding July 17, 2026.
“Bos Wine’s vision for scaling production exemplifies the innovation and community focus we strive to support at the DDA. This grant will not only strengthen their business but will also drive more foot traffic and economic vitality to our Ames Street district,” said Janet Rentsch, Board Member, Elk Rapids DDA.
About the Match on Main Program
Launched by the Michigan Strategic Fund, the Match on Main grant program empowers small businesses in downtown and commercial districts to undertake transformative projects. Eligible costs may be incurred from the date of application submission through one year from the date of execution of the grant agreement. Projects must be completed within 12 months of that execution date, with extensions considered—though not guaranteed—by the Michigan Strategic Fund Board.
About Elk Rapids DDA
Since its establishment in 1986, the Elk Rapids DDA has championed downtown revitalization through strategic investments, partnership building, and community-focused programming. Elk Rapids is a Michigan Main Street and RRC community.
Media Contact:
John Mach, Executive Director
Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority
Phone: (231) 264-9274
Email: DDAExecutiveDirector@elkrapids.org
Elk Rapids DDA Announces Second Round of Façade Grant Funding
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is pleased to announce the launch of the second round of its Façade Grant Program for the 2025–2026 fiscal year. This competitive grant initiative is designed to support local businesses and property owners in revitalizing and enhancing the visual appeal of commercial and mixed-use buildings within the DDA District.
With a total of $40,000 allocated to this round, eligible applicants can receive up to $20,000 in matching grant funds to support improvements such as masonry repair, window and door restoration, permanent signage, awnings, and other architectural or design enhancements that honor the historic and long-standing character of Elk Rapids.
“The Façade Grant Program is about more than just bricks and mortar,” said Janet Rentsch, DDA Board Member. “It is a commitment to preserving the charm and economic vitality of our downtown district. With each successful project, we see the impact that thoughtful design and community investment can have on the look and feel of our village.”
Applications are now open and must be submitted via email in PDF format by October 24, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. An in-person workshop to assist potential applicants will be held on September 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Government Center. Business owners are encouraged to bring their laptops and questions for hands-on guidance.
Grant recipients will be announced on November 13, 2025, following the review and approval process by the DDA Review Committee and Board. Projects must be completed by November 12, 2026. Reimbursement will be issued upon project completion and submission of final paid invoices.
For more information, detailed guidelines, or to access the application, visit https://www.elkrapids.org/dda-facade-grant or email DDAGrantAdmin@elkrapids.org
Save the Date – Citizens Academy Applications
📅 Save the Date – Citizens Academy Applications
Applications for the 2025 Elk Rapids Citizens Academy open Wednesday, August 20 and close Tuesday, September 23.
This free, six-week program gives residents and those who work in our community a behind-the-scenes look at how Village government works. Meet department leaders, tour facilities, and learn how decisions are made on everything from budgeting to public safety.
Program Dates: Wednesdays, October 1 – November 5, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Applications Open: August 20, 2025
Applications Close: September 23, 2025
📍 Space is limited, so mark your calendar and get ready to apply! Application details will be available on the Village website and at the Government Center.
2025 Public Participation Plan
On August 6, 2025, the Village Council officially adopted the Public Participation Plan. This plan will be implemented gradually and will serve as a guide to strengthen transparency, increase community involvement, and improve communication between the Village and residents. We look forward to working together to make sure every voice is heard.
To view the plan: CLICK HERE
Various Water Projects Update 08.08.2025
🚧 WATER & SEWER CONSTRUCTION UPDATE – August 8, 2025 🚧
We’re continuing progress on critical infrastructure upgrades throughout the Village. Here’s what’s coming up:
🔨 Upcoming Work
• Iroquois St. between Lake and Ames is scheduled for paving on August 13
• Watermain has been placed on Golf Course Dr. loop, with connections to the existing system continuing over the next two weeks
• Final grading and paving on Park St. (Buckley to Third) and Third St. (between Meguzee Point Dr. and Park) are scheduled for August 14–15
• Charles St. sanitary sewer improvements begin the week of August 18
🚧 Traffic Reminders
• Iroquois St. will be closed to through traffic during watermain work and intermittently until paving is finished
• Park St. & Third St. will be closed to through traffic during grading and paving
• Charles St. will be closed for sanitary sewer construction
Please slow down near work zones and follow posted detours. We appreciate your patience while we complete these important upgrades!
📌 All work is weather-dependent and subject to change.
Mitchell Drive Update 08.08.2025
🚧 Mitchell Dr. Water & Sewer Improvements – Construction Update 🚧
📅 Update as of August 8, 2025
Construction is actively underway on Mitchell Drive for water and sewer system improvements. Work is weather-dependent and will continue through August and September.
🔧 Upcoming Work
➡️ Water and sewer main testing is scheduled for the weeks of August 11 and August 18.
➡️ Installation of water and sewer services will begin near 120 Ames and move south.
➡️ New service box locations will be marked in the field, with stakes showing customer addresses.
🚦 Traffic Reminder
Please use caution when traveling in the area. Sections of Mitchell Dr. may be closed during work hours, with alternate access points needed. Residents will still have driveway access each day after work concludes.
Thank you for your patience as we complete these vital infrastructure upgrades!
📌 Schedule and work zones are subject to change depending on weather and field conditions.
Speaking of Wildlife Book Event
📚🐾 Join us for "Speaking of Wildlife" — a thought-provoking evening with author and professor Dr. Christopher J. Preston, exploring how humans and wildlife can coexist in a changing world. Moderated by Ellie Katz from Interlochen Public Radio.
🗓 August 21 at 6 PM
📍 Grace Memorial Harbor Pavilion, 129 N. Cedar St, Elk Rapids
🌱 Suggested donation: $10
🔗 www.greenelkrapids.org
Come hear insights from the author of Tenacious Beasts and The Synthetic Age, and be part of the conversation on conservation and hope. Sponsored by GreenER.
Brush Pickup Schedule Change
🚨 Brush Pickup Schedule Change 🚨
Due to Harbor Days activities, brush pickup for the Village of Elk Rapids will be moved to Tuesday, August 5 instead of the usual Monday schedule.
Please have brush placed curbside by 7:00 AM on Tuesday to ensure collection. We appreciate your understanding as we support this busy and exciting week in our community!
Questions? Contact the Department of Public Works at (231) 264-0036.
Tennis Courts Closure 07/26/2025
Ballin’ at the Bay is back this Saturday!
Join us for the annual 3-on-3 basketball tournament happening at the Bay this Saturday, July 26! Expect a full day of competition, community, and fun.
Please note: The Village tennis courts will be closed all day Saturday to accommodate the event.
Thanks for your understanding, and come out to cheer on the players!
Village Water & Sewer Projects Update 07/25/2025
Infrastructure improvements are continuing throughout the Village, with active work scheduled into October 2025. Here’s a quick look at what’s happening:
**Iroquois St. (Lake to Ames)**
Watermain and service installation is complete
Final connections and abandonment of the old main are underway
Stormwater upgrades and new culverts to follow
Road closed to through traffic**, intermittent closures for storm system work
Paving tentatively scheduled for August 11**
**Golf Course Dr. Loop**
Watermain is in place
Testing and system connections to be completed in the next two weeks
**Park St. (Buckley to Third) & Third St. (Meguzee Point to Park)**
Watermain installed and tested
Water service installations continue week of **July 28**
Road closures in effect**
Paving also targeted for August 11**
**Charles St.**
Sanitary sewer improvements begin the week of **August 4**
Road closed to through traffic** during construction
Please be alert and drive cautiously near all project areas. Thank you for your continued patience and support as we improve our community’s infrastructure!
Mitchell Drive Water & Sewer Improvements Update 07/25/2025
**Mitchell Drive Water & Sewer Improvements Update**
Construction work continues on Mitchell Drive as part of our water and sewer infrastructure improvements. Starting the weeks of **July 28 and August 4**, crews will be installing sewer mains between **110 Ames and 120 Ames**, followed by water main testing and service installation between **120 Ames and 112 Mitchell Dr.**
Work includes:
* Sewer main installation and testing
* Water and sanitary service connections
* New force main service box locations
**Traffic Notice:** Mitchell Dr. may be closed during working hours. Residents may need to use alternate access points. Driveway access will be restored by the end of each day.
All work is weather permitting and scheduled to continue through August and September 2025.
We appreciate your patience as we improve essential infrastructure in the Village!
Veteran’s Memorial Park Now Offers ADA-Compliant Beach Wheelchair and Mobility Mats
Visitors to Veteran’s Memorial Park can now enjoy greater access to the beautiful shoreline, thanks to the installation of an ADA-compliant beach wheelchair and mobility mats. This exciting accessibility improvement is the result of a collaboration between the nonprofit organization Do A Little Good and the Elk Rapids Parks and Recreation Commission.
The beach wheelchair is designed to navigate sandy terrain, allowing individuals with mobility challenges to safely and comfortably enjoy the beach and water. In addition, the newly installed mobility mats provide a firm and stable pathway across the sand, making it easier for wheelchair users, individuals with walkers, and families with strollers to access the waterfront.
"This project is about inclusivity and ensuring that everyone—regardless of physical ability—can enjoy our incredible public spaces," said Marge Baldwin of Do A Little Good. "We're proud to partner with the Parks and Recreation Commission to help make Veteran’s Memorial Park more accessible to all."
The initiative was made possible through community donations, Parks and Recreation funds and support from local volunteers Phil and Carol Heles, Gary and Kate Manthey and Paul and Paula Moyer who constructed the shed that stores the beach wheelchair. Hands-on assistance was also provided by Alex Pray and the Elk Rapids Department of Public Works (DPW), which constructed a platform and ramp to the storage shed housing the beach wheelchair. Their work ensures safe, convenient access for those retrieving and returning the chair.
“These improvements are a meaningful step forward for our village,” said Carol Heles of the Parks and Recreation Commission. “We’re grateful for the dedication and passion of Do A Little Good, the DPW, and everyone who contributed to this project.”
The beach wheelchair is available for public use at no charge. Instructions for use and availability can be found on signage posted on the storage shed at the park.
