Village News &
Announcements
2025 Open Water Safety Lessons Registration
🌊 2025 Elk Rapids Open Water Safety Lessons 🌞
We’re excited to announce that registration for this year’s Open Water Safety Lessons at the River is just around the corner!
🗓️ Registration opens Monday, May 5, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.
🛑 Registration closes Wednesday, May 23, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. — or until spots are full.
You can register online at https://forms.gle/MfEkpULB6gVk52tt9 or stop by the Elk Rapids Government Center to complete a paper form. There is a $50 fee per session, and students may only sign up for one session per summer. Space is limited and priority will be given to Village Residents, so don’t wait!
👦👧 Lessons take place at the River and are held Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays over a two-week period. Each session includes six total classes and a built-in makeup day. Lessons run rain or shine, unless there is thunder or lightning.
🗂️ Session dates:
Session 1: June 24 – July 3
Session 2: July 15 – July 24
Session 3: August 5 – August 14
All students must be accompanied by a designated adult and should come in a bathing suit with a towel.
Questions or need accommodations? Email Laura Shumate at lshumate@elkrapids.org.
Let’s make a splash this summer — safely! 🏊♀️🏖️
Super Recycling Day Accepted Items List
♻️ Elk Rapids Super Recycling Day is almost here! ♻️
Join us Saturday, May 10 from 9 AM to 3 PM next to the Police Station on Bridge Street for an opportunity to responsibly recycle all kinds of household items — from electronics and appliances to mattresses, bikes, and more!
💡 Be sure to check the flyer for accepted items (fees apply to some), and don’t forget:
🚫 No oil paint, household cleaners, or hazardous waste at this event — but you can bring those to the Antrim County Hazardous Waste Drop-Off on June 14 at the DPW Garage!
Let’s keep Elk Rapids clean and green 🌿 Questions? Call us at 231-264-9274 or visit elkrapids.org
The Village of Elk Rapids office will be closed, Tuesday, April 22nd for a Team Building Seminar.
We apologize for any inconvenience and will be open for regular business on Wednesday, April 23rd at 9:00 am
Saturday April 19, 10 a.m. Coffee with Green Elk Rapids and guest Carl Ganter:
Saturday April 19, 10 a.m. Coffee with Green Elk Rapids and guest Carl Ganter:
Water’s Future: Urgent Strategies for a Water Insecure World
Today, water insecurity — too much, too little, or too polluted — is threatening food and energy production, undermining economic, social, and environmental stability, and weakening supply chain resilience and community health. What does systems change for water look like? How does it relate to food, energy, climate and justice? What does a global water crisis mean for Northwest Michigan communities? J. CARL GANTER, , managing director of Circle of Blue, based in Traverse City, will explore water issues from the Great Lakes to the world. Ganter is an award-winning journalist and photographer whose work has appeared in major magazines, newspapers, and television and radio networks, including Time, National Geographic and Rolling Stone. He is a member of the World Economic Forum Global Future Council on the Energy Nexus, past vice chairman of the Forum’s Global Agenda Council on Water Security and an Explorers Club Fellow. Discussion will include local water priorities. The community is cordially invited. No ticket required.
HERTH, 401 River Street, Elk Rapids. Info at: greenelkrapids.org
ERFD Jam Session
Alert -- Save the Date!! The Elk Rapids Fire department is bringing back the JAM SESSION! Live Music !! - Great Prizes!! Food Available!! Beverages Available! ALL for a great cause...
2025 Harbor Summer Concert Series Announcement
🎶🌞 Get ready to groove, Elk Rapids! 🌊🎸
The 2025 Harbor Summer Concert Series is coming in HOT — and we’re bringing the beats to the beautiful Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor! 🏖️
📅 Lineup: 🎤 June 29 – The Rupple Brothers
🎤 July 5 – Hannah Rose Graves
🎤 July 20 – Eric Engblade
🎤 August 3 – Chirp
🎤 August 17 – Ted Bounty and the Bounty Hunters
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
📍 Location: Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor
🌅 Sunset views + live music = unforgettable summer nights. Bring your lawn chairs, your friends, and your dancing shoes! 💃🕺
👉 More info at: elktrapids.org/harbor/events
Harbor Waitlist Fees
The Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor will begin accepting the $20.00 Renewal Waitlist Fees beginning September 1st, 2025. Thank you for your patience!
NLEA Antrim County Annual Report
This report details NLEA activities in Antrim County for the calendar year 2024. The NLEA values its partnership with Antrim County and continues to work diligently to provide economic development services for communities and businesses across the county.
To view the report: CLICK HERE
Match on Main Grant Opportunity
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is inviting businesses located within the DDA district to express interest in applying for the MEDC Match on Main reimbursement grant, which offers up to $25,000 in funding for eligible, place-based business projects.
To be considered, please express interest via email to DDAGrantAdmin@elkrapids.org by 12:00 P.M. on Wednesday, April 2. Questions are welcome anytime.
GRANT DETAILS
Eligible Expenses include interior building renovations, technical assistance, outdoor space activation, technology, inventory, and general marketing.
This is a reimbursement grant; businesses must cover expenses up front and provide a 10% cash match.
Only expenses incurred after April 14 are eligible for reimbursement.
APPLICATION SUPPORT
The DDA can submit up to two applications to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). Businesses selected will receive support from:
Janet Rentsch, DDA Grant Administrator
Theresa Marshall, DDA CEDAM Fellow
We will assist you in writing and compiling the application and navigating the full process.
TIME COMMITMENT & TIMELINE
Interested businesses must be available to meet in person on April 7 or 8 to complete the application (it will take an estimated 4 hours).
Additional time (4–6 hours total) will be needed to provide the required documents and estimates.
The final application is due to MEDC by April 14.
BUSINESS SELECTION PROCESS
Businesses expressing interest will be prioritized based on MEDC evaluation criteria. Criteria include project alignment with community goals, innovation, local impact, business stability, and financial readiness.
If you are interested, please email DDAGrantAdmin@elkrapids.org by 12:00 P.M. on April 2. We are happy to discuss your project idea and help determine if it fits this grant opportunity well.
Call for Volunteers - Super Recycling Day
🌍 Super Recycling Day
📅 Saturday, May 10th
🕘 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
📍 Bridge Street Recycling Center (last year at this location!)
We’re looking for friendly folks to help direct recyclables, assist neighbors, and share a little recycling know-how. Whether you want to greet, guide, or even help toss (totally optional!) — it’s a fun, fast-paced way to give back.
There are three 2-hour shifts to choose from:
Shift 1: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Shift 2: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Shift 3: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Pick the time that works best for you!
Staff from BARC and other local volunteers will be present, rain or shine, to ensure things run smoothly.
👉 Ready to pitch in? Sign up here:
🔗 https://villageofer.ivolunteer.com/SuperRecyclingDay
Please sign up by May 3, 2025, so we can coordinate your shifts. After the deadline, the Volunteer Coordinator will reach out with the final details. Interested in helping with the planning side too? Just reply to this email — we’d love a few more organizers! Thanks again for being part of what makes Elk Rapids so special 💚
How to Reserve the Harbor Pavilion
Planning an event between May 15th and October 15th? The Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor Pavilion is available for rent and provides a beautiful waterfront setting for gatherings and celebrations!
📅 Availability
The Pavilion is open for public rental from May 15 to June 14 and from the first Tuesday after Labor Day through October 15.
All bookings are first-come, first-served and must be confirmed with the Harbormaster.
📝 Reservation Steps
Contact the Harbor Office at (231) 264-8174 to check date and time availability.
Submit the completed Pavilion Agreement form. CLICK HERE FOR FORM
Include a $250 security/cleaning deposit with your application to secure the reservation.
Hourly rental rate:
$100/hour during the day
$250/hour for events running past 6:00 PM
Full payment is due 72 hours before your event.
🧾 Rental Rules & Requirements
Maximum capacity: 120 guests
No smoking, alcohol only with proof of insurance
Pavilion must be cleaned and vacated by midnight
Decorations are allowed only on tables (no tape, nails, etc.)
Parking is limited to the Cedar Street Lot, unless prior arrangements are made
NOTE: Renters are responsible for all setup, cleanup, and any damages. Failure to comply with rules may result in loss of deposit.
📬 Return Your Completed Agreement To:
Lori Smith, Assistant Harbormaster
Village of Elk Rapids
P.O. Box 398
Elk Rapids, MI 49629
Mitchell Drive Community Meeting – April 2, 2025
The Village of Elk Rapids invites residents of Mitchell Drive and neighboring areas to a Community Meeting on Wednesday, April 2 from 5:00–6:00pm at the Elk Rapids Government Center (315 Bridge Street).
This meeting will focus on the upcoming water and sewer project and is a great opportunity to stay informed and share input.
💻 Can’t attend in person? Join us via Zoom!
👉 Zoom registration is required. Please register by scanning the QR code in the flyer or visiting https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vZ3H1Y6HQXqtQLEhpIfRWA
❓ Have questions you'd like addressed at the meeting?
We’d love to hear from you in advance! Please submit your questions here:
🔗 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XNLTV9G
Feel free to reach out to Village Clerk Leah Moskovitz with any questions: 📧 lmoskovitz@elkrapids.org
Let’s work together to keep our community informed and engaged!
Elk Rapids DDA Announces 2025-2026 Façade Grant Program Applications Now Open
Elk Rapids, MI – March 2025 – The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025-2026 Façade Grant Program, a competitive matching grant initiative designed to support commercial property owners and tenants in enhancing the visual appeal of their buildings within the DDA District.
With a commitment to preserving and enhancing the architectural character of Elk Rapids, this program encourages private investment in façade improvements that align with historic and long-standing preservation practices. The goal is to not only improve individual buildings but also contribute to the overall economic vitality and aesthetic charm of the district.
For this funding cycle, the Elk Rapids DDA has allocated $40,000 to support façade improvements, with a maximum grant award of $20,000 per project. To receive funding, applicants must provide a dollar-for-dollar match for their proposed improvements.
Key Program Details:
Total Available Funding: $40,000
Maximum Grant Award: $20,000 per project
Application Deadline: Friday, April 25, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Program Webpage & Application:
Learn more: www.elkrapids.org/dda-facade-grant
Download application: 2025-26 ER DDA Façade Grant Application
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include commercial and mixed-use property owners and business tenants within the DDA District. Tenants must submit a signed letter of permission from the property owner. Priority consideration will be given to applicants who have not received DDA façade grant funding in the past five years.
Eligible Improvements Include:
Brick and mortar repairs, including pointing/repointing
Storefront window and door replacement/repair
Permanent signage and awnings
Architectural detail restoration (cornices, trim, historic elements)
Removal of siding covering original materials
Other exterior improvements of a historic or long-standing nature
Ineligible expenses include interior improvements, maintenance, furnishings, roof repairs, financing or refinancing debt, and any work completed prior to the grant award date.
Grant Selection & Approval Process:
Applications will be reviewed by the DDA Grant Review Committee, consisting of DDA and Planning Commission representatives. Recommendations will be presented at the May 14, 2025, Regular DDA Meeting, where projects will be approved and awarded in order of ranking until funding is exhausted. Award notifications will be sent by May 15, 2025.
Important Dates:
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
Review Date: May 1, 2025
DDA Approval Meeting: May 14, 2025
Award Notifications: May 15, 2025
Project Start Date: May 15, 2025
Project Completion Deadline: February 13, 2026
The DDA strongly encourages potential applicants to review program details and submit their applications before the deadline.
For more information or to apply, please visit: www.elkrapids.org/dda-facade-grant or email DDAGrantAdmin@elkrapids.org.
About the Elk Rapids DDA:
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment by supporting economic development, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements within the DDA District. Through initiatives like the Façade Grant Program, the DDA seeks to enhance the vibrancy and appeal of the downtown area while preserving its historic character.
Village of Elk Rapids 2025 Recycling Events
Elk Rapids residents, let’s keep our community clean and green! 🌎💚 Mark your calendars for these upcoming recycling events:
📅 Super Recycling Day
📍 Bridge Street Recycling Center (Next to Police Station)
🗓️ May 10, 2025 | ⏰ 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
🔹 Open to all community members looking to recycle household waste!
📅 Curb-Side Spring Clean-Up
📍 Village of Elk Rapids Residential Areas
🗓️ June 7, 2025 | ⏰ 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
🔹 Curbside pick-up for residents only!
📅 Antrim County Household Hazardous Waste Day
📍 DPW Site @ 117 Lake Street, Elk Rapids
🗓️ June 14, 2025 | ⏰ 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
🔹 Open to all Antrim County communities for hazardous waste disposal!
Let’s work together for a cleaner, greener Elk Rapids! 🌱✨ Share this post and spread the word!
📌 See the flyer below for details!
DPW Spring Activities
Spring is in the air, Elk Rapids!
Our Department of Public Works is gearing up for spring clean-up season!
Brush Pick-Up starts April 7 (First Monday of each month through October).
Leaf Pick-Up starts the week of April 21 (Weekly until May 23).
As always, weather dependent—so stay tuned for any updates!
Let's keep our village looking beautiful this spring!
Ames Street Streetscape Improvements Update
🚧 Ames Street Streetscape Improvements – Project Update 🚧
Construction on the Ames Street Streetscape Project will resume the week of March 17, 2025. Initial work will take place between Rivershore Dr. and Bass St., focusing on underground utility accommodations. Sidewalk construction is expected to begin in early April.
⚠️ Traffic Alert: Portions of the westbound travel lane may be closed during working hours, with a traffic shift in place to maintain two-way traffic. The lane will reopen in the evening for overnight use with a closed shoulder.
Thank you for your patience as we work to improve Ames Street! 🚜👷♂️
