Village News & Announcements
Elk Rapids DDA Executive Director John Mach Named Michigan Downtown Association’s 2025 Director of the Year
ELK RAPIDS, MI — The Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) has named John Mach, Executive Director of the Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA), as the 2025 “Director of the Year” for a community with a population under 10,000. The award was presented during the MDA’s Annual Conference held November 6–7 in Rochester, Michigan.
The Director of the Year Award recognizes exceptional leadership, innovation, and collaboration in advancing downtown revitalization and economic development. Mach was honored for his strategic approach to community engagement, marketing, and long-term planning—efforts that have elevated Elk Rapids’ visibility and momentum across the state.
“This award reflects the collective work of the Elk Rapids DDA and our many partners,” said Mach. “Our Board, Village leadership, and business community have all come together to make Elk Rapids stronger, more connected, and more vibrant. My name may be on the plaque, but this recognition belongs to all of us.”
Since joining the DDA as its first full-time Executive Director, Mach has guided key initiatives that have strengthened the community’s identity and economic vitality. Under his leadership, the DDA has:
Implemented a multi-phase Wayfinding Signage Project along with new logos and branding for both the Village and DDA, creating a cohesive and welcoming visual identity.
Led the Façade Grant Program, supporting property reinvestment and enhancing the visual appeal of the downtown district.
Advanced the Discover Elk Rapids digital marketing campaign through a comprehensive, data-driven strategy to attract visitors and support local businesses.
Positioned Elk Rapids as a Michigan Main Street Engaged Community, the first step toward achieving full Michigan Main Street certification.
Strengthened collaboration with regional partners, including the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, Antrim County, and the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, to promote sustainable economic development within the DDA District.
Barbara Matthews, Chair of the Elk Rapids DDA, praised Mach’s leadership and vision:
“John leads in a way that brings people together and infuses our work with fresh energy to turn ideas into action. His collaborative leadership style, data-driven approach, and steady focus on what’s best for the village have strengthened Elk Rapids’ economic development efforts and helped position our community for long-term success.”
The Michigan Downtown Association is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting communities in strengthening their downtowns through education, advocacy, and networking. Each year, the MDA recognizes individuals and organizations that demonstrate excellence in downtown management and revitalization.
For more information about the Elk Rapids DDA and its ongoing projects, visit www.elkrapids.org/downtown-development-authority.
Elk Rapids DDA Announce New Signage Installation
Elk Rapids, MI — The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is excited to announce the installation of new wayfinding signage throughout the DDA district. This week, residents and visitors will start to see these fresh, thoughtfully designed signs going up, making it easier to navigate our charming village.
The project began in summer 2024 with a Request for Proposal (RFP) process to select a vendor to design, fabricate, and install new signage throughout the Village. A steering committee composed of representatives from the Village staff, Boards and Commissions, the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Elk Rapids Historical Society reviewed four initial design concepts. In February 2025, the committee selected and presented two design themes for public input.
The DDA is proud to see the first phase come to life this week after the initial Memorial Day installation timeframe encountered external delays. “We’re excited to see this vision become reality,” said John Mach, Executive Director of the Elk Rapids DDA. “These new wayfinding signs are just the start of enhancing the visitor and resident experience in Elk Rapids.”
The second phase of the broader signage initiative is planned for spring 2026. Phase 2 includes a new monument sign at River Street and US-31 and any updates to the Phase 1 signage. The DDA will continue working with the Village and the community to ensure a welcoming and easy-to-navigate downtown experience.
For more information about this project, please visit www.elkrapids.org/downtown-development-authority or contact:
John Mach
Executive Director, Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authorityddaexecutivedirector@elkrapids.org
SCAM ALERT
BEWARE OF SCAM - PHONE CALLS, or EMAILS COMING FROM Elk Rapids Chief OF Police, David Centala.
NEVER GIVE OUT PERSONAL INFORMATION, EVER!
ANY QUESTIONS CONTACT ANTRIM COUNTY CENTRAL DISPATCH AT: 231-533-8627
Want to share a message with Village Council?
If you’d like your letter or email included in the official Council packet, please send it to following by email:
📩 Village Clerk: lmoskovitz@elkrapids.org
Correspondence is due by noon the Wednesday before the next Council meeting so it can be included in the packet.
For example, for the October 21 meeting, materials were due Wednesday, October 15 at noon.
This helps make sure your message is shared with the full Council in time for review. Thanks for helping us keep communication open and organized!
Diving In: Understanding Our Watershed and Lake Levels
The Antrim County Drain Commissioner has released the first issue of Diving In, a new newsletter dedicated to sharing updates and insights about the Elk River Chain of Lakes (ERCOL) Watershed.
This issue covers:
• The history of the Elk Rapids and Bellaire Dams
• The role of the Chain of Lakes in feeding Grand Traverse Bay
• Current lake level court orders and how they are managed
• New lake level sensors recently installed throughout the watershed
• Ongoing planning efforts with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
• Funding options being considered for long-term watershed improvements
As part of these efforts, Drain Commissioner Leslie Meyers will be holding a series of public informational sessions to discuss lake level management and future plans for the watershed, including one on November 10, 2025, at 9 a.m. at Elk Rapids Township Hall (315 Bridge St.).
Residents are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and learn more about how these efforts protect the natural and recreational resources we all depend on.
Read the full Diving In newsletter for more details: HERE
For more information, contact the Antrim County Drain Commissioner’s Office at 231-533-3633 or visit TinyUrl.com/ACDrainComm
Strengthening Michigan Downtown Development Authorities
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 8, 2025
Strengthening Michigan Downtown Development Authorities: Regional Collaboration and Local Flavor Shine in Elk Rapids
Elk Rapids, MI — The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) hosted Strengthening Michigan Downtown Development Authorities, an evening of networking and learning. The October 2 event engaged DDA leaders, local officials, and community partners from across Northern Michigan.
Participants from Bellaire, Central Lake, Ellsworth, Mancelona, and Fife Lake filled the Historic Elk Rapids Town Hall with energy and optimism. Attendees complimented the captivating training led by Dana Walker, Director of the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA), whose presentation offered valuable insight into effective DDA governance, communication, and community impact strategies.
“Seeing so many local leaders come together reinforces that we’re truly stronger together,” said John Mach, Executive Director of the Elk Rapids DDA. “When we collaborate across communities, we strengthen our entire region.”
In addition to the informative training, guests enjoyed a generous spread of local food and drink donated by participating Elk Rapids restaurants. The Elk Rapids DDA extends thanks to Cellar 152, Chef Chucks, The Flour Pot, Masala Magic by Anita, Pearls New Orleans Kitchen, River St. Market, Short's Brewery, and Traverse Bay Farms. Their delicious contributions showcased the spirit of community that defines Elk Rapids.
The Elk Rapids DDA looks forward to building on this momentum by expanding partnerships with fellow DDAs and community development organizations both inside and beyond Antrim County. Plans are underway for a spring session focused on regional collaboration and shared economic development strategies.
For more information about upcoming DDA initiatives, visit www.elkrapids.org/downtown-developmentauthority or contact:
John Mach
Executive Director, Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority
jmach@elkrapids.org | (231) 264-9274
Public Hearing Notice: Ordinance 2025-05 to amend Chapter 8, Article III, Short-Term Property Rentals
The Village of Elk Rapids Village Council will hold a public hearing and second reading at their special meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at the Governmental Center, 315 Bridge St, at 6:30 pm. The purpose of the public hearing is to consider and receive community input on Ordinance 2025-05 to amend Chapter 8, Article III, Short-Term Property Rentals.
The proposed ordinances can be found on the Village’s website at elkrapids.org in the “November 5 Village Council packet” posted by the end of the day October 31, 2025.
Community members are invited to attend this hearing to speak either pro or con on these matters. Written comments can be directed to the Village of Elk Rapids, 315 Bridge St, PO Box 398, Elk Rapids, MI 49629, or lmoskovitz@elkrapids.org.
DDA Biannual informational presentation
The DDA will present its biannual informational presentation to the Village Council at a public meeting on Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 6:30 pm in the Governmental Center located at 315 Bridge St.
Village Water and Sewer Project Update
Construction work on village water and sewer lines will continue through October. Work will happen in stages, including road work, underground pipe installation, and final paving and restoration.
What’s Happening Next:
Golf Course Drive: Watermain and service connections are finished. Paving will be scheduled soon.
Park Street (between Buckley and Third) and Third Street: Work is complete. Crosswalk pavement markings near the schools will be added soon.
Charles Street: The west side has been milled down. Bypass pumping equipment is in place, and sanitary sewer installation will continue here for at least the next two weeks.
Traffic and Access
Please watch for construction workers and signs in all active areas.
Golf Course Drive will be intermittently blocked during the day.
Charles Street will be closed to through traffic while construction is underway.
Important Notes
This schedule may change based on weather and site conditions. Thank you for your patience as we complete these important infrastructure improvements.
Mitchell Drive Water and Sewer Project Update
Construction work is underway on Mitchell Drive and will continue through the fall. The work will be conducted in stages, beginning with the installation of underground equipment and pipes, followed by the connection of homes, and concluding with cleanup and restoration. The construction contract allows work to continue through November 15, 2025. While significant activity is expected in September and October, residents will be made aware that crews may still be on site into November.
What’s Happening Next
During the weeks of September 22 and 29, crews will begin installing water and sewer service lines. Work will start near 129 Mitchell and move north toward Ames.
Stakes with addresses will be placed along the road to mark where new service boxes will be installed near the road right-of-way.
Traffic and Access
Parts of Mitchell Drive may be closed during the day while crews are working. Please watch for workers and follow posted signs.
Road closures will only affect sections at a time.
You will always have access to your driveway by the end of each workday.
Important Notes
This schedule is approximate and may change depending on weather and site conditions. Thank you for your patience and caution during this project.
Help Shape Northwest Michigan’s Materials Management Plan
Northwest Michigan is developing a regional Materials Management Plan, and your input is vital. These surveys will help us better understand how residents and businesses handle trash, recycling, and composting so we can improve efficiency, reduce waste, and make smarter use of resources.
Resident Survey: https://bit.ly/MMPSurvey
Business Survey: https://bit.ly/MMPbizsurvey
More Information: nwm.org/mmp
Your voice helps shape a cleaner, more sustainable future for our community.
Shoreline Feasibility Study Report Now Available
The Village of Elk Rapids, in partnership with Spicer Group and StreamsideEco, is pleased to share the results of our Shoreline and Vegetative Assessment along the Elk River.
This study evaluated shoreline conditions, identified areas of erosion, and documented plant communities with a focus on managing invasive species and supporting native vegetation. The report also includes conceptual design recommendations for future shoreline protection and enhancement projects.
Residents and community members are encouraged to review the full report and supporting materials, which are available with this announcement.
Thank you to all who participated in the open house and provided input. Your engagement is vital as we continue working to protect and enhance our riverfront.
Reports:
Annual Audit Report Available
The Village of Elk Rapids has completed its annual financial audit for the fiscal year ending February 28, 2025. The report provides a full overview of the Village’s financial position, revenues, expenditures, and fund balances.
The full report is now available to the public and can be viewed here:
Village of Elk Rapids Audit Report
We remain committed to transparency and responsible stewardship of Village resources.
Mitchell Dr. Water & Sewer Construction Update 09/05/2025
Construction is underway on Mitchell Dr. and will continue through September (weather permitting).
🔧 Over the weeks of September 8 and September 15, crews will install water and sewer services, starting at 129 Mitchell Dr. and working north toward Ames St.
📍 New forcemain service box locations will be staked in the field, marked with customer addresses.
⚠️ Traffic Notice:
Mitchell Dr. may be closed during working hours.
Closures will be limited to sections of the roadway, with access restored by the end of each day.
Residents will still have access to their driveways after work hours.
Please use caution in the area and watch for construction workers. Thank you for your patience as we make these important improvements.
Water & Sewer Construction Update 09/05/2025
Our ongoing water and sewer improvement project continues through October 2025. Here are the latest updates:
✅ Iroquois St. (Lake St. to Ames St.) – Work complete, restoration touch-ups ongoing.
✅ Golf Course Dr. – Watermain and service connections complete, paving and restoration coming soon.
✅ Park St. (Buckley St. to Third St.) & Third St. – Work complete, restoration touch-ups ongoing.
🔨 Charles St. – Road pulverized, bypass pumping equipment set up starting September 8. Sanitary sewer installation begins September 8 and will continue for at least two weeks.
⚠️ Traffic Notes:
Golf Course Dr. will see intermittent closures.
Charles St. will be closed to through traffic during construction.
Please stay alert for workers in the project areas and thank you for your patience as we make these critical improvements to our community’s infrastructure.
Paddle Antrim Festival, September 11–13
Ready to paddle Northern Michigan’s Chain of Lakes Water Trail? Join the Paddle Antrim Festival, September 11–13 a celebration of paddling and community.
This choose-your-own-adventure paddle is perfect for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, and open to kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards.
Routes range from 7 to 42 miles
Go at your own pace
Celebrate each day with live music , local food , and great company
Held on Michigan’s only Pure Michigan-designated water trail
Paddling by day, community fun by night — don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience in Ellsworth, Bellaire, and Elk Rapids.
Registration closes September 7 secure your spot today: https://www.paddleantrim.com/festival
Water & Sewer Improvements Update 08/26/2025
🚧 Water & Sewer Improvements – Project Update 🚧
Construction continues on several streets in the Village as part of our ongoing water and sewer improvement project. Work is expected to continue at various locations through October 2025.
🔹 Iroquois St. (Lake St. to Ames St.) – Water improvements are complete and paving is finished. Final restoration is in progress.
🔹 Golf Course Dr. – Loop watermain has been placed. Crews are completing testing and final connections this week, followed by service connections.
🔹 Park St. (Buckley St. to Third St. and Third St.) – Water improvements are complete and paving is finished. Final restoration is in progress.
🔹 Charles St. – Preliminary sanitary sewer improvements begin the week of August 18.
🚦 Traffic Control:
Please be alert for construction workers in the project area.
Golf Course Dr. will be intermittently obstructed during construction.
Charles St. will be closed to through traffic.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as these important improvements move forward. Thank you!
Mitchell Drive Water and Sewer Improvements 08/26/2025 Update
🚧 Mitchell Drive Water & Sewer Improvements Update 🚧
Construction is underway on Mitchell Drive for water and sewer upgrades. Work will continue through August and September, weather permitting.
🔹 Week of August 25 – September 2: Crews will be testing the water and sewer mains, followed by installation of water and sewer services beginning at 120 Ames and moving south. New forcemain service box locations will also be marked in the field.
🚦 Traffic Notice:
Mitchell Drive may be closed during working hours in sections of the roadway. Residents will need to use alternate access points during the day. Driveway access will be restored each evening.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as these important infrastructure improvements move forward. Please stay alert for construction workers in the area and use caution when traveling through the project zone.
Thank you for your understanding!
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