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CityHood Process The work and objective of the Cityhood Committee is to research the impact of the Village citizens in becoming a city, and what potential increase in cost, if any, could residents of the Village expect. It will be necessary for the Village to seriously approach the City of Ferrysburg, Grand Haven and Spring Lake Township for continuing discussions regarding possible consolidation of certain public services, regardless if we become a city or not. It does not mean that positions or departments are being considered for elimination or cuts. The Village Council is interested in preserving and protecting your tax dollars while continuing to reduce local Village taxes and improving the infrastructure of the Village. The decision whether to become a city is reserved for the people of the Village. I will state personally that, as Village President, I do not support and will not support any recommendation or suggestion that the Village be dissolved. This issue is for the people of the Village to decide, and is presently a decision or discussion that is not being considered by the Village Council. Ferrysburg has always been close friend and supporter of the Village. Our professional relationship has continued to grow and the Spring Lake/Ferrysburg Police Department is just one example of this successful teamwork long before the governor even suggested more collaboration among municipalities. Nevertheless, it is the desire and wish of both municipalities' representatives to research other potential areas of public services that may be considered to assist in reducing the cost to the public while improving the services for both the Village and Ferrysburg. This cooperation and collaboration is open to any municipalities from the Village because only by working as a team can we prevent further cuts in services or necessary increased in local taxes. In conclusion, I am optimistic that the future and strength of the Village will continue to be financially secured and that the voice of the people living in the Village will continue to be heard and expressed with the utmost importance of the Village Council. |
