Village of Spring Lake becoming a city?

Reduced taxes could be one benefit to residents if the Village of Spring Lake decides to incorporate as a city. But the saving could be offset by costs to pay for fire protection, assessments, and other services currently provided by the township. Village Council members say a lot of work lies ahead, and the final decision will be made by village residents.

According to excerpts from the story:

After essentially no discussion, Village Council voted 7-0 Monday night to proceed with becoming a city, although council members agreed much research is waiting in the wings.

Council unanimously approved last month's recommendation from a cityhood citizen committee to proceed with a change in governmental status from village to city.

Council members also informally agreed that a field trip to Douglas in Allegan County would be in order. Douglas, formerly a village, recently incorporated as a city — and Spring Lake officials said they would like to learn of its experiences and growing pains.

Read the complete story here.

Enjoy this story? Sign up for free solutions-based reporting in your inbox each week.