Ottawa County Parks Millage Faces Split Vote

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Ahead of statewide primary elections in August, Ottawa County residents will vote on May 5 on a proposal to renew and potentially increase a parks millage. Officials are considering splitting the vote across two elections, with the initial May ballot focusing on renewing the existing millage, and a later vote later in 2026 to decide on increasing the tax rate.

Why it matters

The parks millage provides crucial funding for Ottawa County's extensive park system, which includes over 20 parks and natural areas. Renewing the millage is seen as essential to maintaining current park operations and services, while a potential increase could allow for expanded recreational offerings and conservation efforts.

The details

The current 0.33-mill parks and recreation millage is set to expire at the end of 2026. County officials are weighing a recommendation to first ask voters to renew the existing millage in May, before potentially seeking an increase later in the year. This two-step approach is intended to provide financial stability for the parks system while also allowing time to build support for a tax hike.

• The current 0.33-mill parks and recreation millage expires at the end of 2026.
• Voters will decide on renewing the existing millage on May 5, 2026.
• If the renewal passes, officials may seek an increase to the millage rate later in 2026.

What’s next

If the May 5 renewal vote passes, county officials will determine whether to pursue an increase to the millage rate later in 2026 and place that proposal on the ballot.