At the most recent Mecosta County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, the board discussed an application to convert a former marijuana provisioning facility into an after-school child care center.

New owners John and Julie Miller, originally from Michigan, recently operated a similar facility in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. 

“We had our daughter at Big Rapids Hospital and our hearts are near and dear to the area,” John Miller said at the meeting. “When we were looking at places to come back to, this made so much sense because you just don’t have access to anything that we would provide.”

The Millers plan to serve up to 36 school-age children, in line with the 18-children-per-caregiver government regulations. Initial hours would be 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

The building, located at 701 Maple Street, was previously the site of 20 Past 4 Dispensary, which operated from 2024 until it recently closed. It includes commercial space on the ground floor and two apartment units upstairs that had been used as rentals. They have the property under contract as of May 4, 2026.

The applicants were seeking a variance to reduce parking requirements. Current ordinances require one parking space per bedroom for the residential units — six spaces total — and one parking space per three children for the child care center. The Millers wanted to lower the residential requirement from six spaces to two and adjust the child care parking ratio.

“Children are coming in and aging out all the time,” John Miller said. “We want to be able to fill up maximum slots, in recognition that at any given point some number of children will drop out of enrollment for aging out, moving on to different programs or moving out of the area."

Concerns were raised during the meeting about traffic flow in the area, but board members recommended approval of the variance.

The timeline for renovations and an opening is unknown at this time.

Monday, April 27

• An officer investigated a complaint of harassment. Both parties were advised not to contact each other or harassment charges would be sought for future events.

Tuesday, April 28

• While patrolling storage units for theft prevention, an officer contacted a man who was evasive and uncooperative. It was found that he did have a storage unit and was identified with it. A valid warrant was located, but the downstate agency was not able to pick-up.
• A person was seen looking into windows at a local business after hours. Upon contact, a 68 year-old man was arrested for active warrants for obstructing justice and friend of the court. He was transported to Osceola County Jail without incident.
• An officer was called for a noise ordinance violation. Upon arrival, there was no loud music heard.
• An officer was dispatched regarding a VIN check. The vehicle was verified as not stolen, but only a scrap title application was in the complainant’s possession. The complainant was advised to call back once they acquired the correct paperwork.
• An officer was dispatched for a property damage accident at a local business. The owner didn’t know where or when it happened, but suspected it may have been in the parking lot of his apartment complex. He was advised to call if he observed any vehicle in his apartment complex with matching damage.
• An officer responded to a complaint of a vehicle being repaired in a parking lot. The vehicle was not in a dangerous position and not in violation of local ordinance.
• An officer was dispatched to an unruly juvenile who walked away from mental health treatment and parents. The juvenile was taken into protective custody and transported to the hospital for a mental health evaluation.

Wednesday, April 29

• An officer contacted a subject regarding a court order for a mental evaluation. The subject was transported to the hospital and was transferred to hospital staff.

• An officer was dispatched to RCH for an unruly juvenile. Upon arrival, the individual was restrained and was wearing a spit mask, as the subject was intentionally spitting on hospital staff. This report has been submitted to the prosecutor’s office for charges.

• An officer investigated a complaint of an individual with a possible handgun inside a public facility. The investigation revealed the item was a 1.9" keychain.

• An officer responded to a barking dog complaint. Upon arrival, no violation or dog was found in the area and no one answered the door at the alleged location.

• An officer was called regarding a check well-being complaint. Through investigation, the individual was determined they were not a threat to themselves or others. Protective custody was not warranted.

• While on routine patrol, an officer located an illegal fire. Through this contact, the homeowner was advised of the local ordinance regarding fires in town and was asked to extinguish said fire. 

• An officer was dispatched regarding a well-being check on a subject. Upon arrival, no one answered the door.

• An officer was dispatched to a possible domestic assault complaint. Upon arrival, the officer did not hear or see any disturbances through the house windows. Additionally, the officer interviewed all parties present
  and determined that nothing illegal occurred.

Thursday, April 30

• An officer was dispatched to a local business for a Michigan ID that was located. Numerous attempts to contact the owner were unsuccessful. This case is pending contact for the ID to be returned.

Friday, May 1

• An individual was found with a fire at the Reed City Depot. The ordinance was explained and the subject left. The Reed City Fire Department extinguished the fire.
• An officer gathered statements and evidence on a two-vehicle property damage incident with no injuries. A citation was issued and a report written.
• An officer was dispatched regarding a check well-being complaint. This investigation revealed the subject was fine.

Saturday, May 2

• An officer was dispatched to an individual wishing to speak with an officer. The individual spoke about things that were from many years ago and in a different jurisdiction. Upon talking to someone who is familiar with the person, it was learned it is a mental health issue that did not require hospitalization.

• An officer was dispatched to a possible domestic assault incident that had occurred earlier in the day. The complainant had left the residence prior to the officer’s arrival with no plans to return. The matter will be submitted to the prosecutor for possible charges.

Sunday, May 3

• An officer was contacted by an agency about a possible underage nude photos complaint that occurred near the end of 2025. The juvenile deleted all the accounts and identities associated with the matter back in 2025. This investigation is open pending further investigation.

• An officer was dispatched regarding a well-being check. Contact with the individual resulted in a request to be transported to the hospital for mental health assistance. The person was transported without incident.

Monday, May 4

• An officer took a complaint on a suspected scam. A report was written and the individual was advised to check their credit reports and bank accounts for ID theft. The suspect is most likely from outside of the US and is not traceable.
• An officer was dispatched for a threat complaint. A statement was written, and the complainant was advised of this being a civil issue, as well as to possibly seek a PPO for resolution.
• An officer took a report on a car crash involving a deer. The animal was clear of the roadway and the vehicle had only minimal damage but was drivable.

Tuesday, May 5

• An officer was dispatched to a public location for a well-being check. The individual was located and no danger was obvious during conversation. The subject advised they already had an appointment scheduled with Community Mental Health, and that they would contact officers if needed.
• An officer was called for concern of young children playing around metal electrical boxes. No children were in the area on arrival and adults in the vicinity were advised.

Wednesday, May 6

• An officer located an individual asleep behind a local business and identified them. They were advised of the ordinance for trespassing and served a notice. The individual wanted to go to Big Rapids, so the officer transported them to the south end of the city where they continued their journey south.

Thursday, May 7

• Officers assisted CPS with the removal of a juvenile from a home and foster care placement without incident.

• An officer took a complaint of a scammer attempting to rent a person’s home to others on social media. A statement was taken and an investigation was completed. The scammer was tracked to a dead-end profile on social media and unfortunately charges could not be filed.

Friday, May 8

• An officer was flagged down by an individual for a well-being check at a residence. Upon entry of the home, the resident was having heart difficulty and needing medical attention. EMS was called.
• An officer assisted CPS with an on-site visit. Interviews and evidence revealed no abuse and turned out to be the result of children playing only. The matter was unfounded.
• An officer was called for a fireworks complaint. Upon arrival, the fireworks were finished. The individuals were advised of ordinances, and a verbal warning was given on the fireworks.

Saturday, May 9

• An officer took a complaint and evidence regarding an individual trespassing at a local public facility.

Sunday, May 10

• An officer retrieved a found bicycle. The bicycle has been placed into found property at the Reed City Police Department impound area.

On Monday, May 11, Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.) and Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) introduced the Connected Vehicle Security Act.

The legislation would prohibit the importation, manufacture, sale, resale or introduction into interstate commerce of connected vehicles, software and hardware linked to China, Russia, North Korea and Iran. Restrictions on vehicles and software would take effect Jan. 1, 2027, with hardware restrictions phased in later around 2030. A violation would carry civil penalties of at least $1.5 million per instance or five times the value of the transaction, whichever is greater. 

“The American auto industry is vital for jobs, national security, and the future of America’s manufacturing base,” Moolenaar said. “China cheats in every industry, and in autos it is overproducing vehicles and components, and selling them for cheap in hopes they will put our companies out of business. These companies should not be allowed to do business in America, and their products shouldn’t be in our cars or threatening our infrastructure."

The day after the bill’s introduction, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer voiced support for the bipartisan measure, citing the importance of keeping auto jobs in Michigan and advancing domestic technology.

“Our auto industry employs half a million Michiganders in good-paying jobs and is vital to our national economy,” Whitmer said. “I’m proud of the work we’ve done to bring manufacturing back home from overseas, but all of that is at risk if we let cheap, government-subsidized Chinese vehicles into our country. Right now, that’s exactly what’s happening in Europe, Canada, and Mexico. Companies that can’t compete with vehicles subsidized by China are selling fewer cars, closing factories, and cutting jobs."

The Connected Vehicle Security Act builds on actions by two administrations. In 2019, President Donald Trump signed an executive order declaring a national emergency regarding foreign threats to America’s information and communications technology supply chain. The Biden administration used that authority to finalize regulations in January 2025 prohibiting connected vehicle software and hardware linked to China and Russia. The bill would codify and expand those protections in statute.

“I am not interested in repeating the mistakes that hollowed out manufacturing communities across this country while politicians told workers globalization would somehow magically work itself out,” Dingell said. “America can compete with anyone in the world when there’s a level playing field because there is nobody better than the American worker. Auto workers are facing uncertainty, but I am certain about one thing: the future of the American auto industry must be built by American workers."

The bill remains in the introductory phase. An identical companion measure was introduced April 29, 2026, in the Senate by Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-Ohio) and Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).

The Ferris State University men's tennis team advanced to the NCAA Division II National Championships for the first time in nine years as the Bulldogs pulled out a 4-1 win over Northwood University on Tuesday in the Midwest Region final.

With the win, the Bulldogs move on to the DII Sweet Sixteen set for May 19-24 in Surprise, Arizona.

Ferris State will advance to the round of 16 in the NCAA Tournament for the 12th time in school history and the first time since 2017.

After claiming a 4-1 win over Drury University in the regional opener on Monday afternoon at the Big Rapids High School courts, the Bulldogs moved inside on Tuesday to the university’s Racquet and Fitness Center and topped Northwood in the first match this season between the two longtime tennis rivals.

The Bulldogs took the early lead by winning the doubles round, taking two of the three flights for the initial point of the match. The pairing of Adrian Catahan and Erik Kovacs came away with a decisive 6-2 win at one doubles and Felipe Iser teamed up with Kevin Kovacs for a 7-6 (7-2) victory at two doubles.

In singles play, Kevin Kovacs got the Bulldogs started early, pushing the match lead to 2-0 with a convincing 6-1, 6-0 win at one singles.

Northwood cut the lead to 2-1 when Marc Ferrando Farras fought back to top Iser by a 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 score.

However, freshman Praneel Pichika then rallied for a 3-6, 6-3, 7-6 (7-3) triumph at four singles, setting the stage for the clinching win by Jose Andres Perez Alarcon at two singles. He won the initial set 6-4 and sealed the victory with a 7-6 (7-4) decision.

FSU's Catahan led his match at five singles 6-3, 1-2 when play was stopped due to the clinch while Erik Kovacs held an early 2-1 lead at six singles.

The Bulldogs improved to 19-3 this year with their 10th consecutive victory of the season. Ferris State capped off the year with a 12-0 home mark, including the win on Monday at BRHS along with 11 victories at the Racquet and Fitness Center this campaign.

Ferris State will advance to the round of 16 in the NCAA Tournament for the 12th time in school history and the first time since 2017.

The Bulldogs won the regional in Big Rapids in back-to-back years in 2016 and 2017 to advance to the national championships where they eventually reached the Elite Eight in back-to-back years, including a final four showing in 2016.

Along with capturing the regional title, the Bulldogs also won the GLIAC Regular-Season Championship this year and won the league's postseason tournament.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}

Monday, May 4

• At 1:49 p.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Martiny Township. The traffic stop resulted in the male driver being arrested on a warrant. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 13

Traffic Accidents: 5

Tuesday, May 5

• At 9:32 a.m., deputies made a traffic stop in Millbrook Township. The traffic stop resulted in the female driver being arrested on warrants. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 14

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, May 6

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 3

Thursday, May 7

• At 10:41 p.m., deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Morton Township. A female subject was arrested for Domestic Assault. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 4

Friday, May 8

Calls for Service: 18

Traffic Accidents: 3

Saturday, May 9

Calls for Service: 9

Traffic Accidents: 2

Sunday, May 10

Calls for Service: 9

Traffic Accidents: 7

On Monday, May 11, at approximately 8:01 a.m., deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office responded to a two vehicle crash at the intersection of 10^th Avenue and Monroe Road in Millbrook Township.

According to deputies, a Dodge Ram pickup truck, driven by a 23-year-old man from Blanchard, was traveling eastbound on Monroe Rd and disregarded the stop sign. He then struck a GMC SUV traveling southbound on 10^th Avenue.

The driver of the GMC SUV, a 62-year-old woman from Blanchard, received minor injuries and was transported to MyMichigan Medical Center in Mt. Pleasant for further treatment. The 23-year-old pickup was treated at the scene and released.

Deputies were assisted by Millbrook Township Fire and Rescue, Mecosta County EMS, and Meceola Central Dispatch.

After more than a decade as a vacant lot, the former Hanchett site is slated to become a new senior living community.

Here are key basics to know about the project:

THE LOCATION

The new facility, which will assume the name "Ivy Terrace," will be built at 906 N. State St. in Big Rapids, situated between the Muskegon River and State Street near Swede Hill. The site was home to Hanchett Manufacturing for nearly 100 years. The company was founded in 1889 and now operates from a facility on 19 Mile Road, where it specializes in saw sharpening, filing and grinding equipment.

The roughly 4.4-acre property will host a 55 independent senior living community with at least 64 apartment units. Planned amenities include a theater room, sauna, salon, pickleball court and bistro style gathering spaces. Both covered and uncovered parking will be available.

A proposed blueprint layout of the site plan for the new development (courtesy of DeShano Development Corporation).

THE UNITS

The development will feature one- and two-bedroom apartments with standard or premium views. Monthly rents are estimated at $2,000–$2,500 for one-bedroom units and $2,300–$2,900 for two bedroom units.

Unit amenities include private balconies, dishwashers, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and in-unit washers and dryers. Higher-priced units will offer east-facing views of the Muskegon River.

THE TIMELINE

Closing on the purchase agreement is expected by early 2027. The developer will then conduct approximately four months of inspections and environmental assessments before final site plan approval.

Construction is targeted to begin in 2027 or 2028. Phase 1, consisting of the first 32–36 units on the southern portion of the site, is expected to take about 16 months to complete. Phase 2, adding another 32 units on the northern side, would start once Phase 1 is fully leased and could extend into 2030 or later.

THE PARTNERS

DeShano Development Corporation of Gladwin is leading the project. The company previously built Big Rapids Fields assisted living and memory care facility. It also developed the 49-unit Ivy Terrace senior apartments in Midland and is working on another project there called The Reserve.

DeShano has agreed to pay the city $250,000 for the property if it secures an EGLE Brownfield Redevelopment Grant covering at least 85% of eligible costs. If the grant is not obtained, the purchase price drops to $100,000.

For more information on DeShano, visit here: https://www.deshanodevelopment.com/homepage.html.

A 21-year-old man from Arkansas died Sunday, May 10, following a significant dirt bike crash in Ashland Township between Bridgeton and Grant.

The crash occured at 2:20 p.m. near the intersection of Wisner Avenue and 116th Avenue. The male, who is originally from Newaygo, was riding on private property when he collided with a tree at an assumed high rate of speed.

According to online scanner reports, emergency personnel attempted life-saving measures for nearly 45 minutes before the male passed away.

"The incident does not appear to involve drugs or alcohol," Michigan State Police said. "The crash remains under investigation."

Corewell Health Aero-Med and Ashland Township Fire and Rescue assisted on scene.

Elizabeth Nguyen spent years circling the classroom before finally stepping to the front of it. The Holland native and new Ferris State University Elementary Education graduate initially pursued music therapy before a stretch working with children made the decision for her.

Watching kids hit those breakthrough moments — that "light bulb" flash, she called it — was the pull she could not ignore. She is now a student-teacher at Harrison Park Elementary School in Grand Rapids, with her mortarboard declaring: "My Turn to Teach the Future!"

Nguyen was one of about 1,500 Ferris State students celebrating their own light bulb moments in commencement ceremonies on Friday and Saturday.

The university’s 157th commencement marked the first time graduates from Ferris State’s Kendall College of Art and Design walked with their classmates based on in Big Rapids as well as students who earned their degrees in Student Success Hubs across the state or online – some of whom visited the main campus for the first time.

“Welcome to this campus, whether you are part of our Big Rapids family Grand Rapids family, all of those Bigs and Grands, wherever it's at, we're glad that you're with us,” Ferris State President Bill Pink told graduates, families, and supporters.

“I will say to you that I am a deep believer that the work we do at this institution, whether it be our faculty or our staff or administration. When I think about the faculty that teach so many classes in Big Rapids, in our hubs across the state, in Grand Rapids, I know I put them up against anyone else in the country. Ferris State University is known to be that university that truly sent you to work into good paying jobs.”

Pink urged graduates to celebrate their hard work, but to go out into the world and use their newly acquired skills to use in rewarding careers and making the world better.

Among those heading to careers is the president’s daughter Lydia, who received a bachelor’s degree in Allied Health Science, an associate degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography and a certificate in Gerontology.

President Pink marked the occasion by revealing special socks with his daughter’s photo, showing them off to cheers from the packed Wink Arena. Kareli Perez-Zuniga crossed the stage on Friday as the first in her family to earn a college degree — a milestone her parents, who immigrated from Mexico as teenagers, helped make possible.

The Casnovia native and cum laude graduate in Diagnostic Medical Sonography watched her father work two jobs while she was in school, a sacrifice she said echoed the discipline they instilled in her from childhood.

A poem on her mortarboard, translated from Spanish, distills the journey: "Sometimes I cried / Sometimes I doubted / But I never gave up / My parents, the first of many."

Perez-Zuniga plans to remain at Trinity Health Muskegon, where she already has a role. Her goal is bedside sonography in breast imaging — meeting patients where they are and delivering results with care.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}

Last week, Congressman John Moolenaar voted in favor of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

The legislation, commonly known as a Farm Bill, reauthorizes and improves vital programs within the U.S. Department of Agriculture that Michigan farmers and ranchers rely on. The Farm Bill also makes key investments in rural communities to expand broadband access and create jobs.

"The Farm Bill is crucial for the 17,000 farmers in my district and producers across the nation. It is a win for Michigan, giving farmers certainty and allowing them to prepare for the future by reauthorizing and modernizing key programs that help farmers during challenging times. Affordability starts on our farms, and this legislation ensures family farms are able to thrive; keeping grocery shelves stocked and prices down," said Moolenaar. "The Farm Bill will also help residents in our rural communities by providing federal funding and grants for vital infrastructure projects and expanding broadband access."

The 2026 Farm Bill passed the House of Representatives in a bipartisan vote of 224 to 200. Congress has not passed a similar bill since 2018, leaving farmers and rural communities to rely on short-term extensions of outdated policies to prepare for the future. The 2026 Farm Bill reauthorizes programs with needed updates through 2031.

Key policy wins for Michigan in the Farm Bill include: 

• Crop Insurance: The Farm Bill reauthorizes the crop insurance program, which helps Michigan farmers recover losses from unpredictable weather that can ruin crop seasons. Provisions in the legislation reduce crop insurance premiums, saving Michigan farmers millions of dollars.
• Rural Development: Enhances the USDA's rural development programs to improve broadband connectivity and water infrastructure in rural communities, and encourages private investment in rural areas to create jobs.
• Specialty Crops: Invests $1.1 billion in specialty crop research, grants, and crop insurance to support specialty crop producers.
• Farmland Protection: Includes provisions to prevent foreign adversaries, such as the Chinese Communist Party, from purchasing American farmland.

A full section-by-section summary of the legislation can be found here: Farm Bill Details.

Dry conditions and wind have elevated fire danger across much of Michigan, with the risk particularly high in the northern Lower Peninsula due to downed trees and branches from the March 2025 ice storm.

"Even with the heavy rains this spring, recent drier weather in the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Michigan means that last year’s grasses and leaves are becoming dry and will readily burn,” said Paul Rogers, fire prevention specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. "In the ice storm area from last spring, the downed wood has been on the ground for a year, is starting to dry out, and can contribute to much hotter and more dangerous conditions if a fire gets started," Rogers said. "While the temperatures have dropped, we are expecting to see elevated fire danger continue as we get closer to the weekend."

Nine out of 10 wildfires in Michigan are caused by human activity, including burning yard waste debris, leaving campfires unattended, using power equipment and off-road vehicles in dry conditions, or dragging trailer chains which can create sparks.

“There is fire danger associated with a lot of our favorite outdoor activities,” Rogers said. “We want people to enjoy the outdoors, but we're asking everyone to be especially aware this season because the downed wood adds greater risk and volatility.”

Even if the landscape looks green, vegetation on the ground still can be dry from winter. That includes clumps of grass, leaves and brush.

Check Michigan.gov/BurnPermit before you start a fire to make sure weather conditions allow for safe burning. In southern Lower Peninsula communities, consult local fire authorities. If a backyard fire gets away from you, call 911 immediately. Do not try to put it out yourself before calling authorities.

_{Release courtesy of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.}

The Michigan High School Athletic Association met in Gaylord this past weekend to discuss new proposals across a variety of sports, including approving a rule change that will bring a revamped playoff bracket to football this fall.

While playoff points will still guide the seeding process, the structure of the district and regional brackets will be different this season.

Each regional will now be seeded from first through eighth and then split into two districts. Under the new format, District A will consist of the first-, fourth-, fifth- and eighth-seeded teams, while District B will have the second-, third-, sixth- and seventh-seeded teams. Those two districts will then meet for a regional title in the third round of the playoffs.

The change is a result of perceived “lopsided” brackets under the current seeding model. Over the past several seasons under the old model, some of the top teams matched up inside the same district. That led to some of the state’s best matchups in the first two rounds.

As an example from this past season, Big Rapids headed up to Ludington in a battle of the 9-0 Orioles and the 8-1 Cardinals. Both squads would have been district favorites in multiple other districts, but instead they squared off in the first round of districts. Matchups like this have been seen across all divisions of football.

Although the new seeding may be more beneficial to urban schools than to smaller rural schools, the change gives urban schools a larger pool to work with, particularly in the metro Detroit and Grand Rapids areas. One aspect people may not be focusing on too much is that in rural areas, teams often play each other for the second time that season.

“One of the neat things with the old system was you would have a stronger chance of a rematch with a regular-season opponent,” said Scott Cripe, head coach of Central Montcalm football. “Those were always fun from a preparation standpoint and for the players.”

The Hornets have found themselves in a few rematches in the playoffs. Most recently in 2024, their only regular-season loss came at the hands of the Newaygo Lions, 21-12. In the district championship game, the two foes met again and Central Montcalm lost again, 35-34.

When asked, other coaches around the area had mixed feelings about the change.

“On one hand, it’s good to have the region seeded so the top teams are more likely to see each other in the later rounds, which is good,” said Mike Selzer, head coach of Big Rapids football. “That would have prevented us from meeting up with Ludington in the first round last year. On the other hand, it brings in a larger pool of teams to seed, and with our location and conference, it will be hard for us to secure a No. 1 seed. In the long run, it is better for football.”

Big Rapids has won two district titles over the past three seasons, both times losing to a private school from the Grand Rapids area in the regional championship round. For its U.S. 131 rival Reed City, the program’s mindset hasn’t changed.

“You still have to beat the best to be the best,” said Scott Shankel, head coach of Reed City football. “It’s still a district and it’s still a region.”

The Coyotes, who have won four straight district titles under the previous system, will move up to Division 5 this season.

The change may require an adjustment period, with some teams potentially facing disadvantages while others benefit. But in the end, the playoffs will continue to provide a highly competitive and exciting environment.

Removal of the failing dam on Buckhorn Creek in Paris will begin the week of May 11 and continue through this summer, restoring natural stream conditions to this important cold-water tributary to the Muskegon River.

A high, free-spanning bridge over an exceptionally scenic, pure Michigan creek will replace the unsightly, deteriorated dam. The newly installed bridge will be a popular stop along the White Pine Trail as visitors take in the beautiful sounds and scenery of free-flowing water.

John Henry Excavating will be doing the work, which was designed and engineered by the Spicer Group. The project is being coordinated by the Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA).

Buckhorn Creek is a unique, steep gradient stream that is currently obstructed by a failing dam built under the original Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad, now home to the popular Fred Meijer White Pine Trail State Park.

The former impoundment was drawn down a number of years ago. MRWA biological sampling already shows habitat improvement in the former impoundment. Dam removal will further restore natural stream function and reconnect Buckhorn Creek to the Muskegon River for the first time in more than one-hundred years. This reconnection will allow for the passage of trout and native fishes from the main river to 2.4 miles of cold-water refuge and spawning waters.

“Along with our excitement about restoring this exceptional cold-water ecosystem, we are excited about the community impact,” said Paul Haan, MRWA Executive Director. “This project will enhance year-round recreational enjoyment—cycling, fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, and more—on the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail and at nearby Paris Park. A 100-year-old dam will be replaced with modern infrastructure that lets the stream flow freely, allows emergency access for improved safety, and supports life. It’s a really cool project.”

Buckhorn Creek has a robust, naturally-reproducing brown trout population. Reconnecting Buckhorn to the Muskegon River will provide access to refuge and spawning habitat for the nearly 20,000 brown and rainbow trout stocked by the Michigan DNR at Paris Park each year, improving this regional fishery.

John Henry Excavating is expected to mobilize equipment the week of May 11 and break ground the following week. At that time, the White Pine Trail will be closed, and trail users will experience a short detour along Northland Drive. The trail is expected to reopen by September 25 with a new state-of-the-art bridge.

Partners in the project include the Mecosta County Parks Commission, Friends of the White Pine Trail, and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Project Management is being provided by Southpeat Environmental.

Total project costs are $2.2 million, including project development, planning, engineering, and construction. Funding partners include U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Michigan DNR, National Fish & Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), Mecosta County Parks Commission, Great Lakes Fisheries Trust, and the Meijer Foundation.

The Muskegon River Watershed Assembly (MRWA) is dedicated to preserving, restoring, and sustaining the Muskegon River and its tributaries throughout a nine-county service area from Higgins Lake in Roscommon County to Muskegon Lake. The organization focuses on conservation and restoration initiatives that advance the Muskegon River Watershed Management Plan, including dam removals, bank stabilizations, and other conservation projects. The non-profit organization was formed in 2000 and is based in Big Rapids. More information can be found at mrwa.org.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Muskegon River Watershed Assembly.}

City commissioners will meet Monday, May 11, to discuss multiple proposals for Big Rapids.

On the agenda is a resolution to authorize a special land use permit for a new adult foster care facility on Third Avenue. The proposed 20-resident facility, located on the east side of the property at 203 S. Third Ave., did not meet the one-acre requirement or the 50-foot setback requirement but received an approved variance from the zoning board for conditional fencing.

The meeting will also approve an amended development agreement with the Big Rapids Housing Commission, a ground lease agreement for Roben-Hood Airport and the award of a bid to Reith Reily for the 2026 street resurfacing project.

Other business items include:

• Approving mayoral appointments to boards and commissions

• Accepting an audit proposal from Clark Schaefer Hackett

• Accepting a proposal from Dewpoint LLC for the City of Big Rapids Cybersecurity Assessment

• Approving a ground lease agreement at Roben-Hood Airport with Samuel M. Vance

• Approve a Brownfield reimbursement agreement for Allen Edwin Homes and the Sandy Acres Development

• Approve the amended development agreement with the Big Rapids Housing Commission for the purchase of 1714 Harding Drive and a portion of 1030 Mechanic Street

• Awarding a bid to Peerless Midwest Inc. to maintain and repair city wells

• Awarding a bid for the 2026 Street Resurfacing Project

The meeting will also include a study session with grant coordinator Megan Eppley regarding the MSHDA Michigan Neighborhood Grant.

All City Commission meetings are open to the public and streamed live on the City of Big Rapids YouTube channel. The meeting is scheduled to start at 6:30 p.m.

On Wednesday afternoon, Meceola Central Dispatch received a report of a vehicle wreck involving a pedestrian in the Village of Morley. 

Deputies from the Mecosta County Sheriff’s Office, along with Morley Rescue and Mecosta County EMS, were dispatched to the scene around 3:42 p.m. Following an investigation, deputies determined that a 60-year-old man from Morley was traveling westbound on Jefferson Street, approaching the Pere Marquette Trail crossing. At the same time, a 15-year-old boy from Morley was riding his bicycle northbound on the trail and failed to stop at the posted stop sign at Jefferson Street. The juvenile entered the roadway and was struck by the vehicle.

The 15-year-old was transported to Corewell Health with serious injuries. No updates on his condition have been released since the crash.  Alcohol and speed are not believed to be factors in the crash.  

Mecosta County deputies were assisted by Meceola Central Dispatch, Morley Rescue, Mecosta Township Rescue and Mecosta County EMS.

Monday, Apr. 27

• Officers were dispatched to conduct a civil standby.
• Officers conducted a wellbeing check on a juvenile. The juvenile and their parent were fine and did not require any assistance.

Tuesday, Apr. 28

• Officers were dispatched to a possible domestic dispute. Officers investigated the incident and there were no indicators that an assault had occurred. The parties went their separate ways.
• Officers stopped a vehicle for a moving violation. The driver was issued an appearance citation for a license violation. The vehicle was turned over to the passenger who had a valid license.

Wednesday, Apr. 29

• Officers were dispatched to an out-of-county jail to pick up a subject with multiple warrants from our department. The subject was transported to and lodged at the Osceola County Jail without incident.
• Officers responded to a complaint of a disorderly subject at a local residence. The subject was advised the that the property owner wanted him to leave. The subject refused to leave after being advised multiple times. The subject was arrested and lodged on charges.

Thursday, Apr. 30

• Officers were dispatched to investigate a an accident involving private property damage at a local business.

Friday, May 1

• Officers conducted a traffic stop for a moving violation. The driver of the vehicle had multiple warrants. The driver was arrested and lodged on the warrants.
• Officers conducted a traffic stop for a moving violation. The driver of the vehicle had a warrant for their arrest. The driver was arrested and lodged on the warrant.

Saturday, May 2

• No incidents reported.

Sunday, May 3

• Officers were dispatched to a threats complaint. The complaint remains open pending further investigation.

Nationwide gas prices continue to rise as tensions involving the Strait of Hormuz persist, but some relief could be on the way.

Current prices in the Big Rapids area average around $4.83 per gallon for regular fuel, which is just above the state average of $4.81. As of Wednesday, May 6, the lowest prices in the region included Fremont at $4.58, Cadillac at $4.65, Mount Pleasant at $4.65 and Big Rapids at $4.69.

GasBuddy head of petroleum analysis, Patrick De Haan, has noted ongoing volatility, but optimism tied to refinery issues and the Strait of Hormuz. 

"Refinery issues (are) clearing up," DeHaan said via X. "If you're in Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, or Wisconsin, don't be in a rush to fill. The way things are looking, average gas prices could fall 20-40 cents per gallon with diesel (prices) falling 25 to 60 cents in the next two weeks. This could change if (the) Strait destabilizes."

Over the last month, regular gas prices in Michigan have risen by approximately 95 cents.

Nationally, prices are hovering around $4.54 per gallon. A year ago on May 1, 2025, gas in the United States averaged about $3.15 per gallon. Midwestern states such as Michigan, Illinois, Ohio and Indiana are showing prices above the national average.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration, which predicted a monthly peak of $4.30 for April, expects moderate prices into the second half of 2026 as oil premiums ease.

For update to date pricing around the Big Rapids area, visit our community resource hub here: https://bigrapidsdailynews.com/community/resource-hub.

Lake County Sheriff’s Deputies responded Tuesday to a report of human bones found at an excavation site in Lake Township.

Deputies were called around 3:58 p.m. to the area of 16000 and 17000 South Star Lake Drive near Big Star Lake. After declaring the site a possible crime scene, authorities closed the road after 6 p.m. It reopened Wednesday morning.

An anthropologist and representatives from the medical examiner’s office examined the remains and determined they are ancestral. The remains are now in the custody of the medical examiner’s office.

More details will be released as they become available.

Monday, Apr. 27

Calls for Service: 17

Traffic Accidents: 4

Tuesday, Apr. 28

• At 7:59 p.m., deputies made a warrant arrest at a residence in Grant Township. A female subject was arrested on a warrant. She was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

• At 9:37 p.m., deputies responded to a domestic incident at a residence in Martiny Township. A male subject was arrested for Domestic Assault. He was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 2

Wednesday, Apr. 29

Calls for Service: 11

Traffic Accidents: 2

Thursday, Apr. 30

Calls for Service: 15

Traffic Accidents: 0

Friday, May 1

Calls for Service: 12

Traffic Accidents: 1

Saturday, May 2

Calls for Service: 16

Traffic Accidents: 1

Sunday, May 3

Calls for Service: 10

Traffic Accidents: 3

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office is seeking public assistance regarding a malicious destruction of property complaint that occurred recently at Davis Bridge County Park.

It was recently found that one of the park's two restrooms near the boat ramp had been damaged on the inside. The incident is estimated to have occurred between Thursday, Apr. 30, and Monday, May 4. 

The restroom facility, as well as the boat ramp, were recently renovated last year.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Mecosta County Sheriff's Office at 231-592-0150 or through tips@mecostasheriff.org.