April 14, 2026 Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Planning & Policy Committee

The April 14, 2026 meeting of the Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Planning & Policy Committee included extensive public commentary and discussion on environmental and procurement issues. A significant portion of the meeting focused on concerns regarding Consumers Energy's application for EPA permits to use injection wells for coal ash leachate disposal at the Campbell plant. Public speakers urged the committee to oppose the permits and request a formal public hearing to ensure transparency and protect local water resources. The committee discussed drafting a resolution to support a public hearing, though some members expressed reservations about the board's role in the federal and state regulatory process. Additionally, the committee reviewed procurement-related matters including the approval of a housekeeping amendment to the Kent Ottawa Muskegon Foreign Trade Zone agreement, which was ultimately tabled due to concerns about public accountability and voting rights for Grand Valley State University. The committee also considered a proposed solid waste user fee ordinance to fund legacy landfill costs and recycling programs, with discussion highlighting the need for sustainable funding and transparency. Other procurement-related actions included approval of a new remote work policy and a revised legal services policy, the latter being tabled for further review. The meeting reflected active engagement on environmental oversight, procurement policies, and budgetary considerations affecting county operations.