More than 120 local leaders and policymakers
gather for Visioning for Growth Summit
From suburban Georgetown and the farms of Chester Township to the beaches of Grand Haven and Holland, Ottawa County contains multitudes: Twenty-four local units of government with their own unique identities spread across an area that has grown in population by 25 percent since 2000.
Ottawa County's continued growth presents complex challenges that affect all communities, putting strains on housing, infrastructure, groundwater sustainability, transportation, farmland, and more. To better address these issues proactively, on Oct. 20 the County gathered a group of more than 120 local leaders and policymakers (including 22 of 24 local units) for "Coordinating the Future: Countywide Visioning for Growth Summit" at Pigeon Creek Golf Course Event Center in West Olive.
 Department of Strategic Impact Special Projects Coordinator Joe Pierce facilitates a live survey session during the Visioning for Growth Summit event. [Photo by Rich C. Lakeberg/Ottawa County]
Facilitated by County Administrator Patrick Waterman and Department of Strategic Impact (DSI) Director Paul Sachs, the summit featured a comprehensive presentation and feedback session highlighting current and emerging issues the County faces, as well as active and potential solutions. The session culminated in the introduction of a first-of-its-kind concept for the region: the 24ward Vision Task Force, a coalition of local government leaders ideally representing all 24 local units of government within Ottawa County’s borders.
"We've consistently been one of the fastest growing counties in the state. That growth has resulted in challenges that span jurisdictional boundaries," said Sachs. "The big question we asked attendees was, 'Should we prepare for continued growth differently than we have in the past?' We believe this proposed coalition does just that."
The new 24ward Vision Task Force will serve as a forum for local government representatives to collaborate, review information, discuss opportunities and obstacles facing their communities; develop a shared countywide vision for managing growth as outlined in the County Board of Commissioners’ recently adopted 2026-2028 Strategic Plan; and work to implement the shared vision at the local level, where growth-related policies and decisions are made.
"We've consistently been one of the fastest growing counties in the state. That growth has resulted in challenges that span al boundaries. The big question we asked attendees was, 'Should we prepare for continued growth differently than we have in the past?'"
Department of Strategic Impact Director Paul Sachs
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Employing live-survey technology, attendees were polled at several points during the presentation to provide feedback and their unique perspectives on growth. Housing demand and affordability was a steady theme throughout the feedback, with half of respondents (50%) identifying it as a top priority issue. Increased demands on infrastructure were a standout second, with almost 74% of respondents selecting it as their first or second priority to address. When polled about their support for the 24ward Vision Task Force concept, an overwhelming majority (85%) said 'Yes'; 15 selected 'I’m not sure'. No attendees selected 'No'.
"We are encouraged by both the attendance and the level of engagement throughout the day," Waterman said. "The conversations were constructive, forward-looking, and focused on finding practical ways to ensure future growth strengthens our communities rather than challenges them."
Administrator Waterman sent attendees home with a draft resolution in support of joining the 24ward Task Force for their respective government bodies to review. Adoption of the resolution allows municipalities to designate up to two representatives to serve on the 24ward Vision Task Force and ensures all County communities have a voice in this initiative.
Once formed, the group will be facilitated by County Administration and the Department of Strategic Impact, with representatives serving as liaisons between the Task Force and their respective governing bodies.
 Attendees network during Visioning for Growth presentation on Oct. 20 at Pigeon Creek Golf Course Event Center in West Olive. [Photo by Scott Vandenberg/Ottawa County]
"The turnout demonstrates the strong commitment local leaders have to working together on issues that will shape the future of Ottawa County for generations," said Waterman. "While each community is unique, the challenges and opportunities we face are increasingly interconnected. The participation of 22 local units sends a powerful message that Ottawa County leaders are ready to engage in thoughtful, collaborative conversations about how we grow while protecting what makes our communities special."
Next steps
Over the next few months, DSI will compile and digest feedback received from attendees on the concept and share full survey results with participants. Once the Resolution of Support is adopted by each local unit, Ottawa County will move forward with forming the Task Force and setting a date for its first meeting.
In the meantime, Ottawa County officials will continue to advocate for this collaborative effort and seek input.
"The 24ward project is an incredible opportunity to bring all 24 local governing bodies into the conversation so that together, we can face these challenges," said Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Chair Josh Brugger. "Participants are invited to ensure that Ottawa County continues to grow smartly with an eye on the horizon. No individual city council, village council, or township board has all of the answers. But together in partnership with our residents and businesses, we can do this."
To learn more about the 24ward initiative, view the event presentation, or watch a live recording of the summit, visit the Task Force’s new homepage, miottawa.org/24wardhub. If you have questions, email plan@miottawa.org or call 616-738-4852.
Media Contact:
Rich C. Lakeberg, Communications Specialist
(616) 738-4852
plan@miottawa.org
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