Zeeland Police have identified the driver of the pickup truck that struck a 12-year-old Creekside Middle School student as he was riding his bicycle in the early-morning hours of Oct. 20.
“The investigation remains ongoing and the driver is cooperating with investigators,” the department said in a news release issued the day after the crash at the intersection of State Street and Roosevelt Avenue.
It is not yet known if charges will be filed against the driver.
According to witnesses, the bicyclist was stopped on Roosevelt at State and waited for the crosswalk, then started to cross State westbound, when a pickup truck turned north from Roosevelt onto State in front of him. The bicyclist struck the passenger side of the truck, which then continued north on State toward the Family Fare grocery store, ZPD Lt. Kevin Cisler said in the original news release.
The bicyclist suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital. A collection was taken at Main Street Bicycle Co. downtown for the young man to get his bicycle replaced.
“The investigation remains ongoing and the driver is cooperating with investigators,” the department said in a news release issued the day after the crash at the intersection of State Street and Roosevelt Avenue.
It is not yet known if charges will be filed against the driver.
According to witnesses, the bicyclist was stopped on Roosevelt at State and waited for the crosswalk, then started to cross State westbound, when a pickup truck turned north from Roosevelt onto State in front of him. The bicyclist struck the passenger side of the truck, which then continued north on State toward the Family Fare grocery store, ZPD Lt. Kevin Cisler said in the original news release.
The bicyclist suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was treated at a local hospital. A collection was taken at Main Street Bicycle Co. downtown for the young man to get his bicycle replaced.
Clean Water Plant Receives National Honors
By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
The city of Zeeland’s Clean Water Plant recently received two national awards for its operations.
The plant received the Utility of the Future Today recognition in the Water Reuse category during the recent Water Environment Federation (WEF) convention in New Orleans, honoring its efforts to conserve drinking water, reduce operating costs and protect water resources.
“We use as much of the plant effluent as we can for plant operations,” CWP Superintendent Doug Engelsman said at a recent City Council meeting. “It just makes sense.”
It was the fourth time the Clean Water Plant had received Utility of the Future Today recognition from WEF in the last six years. CWP was recognized in 2020 for partnering and engagement, 2022 for beneficial biosolids resue and 2024 for nutrient reduction and recovery.
The plant also received the Platinum 5 Peak Performance Award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) for achieving five consecutive years of 100 percent permit compliance. Engelsman said the recognition “reflects the effectiveness of the city’s asset management program and the dedication of Clean Water Plant staff in maintaining exceptional operational performance and regulatory compliance.”
Engelsman also honored the work of CWP staff for their contributions to these awards.
“These achievements reflect our shared commitment to reliable service, responsible resource management, protecting public health and the environment,” he said.
Zeeland Record
The city of Zeeland’s Clean Water Plant recently received two national awards for its operations.
The plant received the Utility of the Future Today recognition in the Water Reuse category during the recent Water Environment Federation (WEF) convention in New Orleans, honoring its efforts to conserve drinking water, reduce operating costs and protect water resources.
“We use as much of the plant effluent as we can for plant operations,” CWP Superintendent Doug Engelsman said at a recent City Council meeting. “It just makes sense.”
It was the fourth time the Clean Water Plant had received Utility of the Future Today recognition from WEF in the last six years. CWP was recognized in 2020 for partnering and engagement, 2022 for beneficial biosolids resue and 2024 for nutrient reduction and recovery.
The plant also received the Platinum 5 Peak Performance Award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) for achieving five consecutive years of 100 percent permit compliance. Engelsman said the recognition “reflects the effectiveness of the city’s asset management program and the dedication of Clean Water Plant staff in maintaining exceptional operational performance and regulatory compliance.”
Engelsman also honored the work of CWP staff for their contributions to these awards.
“These achievements reflect our shared commitment to reliable service, responsible resource management, protecting public health and the environment,” he said.
Celebrating 70 Years of Social Security Disability: A Legacy of Support, Service
By Hillary Hatch
Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the creation of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, marking our commitment to supporting Americans with disabilities.
SSDI was enacted on Aug. 1, 1956, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Social Security Amendments of 1956. Since then, SSDI has become a cornerstone of our nation’s commitment to support American workers whose lives were changed by disabling illness or injury.
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The Social Security Disability Insurance Program Today
Currently, more than eight million Americans with disabilities rely on SSDI. Over the last year, we have significantly improved service delivery for those receiving disability benefits. This includes:
• Reduced Wait Times: At the initial determination level, wait times have been shortened by over 25 percent since fiscal year (FY) 2024, with decisions now arriving 40 days faster than in January 2025. For those filing both initial and reconsideration claims, wait times have decreased by 47 days.
• Achieved Historic Lows in Hearings Wait Times: The average wait time for hearings has reached all-time lows, with virtual service channels now representing over 90% of all customer hearings, making access more convenient and efficient.
• Increased Productivity: Disability examiners now clear 13 percent more cases per week than in FY 2025. Administrative Law Judges are completing nearly 20 percent more cases per day and expect to finish 25,000 more cases by the end of FY 2026 compared to FY 2025.
• Expedited Decisions: Through the Disability Examiner Decisional Authority, experienced examiners can make fully favorable determinations in certain cases, resulting in over 150,000 expedited decisions since 2025.
In addition, our digital-first approach has prioritized:
• Operational enhancements to streamline case management and ensure timely, fair service for all applicants.
• Leveraging data and technology to enhance service delivery and transparency, ensuring the agency is prepared to meet future needs with greater efficiency and care.
• Initiatives like the Ticket to Work program, which empower beneficiaries with opportunities for rehabilitation and employment. Learn more at ssa.gov/work/overview.html.
To learn more about SSDI, visit ssa.gov/disability.
Social Security Public Affairs Specialist
This year marks the 70th anniversary of the creation of the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) program, marking our commitment to supporting Americans with disabilities.
SSDI was enacted on Aug. 1, 1956, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Social Security Amendments of 1956. Since then, SSDI has become a cornerstone of our nation’s commitment to support American workers whose lives were changed by disabling illness or injury.
—————
The Social Security Disability Insurance Program Today
Currently, more than eight million Americans with disabilities rely on SSDI. Over the last year, we have significantly improved service delivery for those receiving disability benefits. This includes:
• Reduced Wait Times: At the initial determination level, wait times have been shortened by over 25 percent since fiscal year (FY) 2024, with decisions now arriving 40 days faster than in January 2025. For those filing both initial and reconsideration claims, wait times have decreased by 47 days.
• Achieved Historic Lows in Hearings Wait Times: The average wait time for hearings has reached all-time lows, with virtual service channels now representing over 90% of all customer hearings, making access more convenient and efficient.
• Increased Productivity: Disability examiners now clear 13 percent more cases per week than in FY 2025. Administrative Law Judges are completing nearly 20 percent more cases per day and expect to finish 25,000 more cases by the end of FY 2026 compared to FY 2025.
• Expedited Decisions: Through the Disability Examiner Decisional Authority, experienced examiners can make fully favorable determinations in certain cases, resulting in over 150,000 expedited decisions since 2025.
In addition, our digital-first approach has prioritized:
• Operational enhancements to streamline case management and ensure timely, fair service for all applicants.
• Leveraging data and technology to enhance service delivery and transparency, ensuring the agency is prepared to meet future needs with greater efficiency and care.
• Initiatives like the Ticket to Work program, which empower beneficiaries with opportunities for rehabilitation and employment. Learn more at ssa.gov/work/overview.html.
To learn more about SSDI, visit ssa.gov/disability.
County Unveils 24ward Vision Task Force: a Coalition to Guide Growth
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.
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,” Sachs said. “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.
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.”
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.
“The turnout demonstrates the strong commitment local leaders have to working together on issues that will shape the future of Ottawa County for generations,” Waterman said. “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.”
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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,” county board Chair Josh Brugger said.
“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@miott awa.org or call 616-738-4852.
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.
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,” Sachs said. “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.
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.”
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.
“The turnout demonstrates the strong commitment local leaders have to working together on issues that will shape the future of Ottawa County for generations,” Waterman said. “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,” county board Chair Josh Brugger said.
“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@miott awa.org or call 616-738-4852.
