Village Council Discusses Regional Economic Development Proposal
THREE OAKS — The Three Oaks Village Council on July 9 addressed several critical issues, including road infrastructure, economic development initiatives, and upcoming community events.
A resolution for regional economic development was discussed, with a proposal to allocate up to $30,000 from the Pokagon Fund toward hiring an economic development professional. The cross-collaboration group of local municipalities, which has been meeting for years, believes that the funds will assist in bringing more businesses to the region.
Although it was noted during the July 9 meeting that all municipalities except New Buffalo City had approved the resolution, concerns were raised by Trustee Lois Jones, who questioned the tangible outcomes of the proposed initiative.
“What will be the tangible results?” She asked.
The council ultimately expressed support for the project (although no vote was taken). Village Manager Dan Faulkner suggested that the village might need to negotiate its participation to ensure fairness for all involved entities. Further action on the item was tabled until the next meeting.
The Village Council approved the necessary street closures for Journeyman Distillery’s 8th Annual Barrel-Aged Brewfest on October 11, 2025. This event supports Islay’s Barrel, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to providing summer enrichment opportunities for Southwest Michigan Youth.
There will be tastings of unique barrel-aged brews from some of the region’s best breweries plus live music, food, games and activities for guests of all ages.
The July 9 Village Council meeting saw the resignation of Planning Commissioner Keith Claunch, with Kevin Harrington appointed as his replacement following a selection process. The Planning Commission will continue work on local zoning regulations, including the review of cargo container policies.
The Parks and Recreation Committee reported progress on the Chamberlain Path project, which is currently in the grant-writing phase. The committee also has revisited plans for a restroom at Dewey Cannon Park, a project that has been in discussion for several years.
The DDA report noted that sidewalk repairs are ongoing, although the process has been slower than anticipated. They are also looking at new ordinances to address the costs of short-term rental regulation and sidewalk repairs.
Faulkner provided an update on hiring a seasonal worker to assist with watering downtown plants and trash removal. The employee, working up to 30 hours per week at $20 per hour, will continue until November 1.
Additionally, the manager shared updates on short-term rental regulation efforts, with a working group addressing proposed changes.
In closing, Village President Steve Graziano expressed pride in the community, stating, “I really think we have a beautiful village, and I feel very good about where we’re at.”
Trustee Joe Hinman also praised the ongoing work on Chamberlain path calling the project a positive step forward.
In other July 9 matters:
The Village Council approved that Flag Day decision-making and expenses can be made at the City Manager’s discretion.
A request to put up a temporary sign at the Farmer’s Market regarding “Music in the Park” was approved.
The council approved the fifth lagoon project pay request from Oselka for $336,579.17 and an additional $1,600 change order for extra engineering costs. The final completion of the project is expected by mid to late October, with work continuing to remove water and solids from the lagoons.
Representatives from the Pine Street lot owners presented a formal request for the paving of Pine Street. This proposal aims to improve the street’s condition and ensure better access for residents and visitors alike.
Fire Chief Dave Flick proposed that the village publish an emergency notification services announcement to clarify what constitutes a true emergency. He emphasized that the township currently plays a critical role in emergency response and called on the Village Manager to consider steps that can be taken to make the system better in the future.
The council approved a request from a village employee to take outside employment with a neighboring community, ensuring no conflict with the village’s equipment or policies.
The council authorized an agreement with Amtrak regarding an easement for the Hickory Street Bridge project, allowing the village to cross the tracks for infrastructure improvements.