Village News &
Announcements
Call for Volunteers - Super Recycling Day
🌍 Super Recycling Day
📅 Saturday, May 10th
🕘 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
📍 Bridge Street Recycling Center (last year at this location!)
We’re looking for friendly folks to help direct recyclables, assist neighbors, and share a little recycling know-how. Whether you want to greet, guide, or even help toss (totally optional!) — it’s a fun, fast-paced way to give back.
There are three 2-hour shifts to choose from:
Shift 1: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Shift 2: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Shift 3: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Pick the time that works best for you!
Staff from BARC and other local volunteers will be present, rain or shine, to ensure things run smoothly.
👉 Ready to pitch in? Sign up here:
🔗 https://villageofer.ivolunteer.com/SuperRecyclingDay
Please sign up by May 3, 2025, so we can coordinate your shifts. After the deadline, the Volunteer Coordinator will reach out with the final details. Interested in helping with the planning side too? Just reply to this email — we’d love a few more organizers! Thanks again for being part of what makes Elk Rapids so special 💚
How to Reserve the Harbor Pavilion
Planning an event between May 15th and October 15th? The Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor Pavilion is available for rent and provides a beautiful waterfront setting for gatherings and celebrations!
📅 Availability
The Pavilion is open for public rental from May 15 to June 14 and from the first Tuesday after Labor Day through October 15.
All bookings are first-come, first-served and must be confirmed with the Harbormaster.
📝 Reservation Steps
Contact the Harbor Office at (231) 264-8174 to check date and time availability.
Submit the completed Pavilion Agreement form. CLICK HERE FOR FORM
Include a $250 security/cleaning deposit with your application to secure the reservation.
Hourly rental rate:
$100/hour during the day
$250/hour for events running past 6:00 PM
Full payment is due 72 hours before your event.
🧾 Rental Rules & Requirements
Maximum capacity: 120 guests
No smoking, alcohol only with proof of insurance
Pavilion must be cleaned and vacated by midnight
Decorations are allowed only on tables (no tape, nails, etc.)
Parking is limited to the Cedar Street Lot, unless prior arrangements are made
NOTE: Renters are responsible for all setup, cleanup, and any damages. Failure to comply with rules may result in loss of deposit.
📬 Return Your Completed Agreement To:
Lori Smith, Assistant Harbormaster
Village of Elk Rapids
P.O. Box 398
Elk Rapids, MI 49629
Mitchell Drive Community Meeting – April 2, 2025
The Village of Elk Rapids invites residents of Mitchell Drive and neighboring areas to a Community Meeting on Wednesday, April 2 from 5:00–6:00pm at the Elk Rapids Government Center (315 Bridge Street).
This meeting will focus on the upcoming water and sewer project and is a great opportunity to stay informed and share input.
💻 Can’t attend in person? Join us via Zoom!
👉 Zoom registration is required. Please register by scanning the QR code in the flyer or visiting https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vZ3H1Y6HQXqtQLEhpIfRWA
❓ Have questions you'd like addressed at the meeting?
We’d love to hear from you in advance! Please submit your questions here:
🔗 https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/XNLTV9G
Feel free to reach out to Village Clerk Leah Moskovitz with any questions: 📧 lmoskovitz@elkrapids.org
Let’s work together to keep our community informed and engaged!
Elk Rapids DDA Announces 2025-2026 Façade Grant Program Applications Now Open
Elk Rapids, MI – March 2025 – The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is excited to announce the launch of the 2025-2026 Façade Grant Program, a competitive matching grant initiative designed to support commercial property owners and tenants in enhancing the visual appeal of their buildings within the DDA District.
With a commitment to preserving and enhancing the architectural character of Elk Rapids, this program encourages private investment in façade improvements that align with historic and long-standing preservation practices. The goal is to not only improve individual buildings but also contribute to the overall economic vitality and aesthetic charm of the district.
For this funding cycle, the Elk Rapids DDA has allocated $40,000 to support façade improvements, with a maximum grant award of $20,000 per project. To receive funding, applicants must provide a dollar-for-dollar match for their proposed improvements.
Key Program Details:
Total Available Funding: $40,000
Maximum Grant Award: $20,000 per project
Application Deadline: Friday, April 25, 2025, by 5:00 PM
Program Webpage & Application:
Learn more: www.elkrapids.org/dda-facade-grant
Download application: 2025-26 ER DDA Façade Grant Application
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include commercial and mixed-use property owners and business tenants within the DDA District. Tenants must submit a signed letter of permission from the property owner. Priority consideration will be given to applicants who have not received DDA façade grant funding in the past five years.
Eligible Improvements Include:
Brick and mortar repairs, including pointing/repointing
Storefront window and door replacement/repair
Permanent signage and awnings
Architectural detail restoration (cornices, trim, historic elements)
Removal of siding covering original materials
Other exterior improvements of a historic or long-standing nature
Ineligible expenses include interior improvements, maintenance, furnishings, roof repairs, financing or refinancing debt, and any work completed prior to the grant award date.
Grant Selection & Approval Process:
Applications will be reviewed by the DDA Grant Review Committee, consisting of DDA and Planning Commission representatives. Recommendations will be presented at the May 14, 2025, Regular DDA Meeting, where projects will be approved and awarded in order of ranking until funding is exhausted. Award notifications will be sent by May 15, 2025.
Important Dates:
Application Deadline: April 25, 2025
Review Date: May 1, 2025
DDA Approval Meeting: May 14, 2025
Award Notifications: May 15, 2025
Project Start Date: May 15, 2025
Project Completion Deadline: February 13, 2026
The DDA strongly encourages potential applicants to review program details and submit their applications before the deadline.
For more information or to apply, please visit: www.elkrapids.org/dda-facade-grant or email DDAGrantAdmin@elkrapids.org.
About the Elk Rapids DDA:
The Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority is dedicated to fostering a thriving business environment by supporting economic development, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements within the DDA District. Through initiatives like the Façade Grant Program, the DDA seeks to enhance the vibrancy and appeal of the downtown area while preserving its historic character.
Village of Elk Rapids 2025 Recycling Events
Elk Rapids residents, let’s keep our community clean and green! 🌎💚 Mark your calendars for these upcoming recycling events:
📅 Super Recycling Day
📍 Bridge Street Recycling Center (Next to Police Station)
🗓️ May 10, 2025 | ⏰ 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
🔹 Open to all community members looking to recycle household waste!
📅 Curb-Side Spring Clean-Up
📍 Village of Elk Rapids Residential Areas
🗓️ June 7, 2025 | ⏰ 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
🔹 Curbside pick-up for residents only!
📅 Antrim County Household Hazardous Waste Day
📍 DPW Site @ 117 Lake Street, Elk Rapids
🗓️ June 14, 2025 | ⏰ 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
🔹 Open to all Antrim County communities for hazardous waste disposal!
Let’s work together for a cleaner, greener Elk Rapids! 🌱✨ Share this post and spread the word!
📌 See the flyer below for details!
DPW Spring Activities
Spring is in the air, Elk Rapids!
Our Department of Public Works is gearing up for spring clean-up season!
Brush Pick-Up starts April 7 (First Monday of each month through October).
Leaf Pick-Up starts the week of April 21 (Weekly until May 23).
As always, weather dependent—so stay tuned for any updates!
Let's keep our village looking beautiful this spring!
Ames Street Streetscape Improvements Update
🚧 Ames Street Streetscape Improvements – Project Update 🚧
Construction on the Ames Street Streetscape Project will resume the week of March 17, 2025. Initial work will take place between Rivershore Dr. and Bass St., focusing on underground utility accommodations. Sidewalk construction is expected to begin in early April.
⚠️ Traffic Alert: Portions of the westbound travel lane may be closed during working hours, with a traffic shift in place to maintain two-way traffic. The lane will reopen in the evening for overnight use with a closed shoulder.
Thank you for your patience as we work to improve Ames Street! 🚜👷♂️
Elk Rapids 2025 Construction Schedule
Attention residents and visitors! Several construction projects will be taking place throughout Elk Rapids this year. Please be aware of possible road closures, detours, and delays as we work to improve our infrastructure.
🔹 Key Projects & Dates:
📍 Ames Street Sidewalk Project – April 1 to May 25
📍 Mitchell Street – April 1 to July 3
📍 Ottawa Street Alley Sewer Replacement – April 1 to June 7
📍 Alley Between Oak and Ash – May 5 to July 4
📍 Charles Street Sewer Replacement – May 5 to July 4
📍 Park & Third Street Water Replacement – June 16 to August 8 (Paving in September)
📍 Iroquois Street Water Replacement – July 30 to September 26
📍 Golf Course Loop Connection – April 1 to June 6
⚠️ Please Note: All dates are tentative and subject to change due to weather and unforeseen circumstances.
For questions or concerns, please contact:
📩 Alex Pray, DPW Superintendent – apray@elkrapids.org
📞 231-264-9971
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we make these essential improvements! 🚜👷♂️
#ElkRapids #ConstructionUpdate #InfrastructureImprovements #CommunityNotice
Board & Commission Applications Now Open
For more information on our boards and commissions, visit https://www.elkrapids.org/boards-commissions
To view the application, CLICK HERE
Approved 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget Now Available
To view the budget, visit the Document Center or CLICK HERE
Harbor Waiting List Fee Notice
To all of our Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor Boaters,
We appreciate your continued interest in obtaining a harbor slip. As you know, we maintain a waiting list for seasonal boat owners like yourself, due to high demand and limited availability.
To ensure continued efficient management of the waiting list, and to confirm ongoing interest from all applicants, an annual waiting list fee of $20 will be implemented, effective January 1, 2025. This fee will help offset administrative costs associated with updating and maintaining the lists. A notice will be sent annually on April 1st indicating the fee will be due no later than October 1st. You will receive an invoice sent to your email address provided on your waiting list application. Payment must be made to the harbor office using a credit card or check. This will ensure proper posting to your Harbor account. No cash will be accepted. We kindly ask if you no longer wish to be on the waiting list, please email Assistant Harbormaster, Lori Smith at astharbormaster@elkrapids.org
Important Information:
Annual Fee: $20 year. This fee will be assessed each year, after the first year on the waiting list. This fee is associated with all slips under the jurisdiction of the harbor, including the upper harbor.
To remain on the waiting list, please ensure your payment is received by the due date. Failure to pay the annual fee shall result in your removal from the waiting list.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we strive to provide fair and transparent access to harbor slips. If you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact Assistant Harbormaster, Lori Smith at astharbormaster@elkrapids.org or Harbormaster Mike Singleton at harbormaster@elkrapids.org
Thank you for your continued interest in the Edward C Grace Memorial Harbor, and we look forward to assisting you in securing a slip in the future.
Best regards,
Elk Rapids Harbor Commission
Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor
REMINDER - NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget
The Elk Rapids Village Council at their regular meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Government Center, 315 Bridge Street, Elk Rapids, MI 49629, will conduct a public hearing to receive citizen input on the proposed 2025-2026 fiscal year budget.
On February 6, 2025, a draft copy of the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 will be posted to the Village website. (www.elkrapids.org). A paper copy of the budget may be reviewed during business hours at the Government Center. Citizens are invited to attend this hearing should they wish to comment on the budget. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. Written comments must be submitted by Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Please direct all written comments to the Village Treasurer, either by email at kdavis@elkrapids.org or by mail to Village of Elk Rapids, PO Box 398, Elk Rapids, MI 49629.
DRAFT BUDGET: CLICK HERE
VILLAGE COUNCIL PACKET: CLICK HERE
NOW HIRING! Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator
🚨 NOW HIRING! 🚨
Do you like keeping things running smoothly? The Village of Elk Rapids is looking for a Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Operator to join our team!
What You’ll Be Doing:
Running lab tests to keep our water clean
Maintaining and repairing equipment at the plant and lift stations
Monitoring systems and making adjustments as needed
Working toward your Level "B" Wastewater Operator License
What You’ll Need:
A valid driver’s license
Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform hands-on maintenance work
Willingness to work with wastewater systems (yes, there are some interesting smells)
A strong work ethic and attention to detail
This is a great opportunity to gain experience, develop new skills, and play a vital role in keeping Elk Rapids running smoothly.
📩 Apply today or share with someone who might be a great fit! #NowHiring #ElkRapids #WWTPOperator
VISIT HERE TO LEARN MORE: https://www.elkrapids.org/employment
Saturday Night Fever
Join us at the Parks & Recreation Commission-sponsored community event, "Saturday Night Fever" on Saturday, February 8!
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING - 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Budget
The Elk Rapids Village Council at their regular meeting on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Government Center, 315 Bridge Street, Elk Rapids, MI 49629, will conduct a public hearing to receive citizen input on the proposed 2025-2026 fiscal year budget.
On February 6, 2025, a draft copy of the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026 will be posted to the Village website. (www.elkrapids.org). A paper copy of the budget may be reviewed during business hours at the Government Center. Citizens are invited to attend this hearing should they wish to comment on the budget. The property tax millage rate proposed to be levied to support the proposed budget will be a subject of this hearing. Written comments must be submitted by Wednesday, February 12, 2025. Please direct all written comments to the Village Treasurer, either by email at kdavis@elkrapids.org or by mail to Village of Elk Rapids, PO Box 398, Elk Rapids, MI 49629.
The Fish Thief - A Great Lakes Mystery Screening
Join Green Elk Rapids at the Elk Rapids Cinema for a screening of this award-winning documentary followed by updates on sea lamprey and aquatic invasive species
Free Admission: Donations appreciated, doors open at 5:30pm
Grant Awarded - Homestretch announces $800,000 grant award for its Flats on Bridge affordable housing project in Elk Rapids
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
12/16/2024 - Homestretch Nonprofit Housing Corporation, a regional developer of affordable housing based in Traverse City, is pleased to announce the award of a $800,000 grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBI) via Homestretch’s project sponsor bank – Mercantile Bank in Traverse City. It is to help fund the Flats on Bridge apartments, a new 24-unit affordable housing development located in downtown Elk Rapids.
FHLBI’s Affordable Housing Program (AHP) provides necessary affordable housing solutions to households throughout Indiana and Michigan. In 2024, it awarded $27.5 million for rental projects. Homestretch and Mercantile Bank were one of 34 organizations awarded from the 100 who applied from the two states.
The Village of Elk Rapids has partnered with Homestretch and Ide Development to launch this exciting opportunity by donating the parcel of land along with approving a 0% PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) to help make the project economically viable.
Flats on Bridge will offer twelve 960 s.f. two-bedroom and 650 s.f. one-bedroom rental apartments for tenants earning 30-80% of Area Median Income (AMI). Rents will range from approximately $500 to $1,400 per month, depending on the income restriction.
As a $7 million project with multiple funding sources, Homestretch is collaborating with Elk Rapids, Ide Development, and Mercantile Bank to apply for a Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) award from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) as well as funding from the state’s Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) department.
Congratulations to the Edward C. Grace Memorial Harbor!
We're thrilled to share that Elk Rapids Harbor has earned the prestigious Boaters’ Choice Award and achieved Elite Fleet Status from Dockwa! This incredible accomplishment showcases the exceptional service and facilities that the harbor offers, as reflected in the glowing ratings and reviews from boaters.
These honors not only highlight the dedication and hard work of the harbor staff but also elevate Elk Rapids as a top destination for boating enthusiasts. This achievement is a true reflection of the harbor's commitment to excellence and brings immense pride to our community.
Congratulations to Elk Rapids for setting the standard in the boating industry! We can't wait to welcome more boaters to experience all that our harbor has to offer!
