“What we’re doing here and what we’re contemplating here is very significant, not just for our community, but for this state and throughout the Great Lakes system.”
Muskegon Mayor Ken Johnson voted in favor of the deal involving Mart Dock leasing most of Fisherman’s Landing Campground, with an option to purchase, while the city takes ownership of the vacant Third Street Wharf located next to Mart Dock.
The commission also voted to approve two rezoning measures advancing redevelopment of the area into waterfront industrial and recreation space.
City Manager Jonathan Seyferth said most Muskegon residents were in support of the agreement.
“I had received, myself, 30 emails in favor, 20 of which were from community members, 57 emails not in favor, nine of which were from community members.”
However, Third Ward Commissioner Destinee Keener was one of two commissioners who voted against the agreement.
“This issue is not simply about acreage on a map. This is about the future of public access to Muskegon Lake and the integrity of our city’s long-term vision.”
The campground’s boat launch and amenities will remain accessible through 2026, when Mart Dock could close the campground.
Muskegon will gain 4,000 feet of public waterfront access per the agreement.
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