“Congratulations, Mr. Brugger. You have received the majority of the votes.”
Commissioner Josh Brugger, who serves District 10 in Grand Haven, replaces Commissioner John Teeples as Ottawa County Board Chairperson for 2026.
Six of the 11 commissioners voted for Brugger, while four others voted for Commissioner Allison Miedema. Commissioner Doug Zylstra voted for himself.
Brugger said he would focus on moving the commission forward while addressing issues such as transportation, affordable housing and community mental health changes.
“We actually have an opportunity now that a lot of the past is done, it’s been addressed, that we can move on as a board and focus forward on what is important for Ottawa County and Ottawa County residents.”
Brugger suggested the board be laser-focused on a small number of issues impacting the most residents.
“And then we’re all going to have to get behind that and set aside our individual desires and focus as a team to do that. So, I look forward to the opportunity to do so, and to lead you in the next year.”
Brugger served as vice chair throughout 2025. District 9 Commissioner Phil Kuyers was elected 2026 vice chair.
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