Spring Lake Michigan Township is a picturesque community nestled in the heart of Ottawa County, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a vibrant local culture. As a lakes touring enthusiast, this township is a must-visit destination, providing a wealth of experiences for those who appreciate the great outdoors and the tranquility of lakeside living.
Population and Area
With a population of 15,296 as of the 2020 census, Spring Lake Michigan Township covers a total area of 20.0 square miles, of which 16.5 square miles is land and 3.4 square miles is water. This expansive area is home to a diverse array of natural landscapes, including the stunning Spring Lake, which serves as the centerpiece of the township.
Median Household Income
The median household income in Spring Lake Michigan Township is $50,648, reflecting a comfortable standard of living for its residents. This financial stability allows the community to invest in maintaining its infrastructure, parks, and other amenities that cater to the needs of both locals and visitors.
Demographics
The racial makeup of Spring Lake Michigan Township is predominantly white, accounting for 97.35% of the population. The remaining demographics include African American (0.33%), Native American (0.42%), Asian (0.52%), and other races (0.43%), with 0.95% identifying as two or more races. The Hispanic or Latino population makes up 1.57% of the township.
In terms of household composition, 33.5% of households have children under the age of 18, while 58.9% are married couples. Female householders with no husband present make up 7.6% of the population, and 30.3% are non-families. Individuals account for 25.7% of the population, with 10.4% being individuals aged 65 or older.
Facilities and Services
Spring Lake Michigan Township offers a variety of facilities and services to cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. Rycenga Park, located at 16401 Hemlock Road, provides a picturesque setting for outdoor recreation, with shelter reservations available from May 15 to September 30.
Tax payments can be made in person, by mail, or online, with an auto-debit program available for added convenience. The township also maintains a bike path network, with two bike path millage requests on the August ballot, including a renewal and a new proposal.
The Spring Lake – Lake Board is responsible for managing the lake and its treatment, ensuring the preservation of this natural resource for all to enjoy.
Government and Meetings
The Spring Lake Michigan Township Hall is located at 101 S. Buchanan in Spring Lake, where various meetings and events are scheduled throughout the year. These include the Recreation Committee, Board of Review, Corridor Improvement Authority, and Planning Commission, providing opportunities for community engagement and decision-making.
Safety and Ordinances
To maintain the quality of life in Spring Lake Michigan Township, the township has implemented several ordinances. The noise ordinance prohibits unreasonably loud noise that disturbs others, with specific sound pressure levels for residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Additionally, the solicitation ordinance requires a permit for solicitation, with exemptions for certain groups such as youth organizations.
Community Engagement
The township actively engages with its residents through various channels. A recent community engagement meeting was held to discuss 2024 infrastructure projects, including street improvements and park renovations, allowing residents to provide input and stay informed about the township’s plans.
Infrastructure Projects
Looking ahead to 2024, Spring Lake Michigan Township has several infrastructure projects in the works. These include improvements to East Exchange, Prospect, and Summit Streets, as well as renovations to Mill Point Park, enhancing the overall infrastructure and recreational amenities within the township.
Village of Spring Lake
While Spring Lake Michigan Township is a distinct entity, it is closely connected to the Village of Spring Lake. The Village Hall is open Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and hosts various meetings and events throughout the year, including the Village Council and Zoning Board of Appeals.
Spring Lake Michigan Township offers a unique and captivating experience for lakes touring enthusiasts. With its picturesque natural landscapes, well-maintained infrastructure, and vibrant community engagement, this township is a true gem in the heart of Michigan. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, outdoor adventures, or a glimpse into the local culture, Spring Lake Michigan Township is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.