Land Use Planning

Collaboratively ensure wise usage of the County’s finite space, while accounting for many conflicting interests.

Matt Chappuies

Land Use Coordinator
mchappuies@miottawa.org

Andrew Roszkowski

Land Use Specialist
aroszkowski@miottawa.org

Marley Wolff

Land Use Specialist
mwolff@miottawa.org

Highlighted Projects

County Facilities Re-Landscaping Pilot

The Department of Strategic Impact is moving to lead by example with a plan to transform turf grass at several County facilities into a series of attractive, low maintenance, water-conscious landscapes.

Groundwater Monitoring

To ensure residents have access to clean and safe groundwater for generations to come, we’re building a system of wells to monitor groundwater levels in key areas.

For more information on the status of our groundwater network, please contact plan@miottawa.org

Tour Our Preserved Farms

Since 2016, the Ottawa County Agricultural Preservation Board has protected eight agricultural properties containing 697 acres through its Purchase of Development Rights Program. This interactive map provides an interactive look at each of these properties.

Land Use Topics

Environmental

Groundwater challenges, increased development and population growth all put strain on the local environment. With careful planning and stewardship of our resources and finite space, DSI Land Planners are addressing the issues and finding solutions to ensure a bright future.

Agriculture

Ottawa County boasts 144,491 acres of land in farms and produces more than $726 million in agriculture products on those acres, according to the 2022 Census of Agriculture. The County’s long range land use planning is focused on preserving our productive farmland through its Farmland Preservation Program, which is governed by the Agricultural Preservation Board. DSI’s Farmland Preservation Analyst works closely with the Board to protect this vital industry.

Housing

DSI administers and works closely with the Housing Commission to address the housing needs of County residents through public-private partnerships.

Transportation

DSI provides a regional perspective on transportation planning and serves in a leadership role on various projects. Some of the current projects work toward assessing long-term highway planning needs, connecting and promoting trail linkages, and rediscovering the historic routes that built West Michigan into what it is today.

Collaborative Planning & Training

With a growing population and strong industry, Ottawa County is positioned for success. These gifts also bring challenges. DSI staff gather municipalities and stakeholders together drive informed decision-making, plan for the the future. Staff also provide training for local planning officials, and develop white papers and other materials to educate and inform.

Mapping & Remonumentation

Our team supports Ottawa County by creating, updating, and managing maps and geographic data for public use, County projects, environmental conservation, and development planning. Through Geographic Information Systems (GIS), we provide accurate and visually detailed maps to help residents, businesses, and local governments make informed decisions. Our department covers a wide range of areas, from zoning and land-use planning to environmental and transportation mapping, working to ensure that important information is accessible and easy to understand.