Northern Lakes Economic Alliance • 231-582-6482 • info@northernlakes.net
Amanda Baker, Community Development & Engagement
Networks Northwest hosted a public input session in Bellaire regarding potential changes to the Antrim County campus.
When it comes to determining the best projects for your community, some can easily rise to the top based on needs and timing. In order to have a well-rounded view of how the project should come together, it’s important to take the steps to gather public input.
The opportunity has presented itself in Antrim County to reassess the County campus. The campus currently resides downtown Bellaire and includes a historic courthouse along with an administrative building and the county jail.
The County took the opportunity to purchase adjacent land to the current campus with the thought of upgrading the jail, but upon further review, it was determined they should perform a needs assessment for the entire campus. Ideas abounded from reusing existing buildings, to rebuilding on site, to partially or fully relocating the campus. After coming up with a number of options, the County enlisted Networks Northwest to help gather public input.
Electronic surveys were available and input presentations were held. After the input was gathered and assessed it was determined the community’s top concerns were cost, functionality, and downtown Bellaire impact. The next steps for the County will be to take the information gathered and create a scoring matrix to assess the various options created to determine what will be the best fit for Antrim County, Downton Bellaire, and everyone who uses the campus.
