SAUGATUCK, MI (WHTC-AM/FM, Aug. 12, 2024) – Leave it to the lawyers to apparently spoil the fun in Saugatuck.
On Friday, city officials called off a scheduled three day Playground Community Build planned for Village Square Park, near the intersection of Butler and Main Street, that was to begin on Monday. The $337,000 project had been planned to replace the current playground equipment with new trappings that would make the area have the look of the lost city of Singapore that had been near the mouth of the Kalamazoo River before shifting dunes buried it in the late 19th century.
The reason for the cancellation was a lawsuit, filed on Wednesday, by the owners of the Maplewood Hotel, a bed and breakfast nearby, against the city at 48th Circuit Court in Allegan. The details of the litigation were not immediately disclosed, but the Saugatuck City Council has slated a special closed door meeting for this coming Wednesday afternoon to discuss a confidential written legal opinion regarding the lawsuit.
“We understand this news may be disappointing, especially for the many enthusiastic volunteers who signed up to help. We are incredibly grateful for your community spirit and willingness to lend a hand. We will provide further updates on the project as soon as we have more information. Thank you for your patience and understanding.” – statement by City of Saugatuck announcing cancellation of planned Playground Community Build.
The lawsuit is being heard by Circuit Court Judge Matt Antkoviak, with a motion hearing slated for May 13th.
Such a wonderful addition to town, what a shame one person can stop it! Karma’s a bitch!