STOP THE LOT at Kinsey and Main St in the Village of Caledonia
STOP THE LOT at Kinsey and Main St in the Village of Caledonia
The Issue
Click link here to a Google Doc to find recent updates and DNR Grant Application Documents
***Donations to Change.org do not go towards this effort. Email Stopthelot25@gmail.com if you'd like to donate to this cause.***
Petition Against the Proposed Parking Lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead on Main St in the Village of Caledonia
Location: Trailhead East of 112 W Main St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 and West of 111 Mill St SE Caledonia, MI 49316
To: The Village of Caledonia and the Caledonia School Board
We, the undersigned residents of the Village of Caledonia, Michigan, formally oppose the proposed construction of a parking lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead, adjacent to N. West Street and Mill Street, due to its potential negative impacts on traffic congestion, public safety, environmental integrity, and property values. Furthermore, the lack of transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process raises serious concerns about governmental accountability. Accordingly, we formally request that the Village of Caledonia and the Caledonia School Board immediately cease all planning, permitting, and construction activities related to this project and initiate a comprehensive public review process. This process should include stakeholder engagement, environmental impact assessments, and a thorough exploration of alternative solutions that better align with the needs and priorities of the community.
Reasons for Opposition to the Proposed Parking Lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead
Lack of Transparency and Community Engagement
The Village of Caledonia has failed to provide residents with clear, timely, and accurate information regarding the true scope of this project. At the February 10, 2025, Village Council meeting, officials described a small parking lot with an estimated capacity of 8–10 spaces, with an expectation of only 4–6 spaces. However, during the Caledonia School Board meeting on February 26, 2025, it was revealed that the Village has now expanded the plan to a 23-space paved lot—without notifying the community or affected homeowners. This lack of transparency, combined with shifting project details, raises serious concerns regarding accountability and the integrity of our elected officials.
The first notice of this project was circulated informally, rather than through official communication from the Village. The only public mention came in a brief, vague notice in the February 22, 2025, edition of the Sun and News, stating:
"A public hearing will be held on March 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Village Hall, 250 S. Maple St. SE, Caledonia, MI 49316, to gather public input for submittal to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Passport grant application for the 'Paul Henry Trailhead' project, located at the north side of the intersection between Kinsey St. and Main St. Interested persons may attend the public hearing. Written comments may be addressed to Brian Bennett, Village Manager, at the address noted above. – Brian Bennett, Village Manager."
Nowhere in this notice is there mention of a parking lot being part of the project. This misleading language has prevented residents from understanding the full impact of the proposal, depriving them of the opportunity to provide meaningful input.
March 10th Village Council Meeting
At the Village public hearing held on March 10th, residents packed the room. An overwhelming majority opposed this project. The only supporters were merchants who want more parking—even though this lot is far from businesses. After most residents who attended stood up and shared their concerns about student safety and misuse of grant money, the majority of the council still decided to move forward with filing for the max amount of the DNR Passport Grant (due April 1st). In order for the Village to receive the grant the project proposed has to be large enough to obtain the funds. (Read DNR Grant info below). They also have to submit letters of approval from residents. Clearly residents do not approve. How will the Village meet the requirement?
Residents gave suggestions for other areas, which the council is “taking back” to review. They did state the plan is not finalized. However, we must not stand down and we must hold our council accountable, fighting for what’s right. Watch the village council meeting recording listed below.
March 10th Village Council Meeting Recording (start 30 mins in): https://vimeo.com/caledoniavillage
Safety Concerns for Children and Pedestrians
The Paul Henry Thornapple Trail is a well-utilized pedestrian path, frequently used by children walking to and from school, families, and seniors enjoying recreational activities. Introducing a high-traffic parking lot in this area poses unnecessary risks to these vulnerable community members, increasing the likelihood of accidents, inviting crime into an unmonitored secluded area and endangering public safety. According to the FBI, 25% of all violent crimes occur in parking lots. Is that a risk we’re willing to introduce into our village?
Disruption to Residential Properties
The proposed parking lot would be directly adjacent to residential homes, creating significant disturbances, including:
- Vehicle headlights shining into homes, reducing privacy.
- Increased light pollution from newly installed fixtures.
- Elevated noise levels from vehicle activity, disrupting the peace and quiet of the neighborhood.
Negative Impact on Property Values
A parking lot constructed in close proximity to residential homes is likely to diminish property values and alter the character of the neighborhood. The introduction of an expanded parking area may make nearby homes less desirable, resulting in financial losses for property owners.
Increased Runoff & Drainage Risks to Nearby Homes
Paving over green space will prevent natural water absorption, causing excess runoff that could flood nearby properties and overwhelm drainage systems. This is especially concerning for homeowners with wells, as increased pollutants from vehicle traffic, oil, and salt runoff could seep into the groundwater, potentially contaminating local water sources.
Destruction of Mature Trees & Natural Space
Removing old trees for a parking lot will permanently alter the landscape, eliminating shade, disrupting wildlife habitats, and increasing temperatures in the area. The loss of tree roots will also reduce natural soil stability, leading to erosion and negatively impacting the scenic and peaceful nature of the trailhead.
Lack of Demonstrated Need for Additional Parking
The Village has not conducted a comprehensive parking study to justify the need for additional parking spaces at this location. Observational data indicates that, even during peak hours for local businesses—including restaurants and the nearby dance studio—there are consistently 15–30 available parking spaces behind and around Main Street merchants. Moving forward with this project without a clear, data-driven justification represents an inefficient and wasteful use of taxpayer funds, especially given the reliance on a Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) grant to finance the development.
Misuse of Taxpayer Funds
The Village Council is applying for a Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Passport Grant to fund this project, but they admitted this lot is NOT for trail users—it’s for merchant parking. *See February 10th Village Council Meeting Recording (first 15 mins): https://vimeo.com/caledoniavillage
- Caledonia Schools owns the land of the proposed parking lot. Why is public school land being given to the Village for a business parking lot instead of something that benefits students and teachers?
- Shouldn’t school land be used for education—not business expansion?
Environmental and Public Health Concerns
The construction of a parking lot will result in the loss of valuable green space, increased pollution, and potential harm to local wildlife. Additionally, increased vehicle traffic in the area may lead to higher levels of air pollution, posing health risks to residents and contributing to environmental degradation. Clear cutting trees that serve as the only filtration from grain elevator emissions poses health risks for nearby residents.
Visual and Aesthetic Impact
The development of a parking lot in this location will significantly alter the visual landscape of the neighborhood, replacing natural green space with an industrialized paved lot. This change will reduce the aesthetic appeal of the area and may negatively affect the overall ambiance of the community.
Our Demand
We call on the Village of Caledonia and the Caledonia School Board to:
- Immediately halt plans for the proposed parking lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead on Main Street.
- Conduct a transparent, data-driven assessment of parking needs before pursuing any new developments, with the results publicly shared for community review.
- Explore alternative solutions that do not negatively impact residential properties, such as expanding existing parking areas in locations further removed from homes.
Residents deserve a government that prioritizes transparency, responsible planning, and the best interests of the community. We urge officials to act in good faith and engage with the public to develop solutions that benefit all stakeholders.
What YOU can do to STOP THE LOT
SIGN THE PETITION! Signatures and numbers matter! Your voice matters!
Attend the Next Village Council Meeting – Monday, July 14th @ 7:00 PM Caledonia Village Hall – 250 S. Maple St SE Attend ALL Village Meetings!
Email the Caledonia School Board – Demand transparency and accountability on public school land.
Brittany Barber Garcia: garciab@calschools.org
Shawn Collins: collinss@calschools.org
Jennifer Nichols: nicholsj@calschools.org
Jessica Kohn: kohnj@calschools.org
Tim Morris (President): timmorris@calschools.org | 📞 (616) 437-1510
John Brandow: brandowj@calschools.org
Kyle Clement: clementk@calschools.org
Dirk Weeldreyer: weeldreyerd@calschools.org
Call Caledonia Village Office: (616) 891-9384. Email: vilofcal@villageofcaledonia.org
Send letters to the Village Council: Caledonia Village Hall, 250 S. Maple St SE
Propose Alternative Parking Solutions—Instead of harming students and homeowners, encourage smarter parking options closer to merchants where they’re actually needed. Draw up schematics and send to the council.
Call the Michigan DNR & Appeal the Grant – This grant is meant for trailhead improvements, NOT merchant parking. Let them know this is a misuse of public funds.
DNR Grants Office: (517) 284-7268
Email both: dnr-grants@michigan.gov and our region’s grant coordinator: Riley Millard at millardR2@michigan.gov
Email our State Representatives
Angela Rigas: AngelaRigas@house.mi.gov and (517) 373-1403
John Moolenaar: https://moolenaar.house.gov/contact and (616) 528-7100
Want to join your neighbors in the fight? Email: STOPTHELOT25@gmail
The Issue
Click link here to a Google Doc to find recent updates and DNR Grant Application Documents
***Donations to Change.org do not go towards this effort. Email Stopthelot25@gmail.com if you'd like to donate to this cause.***
Petition Against the Proposed Parking Lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead on Main St in the Village of Caledonia
Location: Trailhead East of 112 W Main St SE, Caledonia, MI 49316 and West of 111 Mill St SE Caledonia, MI 49316
To: The Village of Caledonia and the Caledonia School Board
We, the undersigned residents of the Village of Caledonia, Michigan, formally oppose the proposed construction of a parking lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead, adjacent to N. West Street and Mill Street, due to its potential negative impacts on traffic congestion, public safety, environmental integrity, and property values. Furthermore, the lack of transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process raises serious concerns about governmental accountability. Accordingly, we formally request that the Village of Caledonia and the Caledonia School Board immediately cease all planning, permitting, and construction activities related to this project and initiate a comprehensive public review process. This process should include stakeholder engagement, environmental impact assessments, and a thorough exploration of alternative solutions that better align with the needs and priorities of the community.
Reasons for Opposition to the Proposed Parking Lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead
Lack of Transparency and Community Engagement
The Village of Caledonia has failed to provide residents with clear, timely, and accurate information regarding the true scope of this project. At the February 10, 2025, Village Council meeting, officials described a small parking lot with an estimated capacity of 8–10 spaces, with an expectation of only 4–6 spaces. However, during the Caledonia School Board meeting on February 26, 2025, it was revealed that the Village has now expanded the plan to a 23-space paved lot—without notifying the community or affected homeowners. This lack of transparency, combined with shifting project details, raises serious concerns regarding accountability and the integrity of our elected officials.
The first notice of this project was circulated informally, rather than through official communication from the Village. The only public mention came in a brief, vague notice in the February 22, 2025, edition of the Sun and News, stating:
"A public hearing will be held on March 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the Village Hall, 250 S. Maple St. SE, Caledonia, MI 49316, to gather public input for submittal to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Passport grant application for the 'Paul Henry Trailhead' project, located at the north side of the intersection between Kinsey St. and Main St. Interested persons may attend the public hearing. Written comments may be addressed to Brian Bennett, Village Manager, at the address noted above. – Brian Bennett, Village Manager."
Nowhere in this notice is there mention of a parking lot being part of the project. This misleading language has prevented residents from understanding the full impact of the proposal, depriving them of the opportunity to provide meaningful input.
March 10th Village Council Meeting
At the Village public hearing held on March 10th, residents packed the room. An overwhelming majority opposed this project. The only supporters were merchants who want more parking—even though this lot is far from businesses. After most residents who attended stood up and shared their concerns about student safety and misuse of grant money, the majority of the council still decided to move forward with filing for the max amount of the DNR Passport Grant (due April 1st). In order for the Village to receive the grant the project proposed has to be large enough to obtain the funds. (Read DNR Grant info below). They also have to submit letters of approval from residents. Clearly residents do not approve. How will the Village meet the requirement?
Residents gave suggestions for other areas, which the council is “taking back” to review. They did state the plan is not finalized. However, we must not stand down and we must hold our council accountable, fighting for what’s right. Watch the village council meeting recording listed below.
March 10th Village Council Meeting Recording (start 30 mins in): https://vimeo.com/caledoniavillage
Safety Concerns for Children and Pedestrians
The Paul Henry Thornapple Trail is a well-utilized pedestrian path, frequently used by children walking to and from school, families, and seniors enjoying recreational activities. Introducing a high-traffic parking lot in this area poses unnecessary risks to these vulnerable community members, increasing the likelihood of accidents, inviting crime into an unmonitored secluded area and endangering public safety. According to the FBI, 25% of all violent crimes occur in parking lots. Is that a risk we’re willing to introduce into our village?
Disruption to Residential Properties
The proposed parking lot would be directly adjacent to residential homes, creating significant disturbances, including:
- Vehicle headlights shining into homes, reducing privacy.
- Increased light pollution from newly installed fixtures.
- Elevated noise levels from vehicle activity, disrupting the peace and quiet of the neighborhood.
Negative Impact on Property Values
A parking lot constructed in close proximity to residential homes is likely to diminish property values and alter the character of the neighborhood. The introduction of an expanded parking area may make nearby homes less desirable, resulting in financial losses for property owners.
Increased Runoff & Drainage Risks to Nearby Homes
Paving over green space will prevent natural water absorption, causing excess runoff that could flood nearby properties and overwhelm drainage systems. This is especially concerning for homeowners with wells, as increased pollutants from vehicle traffic, oil, and salt runoff could seep into the groundwater, potentially contaminating local water sources.
Destruction of Mature Trees & Natural Space
Removing old trees for a parking lot will permanently alter the landscape, eliminating shade, disrupting wildlife habitats, and increasing temperatures in the area. The loss of tree roots will also reduce natural soil stability, leading to erosion and negatively impacting the scenic and peaceful nature of the trailhead.
Lack of Demonstrated Need for Additional Parking
The Village has not conducted a comprehensive parking study to justify the need for additional parking spaces at this location. Observational data indicates that, even during peak hours for local businesses—including restaurants and the nearby dance studio—there are consistently 15–30 available parking spaces behind and around Main Street merchants. Moving forward with this project without a clear, data-driven justification represents an inefficient and wasteful use of taxpayer funds, especially given the reliance on a Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) grant to finance the development.
Misuse of Taxpayer Funds
The Village Council is applying for a Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Passport Grant to fund this project, but they admitted this lot is NOT for trail users—it’s for merchant parking. *See February 10th Village Council Meeting Recording (first 15 mins): https://vimeo.com/caledoniavillage
- Caledonia Schools owns the land of the proposed parking lot. Why is public school land being given to the Village for a business parking lot instead of something that benefits students and teachers?
- Shouldn’t school land be used for education—not business expansion?
Environmental and Public Health Concerns
The construction of a parking lot will result in the loss of valuable green space, increased pollution, and potential harm to local wildlife. Additionally, increased vehicle traffic in the area may lead to higher levels of air pollution, posing health risks to residents and contributing to environmental degradation. Clear cutting trees that serve as the only filtration from grain elevator emissions poses health risks for nearby residents.
Visual and Aesthetic Impact
The development of a parking lot in this location will significantly alter the visual landscape of the neighborhood, replacing natural green space with an industrialized paved lot. This change will reduce the aesthetic appeal of the area and may negatively affect the overall ambiance of the community.
Our Demand
We call on the Village of Caledonia and the Caledonia School Board to:
- Immediately halt plans for the proposed parking lot at the Paul Henry Thornapple Trailhead on Main Street.
- Conduct a transparent, data-driven assessment of parking needs before pursuing any new developments, with the results publicly shared for community review.
- Explore alternative solutions that do not negatively impact residential properties, such as expanding existing parking areas in locations further removed from homes.
Residents deserve a government that prioritizes transparency, responsible planning, and the best interests of the community. We urge officials to act in good faith and engage with the public to develop solutions that benefit all stakeholders.
What YOU can do to STOP THE LOT
SIGN THE PETITION! Signatures and numbers matter! Your voice matters!
Attend the Next Village Council Meeting – Monday, July 14th @ 7:00 PM Caledonia Village Hall – 250 S. Maple St SE Attend ALL Village Meetings!
Email the Caledonia School Board – Demand transparency and accountability on public school land.
Brittany Barber Garcia: garciab@calschools.org
Shawn Collins: collinss@calschools.org
Jennifer Nichols: nicholsj@calschools.org
Jessica Kohn: kohnj@calschools.org
Tim Morris (President): timmorris@calschools.org | 📞 (616) 437-1510
John Brandow: brandowj@calschools.org
Kyle Clement: clementk@calschools.org
Dirk Weeldreyer: weeldreyerd@calschools.org
Call Caledonia Village Office: (616) 891-9384. Email: vilofcal@villageofcaledonia.org
Send letters to the Village Council: Caledonia Village Hall, 250 S. Maple St SE
Propose Alternative Parking Solutions—Instead of harming students and homeowners, encourage smarter parking options closer to merchants where they’re actually needed. Draw up schematics and send to the council.
Call the Michigan DNR & Appeal the Grant – This grant is meant for trailhead improvements, NOT merchant parking. Let them know this is a misuse of public funds.
DNR Grants Office: (517) 284-7268
Email both: dnr-grants@michigan.gov and our region’s grant coordinator: Riley Millard at millardR2@michigan.gov
Email our State Representatives
Angela Rigas: AngelaRigas@house.mi.gov and (517) 373-1403
John Moolenaar: https://moolenaar.house.gov/contact and (616) 528-7100
Want to join your neighbors in the fight? Email: STOPTHELOT25@gmail
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Petition created on March 22, 2025