After reading the spring newsletter, I started looking into what’s been happening with the Van-Cass Drain Project. I was surprised to learn that even though the permit was denied and the project isn’t moving forward, residents might still be on the hook for nearly $300K in costs.

This might not be the outcome some residents were hoping for—but no matter where we stood on the project itself, I think we can all agree: we shouldn’t be left holding the bill for something that was never approved and never built.

I put together a simple Info Sheet that walks through the timeline, the latest updates, and what could happen next. I’m also working on a sample letter for anyone who wants to raise concerns or ask questions. If you’re curious or want a copy, just send me a message—I’m happy to share what I’ve found.

This kind of thing affects all of us, and the more we know, the better.

___________________________________________________


To: The Van-Cass Intercounty Drainage Board and County Commissioners

We, the undersigned residents of the Van-Cass Drainage District, oppose any assessment or tax related to the proposed Van-Cass Intercounty Drain Project.

The project:

• Was never voted on by the broader community.
• Was based on a misleading petition with questionable signatures.
• Was officially denied by EGLE and objected to by the EPA.
• No longer solves an existing problem, as lake levels have normalized.
• Was pursued without easements, transparency, or full resident notice.
• Deemed unlikely to ever move forward, and ultimately a failed use of public funds.

We believe it is unjust to charge residents for a project that was never approved, never constructed, and overwhelmingly opposed. We respectfully call on the Drainage Board and County Commissioners to:

• Halt any efforts to assess residents for this project,
• Provide full transparency and an itemized cost breakdown,
• Seek alternative means to absorb or eliminate this debt.
• All charges related to the failed project be absorbed by the Drainage Board.
• No costs be passed on to property owners.
• The project be officially abandoned in 2026, with full transparency.

It is both unreasonable and unfair to make taxpayers financially liable for a failed project that was never approved, never built, and provided no value to the community.