Founded in 1962 by William Erby Smith, the Lake Michigan Shore Association has made
many notable contributions to the preservation of the quality and charector of the
area.
Through strategic lobbying and efforts of the Association members many causes have
been aided, and our collective representation has made a significant difference.
Some of the issue that have been addressed over the years are:
- Protection of the tree lined ambiance of Lakeshore Drive when Allegan County and
the State of Michigan Highway Department regulations required clear cutting and
regrading the 66’ right of way to meet highway standards in the course of resurfacing
the road. Our efforts preserved many of our stately and historically old maple,
oak and beech trees from the bulldozers and chainsaws.
- Lobbied Allegan County to maintain the designation “Lakeshore Drive” when they
wanted to rename it “70th Street”.
- Successfully supported the local concern to withhold zoning approval of proposed
intensive use turkey farms immediately adjacent to the Lakeshore area.
- Supported efforts to withhold zoning changes, Specific Approval Uses, and variances
sought to construct a Travel Plaza at Exit 34 of I-196 that would have been a huge
refueling facility, restaurant, convenience store and car wash on M-89.
- Provided a strong voice for protection of our watershed and private well water.
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