(517) 663-8118 |

City of Eaton Rapids

Michigan's Island City

News

February Mayor’s Corner

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As we continue to navigate the challenges of winter weather, I want to remind residents of the proper process for reporting utility issues. If you experience a problem with water, sewer or electrical services, please contact City Hall directly. Although many turn to Facebook for quick updates, reporting issues on social media can delay response times. Our DPW team does not monitor Facebook, so notifying City Hall promptly, even outside normal business hours, is essential.

  • Business Hours (Monday-Friday) 517-663-8118.
  • After Hours/Weekend Utility Emergency- 517-231-6514

We have updated information regarding Urban Air. This year’s event will take place May 7-10, rather than early October. While the event will be slightly smaller, it promises to remain an enjoyable experience. Additionally, we are planning a Fall Festival for early October. This year is especially significant as we mark America’s 250th birthday, and we are planning an expanded celebration for July 4th. More details will be shared as planning continues, and volunteers are welcome to assist for any of our events. Please reach out to me if you are interested.

As many of you have noticed, the former SSB Bank Building has been demolished to make way for the highly anticipated Taco Bell. While a completion date has not been announced,  updates will be provided as they become available.

We are excited to welcome several new businesses to our downtown. Stacy’s Deli and Bakery will open at 115 S. Main Street in February, followed by Gold Thimble Quilt Shop at 217 S. Main Street in March. Wildest Dreams Designs opened in early December. These additions represent positive growth for our downtown and I encourage you to support and welcome them.

Our Community Market will return in early June. Those interested in participating as vendors are encouraged to contact Jake Forquer at jforquer@cityofeatonrapids.gov or you can call (517) 237-3790.

Finally, I will deliver the annual State of the City address at the February 23rd City Council meeting. Residents are invited to attend in person or watch online. As always, please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns at pcolestock@cityofeatonrapids.gov or by phone at 517-410-9472.

Mayor Pam Colestock

Winter Update – Salt Shortage

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Due to a road salt shortage, the City of Eaton Rapids is adjusting winter maintenance operations.

The Department of Public Works is prioritizing salt use on main intersections and high-traffic routes. Residents may notice reduced salting on local and residential streets.

This approach helps conserve available supplies while maintaining public safety in critical areas. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding.

Please use caution when traveling during winter weather conditions.

January Mayor’s Corner

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As we closed out another remarkable year, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated city staff, police and fire departments, board members, volunteers, and city council. Your hard work and commitment made 2025 a year of progress and success for Eaton Rapids.

One of the highlights was the return of Urban Air—a community favorite—and we are already planning an even better event for this year. While progress on the Horner property was slower than hoped, the change in ownership marks a significant step forward, and we anticipate more positive developments in 2026.

We also led the way to expanding housing opportunities and welcomed new businesses to our city, with more openings on the horizon. Yes, Taco Bell is still on track this year! And don’t forget—the Sledding Hill officially reopened for winter fun. In addition, City Council approved several infrastructure projects, including street improvements, that will begin this year.

Even though the holidays are behind us, I would encourage you to remember those in need year-round. Many local organizations accept donations all year long, and you can find a list on the city’s website. These nonprofits—including the G.A.R. Memorial Hall & Museum, The Miller Farm, Eaton Rapids Senior Center, Good Shepard’s Love, and service clubs like Rotary and Lions—do incredible work to strengthen our community. If you are able, please consider supporting them so they can continue their mission.

As are start a new year, we are always looking for people who want to get involved. Whether it’s on a board, or volunteering for an event, we welcome you! If you are interested in volunteer opportunities, please let me know. 

Thank you for being part of what makes Eaton Rapids such a special place. Wishing you all a joyful, and prosperous New Year!

Mayor Pam Colestock

Spirit of Giving – City of Eaton Rapids Resources

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GOOD SHEPHERD’S LOVE/CITY CONSIGNMENT-916 ½ S. Main Street, Eaton Rapids. 517-441-9250

  • Free Shopping-Dec 12th and 14th   By Appointment Only
  • Monday-Saturday-11am-5pm; Wednesdays & Thursdays, 11am-7pm
  • Accepts new/gently used clothing, household items, hygiene items, decorations

MR. DALES TRADING CARDS-156 S. Main St, Eaton Rapids. 517-663-6136

  • Collecting for Siren Shelter in Charlotte-New toys for boys and girls, books, mittens, scarves, toiletries and non-perishable food items.
  • Hours-Wednesdays-Friday-Noon-5pm; Saturdays 10am-4pm.
  • Dates 12/6/25-12/13/25

FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH-300 S. Main Street, Eaton Rapids. 517-663-3134

  • Will take any new or gently used items: Clothing, non-perishables, toys, books, gift cards
  • Monday-Friday 9am-2pm
  • All other times by appointment

EATON RAPIDS MEDICAL CENTER-1500 S. Main Street, Eaton Rapids. 517-663-2671

  • Hours- Monday-Friday, 7am-5pm
  • Mitten Tree-located in the main lobby of the hospital-for drop off or pick up
  • Accepting new mittens, scarves, hats

ST. VINCENT DEPAUL-515 E. Knight Street, Eaton Rapids-517-663-4735

  • Non-perishable foods
  • Basic household necessities
  • Clothing bank
  • Call for hours

HEARTS AND HANDS-6463 S Clinton Trl, Eaton Rapids, MI 48827. 517-663-7104

  • Accepts non-perishable food and personal care items.
  • Hours-Tuesdays 4pm-6pm; Wednesdays 9am-12pm; Thursdays 9am-12pm

VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA DONATION BINS

  • 916 ½ S. Main Street, Eaton Rapids (Outside of Good Shepard’s Love/City Consignment)
  • 1087 E. Elizabeth Street, Eaton Rapids (Outside Ace Hardware)

 Eaton County Land Bank Authority Purchases Horner Mill Site 

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Eaton Rapids and Eaton County launch next phase toward revitalization 

EATON RAPIDS—On October 31, the Eaton County Land Bank Authority has officially acquired the historic Horner Mill property, a major step toward transforming one of the community’s most iconic and long-neglected sites. 

With over 1,000 feet of river frontage on the Grand River, the Horner Mill once served as a cornerstone of Eaton Rapids’ industrial and cultural history. Today, the property faces significant environmental and structural challenges, including hazardous materials and several buildings in need of full demolition. With local ownership secured, work will now begin to identify and pursue funding for environmental cleanup, demolition, and future redevelopment. 

 “After years of blight and hazardous conditions, this historic site will be rehabilitated,” said Eaton Rapids Mayor Pamela Colestock. “We are committed to collaborating with the County Landbank to secure a bright future. The possibilities are truly endless.” 

“This purchase marks a new beginning for one of Eaton Rapids’ most storied sites,” said Dairus Reynnet, Eaton County Treasurer and Chair of the Eaton County Land Bank Authority. “Local control means we can finally take charge of the property’s future, ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of the community.” 

Both the City and County will continue to work closely to secure state and federal grant funding, engage with residents, and explore redevelopment options that align with community goals. 

About the Eaton County Land Bank: The Eaton County Land Bank Authority works to return vacant, blighted, and tax-foreclosed properties to productive use through collaboration, investment, and community-driven planning. 

CONTACT:
Logan Bailey 
lbailey@eatoncounty.org 
517-331-8922 

Planned Power Outage Notification

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Dear Residents,

The City of Eaton Rapids Electric Department is planning a scheduled power outage in your neighborhood. As we continue upgrading our lines and equipment, occasional outages are necessary to perform our work safely and efficiently. Our goal is to provide residents with the most reliable electric service possible. By performing work during these short outages, we aim to reduce the likelihood of longer, unplanned outages in the future.

City crews will be working in your neighborhood on Tuesday, October 21st. Power is expected to be off starting at approximately 11:00 a.m. and should last no more than two (2) hours.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us at 517-663-8118. The locations of the affected areas are highlighted in the following map.

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve our electric system.

Sincerely,
Rob Pierce
Public Works / Utility Director
City of Eaton Rapids