As Deadline Nears, Applications For City Council Are Light

CEDAR SPRINGS — With less than a week remaining before the application deadline, interest in the two vacant Cedar Springs City Council seats and one open Planning Commission seat appears modest.

As of this week, city officials have received two applications total for the two council openings and the Planning Commission seat.

The City of Cedar Springs began accepting applications after the April 9, 2026 council meeting, when members unanimously voted to accept the resignations of Brayden Marvel and Alice Rudy. Marvel stepped down after relocating outside the district. Rudy’s resignation came during the meeting, citing personal and family reasons.

The departures leave two council seats open with terms expiring in November 2027 and November 2028.

City officials have emphasized the importance of filling the seats promptly to ensure a full governing body. Applications will be accepted through Monday, April 27, 2026 at noon.

Applicants must:

Live within Cedar Springs city limits

Provide a utility bill as proof of residency

Submit a resume

Provide a cover letter explaining their interest in serving

Complete the city’s Boards and Commissions application

Materials may be emailed to City Manager Darla Falcon at manager@cityofcedarsprings.org or mailed to PO Box 310, Cedar Springs, MI 49319.

Public interviews are scheduled for 6 p.m. Thursday, May 7, 2026, during a special meeting at the new City Hall located at 130 W. Muskegon St.

In addition to the council openings, the city is also seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on the Planning Commission, the body responsible for reviewing zoning matters, development proposals and long-term planning initiatives.

City leaders have repeatedly stressed the importance of civic participation.

“We need residents who are willing to make a difference and take an active role in shaping our community,” Mayor Lisa Atchison said during the April 9 meeting.

With only three applications received so far for three open seats, city officials say there is still time for residents who have considered serving to step forward.

The appointments will shape city leadership through at least the next two years, including budget decisions, infrastructure planning, zoning matters and community priorities.

For more information or to access the Boards and Commissions application, visit www.cityofcedarsprings.org or contact City Hall at (616) 696‑1330.

The deadline is approaching quickly. For residents who have ever thought about getting involved, the window to do so is now.