South Haven Area Recreation Authority (SHARA)

The Past, Present, and Future of Outdoor Recreation in South Haven

South Haven offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities, thanks in part to SHARA's efforts in developing attractions like disc golf and soccer, as well as maintaining scenic trails and parks. Read on to learn more about SHARA's history and future goals.

Background of SHARA

The South Haven Area Recreation Authority (SHARA) is responsible for acquiring, constructing, operating, maintaining, and improving parks within its jurisdictional limits. Before developing a new public park or recreational facility, SHARA must obtain approval from its board, the municipality where the facility is located, and the facility's owner(s). The SHARA board consists of members representing the City of South Haven, South Haven Charter Township, South Haven Public Schools, and the South Haven Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

To date, SHARA has leveraged $240,000 of its own funding to attract $5.8 million in community investments through grants and partner contributions. This equates to $24 in investment for every $1 spent on projects. Such investments are vital, considering the economic and social benefits parks provide:

Economic Impacts:
• Increased property values in nearby neighborhoods
• Boosted tourism and local business revenue
• Job creation in various roles like park rangers, maintenance, event planners, etc.

Social Impacts:
• Improved physical and mental health through recreational opportunities
• Strengthened community bonds and social interactions
• Enhanced quality of life and attractiveness for residents and visitors.

SHARA Properties

On the Horizon

14th Avenue Land Acquisition

After efforts from different community members, 14th Avenue Park was acquired by SHARA to create a complex for soccer fields to promote youth recreation. This project is currently in progress and is expected to be completed by 2025.

Recreation Millage Proposal

Click Here to Download an Informational Flyer

On August 6, 2024, voters will be asked to approve the Recreational Millage. The main aim of the millage is to enhance the city's parks, recreational areas, and programming to improve the quality of life. This proposal is planned to go on for 5 years. (2024-2028). As part of the proposal, the millage rate is 0.5 mills ($0.50 per $1000 of the taxable value). The estimate of the funds raised is $294,262 in the first year.

Purpose of the Millage

• Maintaining Existing Parks: Ensure current parks are well-maintained and updated.
• Improving Recreational Areas: Enhance facilities for better community use.
• Funding Recreational Programming: Support programs and activities for all age groups.
• Acquiring New Parks: Purchase and develop new recreational areas.

Allocation of Funds
If approved, the funds will be allocated as follows:

1. SHARA Community Parks
A portion of the funds will go to SHARA for SHARA parks and maintenance.

2. City of South Haven Parks
A portion of the funds will be used to improve facilities that have been identified as priorities in the City's Recreation Plan under Capital Improvements.

3. Community Recreational Director
A portion will be used to fund this position. Responsibilities may include:
• Facility scheduling
• Facilitation and support of youth leagues
• Capital fundraising efforts
• Development of youth and adult recreational programming and events

Distribution to Authorities

Downtown Development Authority (DDA)
The DDA Board has already approved opting out of their share. No funds will be allocated to the DDA.

Local Development Finance Authorities (LDFA)
The LDFA Board has already approved opting out of their share. No funds will be allocated to the LDFA.

Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA)
4.1% of the tax levy is required to be disbursed to the BRA.


Voting Information
Election Date: August 6, 2024
Polling Location: South Haven City Hall.
Absentee Voting: Available for those unable to vote in person.


Board of Directions

Ross Stein- Chairperson, South Haven Township Supervisor
Adam Verseput- Athletic Director, South Haven Public Schools.
Jennifer Sistrunk- Executive Director, South Haven/Van Buren County CVB
Maureen Lewandowski- Community Member at Large
Mark McClendon- Owner, Do-It Corporation
Brian Dissette - Community Member at Large

SHARA Photo Gallery