Hastings City Council’s Jan. 26 Meeting: Big Decisions on Recycling, Pickleball, Pedestrian Safety, Water Infrastructure & Public Safety

HASTINGS, MI — On the evening of Monday, January 26, 2026, the Hastings City Council approved a series of impactful decisions with implications for sustainability, recreation, safety, city growth, and resident quality of life. What may have looked like a routine city meeting turned out to have real-world consequences for everyday life in Hastings and the broader Barry County community. https://wbch.com/news/900052?utm

Here’s what was decided — and why it matters.

A Boost for Recycling: Letter of Support for Barry County Grant

The Council unanimously approved a letter of support for the Barry County Recycling Grant. This grant, being pursued through the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), would fund two to three new cardboard compactors in under-resourced parts of Barry County. https://wbch.com/news/900052?utm

Why this matters:

• It could increase recycling accessibility for residents and small businesses.

• Reduces the amount of recyclable materials ending up in landfills.

• Supports local environmental goals and sustainable business operations.

For residents and businesses in the broader Barry County Connects community, this is a tangible step toward making recycling more convenient and cost-effective countywide.

Pickleball Takes Center Stage at Bob King Park

Council members also approved temporary signs at the Bob King Park pickleball courts to inform the public about when courts are reserved for organized league play and how to sign up.

While a sign might seem minor, this move signals formal support for an emerging community sport.

What’s notable:

• Pickleball is rapidly growing in popularity nationwide, and this action could help Hastings anchor a league.

• Organized play attracts families, retirees, and young professionals, creating community vibrancy and foot traffic in local parks.

This kind of recreation-forward decision shows city leadership paying attention to what residents are actually engaging with on the ground.

Safer Streets Near Tyden Park

A significant public safety decision was the Council’s approval of $10,200 for a survey and design engineering proposal for a permanent pedestrian island on Broadway near the entrance to Tyden Park.

This measure is aimed at making a commonly used crosswalk safer for pedestrians — especially families, joggers, park visitors, and commuters.

Why this matters:

• Enhances walkability in a busy area of town.

• Helps protect pedestrians at a known crossing point.

• Sets the stage for actual construction once engineering is finalized.

This is a clear win for neighborhood safety and reflects growing attention to walkability in Hastings.

Planning for Growth: Water Tower Study

The Council approved a proposal by Moore and Bruggink to conduct a high-pressure district, elevated storage tank study, budgeting up to $23,750 to determine the best location and design for a future elevated water storage tank.

This isn’t glamorous, but it is essential:

• A new water tower is needed to support future development and increased demand.

• The study will help ensure Hastings plans strategically before building costly infrastructure.

This sort of forward-looking logistics decision shows the city is planning for growth rather than simply reacting to it.

Public Safety Gear: Police Weapon Updates

The Council also authorized the trade-in and purchase of new duty weapons for city officers for $10,950 — an often-overlooked but important decision that affects the safety and preparedness of the Hastings Police Department.

This highlights the ongoing investment in public safety and law enforcement readiness — a concern that continues to be top-of-mind in communities nationwide.

What This All Means for Hastings

Monday’s meeting wasn’t just another council session — it was a snapshot of priorities that affect residents and businesses alike:

• Recycling and sustainability initiatives that save money and landfill space.

• Recreation support that brings people together and strengthens community bonds.

• Pedestrian safety improvements that protect families and visitors.

• Infrastructure planning to keep water systems ready for growth.

• Public safety investment in frontline responders.

These decisions touch daily life — from what you do on your lunch break at Bob King Park to how safe your kids are when walking to local events.

Your Voice Matters

City Council action affects YOU. Residents interested in recycling updates, park improvements, walkability projects, or future infrastructure plans are encouraged to attend future meetings, watch agendas, and participate in public comment sections (details available through the City of Hastings Latest News & Notices page).