2025 August 21 Written Report Under Oath by Karla Miller
Update – 10/10/25
RESOLUTION APPROVING NONSUPPORT
FOR THE TONKIN DRAIN ASSESSMENT AND MECOSTA COUNTY DRAIN
COMMISSIONER
Read the Full Resolution
The Big Rapids Charter Township office is aware of the concerns that residents in the Tonkin Drain boundaries have regarding the project, and the special assessments that will be levied. We share the concerns, as these assessments, and the project, were not anticipated by Township officials nor the residents. Drain projects are not initiated, reviewed, approved, nor administered by Townships in Michigan. They are decided and administered exclusively by the County Drain Commissioner’s Office, as a result of a petition that is filed, and a separate board of determination approval.
Those Big Rapids Charter Township residents who live within the Tonkin Drain boundaries, and who have questions regarding the project, should direct those questions to the County office of the Drain Commissioner (592-0103). Documents regarding this project are available at the Big Rapids Charter Township office for viewing.
The recorded webinar from 05-07-25, FAQs, and drainage maps are available on the following link:
https://www.mecostacounty.org/government/drain_commissioner/index.php
Please direct questions to:
Karla Miller
Mecosta County Drain Commissioner
Mecosta County Services Building
14485 Northland Drive
Big Rapids, MI 49307
Office Phone: 231-592-0103
Email: drain@mecostacounty.org
Construction is currently in progress on the Tonkin Drain. The project was divided into two separate construction contracts to address different segments of the work. “We obtained very good bids for the project, and we are working with two excellent contractors” reported Karla Miller, Mecosta County Drain Commissioner.
Division One covers all construction activities occurring in the Tonkin Drain, excluding work on any state (MDOT) roadways. This portion of the project was awarded to Jackson Dirt Works, based in Lake Odessa. Drain Commissioner Miller is pleased to work with this contractor again: “Jackson Dirt Works was the main contractor on the Ives Drain, and that project won an Innovation and Excellence Award from the Michigan Association of County Drain Commissioners.” The initial phase of construction began in September 2025 and includes clearing along and within the drain, starting at the downstream end located east of 190th Avenue and 13-Mile Road. The clearing of trees, brush, and obstructions will continue upstream through the Fall of 2025.
Division Two includes the construction activity taking place on Northland Drive and the storm sewer along Gilbert Drive. This contract was awarded to Dean’s Landscaping and Excavating, based in Sand Lake. Work on this segment is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026, with completion anticipated by October 2026. “Dean’s Landscaping and Excavating is the same contractor that is performing work on Northland Drive for MDOT’s project. Using the same contractor will ensure a smooth transition in collaboration with MDOT” says Miller.
Throughout the duration of the project, regular updates—including traffic impacts, detours, and maps of current construction areas—will be available at: tonkindrainmaintenanceandimprovementproject.com
For additional information, please contact: Karla Miller, Mecosta County Drain Commissioner at (231) 592-0103
Charles R. Smith, Spicer Group at (586) 383-8244