Township leader talks transparency on radio

Saugatuck appearance another way to keep residents informed.

Steven Ringelberg, Laketown Township supervisor and interim manager, speaks with Mike Johnson, right, during a segment on “The Morning Grind” radio show in Saugatuck on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Steven Ringelberg talked Laketown Township manager search, transparency in government and pancakes during his first appearance on “The Morning Grind” radio show in Saugatuck on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Ringelberg, the elected township supervisor and interim township manager, explained to host Mike Johnson and cohost Ken Whitcomb that the radio appearance is another way he is reaching out to keep township residents informed and promote transparency.

Steven Ringelberg, center, Laketown Township supervisor and interim manager, speaks with Mike Johnson, right, during a segment on “The Morning Grind” radio show in Saugatuck on Saturday, March 1, 2025. To left is guest Mark Kinnaman.

Johnson asked about the manager hiring process which has been on hold since January when the finalist turned down a job offer.

“We’re trying to let things settle down,” Ringelberg said, to show that board members with different opinions can work together.

The board made this Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget the top priority. The budget must be completed before the township’s fiscal year begins on April 1. After the budget is in place, the board will again focus on hiring a manager.

The budget process has been more transparent than in past years with departments and commissions openly discussing their goals and funding.

“We’re working to be open,” he said.

Steven Ringelberg, right, Laketown Township supervisor and interim manager, speaks with Mike Johnson, foreground, and fellow guest Mark Kinnaman, left, during a segment on “The Morning Grind” radio show in Saugatuck on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

Ringelberg also highlighted the Graafschap Fire Department which serves all of Laketown Township and part of Fillmore Township.

“We have a wonderful fire department that is a big asset to the township,” he said.

“And the best pancake breakfast anywhere,” cohost Whitcomb quickly added, referring to the annual July Fourth Pancake Breakfast at the fire station.

Johnson invited Ringelberg back to the program on a future date.

“The Morning Grind” is 7-9 a.m. every Saturday and available on multiple Jethro Country with a Twist stations including 94.9 FM, 105.1 FM and 98.9 FM, online at Jethro.fm as well as through “The Morning Grind” Facebook page.