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Courtesy of the BLP

GH Board of Light and Power to celebrate 130 years

By Mary Ellen Murphy Sep 9, 2026 | 10:04 AM

Grand Haven, MI (WGHN) –

 The Grand Haven Board of Light and Power (BLP) invites all customers and community members to attend its 130th Anniversary Community Celebration on Saturday, September 12, from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium in downtown Grand Haven

General Manager Rob Shelley checked into Good Morning Grand Haven:

The free celebration will feature activities for all ages, including:

 

·         Bounce Houses – located right on the waterfront

·         Yard Games – to bring the community together

·         Touch-a-Line Truck – climb and explore a bucket truck up close

·         Lineworker Pole-Top Demonstration – learn the different types of equipment that is installed on the top of power poles and tools used by electrical lineworkers

·         Customer Appreciation Table – stop by for 130-year commemorative giveaways

·         Free Hot Dogs and Ice Cream – enjoy complimentary food and refreshments while celebrating with the community (while supplies last)

Grand Haven’s electric utility dates back to September 29, 1896, when citizens voted to approve a $10,000 bond issue for its first municipal electrical generator. For the past 130 years, Grand Haven has proudly owned and operated its own electric utility providing reliable, affordable and locally controlled power to the community.

 

“The history of the Board of Light and Power represents a compelling narrative of community resolve and local governance. It underscores the significance of a community taking charge of its own future, particularly regarding essential services like electricity,” stated Rob Shelley, General Manager.

 

Board Chair Mike Westbrook added, “One of our community’s greatest assets is our municipal electric utility. With growing uncertainty in the electrical industry at large, the value of a locally-controlled utility is making a difference for our region’s economic competitiveness, even while we continue to grow in sustainability. We look forward to celebrating with our community at the waterfront stadium on September 12.”

 

The Grand Haven Board of Light & Power is inviting the public from all its service areas – including the City of Grand Haven, City of Ferrysburg, and the townships of Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Robinson to join this special community celebration.

 

About the BLP

The Board of Light and Power provides reliable, affordable, and sustainable power for over 15,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the City of Grand Haven, City of Ferrysburg, Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Robinson Townships.

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