I am Chris Crothers and I’m running to be your Ottawa County Commissioner in District 4.

My step into the political realm is largely inspired by my grandfather, who played a pivotal role in shaping my worldview and instilled in me the value of civil discourse. I remember our trips where he would take me “all the way” to East Lansing to Socrates Cafe where I would observe a group of “older” people civilly discuss a different topic each month. These monthly gatherings taught me invaluable lessons: always be open to changing your opinion, support your views with facts, and strive to understand others' perspectives.

Born in Holland and raised in Zeeland, I grew up very involved at Central Wesleyan Church. After graduating from Zeeland East High School I attended GVSU for engineering. I had a dream of opening a space where the community could gather and in 2019 I got the opportunity to help start Tulip City Brewstillery. Now, I am the Head Brewer and a member of leadership at Tulip City Brewstillery and Hopland Brewstillery. 

Through my affiliation with the breweries, I have worked with Latin Americans United for Progress, Women of Color Give, Harbor Humane Society, Lakeshore Ethnic Diversity Alliance, Out on the Lakeshore, Tulip Time, Hope Packages, Community Action House, I Am Academy, Resilience, Outdoor Discovery Center, Holland Museum, and 3-Sixty. These collaborations and relationships propelled my passion for community.

We have seen how the current board does not consider other people’s perspectives.

We have also seen the negative effects of poor decisions, like dismantling DEI and defunding the health department, have had on so many community members. 

I am committed to working with the constituents of District 4 to hear and understand your viewpoints and concerns. All voices in District 4 should be heard and considered in shaping policies that impact the community. We need diverse perspectives in decision-making processes. 

As your County Commissioner, I will promote true transparency in county government and promise to be open and honest about the intentions and potential effects of commissioners’ actions. 

I will prioritize collaboration with experts in our community to make well-informed decisions that benefit District 4 and contribute to the overall progress of Ottawa County.

 I will work hard to keep open lines of communication with our community so that I am accessible and my constituents can easily make their voices heard. 

I am running to restore responsible governance to Ottawa County. Together we can move on from our current dysfunctional board and build a more inclusive, transparent, fiscally responsible, and equitable future for our community.

I hope I earn your vote in November!

“As County Commissioner, I’ll engage with the community, seek input from all corners, and work together to build a better Ottawa County for everyone.” - Chris Crothers