Rick Bosch, a longtime volunteer who recently joined the Holland Museum board, told the council he supports a proposed millage to provide stable annual funding for the museum and described why he believes the institution matters to the community.

Bosch said the museum holds about 120,000 items, that roughly 30,000 items are now available online, and that recent building repairs by the city improved the facility’s condition. “I just hope that you can support it,” Bosch told council, asking members to consider supporting a millage or otherwise helping the museum secure ongoing funding.

Nut graf: Bosch framed the millage as a means to stabilize the museum’s finances and expand public access to collections, exhibits and community programs. He cited strong volunteer engagement and growing attendance at free events as evidence of public interest.

Bosch described the museum’s three core functions as collections, exhibits/talks/tours, and financial/infrastructure stability. He said the museum has expanded outreach into the city’s Hispanic community and to Southeast Asian residents and noted upcoming public programs such as a free Monday night (about 200 attendees) and an ice cream social (about 300 attendees last year). He also said the museum has sought advice from people involved with Windmill Island and other local partners.

Ending: Bosch’s remarks were part of the public comment period; council did not take immediate action on museum funding during the meeting. The museum’s request for council support was presented as input for members to consider as budget and funding discussions continue.