After numerous conversations with Tom Mynsberge of Critical Incident Management, Inc., the Ottawa County Sheriffs Dept., Grand Haven Public Safety and other experts, a safety initiative plan has been developed for our parish. Our Finance Council has approved the plan and recommended we proceed with implementation even though the expenditures are outside budgeted expenses.
The approved safety measures include:
- Implement locked-door procedures for Mass.
- Install lockdown capability and procedures during a potential threat.
- Install security film on glass entrance doors, sanctuary glass doors, and nursery interior windows.
- Install remote camera monitoring for ushers.
- Identify and improve locking for “Safe Zones.”
- Expand usher training to include safety procedures.
- Coordination and procedures for medical and law enforcement professionals.
We believe these improvements will tighten the safety and security of our parishioners. The cost of implementing these safety measures is expected to be $30,000, which is not included in our annual budget. More details to come as we move forward on this initiative. Please contact Tom Godfrey, 616-935-8738, with any questions you may have.
~ November 20, 2025