
About Zeeland BPW
Community-Owned
The Zeeland Board of Public Works (ZBPW) is a municipally owned water and electric utility serving the City of Zeeland and its surrounding community. Our priority is locally focused right here on our city, our businesses, and our neighbors.
Benefits of being locally owned:
Local Control
Decisions about rates, services, and investments are made locally by our board versus shareholders which allows us to be more responsive to our specific community needs.
Non-Profit Model
Any revenue generated beyond operating costs is able to be reinvested into improvements for the BPW or directly support the community rather than distributed to shareholders.
Accountability
Since we are publicly owned, we are accountable to the residents we serve, who can influence decisions through public meetings, voting, or direct feedback.
Community Focus
Municipally owned utilities are able to prioritize reliability, affordability, and sustainability, with a focus on benefiting the local population and ensuring long-term public service.
Our Mission
The Zeeland Board of Public Works will deliver customer-
focused, superior electric and water utility services that are
reliable, safe, responsible, and cost-competitive.
focused, superior electric and water utility services that are
reliable, safe, responsible, and cost-competitive.
Our Values
Safety
Family-Oriented Workplace Culture
Integrity
Continuous Improvement
Service & Stewardship
Our History
The City began providing water and electricity to its inhabitants in 1902. The electrical system was sold in 1915 and a 10-year franchise agreement was signed with Consumers Power Company. The franchise was renewed for another 10-year term in 1925.
Nearing conclusion of the second term, Zeeland citizens began efforts to reestablish their municipally owned electric utility. In addition to issuing revenue bonds to finance an entirely new power production and electrical distribution system, the City received assistance through the Public Works Administration.
In 1935, Zeeland again began supplying electricity using its own generation and distribution system. This new utility was operated under the direct supervision of the City Council until an approved City Charter revision created the Board of Public Works in 1952.
Board of Commissioners
Our board of commissioners helps guide ZBPW by providing governance and oversight. They make key decisions about how we operate and ensure all decisions align with the community’s needs and interests.
Board Meetings
All meetings typically happen on the second Tuesday of the month and are held at City Hall: 350 East Washington Ave, Zeeland, MI (unless otherwise indicated)
Brian Dykstra
In Memoriam
June 16, 1965 – May 9, 2025
Jonathan Walters
Linda Boerman
Chair
Mark Cooney
Vice Chair
Ann Query
Our Team
Our team is made up of so many hard working individuals who love this city and its people. Meet our leadership team below.
Leadership Team
Andrew Boatright
General Manager
Bob Mulder
Electric Power Supply & Market Operations Manager
Brian Coots
Electric Transmission & Distribution Manager
Recognition & Achievements
Excellence in Reliability Award
2025 Recipient
Safety Award of Excellence
2025 Diamond Designation Recipient
Water Utility of the Year
2025 Recipient
Smart Energy Provider (SEP)
2024 Recipient
Professional Excellence Award
2024 Recipient
Silver Customer Service Excellence Award
2024 Recipient