Citizen of the Year

2025 Citizen of the Year - Chad Cooley and the Ice Rink Volunteers

At their May 19, 2025, meeting, the Watertown Charter Township Board of Trustees presented CHAD COOLEY AND THE ICE RINK VOLUNTEERS with the 2025 Citizen of the Year Award. This award honors residents who have displayed exemplary commitment, support, leadership, or service to the Watertown Township community. The following tribute was presented:

Honoring Chad Cooley and the Ice Rink Volunteers

As Watertown Charter Township's 2025 Citizens of the Year

Let It Be Proclaimed that it is with great pride and heartfelt appreciation that we recognize and honor Chad Cooley and the Ice Rink Volunteers on the occasion of them being named Watertown Charter Township's 2025 Citizens of the Year.

For generations, the construction and upkeep of a community ice-skating rink has been a cherished tradition in Watertown Township, with historical records tracing its existence as far back as the 1940s-and likely even earlier. This enduring legacy reflects the spirit of community and volunteerism that continues to thrive today.

Undeterred by the unpredictability of Michigan winters, a dedicated team of volunteers continues to plan, build, and maintain the rink each season. Since 2017, Chad Cooley has led a renewed effort to bring this tradition to life, assembling a devoted team to restore and enhance the ice rink experience for all residents.

The winter of 2025 brought ideal conditions for outdoor skating, and the rink at Gloria Miller Park once again became a vibrant hub for families, friends, and neighbors to gather, play, and create lasting memories. Chad Cooley, with strong support from volunteers such as Jake and Emily Pearson, has coordinated this effort with remarkable dedication.

In addition to rink construction and maintenance, these volunteers have gone above and beyond-ensuring public access, managing a generous supply of donated ice skates, and communicating timely updates to the community.

The gift of their time, talent, and service has provided a joyful and meaningful space for recreation, community-building, and celebration.

Now, Therefore, Be It Resolved that on this day, May 19, 2025, the Watertown Charter Township Board of Trustees does hereby express its sincere gratitude and admiration to Chad Cooley and all the Ice Rink Volunteers and congratulates them on their well-deserved recognition as the Watertown Charter Township 2025 Citizens of the Year.