The multi-million dollar FishPass project in Traverse City is delayed until May, at the earliest.
The holdup centers on whether voters need to approve the plan to build a high-tech fish sorting channel in the river.
Residents are entitled to a vote if the project amounts to a loss of park property or serves unrelated purposes, according to city rules.
Circuit Court Judge Thomas Power says he thinks FishPass is basically a research facility.
It may be a great idea, but it is not a park purpose and so I think it transgresses the city charter.
The judge will hear a case in May brought by Traverse City resident Rick Buckhalter.
If he wins the trial, FishPass could be up for a vote in August.
City leaders behind the project say they’re disappointed with the decision, and are ready to move forward as soon as the judicial process is complete.