Behavioral Health Crisis Center Wall-Breaking Ceremony Held
On Monday, Kent County, Network180 and Trinity Health Grand Rapids hosted a wall-breaking ceremony to kick-off renovations of the Behavioral Health Crisis Center (BHCC)
Targeted to open in early 2024, the BHCC will provide walk-in behavioral health services 24-hours a day, seven days a week. The heart of the BHCC is the Crisis Stabilization Unit, which will allow for rapidly accessible intensive treatment that can stabilize most behavioral health crises within 24 hours.
The concept of this facility has been in the works since 2017 and has been the result of the tireless work of health care systems, education, law enforcement, government, insurance providers, community advocates, and the mental health system. The BHCC will undoubtedly change the way mental health is approached and cared for in West Michigan. Click here to read more about this important community project.
Kent County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Unit Wins Award
The Michigan Sheriff’s Association (MSA) awarded the Kent County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO) Victim Services Unit (VSU) the 2022 Victim Services Unit of the year at its recent annual conference. In part, the winning nomination sent to MSA read:
Although 2022 was a difficult year for the Kent County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Unit, losing two coordinators to retirement and career changes, the unit was able to provide services to over 140 families. They traveled over 7,550 miles and gave over 350 hours of their time to our community in service.
Their passion for the work they do in the community is evidenced by their commitment to their continued education, monthly call-out review meetings, and their support of one another in the field. This unit will offer their free time to review documentation to ensure our citizens receive the most up-to-date information and services. They share resources with one another and support each other by being available for a peer-to-peer chat if they need to discuss a tough call-out. If they see something that can be improved, they aren’t afraid to suggest changes or better ways to complete a task.
The Kent County Sheriff’s Office Victim Services Unit is deserving of the Unit of the Year award as its passion for helping families and providing solutions in the greatest time of need is exemplary.
Thank you to the KCSO VSU for all their hard work and dedication to our community.
County's Chief Inclusion Officer To Serve on Governor's Juvenile Residential Facilities Advisory Committee
Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently created the Juvenile Residential Facilities Advisory Committee to review procedures for juvenile residential facilities and make recommendations to improve the system and better serve Michigan’s youth. We are thrilled to announce that our Chief Inclusion Officer Teresa Branson has been selected to serve on this committee.
This is an important appointment that will address the critical issue of improving the juvenile residential system in Michigan. The committee will be tasked with reviewing procedures for juvenile residential facilities and making recommendations to improve the system, with a focus on increasing access to behavioral health beds and ensuring that kids in Michigan's juvenile justice system have the resources and opportunities to succeed.
We are proud of Teresa's dedication to this critical issue and know that she will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the committee.
Kent County Animal Shelter 50 Dog Adoption Challenge Started
It's far too early in the year to have so many wonderful dogs at our animal shelter. We are facing a time of high intake and have more animals coming into our care than we will soon have physical space for. So if you have considered adopting a pet, now is the time! To help boost adoptions, the shelter is hosting a multi-week adoption special!
The 50 Dog Adoption Challenge aims to find loving homes for 50 dogs by June 10. To meet our goal, all adoption fees are waived. The only thing you pay for is the dog license! We have so many great dogs who are ready for their forever homes. Can you help us reach our goal?
Tory Richardson Receives National Award
Congratulations to Tory Richardson, President & Chief Executive Officer at Gerald R. Ford International Airport, who was recently honored with the American Association of Airport Executives Distinguished Service Award. The award is presented to airport executives in honor of an exemplary career and contributions to the airport industry.
Tory has served the airport community for more than 30 years and we are overjoyed to have him leading and enhancing the air transportation system for our community. Congratulations!
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Kent County Commissioners and staff attended the 2023 Cinco de Mayo Celebration at the Grand Rapids Public Museum. Congratulations to Hon. Lupe Ramos-Montigny, Chairperson and the Committee to Honor Cesar E. Chavez on another successful cultural event.
Participants enjoyed the Cinco de Mayo Celebration event, learning about the vibrant Mexican culture through traditional dance performances, art, clothing, and delicious food. They were excited to join in on the festivities and celebrate alongside members of the local community.
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New Election Director Hired
County Clerk Lisa Postumous Lyons announced the hiring of Mike Sullivan as Kent County’s Elections Director.
Sullivan is well-equipped to handle the complexity of elections, thanks to his extensive experience at the state, federal, and local level. Having worked in various capacities in each of these areas, he has developed a keen understanding of the nuances that govern elections. We welcome Mike to the team and know he will continue Clerk Lyons commitment to provide secure, transparent, fair, and accurate elections.
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Upcoming Holiday Office Closure
Kent County offices and clinics will be closed Monday, May 29, 2023 in observance of the Memorial Day. All offices will reopen on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at 8 a.m.
Thank you to the veterans and families for your service to our country.
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