Kent County Fiscal Year 2024 Budget: A Blueprint for Progress
In a notable shift, Kent County has transitioned its fiscal year end to September 30, marking a change that is reflected in our Fiscal Year 2024 operating budget.
The adoption of the annual budget represents the culmination of a series of extensive and transparent processes. It all began in February when the Finance & Physical Resources Committee established the budget parameters. Following this, the Fiscal Services Department met with department directors and countywide elected officials to align their requirements and requests with the budget guidelines. Subsequently, in June, County Administrator Al Vanderberg presented the proposed budget to the Board of Commissioners. The Board of Commissioners then conducted two work sessions, delving into a comprehensive review of the proposed budget. Finally, in late August, they hosted a public hearing to gather valuable input from the community.
Our FY 2024 budget is $585.5 million, which includes $15.3 million for capital improvements. This budget isn't just a financial statement; it's a living document that embodies Kent County's mission and encapsulates the county's strategic priorities.
In the 2024 budget, the county places a strong emphasis on several key priorities: public safety, a robust economy, safe communities for all, services for our most vulnerable residents, nurturing the County's artistic and cultural offerings, fostering good government practices, and ensuring environmental health.
Kent County Commissioners and administrators are confident that this budget will pave the way for another year of growth and prosperity. Click here for more insights into the budget.
Recaps of Board of Commissioners Meeting
Staying informed about the happenings in your community is now easier than ever! The Board of Commissioners meets twice a month, specifically on the second and fourth Thursday. If you have an interest in local government and want to remain up-to-date with crucial developments, attending these meetings is a fantastic way to do just that.
In case you might have missed our social media updates, here's a convenient recap of the highlights of the October meetings of the Board.
October 12, 2023 Meeting Highlights
• Presentations by the Local Emergency Planning Committee and the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce
• Addition of one District Court Judge, one Assistant, Prosecuting Attorney I, one Senior Administrative Specialist, and two Sheriff Deputy positions
• Resolution passed to appropriate a landowner donation and agree to the Purchase of Development Rights for the Kruithoff Family Farms
• Resolution passed to appoint Tory Richardson as a joint representative on the City/County Building Authority
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October 26, 2023 Meeting Highlights
- Voted to approve a public hearing on Nov. 9, 2023, to review the annexation request from the Village of Kent
- Presentation by Network 180 on current and new community behavioral health service
- Resolution passed to appropriate MDHHS grant funds to the 2024 low income water assistance consolidated appropriations program
- Resolutions passed to appropriate Lakeshore Regional Entity funding to support substance use disorder prevention programs
- Resolution passed to appropriate funds from the Ready by Five Millage to hire two public health educators and one sanitarian for lead investigation work
- Resolution Passed to appropriate funds from the 2022 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant to replace an outdated marine vessel
- Resolution passed to adopt new Standing Rules, effective Jan. 1, 2025
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Meet Our Commissioners: Connecting on Social Media
We are excited to introduce Commissioner profiles on our social media platforms which will showcase each Commissioner's story, inspiration, and deep commitment to the community they serve. To date, we've profiled Board Chair Stan Stek and Commissioner Kris Pachla who each bring a unique perspective and commitment to their roles.
To make sure you don't miss out on any of the stories and insights from our Commissioners, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. By doing so, you'll have the opportunity to learn even more about your County Commissioner. Also, these profiles provide you with an opportunity to engage with the people who are shaping the future of our community.
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 On October 12, Kent County Commissioners Stan Ponstein (District 7), Walter Bujak (District 21), Jennifer Merchant (District 3), Carol Hennessy (District 14), and Lisa Oliver-King (District 15) along with Agricultural Preservation Board Members, neighbors and fellow farmers had the opportunity to celebrate the "Preserved Farmland" sign dedication for Sieracki Farm, which recently purchased the development rights for their land in Grattan Township! Kent County's Purchase of Development Rights Program is voluntary and compensates owners of agricultural property for their willingness to accept a permanent deed restriction on their land.
Upcoming Meetings
- Thursday, November 9: Board of Commissioners Meeting
- Tuesday, November 14: Legislative and Human Resources Committee
- Tuesday, November 21: Finance and Physical Resources Committee
- Tuesday, November 28: Legislative and Human Resources Committee
- Thursday, November 30: Board of Commissioners Meeting
All Board and committee meetings start at 8:30 a.m. and take place at the County Administration Building within the Board of Commissioners Chambers, unless otherwise specified.
Click here to access the meeting agenda and minutes and click here to keep apprised of any scheduling changes.
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