Board Leadership
Executive Committee
In accordance with our standing rules, the Executive Committee plays a pivotal role in advising the full Board on policy matters, processes, Chair appointments, and strategic direction. It also holds the authority to approve the County's strategy for collective bargaining, assess annexation/consolidation petitions, and provides recommendations to the Board for filling Commissioner vacancies.
The Executive Committee comprises the Chair, Vice Chair, Minority Vice Chair of the Board, Chair of the Finance and Physical Resources Committee, Chair of the Legislative and Human Resources Committee, and, if not held by the Minority Vice Chair, the Vice Chair of both committees. Additionally, the Board Chair has the authority to appoint non-voting members to the Executive Committee.
The following list presents the members of the Executive Committee, including our first Adjunct Member, Commissioner Michelle McCloud.
Finance and Physical Resource Committee
The Finance and Physical Resources Committee is responsible for analyzing and approving an annual budget, incorporating capital improvement projects, for each fiscal year. Moreover, the committee reviews and recommends amendments to the current annual budget, evaluates and suggests changes to millage rates, and oversees the maintenance, operation, and space allocation within all County facilities. It is crucial to acknowledge that this description is not exhaustive, emphasizing the multifaceted nature of the committee's responsibilities.
Commissioner Emily Brieve (District 10) serves as the Chair of the Finance and Physical Resources Committee, while Commissioner Stephen Wooden (District 15) holds the position of Vice Chair. The remaining members of the committee are listed below.
Legislative and Human Resources Committee
The Legislative and Human Resources Committee holds a crucial role in shaping the County's legislative program and human resource policies. Specifically, the committee is tasked with planning a formal legislative program and recommending adjustments to County personnel needs. Oversight extends to the regular evaluation of performance measures for each department and office. Additionally, the committee serves a pivotal function as a nominating committee, actively participating in the selection process for board and committee appointments. This description offers a glimpse into the multifaceted responsibilities of the committee, which go beyond the outlined functions.
Commissioner Dan Burrill (District 8) was once again chosen to serve as the Chair of the Legislative and Human Resources Committee, with Commissioner Lindsey Thiel (District 11) as Vice Chair. The additional members of the committee are listed below.
Exciting Opportunities to Contribute: Join Kent County's Boards and Committees!
We have five new vacancies across various boards, commissions, and committees, each presenting a unique opportunity for passionate individuals to make a difference. Qualified residents of Kent County are invited to apply by creating an online account and submitting their application along with resumes and cover letters. Here are the current vacancies:
To actively contribute to your community, apply for an appointment here. Please call the Board Office at 616-632-7580 if you have any questions regarding any of these openings.
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Update on the Kent County Revolving Loan Fund
On January 11, the Board of Commissioners approved the creation of the Kent County Revolving Loan Fund Committee. This committee is tasked with monitoring the advancements of the Kent County Affordable Housing Loan Fund and providing recommendations to the Board. The focus of these recommendations is to address any potential barriers that may impede the development of affordable housing within the county.
As a reminder, the Board allocated $17.5 million in ARPA funds to tackle the shortage of affordable housing units by reducing the cost of capital for housing developers. Subsequently, IFF was selected to administer the fund.
For those curious to know more, you can find information about the members of the 10-member committee here. Stay tuned for further updates on how this initiative unfolds in our commitment to fostering affordable housing solutions.
Board Approves Funding for Taskforce Combating Human Trafficking
As we recognize Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the Board approved two funding resolutions for the Taskforce Combating Human Trafficking. This collaborative effort, formed nearly three years ago, unites the Kent County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Department of Justice, state and local law enforcement, and non-profit organizations.
In 2023, the Task Force investigated 45 cases, resulting in three human trafficking arrests, and 10 arrests for other related crimes. Click here to learn more about the work of the task force.
The first resolution supports human trafficking survivors, directing funds to the Kent County Sheriff’s Office and SafeHaven Ministries. Key priorities include providing emergency safe shelters and transportation assistance. Additionally, community education forums will be held to elevate awareness about the issue of human trafficking.
In a parallel effort, the second resolution allocates funds to enhance the Taskforce's capabilities. This includes funding a full-time human trafficking investigator, strengthening the Taskforce's ability to identify juveniles and youth at high risk of falling victim to human trafficking. Also, funds will be allocated to cover ancillary costs associated with the emergency response to the needs of survivors.
We commend the law enforcement agencies and non-profit organizations involved in this critically important issue for their hard work and commitment to making a difference.
Celebrating Michigan's County Unity: MAC's Poster Presentation
During our recent board meeting, Commissioner Ponstein presented a poster to Chair Stek from the Michigan Association of Counties (MAC) adorned with the seals of all 83 counties in our state.
MAC is a statewide organization which represents all county commissioners in Michigan. Commissioner Ponstein is past president of the organization and guided its mission and fostered collaboration among county officials statewide during his tenure.
We greatly appreciate MAC's partnership, the poster, and Commissioner Ponstein's leadership.
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Board of Commissioners Meeting Highlights
The Board of Commissioners meet on the second and fourth Thursdays, providing an essential platform for engagement and insight into local developments. Active participation in these sessions, either in person or through online viewing, offers a valuable means to remain informed and connected with community matters.
Please find below a video summarizing key moments from our January Board meetings.
January 11, 2024 Organizational Meeting
- Election of Stan Stek as Board Chair, Ben Greene as Vice Chair, and Stephen Wooden as Minority Vice Chair
- Resolution Passed to Add One Full-Time Clerk II Position for the Health Department’s Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate Grant Funds to the FY 2024–2028 Land Transfer Navigators Program with the American Farmland Trust
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. Funds to the Parks Grand River Greenway Project and the Knapp Street Pedestrian Bridge Project
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January 25, 2024 Meeting
- Resolution Passed to Amend the 2015 John Ball Zoo Master Plan
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate a grant from the State of Michigan to Kent County’s 2024 Remonumentation Program
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate Donated Funds and Authorize the Purchase of a Sheriff Department Marine Vessel
- Resolutions Passed to Appropriate Donated Funds and a State of Michigan Grant to Support a Collaborative Taskforce Combating Human Trafficking
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate Michigan State Police Grant Funds to Reduce Serious Injury from Impaired Driving, as well as Seat Belt / Speed Enforcement
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Upcoming Meetings
- Tuesday, February 6: Finance and Physical Resources Committee
- Thursday, February 8: Board of Commissioners Meeting
- Tuesday, February 13: Legislative and Human Resources Committee
- Tuesday, February 20: Finance and Physical Resources Committee
- Thursday, February 22: Board of Commissioners Meeting
- Tuesday, February 27: Legislative and Human Resources Committee
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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