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A Note From the Administrator
We are excited to host our annual State of the County event this week, where we showcase the incredible work happening across Kent County and explore the opportunities ahead. This year, Board Chair Stan Stek and I will discuss the transformational changes happening in our community, as well as the new challenges, opportunities, and responsibilities we face.
While we would love to invite our entire community to this event, the venue limits us to a smaller group. However, we encourage you to join us virtually on October 2 at 6:30 p.m. via our YouTube livestream, so you can participate in this important event.
As always, please let us know if you have articles, topics, or ideas that you would like to include in future newsletters.
- Al Vanderberg
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Sheriff's Office Legacy Night
This past Saturday, our Sheriff's Office (KCSO) celebrated Legacy Night at our main campus where we had the privilege of recognizing the following awards:
Mike Curtis was nominated as our 2023 Deputy of the Year.
Molly Leone was nominated as our 2023 Civilian of the Year.
2023 Life Saving Awards were presented to Officer Caleb Jones (Sparta PD), Deputy Amanda Harig (KCSO), and Deputy Ryan Guernsey (KCSO).
2023 Distinguished Police Service Awards were presented to Sergeant Kailey Gilbert, Detective Mike Tanis, Detective Joey Saladino, Detective Anna Birkeland, and Deputy Mike Piccard.
KCSO also recognized Rick Tucker for his 40 years of dedicated volunteer work.
Congratulations to everyone that was nominated and received an award! We are so thankful for all of you.
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Help Empty Our Shelter
Thanks to the BISSELL Pet Foundation, our Animal Shelter kicked off the Empty the Shelters campaign early. If you've been wanting a new furry friend, there's no better time than now. All dog adoption fees are $50 out the door. Your new pup can't wait to meet you.
This event couldn't come at a better time as the shelter is in urgent need. With 79 large kennels and 88 dogs in our care, we are beyond capacity. We must continue to accept stray dogs regardless of whether we are out of space, and right now, we have ZERO open kennels. But through adoption, you can help us!
We have lots of dogs ready for adoption. See them here: accesskent.com/adoptable-animals.
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Grand Photo Opps at Kent/MSU Extension Gardens
Picture-Perfect moments are happening in the gardens at our MSU Extension building at 775 Ball Avenue.
It turns out that if you Google “where to take photos in Grand Rapids,” Kent/MSU Extension Grand Ideas Garden comes up as the #1 spot on Yelp here.
There has been a influx of visitors with many families capturing beautiful memories—guys in tuxes, girls in sequins and fancy apparel. One proud dad shared that his son, a high school student at Northview Public Schools, spread the word to all his classmates. What a fantastic shoutout!
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Special Olympics Michigan Ribbon Cutting
Kent County was proud to attend and participate in the recent Special Olympics Michigan ribbon cutting, celebrating the completion of their new outdoor sports complex and indoor activity space.
Commissioners Kris Pachla, Matt Kallman, and Emily Brieve, as well as County Treasurer Peter MacGregor, were in attendance for the presentation/festivities. Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young carried the Olympic torch with a Special Olympics athlete.
Congratulations to everyone at Special Olympics Michigan and to all of the athletes who will benefit from the amazing facility, fields and activity spaces!
Last Day to Apply to Kent County Boards, Commissions, and Committees!
The Kent County Board of Commissioners is seeking residents who are interested in serving the community through appointment on our boards, commissions and committees.There are over 40 opportunities to choose from, listed here: www.accesskent/boardappointments.
To apply, please visit here. Qualified residents may complete an online account and submit an application. Resumes and cover letters are encouraged. The application deadline is today (September 30, 2024) at 11:59 p.m. and interviews will begin later in the month.
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K-9 Visit to Senior Programs
Look who stopped by Community Action's senior meals program recently – K-9 Chiko! Chiko, a proud member of the Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit, brightened our day with his tricks, alongside his handler and best friend, Deputy Shelby Humphries. Chiko, who loves getting pet/snuggled, was a hit with our seniors, and everyone enjoyed his friendly visit.
Community Action's senior meal program offers meals in a congregate setting or delivered right to residents' homes. Join us for daily meals served Monday through Friday at noon at 121 Martin Luther King Jr. St., where you can enjoy flavorful Latin American food and great conversation with fellow seniors. For homebound seniors, meals are delivered directly to your doorstep. These services are funded by the Kent County Senior Millage.
Eligibility:
- Must be 60 years or older (or have a spouse who is 60+)
- Must reside in Kent County
- Must complete an application (Bilingual staff are available to assist)
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Global Gathering Event
Global Gathering is a part of Welcoming Week, a worldwide annual celebration that invites communities of all sizes to celebrate and deepen their commitment to creating places that are welcoming to everyone, including immigrants and refugees.
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From "Waste" Management to Material Management
Last week, the Michigan Recycling Coalition gave a three day training on Materials and Recycling Management at our Public Works' Recycling & Education Center. Folks from all over the state came together to learn and exchange ideas on how to change the narrative from "Waste" management to Material Management.
Be on the lookout for local communities exploring new ways to reduce landfilling and increasing recycling, compost, and innovative approaches to handle our waste. A big shoutout to Iris Waste Diversion Specialists and Michigan Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy for their knowledge and expertise.
Somethings Grilling Parks Fundraiser
The Kent County Parks Foundation hosted the 13th Annual Somethings Grilling fundraising event on September 11 at the Millennium Park Beach House. This year's event recognized JC and Tammy Huizinga, renowned community philanthropists and long-time supporters of our County Parks Department.
Attended by nearly 300 park enthusiasts, this year's event raised over $200,000 to support upcoming projects throughout the park and trail system. A huge thank you to all of the Kent County officials and employees that came out on a beautiful fall night to support our parks.
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MDARD Urges Consumers Not to Eat Hickory Knoll Cheese Products
Affected Products:
- Goat Milk Cheeses (Chévre, Feta, Cheddar, and more)
- Cow Milk Cheeses (Mozzarella, Gouda, Parmesan, and others)
If you have any of these products, dispose of them immediately.
Although no illnesses have been reported, consuming these cheeses can be dangerous, especially for the elderly, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. If you've eaten these products and are experiencing symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or trouble breathing, seek medical advice.
For more info or questions, contact MDARD at 800-292-3939 (Mon-Fri, 8 AM-5 PM). To read their full press release, visit here.
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Explore Rewarding Careers At Kent County Today
Working for the County, you will have the opportunity to serve the public and your community. We have employment opportunities in general government, health, public safety, judicial, recreational, and much more. To view our open positions and apply, visit accesskent.com/jobs. To learn more about our employee value proposition, visit here.
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