Wishing You a Warm and Happy Thanksgiving
The Board of Commissioners wishes everyone a joyful and safe Thanksgiving! It is our privilege to serve such an incredible community, and we are grateful for the opportunity to work together to make Kent County a wonderful place to live, work, and thrive. May your holiday be filled with warmth, gratitude, and cherished moments with loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!
Kent County’s Revolving Loan Fund Celebrates Milestones in Affordable Housing Development
Just over a year ago, Kent County took a significant step toward addressing the affordable housing shortage by establishing a revolving loan fund. This ambitious initiative was launched with an initial investment of $17.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, demonstrating the County’s commitment to creating housing solutions.
Through a strategic partnership with IFF, the fund administrator, Kent County’s investment was leveraged into a $58.3 million loan fund—an impressive 2:1 match by IFF. This collaboration has empowered the community to embark on transformational housing projects, and this month, the County proudly celebrated two milestone achievements: the groundbreaking ceremonies for the Southtown Lofts and Leonard Apartments projects.
Southtown Lofts: A Landmark Minority-Owned Project
The Southtown Lofts project stands out as the largest minority-owned housing development in Grand Rapids 3rd Ward. This mixed-use building will span more than 16,000 square feet, featuring 12 housing units alongside a dedicated space for a new educational lab for NextGen Media GR and nonprofit urban radio station Power 91.9 FM WDPW. Supported by $1.75 million from the Revolving Loan Fund, this project highlights the County’s focus on community-oriented development.
Leonard Apartments: Supporting Seniors with Stability
The Leonard Apartments project, backed by a $3.28 million loan from the Revolving Loan Fund, is the first initiative under the program designed specifically to serve the senior population. This development is a unique collaboration between Dwelling Place and Genesis, combining assisted living and permanent supportive housing services to help senior residents stay in their homes while enjoying a high quality of life.
To date, Kent County’s Revolving Loan Fund has deployed nearly $16 million toward transformative housing developments, highlighting the power of collaboration and the County’s dedication to addressing affordable housing challenges.
Vacancy: Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board
The Board is seeking residents interested in serving the community through appointment to the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRFIA) Authority Board.
The Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Board, a seven-member body, is responsible for policy and general oversight of the airport.
Qualified residents may apply by completing an online account and submitting an application on the County's website. Resumes and cover letters are encouraged. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. on December 2.
For more information, contact the Board of Commissioners' office at 616-632-7580.
|
Grand Rapids Soccer Stadium Gains Momentum
In early November, the Board made significant progress on the proposed Grand Rapids Soccer Stadium project by approving three key items. The Board authorized the allocation of lodging excise tax revenue and approved agreements with the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention Arena Authority (CAA) regarding reserve funds and operational arrangements.
Following the Board's decision, the Grand Rapids City Commission approved the related items on November 12. Further enhancing the project, Grand Action 2.0 announced that Amway Corp. secured the naming rights for a professional soccer stadium with a $33 million lead donation, underscoring strong private-sector support.
Targeting an early Spring 2025 groundbreaking, the stadium will be a state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue driving economic growth and urban revitalization. With an initial capacity of 8,500 seats and room to expand, it will bring professional soccer to Kent County, marking a major milestone for the region.
Commissioners' Board Meeting Highlights
The Board of Commissioners generally meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. Engaging in these meetings, whether attending in person or via livestream, provides an opportunity to stay updated and engaged with issues affecting the community.
Below is a video summarizing key moments from our November Board meetings:
Novemer 7, 2024 Meeting
Meeting highlights:
- Invocation by Commissioner Emily Brieve
- Special Order of Business: Treasurer’s Office Annual Report; Peter MacGregor, Kent County Treasurer
- Resolution Passed to Approve an Agreement with the City of Grand Rapids for Lodging Excise Tax Allocation
- Resolution Passed to Approve an Agreement with the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention and Arena Authority for Soccer Stadium and Amphitheater Bond Reserve Funds
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Restated Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention and Arena Authority Operating Agreement
- Resolution Passed to Accept Steelcase Foundation Contribution to Support the Child Care Task Force
- Resolution Passed to Accept Commodity Supplemental Food Program Commodity Credit Corporation Funds for Fiscal Year 2025
- Resolution Passed to Accept the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crime Task Force Grant to Combat Human Trafficking
|
November 21, 2024 Meeting
Meeting highlights:
- Invocation by Commissioner Monica Sparks
- Special Order of Business: Drain Commissioner Annual Report; Ken Younker, Kent County Drain Commissioner
- Resolutions Passed to Approve Employee Business Expense and De Minimis Policies
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Purchase of Development Rights Selection Criteria for 2025, 2026, and 2027
- Resolution Passed to Convert One Temporary Part-Time Welcome Plan Communications Specialist Position to Regular Full-Time Employment Status
- Resolution Passed to Amed the Solid Waste Management Ordinance
- Resolution Passed to Amend Department of Public Works Governance Structure
Change
- Resolution Passed to Amend 2024 Apportionment Report
- Resolution Passed to Approve Amendment to Byrne Justice Assistance Grant through the State of Michigan to Reduce Community Violence
- Resolution Passed to Amend Fiscal Year 2025 Adult Mental Health Court Grant Budget
- Resolution Passed to Approve Michigan Health Endowment Fund Community Impact Grant
- Resolution Passed to Amend Health Department Human Services Comprehensive Agreement for the Sewer Network Program
- Resolution Passed to Add One Full-Time Clerk II Position for Hearing and Vision Program and Amend the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Comprehensive Agreement
- Resolution Passed to Add One Full-Time Outreach Worker Position for the WISEWOMAN Program
|
Board Takes Another Step Toward Sustainable Waste Management with Flow Control Ordinance
In another step toward sustainable waste management, the Board approved a recommendation from the Board of Public Works to implement countywide flow control ordiance and a revamped governance structure for the Board of Public Works. This decision forms a cornerstone of the updated “Sustainable Business Park 2.0” initiative.
The initiative follows the termination of a prior agreement with Anaergia Inc. for a proposed bioenergy facility in Byron Center. In response, the revised strategy adopts a phased approach to divert organic and recyclable materials from landfills, effectively eliminating the need for a new landfill. At the same time, it reinforces investments in Sustainable Business Park infrastructure by advancing planning, permitting, and construction efforts for future tenants, while aligning with Michigan’s updated recycling standards.
While the vote was not unanimous, the decision highlights the importance of managing waste responsibly. Some Commissioners expressed concerns about potential cost increases for residents and the impact on free-market dynamics. However, supporters emphasized the ordinance as a critical step toward addressing the county’s solid waste challenges.
Despite differing perspectives, the Board agreed that significant work remains ahead. Over the coming year, the Department of Public Works will focus on implementing the ordinance through a phased approach. Simultaneously, the Materials Management Committee will develop a comprehensive plan to advance waste reduction, recycling, composting, and safe disposal—key measures to meet new statewide recycling goals and standards.
Stay tuned for updates on how these measures will further shape the county's integrated solid waste management system.
Kent County Observes Family Court Awareness Month
November is Family Court Awareness Month, and Kent County is proud to recognize its importance. Board Chair Stan Stek and Commissioner Carol Hennessy presented a proclamation to Joani from Protective Parents Michigan to commemorate the occasion.
This month highlights the need for education on domestic violence, child abuse, and trauma, as well as evidence-based practices in family courts. Kent County’s Domestic Violence Court, made possible through $4 million in ARPA funding allocated by the Board of Commissioners, remains dedicated to protecting families, supporting victims, and holding offenders accountable.
The Board regularly recognizes residents, organizations, and businesses with proclamations in honor of special milestones, events, or achievements. If you have an event or achievement you would like recognized, please reach out to your County Commissioner.
|
Upcoming Meetings
- Tuesday, Dec. 3: Finance and Physical Resources Committee
- Thursday, Dec. 5: Board of Commissioners Meeting
- Tuesday, Dec. 10: Legislative and Human Resources Committee
- Tuesday, Dec. 17: Finance and Physical Resources Committee
- Thursday, Dec. 19: 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.
Pease note that meetings scheduled toward the end of December may be canceled. We encourage you to check our calendar for the most up-to-date information.
Around The County
- Commissioners Hennessy and Wooden joined Kent County Veteran Services and staff at the Grand Rapids Veterans Day Parade. Thank you to everyone who came out to support those who have served our country!
- The 17th Circuit Court invites community members to donate new stuffed animals or plush toys for adopted children as they join their forever families. Donations of all types, from classic stuffed animals to character plush toys, are welcome. Drop off new toys at designated county locations Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., through December 6.
- The Kent County Deer Observation and Opinion online survey was released to gather input that will help guide plans for reducing nuisance issues and deer-vehicle collisions.
- On Novemer 19, the Kent County Clerk certified the results of the 2024 General Election and the State Board of Canvassers certified the statewide results on November 22. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our County Clerk and all election workers for ensuring a secure, transparent, fair, and accurate election process.
|
All County Offices and Health Department Clinics Will Be Closed In Observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday
All county offices and clinics will be closed on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29, in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday. Regular operations will resume on Monday, December 2.
|
