Season’s Greetings from the Board of Commissioners
The Board of Commissioners extends warm wishes to everyone for a joyful and safe holiday season. May this special time of year be filled with cherished moments spent with family, friends, and loved ones. As we take a moment to reflect on the past year, we are deeply grateful for the unwavering support, resilience, and dedication shown by our community. Your contributions have been instrumental in shaping our shared successes and progress. We look forward to the opportunities and challenges of the year ahead, working together to build an even brighter future for all. Happy Holidays!
Reflecting on 2024 and Looking Ahead to 2025
We are excited to release our Year in Review report, celebrating the incredible achievements of 2024. This year’s progress is a reflection of the hard work and dedication of our county staff and the unwavering support of our community.
From improved services to strengthened programs, 2024 has been a year of growth and collaboration. As we look forward to 2025, we are eager to build on these successes and embrace new opportunities.
Thank you for your continued support—together, we will make the year ahead even brighter!
|
Board Standing Committees Restructed for Enhanced Oversight
The Board approved a significant restructuring of its standing committees to strengthen its ability to provide comprehensive oversight and governance. This change reflects the Board’s commitment to better addressing the diverse needs of our community and ensuring that all areas of county operations receive the attention they deserve.
Previously organized under a two-committee structure, the Board is transitioning to a new three-committee model. The updated structure includes the following committees:
-
Finance Committee
Focused on overseeing the county’s financial policies, budgets, and resource allocation, this committee ensures fiscal responsibility and transparency in managing public funds.
-
Operations and Policy Committee
Dedicated to evaluating operational efficiencies, developing legislative priorities, and approving policies that guide the county's day-to-day functions, this committee plays a critical role in maintaining seamless county services.
-
Community, Health, and Safety Committee
Addressing the well-being of residents, this committee is tasked with oversight of programs related to public health, community services, and safety initiatives, ensuring the county remains a safe and vibrant place to live.
Each committee will meet monthly on Tuesdays, unless otherwise posted, providing regular opportunities for discussion, decision-making, and public engagement.
“This new structure positions us to provide greater oversight, improve accountability, and focus on the diverse areas of service we offer to the community,” said Board Chair Stan Stek.
The Board remains dedicated to continuous improvement and looks forward to the benefits this restructuring will bring in the year ahead.
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 December Board meeting:
December 5, 2024 Meeting
Meeting highlights:
- Invocation by Board Chair Stan Stek
- Special Order of Business: Prosecutor’s Office Annual Report by Prosecuting Attorney Christopher Becker
- Special Order of Business: Outgoing Commissioner Presentation
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority – Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2025
- Resolution Passed to Approve the John Ball Zoo 10-Year Master Plan
- Resolution Passed to Approve 2025 Management Pay Plan Range and Wage Changes
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Grand Rapids - Kent County Convention and Arena Authority Agreement with ASM Global
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Grand Rapids - Kent County Convention and Arena Authority Agreement with Live Nation
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Grand Rapids - Kent County Convention and Arena Authority Property Acquisition for Amway Stadium
- Resolution Passed to Approve the City of Grand Rapids’ Contribution to Support the West Michigan Welcome Plan and Global Gathering Event Funds
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Emergency Management Performance Grant to Enhance the Emergency Management Program within the State of Michigan
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Board of Commissioners’ 2025 Strategic Plan
|
Thank You to Our Outgoing Commissioners
At the final Board meeting of the year, we extended our heartfelt gratitude to our outgoing County Commissioners for their dedicated years of service to Kent County and its residents.
- Tom Antor – District 2
- Tony Baker – District 17
- Emily P. Brieve – District 10
- Ivan Diaz – District 20
- Stephen Wooden – District 18
Public service is no easy task, and these individuals have devoted countless hours to addressing the needs and priorities of our community. Their leadership and commitment have left a lasting impact, and their absence will be deeply felt on the Board.
As they move on to their next chapters, we wish them all the best in their future endeavors and thank them for their exceptional service.
For a deeper look into each Commissioner’s contributions, follow Kent County’s social media pages next week as we highlight their time on the Board.
 Pictured left to right are Ivan Diaz - District 20, Stephen Wooden - District 18, Tony Baker - District 17, Emily P. Brieve - District 10 and Tom Antor - District 2, with Board Chair Stan Stek and Administrator Al Vanderberg
Welcoming Our New Commissioners
Last week, we hosted an orientation for our five newly elected Commissioners, offering them an introduction to their roles and the responsibilities of county government. We are excited to welcome Elizabeth (Liz) Morse (District 2), Robin Halstead (District 10), Robert S. Womack (District 17), Steve Faber (District 18), and Nancy L. Morales (District 20) to the Board.
During the orientation, we covered essential topics, including the structure and function of county government, the roles and responsibilities of Commissioners, and key issues currently facing our community. In addition, we assisted with the typical first-day tasks, such as setting up computers and completing Human Resources paperwork.
We are excited to see our new Commissioners bring their fresh perspectives and energy to the Board. With this preparation and other training they have completed, we are confident they’ll hit the ground running as they work to serve the residents of Kent County.
 Pictured from left to right are Liz Morse, Robert S. Womack, Steve Faber, and Nancy Morales. Robin Halstead participated in the training virtually.
Upcoming Meetings
- Friday, Jan. 3: Board of Commissioners Organizational Meeting
- Tuesday, Jan. 7: Finance Committee
- Tuesday, Jan. 21: Operations & Policy Committee
- Thursday, Jan. 23: Board of Commissioners Meeting
- Tuesday, Jan. 28: Community, Health and Safety 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.
Around The County
 |
|
All County Offices and Clinics Will Be Closed In Observance of the Christmas and New Year's Holidays
All county offices and clinics will be closed on Tuesday, Dec. 24 and Wednesday, Dec. 25 in observance of the Christmas holiday. Regular operations will resume on Thursday, Dec. 26. Offices will be closed on Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025 in celebration of New Year's Day. Regular operations will resume on Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025.
|
|
