Transforming Behavioral Health Crisis Response
At the Grand Rapids Policy Conference, Chair Greene highlighted how Kent County is transforming our response to behavioral health crises through the Network 180/Trinity Health Grand Rapids Behavioral Health Crisis Center.
In May 2024, we celebrated the opening of this first-of-its-kind facility in Michigan, located on Trinity’s Jefferson Avenue campus. The 24/7 walk-in and drop-off center provides immediate support for anyone experiencing an acute behavioral health or substance use crisis.
This initiative has been years in the making, first taking shape in 2017 and coming to life through the dedicated collaboration of healthcare providers, law enforcement, government agencies, education systems, insurance providers, mental health professionals, and community advocates. Commissioner Stek played a pivotal role in driving this project forward, helping turn the vision into reality.
Since opening, the Crisis Center has already made a significant impact:
- 1,072 brief interventions and 563 crisis stabilization admissions recorded.
- 89 individuals brought in by law enforcement, with 10 cases successfully diverted from jail.
These numbers demonstrate that people in crisis are receiving the treatment and support they need to stabilize and continue their care beyond the facility.
We remain committed to improving behavioral health services, ensuring that everyone in our community has access to the care they need.
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Celebrating a Milestone for C-SNIP and Our Community
We recently celebrated an exciting milestone for C-SNIP and our community as construction moves forward on a new 12,000-square-foot veterinary clinic and headquarters in Walker. This project was made possible in part by a $1 million investment from the Board through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.
Commissioner Stek spoke at the event, highlighting the significance of this investment in addressing real community needs—including those of our four-legged residents. As a Board, we understand the important role pets play in the lives of our residents. They are companions, protectors, and, for many, cherished family members. Ensuring accessible veterinary care is about more than just animal welfare—it also supports public health and strengthens our community.
With this expanded facility, C-SNIP will be able to serve more families, providing essential, high-volume veterinary care to those who need it most. This clinic will be a lifeline for pet owners facing financial hardship, ensuring they can keep their beloved pets happy and healthy.
We are proud to support this initiative and look forward to the positive impact this new clinic will have on our community.
Board of Commissioners Meeting Highlights
The Board of Commissioners generally meet on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. Attending these meetings in person or via livestream offers a chance to stay informed and involved in community issues.
Below are videos summarizing key moments from our March Board meetings:
March 13, 2025 Meeting
- Invocation by Commissioner Katie DeBoer
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Emmons Lake Drain Drainage District Easement
- Resolution Passed to Approve Contributions to Support the State of the County Event
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Management Pay Plan Compensation Study Funding
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate Elections Reimbursements
- Resolution Passed to Borrow Against Delinquent 2024 Real Property Taxes/Authorize Issuance of “General Obligation Limited Tax Notes
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March 27, 2025 Meeting
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- Invocation by Commissioner Dave Hildenbrand
- Resolution Passed to Approve the 2025 Federal and State Legislative Priorities
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Website Policy
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Board Adopts Legislative Priorities
Celebrating Women’s Leadership on Our Board
As we reflect on Women’s History Month, we celebrate a historic milestone on our Board. For the first time, a majority of our 21-member Board—11 commissioners—are women, representing both urban and rural communities.
Each of these women brings unique insights, innovative ideas, and dedicated leadership to the table, strengthening the Board’s ability to serve Kent County. Their contributions not only enhance our work today but also inspire the next generation of changemakers to step into leadership roles.
We are proud to recognize and celebrate these remarkable women—not just during Women’s History Month, but every day—as they continue to lead, serve, and drive positive change in our community.
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Join a Kent County Advisory Board and Make a Difference
Are you passionate about your community? Do you want to help shape the future of Kent County? Now’s your chance!
We are seeking dedicated and engaged individuals to serve on two of our advisory boards. These boards play a vital role in informing decisions that affect residents across the county. If you have experience, insight, or a desire to contribute, we encourage you to apply. The current openings include:
Community Corrections Advisory Board
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Media Representative – Someone with communications or media experience
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Police Chief – A current chief of a city police department in Kent County or their designee
Community Action Advisory Governing Board
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Consumer Sector Representative – Must be a Kent County resident or represent a local organization. This includes individuals who are low-income, older adults, or persons with disabilities.
The application deadline is April 14, and submissions must be made online. Your perspective matters—get involved today!
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Kent Conservation District’s Annual Conservation Showcase
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Earlier this month, Commissioners Ponstein and Bujak joined county staff at the Kent Conservation District’s (KCD) annual Conservation Showcase. The event highlighted the vital role of KCD in protecting our local environment, with staff emphasizing the importance of managing invasive species to preserve soil health and water quality. Throughout the showcase, KCD shared updates on their work over the past year and celebrated the meaningful impact of strong partnerships across the community. |
Upcoming Meetings
- Tuesday, April 1: Finance Committee
- Tuesday, April 15: Operations & Policy Committee
- Tuesday, April 22: Community, Health and Safety Committee
- Thursday, April 24: Board of Commissioners Meeting
All Board and committee meetings start at 8:30 a.m. at the County Administration Building within the Board of Commissioners Chambers, unless otherwise specified. Click here to access meeting agendas and minutes.
Around The County
- Kent County’s 63rd District Court will soon adopt MiFILE, Michigan’s statewide electronic filing system, providing 24/7 access for attorneys and self-represented litigants to submit and serve legal documents electronically, eliminating the need for in-person courthouse visits.
- Kent County Treasurer Peter MacGregor and Prosecutor Chris Becker warned property owners about deceptive and illegal schemes targeting those facing tax delinquency or foreclosure.
- The Parks Department announced the return of golf season at Kaufman Golf Course.The course opened for the 2025 season on March 27. Golfers are encouraged to book tee times in advance online or by calling the clubhouse at 616-632-7855.
- The Health Department has named Dr. Kristin Oldenberg as its new Medical Director. With over 20 years of experience in obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN), Dr. Oldenberg is committed to expanding community health initiatives, improving vaccination rates, and strengthening partnerships that support maternal and child health.
- The 61st District Court (Grand Rapids), 62-B District Court (Kentwood), and 63rd District Court are launching a joint amnesty program throughout April. Individuals with outstanding court balances are encouraged to resolve them during this time without facing additional penalties.
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