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A Note From The Administrator
Michigan weather in early spring is always unpredictable, but this weekend was a stark reminder of just how extreme it can be. With strong winds, power outages and a possible tornado, Mother Nature made it clear that winter and spring are still battling for control. It’s all part of the rollercoaster that comes with living in Michigan - where you never know if you’ll need a jacket, an umbrella, or a pair of sunglasses on any given day.
I had the opportunity to co-teach last week with former Commissioner Tony Baker at Ferris State University, and on Tuesday evening, former Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss joined me at my Grand Valley State University class. It was a great experience engaging with our future leaders.
Wishing everyone a relaxing and enjoyable Spring Break. 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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District Courts Announce Amnesty Program For April
This incredible initiative is designed to assist individuals with unresolved matters such as misdemeanor cases, traffic tickets, and civil infractions, providing them with a pathway to resolve their outstanding balances owed to the court without incurring additional penalties. For more information, please read our press release here.
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New Health Department Medical Director Hired
Our Health Department is excited to welcome Dr. Kristin Oldenberg as its new Medical Director. With over 20 years of experience in OB-GYN and a passion for community health, Dr. Oldenberg is eager to expand public health initiatives, improve vaccination rates, and support maternal and child health programs.
“I’ve worked alongside the Health Department for years in clinical practice and have seen firsthand the impact of public health efforts,” said Dr. Oldenberg. “I’m excited for this opportunity to broaden my work in the community and help improve health outcomes for all Kent County residents.”
To read more about Dr. Oldenberg's hiring and position, you can read the full press release here. Learn more about KCHD’s leadership and services at kentcountymi.gov/health.
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Planning For The Future Of Farming
We were happy to have more than 30 landowners attend our Farming Forward event in Alpine Township on Wednesday. Hosted by Kent and Ottawa Counties through the Land Transfer Navigator grant, this initiative helps farmers and ranchers navigate the complexities of succession planning, land access, and farm transitions.
Key topics covered:
- Succession planning insights – Identifying future leadership & legal considerations
- Land-linking through MIFarmLink – Connecting retiring farmers with new producers
- Agricultural easements (Protecting farmland for future generations) and Mediation services (Resolving conflicts to ensure smooth transitions) through the Dispute Resolution Center of West Michigan
This program aims to provide direct assistance to 120 farmers, ranchers, and landowners over the next three years. By supporting succession planning and land access, we can help preserve the future of farming in our communities.
Free Dental Care Days For Veterans
Our Veterans Services Department is partnering with My Community Dental Centers, to offer free dental exams and X-rays for veterans, surviving spouses, and life partners. These services are available by appointment only at participating locations in Walker, Kentwood, and Cedar Springs on the dates listed below.
Eligible veterans must provide proof of service and Kent County residency, and they must not have VA dental benefits. No income requirements apply.
Upcoming dates:
- April 4, 2025 | 1411 White Creek Avenue NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319
- May 30, 2025 | 890 3 Mile Road NW Suite 4, Grand Rapids, MI 49544
- June 13 & 20, 2025 | 4700 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Kentwood, MI 49508
- July 11, 2025 | 1411 White Creek Avenue NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319
- August 15, 2025 | 890 3 Mile Road NW Suite 4, Grand Rapids, MI 49544
- September 5 & 20, 2025 | 4700 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, Kentwood, MI 49508
Call 877-313-6232 to schedule an appointment today!
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Community Action Celebrates Transit Worker Appreciation Week
On March 17, our Community Action department celebrated their hardworking drivers, thanking them for their dedication and outstanding service. These individuals go above and beyond to ensure safe, reliable, and comfortable rides for our community.
From early mornings and harsh conditions to navigating busy streets, they do it all with patience, compassion, and professionalism. Our drivers not only get passengers from point A to point B - they create a sense of community, offering smiles, support, and a friendly atmosphere that helps reduce anxiety for many riders.
We are incredibly grateful for their unwavering commitment, reliability, and the positive impact they make every day.
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"A to Z: Discovering Kent County" Series Highlights The DeKorne Furniture Company
As part of our "A to Z: Discovering Kent County" series, we are happy to highlight the DeKorne Furniture Company, for the letter D!
The DeKorne Furniture Company, a cornerstone of Grand Rapids' furniture industry, was founded in 1916 by Boudewyn DeKorne, a Dutch immigrant and master wood-carver. Boudewyn, born in 1866 in the Netherlands, had skills that were widely recognized and made many contributions to local architecture and even created the original mold for the Lorna Doone shortbread cookie. His dedication to fine woodwork set the foundation for what would become a thriving family business.
His son, Lewis DeKorne (1897–1978), took the reins and expanded the company into a successful Ethan Allen franchise. The flagship store, constructed in 1929 at 1504 Plainfield Ave. NE, became a symbol of the company’s growth and commitment to quality. The Art Deco building, which later became home to Creston Brewery, preserved elements of the family’s craftsmanship, including a hand-carved railing by Boudewyn. By the mid-1990s, DeKorne Furniture had expanded to four locations across West Michigan, stretching from Kalamazoo to Lansing and Traverse City.
To read our full article about the DeKorne Furniture Company, visit here.
Kaufman Golf Course Opens For The 2025 Season
Golf season is back at Kaufman Golf Course! The opening for the 2025 season was on March 27 and this year golfers can enjoy new electric carts with GPS for a better playing experience. Kaufman has been a West Michigan favorite since 1965, offering rolling fairways and a challenging layout.
You can book your tee time online or call 616-632-7855.
Over 100 volunteers came together to "spring clean the greens" getting Kaufman Golf Course ready for the opening. A huge thanks to everyone who pitched in! If you are interested in volunteering, there are more clean-up events coming up at Long Lake Park on April 2 and Millennium Park on April 5. Sign up at kentcountymi.gov/volunteer to be a part of the action!
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Friend of the Court Team Answers Questions From Parents With A Child Support Case
Last week, Alpha Grand Rapids welcomed our Friend of the Court (FOC) staff to their Men's Center, where they provided information and assistance to parents with a child support case. They answered questions about custody, parenting, and other related child support matters.
It is always a pleasure to be available to parents as they navigate their cases. To the parents who attended, our FOC team hopes this provided valuable insight and was helpful for your specific situation. If you have questions for FOC or would like additional information, please contact us 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 kentcountymi.gov/jobs. To learn more about our employee value proposition, visit here.
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