Honoring Past Commissioners at Tree Grove Ceremony
On Monday, we had the privilege of honoring former Commissioners Tom Antor, Tony Baker, Emily Brieve, Ivan Diaz, and Stephen Wooden for their service by unveiling commemorative plaques in the Commissioners Tree Grove at Millennium Park. While Tom and Ivan were unable to attend, we were proud to recognize their contributions alongside those of their fellow honorees.
The Commissioners Tree Grove stands as a meaningful tribute—a lasting symbol of public service and a job well done. Each plaque commemorates the legacy and impact these Commissioners have had on our community. At the same time, the newly planted trees symbolize the growth they inspired and serve as a lasting reminder of their impact on Kent County.
On behalf of the Board of Commissioners and the residents we serve, thank you Emily, Tom, Stephen, Ivan, and Tony for your dedicated service.
Board To Hold Public Hearing on FY 2026 Budget
The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget during its regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday, Aug. 14.
During the hearing, County Administrator/Controller Al Vanderberg will present the recommended budget to the Board and members of the public. The recommendations reflect months of careful analysis and collaboration among commissioners, department directors, and elected officials.
Community members will have the opportunity to provide comments on the proposed resource allocations during the hearing. Residents who are unable to attend or have additional questions are encouraged to reach out directly to their County Commissioner.
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Join Us for the Kent County North Community Fest - August 14
 Mark your calendars! The Kent County North Community Fest, a brand-new fun, family-friendly summer celebration is happening at the Kent County North Campus in Cedar Springs on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 3 to 7 p.m. Everyone is welcome, and admission is free!
The event will feature food trucks, free ice cream, and fun kids’ activities like face painting, glitter tattoos, and balloon animals. Guests will also have the chance to explore big trucks on display - from fire engines to road equipment.
To help students prepare for the new school year, we’ll be giving away free backpacks for kids in grades K–12, while supplies last.
Plus, you’ll have the chance to connect with your County. More than 15 departments and services will host meet-and-greet tables, giving residents a chance to learn more, ask questions, and access helpful resources - all in one place.
Kent County Sheriff’s Office K-9 Unit handlers will give live demonstrations and Mounted Unit officers will be available for meet-and-greets with their horses.
Several County Commissioners will be there, too, and we look forward to connecting with you and your family, friends, and neighbors.
Please join us for this celebration of community, service, and summertime fun! Mark your calendars now, and RSVP to the County’s Facebook event.
The Kent County North Campus is located at 4191 17 Mile Road NE, Cedar Springs, MI 49319. Free, onsite parking will be available
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 is a video summarizing key moments from our July Board meeting:
July 24, 2025 Meeting
- Invocation by Minority Vice-Chair Michelle McCloud
- Special Order of Business - Sheriff's Office Annual Report: Law Enforcement and Support Services
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Department of Public Works Refuse Disposal System Bonds Reimbursement
- Resolution Passed to Authorize for the Issuance of Nash Creek Inter-County Drain Drainage District Bonds-Series 2025
- Resolution Passed to Appropriate up to $130,255 for the Nash Creek Inter-County Drainage District B
- Resolution Passed to Approve the Area Agency on Aging of Western
Michigan (AAAWM) Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) for Fiscal Year 2026
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Upcoming Meetings
- Tuesday, Aug. 12: Finance Committee
- Thursday, Aug. 14: Board of Commissioners Meeting
- Tuesday, Aug. 19: Operations & Policy Committee
- Tuesday, Aug. 26: Community, Health and Safety Committee
- Thursday, Aug. 28: 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.
Board Recognizes Julie Celori for Earning Girl Scouts' Highest Honor
Board Chair Ben Greene and Commissioner Walter Bujak recently had the honor of presenting a proclamation to Julie Celori in recognition of her receiving the prestigious Gold Award—the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. Fewer than six percent of Girl Scouts earn this distinction each year.
Julie earned the Gold Award for her impactful project, Connecting Families in Memory Care, which helps families maintain emotional connections with loved ones experiencing dementia. Through a series of thoughtfully developed guided-activity booklets, her project has made a meaningful difference in memory care facilities in Lowell and has reached as far as Illinois and Connecticut.
Congratulations, Julie, on this remarkable achievement!
As a reminder, the Board regularly honors residents, organizations, and businesses with proclamations recognizing significant milestones, events, or accomplishments. If you know of an achievement that should be recognized, please contact your County Commissioner.
 
Around The County
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Kent County Health Department Monthly Newsletter: Now available! This edition highlights improvements in infant mortality rates, water and sun safety tips, a new dental screening requirement for children entering kindergarten or their first year of school, pop-up vaccine clinic locations, and more.
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Kent County Agricultural Preservation Newsletter: The latest edition is now available! Learn about the benefits of eating local, discover what fresh produce is in season, and get details on a July 24 event hosted by the Kent Conservation District for farmers, landowners, and new producers interested in sustainable practices. You’ll also find updates on farmland preservation efforts and more.
- Routine mosquito surveillance by the Health Department has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in three mosquito samples collected from Grand Rapids (49507), Walker (49544), and Plainfield Township (49525). While there is no vaccine or specific treatment for West Nile virus, residents can reduce their risk by using insect repellent with 10–35% DEET, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, avoiding outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, and other safety tips.
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