A Note From The Administrator
Yesterday, we joined communities across the nation in commemorating Labor Day - a time to recognize the dedication and contributions of working people. Personally, I want to extend my sincere thanks to our more than 2,000 County employees whose service keeps our community strong every day. From public safety to public health to human services, your work is the foundation of what makes Kent County thrive.
Last week, our Board of Commissioners approved a $668 million budget for FY2026, which includes strategic investments that support not only public services, but also the people who deliver them. Together, we remain committed to building a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant community for all.
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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Final Round of Data Collection, As Part Of Deer Management Coalition
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) began its fourth and final round of spotlight surveys this past week, as part of our Deer Management Coalition Project. Running nightly through September 12 (weather permitting), field teams in marked vehicles and high-visibility vests are traveling pre-identified routes to estimate deer densities and track population shifts, with all work conducted safely within the road right-of-way.
We are proud to partner with GVSU, our Road Commission, the Michigan DNR, MDOT, and local townships, cities, and villages on this effort to address deer-vehicle collisions, property damage, and impacts on wildlife and conservation. Findings from this final phase will provide a science-based foundation for management strategies that enhance public safety while supporting a healthy herd, with recommendations expected in fall 2025.
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New Trail Connections Advance Grand River Greenway Project
Big news for West Michigan! Our Administrator Al Vanderberg, Parks Director, and Commissioners recently joined community leaders at Grand River Riverfront Park in Lowell Township to celebrate the next chapter of the Grand River Greenway Project.
Over the next two years, a $150 million investment - supported by Kent County’s American Rescue Plan Act funding, Michigan Department of Natural Resources grants, local government budgets, and more - will add 31 new miles of connected trails and close key gaps in the Greenway.
On the Horizon in Kent County...
- Nearly nine miles of new trails are being developed, including a pedestrian tunnel under Northland Drive and non-motorized bridges over the Grand River at Knapp Street and the Rogue River at Rogue River Drive. By 2026, this expansion will link the White Pine Trail to Ada Township’s network.
- Johnson Park as a Greenway Hub: In partnership with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. and the West Michigan Mountain Biking Alliance, six miles of adaptive mountain bike trails are in development, opening spring 2026. Planned upgrades include a four-season restroom, updated playground, and new outdoor gathering spaces - all directly accessible from the Greenway.
Once complete, the trail will link Lowell all the way to Lake Michigan, creating nearly 200 miles of pathways that connect people to places, parks, and each other!
Chris Becker Named President Of Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan
Congratulations to our Prosecuting Attorney Chris Becker on being named the 2025-26 President of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan (PAAM)!
In this role, he will be responsible for providing training, resources, and legislative guidance to all 83 county prosecutors, the Attorney General, and U.S. Attorneys in Michigan. This well-deserved honor reflects his hard work and dedication to the legal community and his commitment to upholding a uniform system of conduct and procedure across the state.
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Celebrate Recovery Month with 63rd District Court
The 63rd District Court invites you to join a Recovery Month Celebration on Friday, September 19, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the North Parking Lot, 1950 E. Beltline Ave, Grand Rapids.
The event will feature opening remarks from Chief Judge O’Hara at 11 a.m., along with food trucks, yard games, informational tables from County departments and offices, and live music. It’s a chance to connect with community resources while enjoying a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
Each September, the nation recognizes National Recovery Month, a time to promote awareness, celebrate the progress made in recovery, and support those impacted by mental health and substance use disorders. This celebration is an opportunity to honor resilience, highlight available support, and bring the community together in recognition of recovery’s powerful impact.
Mark your calendar and plan to attend this uplifting event!
Health Department Confirms First Human Case of West Nile Virus Since 2024
Our Health Department (KCHD) has confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus (WNV) this season, which sadly resulted in death - the first in the county since May 2024. Recent mosquito testing also detected the virus near the individual’s residence. While most people infected show no symptoms, WNV can cause flu-like illness in some and, in rare cases, severe and sometimes fatal complications.
The Health Department extends its deepest condolences to the family and reminds residents that prevention is the best protection: use insect repellent, wear long sleeves and pants, avoid outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, and eliminate standing water around homes. Mosquito surveillance will continue countywide through late September.
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Employee Spotlight: Josh Trendt
We are so grateful for Josh's work as a cadet, assisting in the training unit and property management unit at our Sheriff's Office.
"I love how the cadet program gives me the ability to meet new people every day and make so many connections within the Sheriff’s Office, as well as meeting or interacting with people from other agencies."
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Free Global Gathering Event - September 13
The West Michigan Welcome Plan's 3rd Annual Global Gathering is Sept. 13, 12 - to 6 p.m., at Garfield Park in Grand Rapids and will be a day full of amazing food, music, and fun as we celebrate international cultures in our community.
The free Global Gathering event is a part of Welcoming Week, a worldwide annual celebration that invites communities of all sizes to celebrate and deepen their commitment to creating places that are welcoming to everyone, including immigrants and refugees.
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Veterans Can Apply Today for Free House Cleaning Services
Applications are now open for the 2026 House Cleaning Program for disabled veterans and their spouses in Kent County, made possible through a partnership between our Veterans Services Department and Riverside Cleaning Co. Services include: Vacuum & mop, dust and clean all surfaces, exterior of appliances, windows, empty trash, clean bathrooms, front of cabinets.
This program was extremely popular last year, so if you or someone you know could benefit, we encourage you to apply here.
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Free Pickling Class at Heffron Orchards & Farms
Join Heffron Orchards & Farms, in partnership with MSU Extension, for a free, hands-on pickling class on Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, at 9 a.m. at 501 Ottawa, Lowell, MI.
In this class, you'll learn the art of preserving fresh produce, specifically cucumbers, through the pickling process. All necessary supplies will be provided at no cost, and participants will get to take home a jar of their own homemade pickles. This is an excellent opportunity to learn a valuable skill that can help you stretch your food budget and make the most of fresh produce from food banks and mobile trucks.
Community members can register today by contacting Falicia from Heffron Farms at 616-794-2527 or falicia.heffronfarms@gmail.com.
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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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