A Note From The Administrator
As we observed Martin Luther King Jr. Day yesterday, we take the time to reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy and what it means for our work in Kent County. He reminded us that progress is built through courage, service, and a shared commitment to one another - values that guide us as we serve residents every day. His legacy calls us to carry these lessons forward through public service by listening, leading with empathy, and working together to ensure opportunity, fairness, and dignity for all.
Let this time be a moment of remembrance and a renewed commitment to the values that help our community and local government thrive. To honor Dr. King’s legacy, our Parks Department will host an MLK Jr. Service & Solidarity volunteer opportunity this Saturday, Jan. 24, from 1 - 3 p.m. at Millennium Park’s Administration Building. Volunteers will help remove invasive species, restore forests, and protect our 43 parks, trails, and waterways. For more information and to register, visit kentcountymi.gov/volunteer.
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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New Board of Commissioners Leadership
Congratulations to our Board of Commissioners on electing leadership and approving a new committee structure for the 2026 term!
We look forward to continuing to work with Chair Ben Greene, Vice-Chair Lindsey Thiel, and Minority Vice-Chair Steve Faber as our Board serves Kent County residents with efficiency, collaboration, and strong leadership.
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Probate Court Transitions To Electronically Certified Documents
Our Probate Court will begin issuing electronically certified documents, effective Tuesday, January 20. This enhancement is part of the Court’s continued efforts to modernize operations, improve efficiency, and provide timely access to court records for attorneys and the public.
Electronically certified documents are authorized under MCL 565.232, part of Michigan’s Uniform Electronic Transactions Act, which expressly provides that a record or signature may not be denied legal effect or enforceability solely because it is in electronic form. Accordingly, an electronically certified court document carries the same legal force and effect as a traditionally certified paper copy and may be used for all purposes where a certified copy is required. These documents will be delivered securely and are designed to reduce processing time, mailing delays, and in-person visits.
The Kent County Probate Court would like to thank you for your cooperation as this new process is implemented. Crimped certified copies will still be available when requested.
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Discover Kent County: North Country Trail
As part of our “A to Z: Discovering Kent County” series, we’re excited to highlight the North Country Trail for the letter N! The North Country Trail (NCT) is the longest National Scenic Trail in the United States, stretching nearly 4,800 miles across eight states - New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and Vermont. Authorized by Congress in 1980 and administered by the National Park Service, it is one of just eleven National Scenic Trails nationwide and passes through 10 National Forests along its route.
Here in Kent County, the North Country Trail holds special significance - especially in Lowell. Not only does the trail pass through Lowell Township, the City of Lowell, and Vergennes Township, but Lowell is also home to the national headquarters of the North Country Trail Association (NCTA). Since 2001, a restored historic building on East Main Street has served as the hub for coordinating trail stewardship across eight states, made possible by local volunteers and strong community support.
To read our full article, visit here.
Help Shape the Future of the Grand River Greenway: Pettis Avenue Open Houses
Help Prevent Opioid Overdoses
Between January 2024 and October 2025, 63 people in Kent County died from opioid overdoses. And Naloxone is available for free throughout the state to help prevent this, including outdoor newspaper boxes with 24/7 access.
Just as cold weather increases the risk of carbon monoxide exposure because furnaces, fireplaces, and generators are in use, it can also affect naloxone, a life-saving medication that reverses opioid overdoses.
Nasal naloxone should be stored between 36°F and 77°F, but it remains effective if briefly below freezing. However, if temperatures drop below 5°F, the liquid can freeze and stop the device from working. The good news is frozen naloxone can be thawed at room temperature or against your body for about 15 minutes, but you'll want to call 911 immediately while waiting for it to thaw.
Similarly, testing strips for fentanyl, xylazine, and medetomidine work best above 35°F, though storing the strips at low temperatures won't have a significant impact on their performance or shelf-life.
To find naloxone, testing strips, and other resources near you, visit the Opioid Task Force website. Watch our video by our Health Department, to learn more.
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Keeping Kent County Warm: Community Action Partners with Consumers Energy
Our Community Action department is proud to partner with Consumers Energy as they continue supporting Michigan families this winter.
They have generously contributed $350,000 to KCCA's assistance programs to help income-qualified customers in Kent County stay warm, bringing their customer assistance to $12 million statewide in the last 12 months.
If you or someone you know needs help with utility bills, please visit the "applications & waitlists" section of kentcountymi.gov/KCCA or call our office at 616-632-7950 to get connected to assistance programs.
Together, we’re working to keep our communities safe, supported, and warm this season.
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Bringing Families Back Together, One Scan at a Time
Every year, lost pets arrive at our Animal Shelter with no way to tell us where they belong. But sometimes, a simple scan changes everything.
Six years ago, Julie brought home a fluffy white puppy who quickly became her closest companion. Then, in the summer of 2024, her world was turned upside down when her dog disappeared from their northern Michigan home. Julie searched everywhere. Days became weeks, weeks became months, and still she held onto hope. More than a year later, a stray dog was brought to our shelter. During routine intake, staff scanned him for a microchip - and found a name, a number, and a family looking for him nearly 50 miles away.
When Julie’s phone rang, she could hardly believe it. But the moment she knelt down at the shelter, there was no doubt. Her dog recognized her instantly. A year of uncertainty, grief, and hope melted into pure relief. All because of a microchip no bigger than a grain of rice.
Stories like this happen because of our dedicated staff and the simple act of microchipping. Collars and tags can be lost, but a microchip stays with your pet for life - giving shelters and veterinarians the power to reunite families when it matters most.
Julie got her second chance. Not every pet does. Give your pet a way home. Learn about microchipping and other pet resources at kentcountymi.gov/KCAS. Already chipped? Make sure your contact information is up to date.
Early Savings Now Available for the 2026 Kaufman Golf Season
Feeling the winter blues? Imagine warm sunshine, perfectly maintained fairways, and dialing in your best swing of the season. The 2026 Kaufman Golf Course season is right around the corner - and season passes and Smart Cards are officially on sale now.
For a limited time, take advantage of an extra 10% off season passes through Friday, January 30. Purchase online or stop by the Kaufman Clubhouse to explore your options in person, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Lock in your savings now and get ready for a great season on the course.
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Veterans Services Team Expands On-Campus Support at GRCC
Our Veterans Services department is pleased to expand its outreach to student veterans by offering in-person VA claims assistance at Grand Rapids Community College. This partnership creates a convenient, accessible way for student veterans to connect directly with county Veterans Services staff - right where they’re already learning and building their futures.
Beginning on January 29, our Veterans Services team will host open office hours inside GRCC’s Veterans Services office every other Thursday from 1–3 p.m. During these sessions, veterans can receive one-on-one assistance with VA claims, benefits questions, and available county and community resources.
Unable to attend an on-campus session? Call us 616-632-5722 or fill out our new assistance form on the homepage of our website here.
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Celebrating 135 Years of Wildlife Wonder at John Ball Zoo
In 2026, John Ball Zoo celebrates 135 years! What began on 40 acres with a few deer and a black bear named “Ol’ Jack” has grown into a thriving home for nearly 2,000 animals across 200 species.
As one of fewer than 10% of zoos worldwide accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, we are proud to deliver award-winning conservation programs and inspire more than 720,000 visitors each year to connect with the beauty, wonder, and importance of wildlife.
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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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