Kent County Administrator's Digest - March 2, 2026

As we gear up for the March Madness basketball tournament this month, we're reminded of the excitement and competitive spirit of the season. As a longtime fan of the University of Michigan, I’ll definitely be cheering on the Maize and Blue and watching closely to see how far they can go. It’s also fun to see our in-state rivals, the Michigan State Spartans competing on the national stage.

Just like the teams on the court, our County staff demonstrate dedication and teamwork every day to make a difference in the lives of our residents. I got to see that in action this weekend when I joined our Community Action team for the 38th annual Walk For Warmth. The event brings people together to support residents who need a little extra help with utility bills during the winter. Nearly 100 people joined the walk after a short program - a great reminder of how much we care for one another here in Kent County. 

Additionally, five County departments attended the annual West Michigan Home & Garden Show this past weekend, connecting with residents and sharing information about County programs and services.

As always, please let us know if you have articles, topics, or ideas that you would like to include in future newsletters. - Al Vanderberg

In February, our Sheriff's Office announced that they will receive $750,000 in Community Project Funding to support the development of their new Real Time Intelligence Center.

The funding will be used to enhance networking software, purchase critical hardware, expand public and private camera integrations, and provide specialized staff training.

“This investment strengthens our ability to protect the people we serve,” said Kent County Undersheriff Bryan Muir. “When we talk about a Real Time Intelligence Center, we’re not just talking about cameras. We’re building a secure platform that allows local law enforcement agencies across Kent County to communicate and collaborate in real time.”

At a press conference, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten outlined the process behind securing the funding and emphasized the importance of equipping local law enforcement with modern tools to improve coordination and public safety. To learn more about this intitiative, visit here. 

"There are never two days alike, which is why I love it so much. I view my responsibility as providing staff with the resources and tools needed to get their job done... Our attorneys, support staff, and victim advocates are truly the engineers that keep our train on the tracks."

We’re grateful for Brandy’s commitment to public service and the energy she brings to her work every day.

In February, our Board of Commissioners recognized American Heart Month American Heart Month with an official proclamation and wore red to raise awareness about heart health!

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many risk factors are preventable. Staying active with at least 150 minutes of exercise each week, eating a balanced diet, monitoring blood pressure and cholesterol, avoiding tobacco, managing stress, and getting quality sleep can all make a meaningful difference.

By wearing red, our Board helped highlight the importance of prevention and taking simple steps toward healthier hearts across Kent County.

Learn more on the American Heart Association's website: heart.org

Ensuring a job is well done often comes down to having the right tools. When it comes to protecting farmland, one of the most effective tools is having a succession or transfer plan in place. Between 2017 and 2022, Kent County saw farmland acreage decline by about 9%, even as the number of farms increased by 4% - a clear sign of development pressure and fragmentation. Given these trends, land transfer plans have never been more important.

But transferring a viable agricultural operation can be daunting, whether you’re at the beginning or end of your ag career. It’s hard to feel confident that every aspect is being handled properly. Farming Forward is here to help.

Join us on Tuesday, March 17 at King Milling Co in Lowell for Farming Forward, a free workshop where you’ll learn how to start (or continue) working on a succession or transfer plan for your farm operation. Sessions will cover estate planning, agricultural conservation easements, tools to connect beginning farmers with your land, and mediation services when things don’t go quite as planned.

Meet Lori and Grant, two incredible stewards for our Parks Department who quietly (and consistently) help keep Millennium and Townsend Parks clean, one hike at a time.

Their journey with our parks began after rescuing their German Shepherd, Wally. While enjoying regular walks together, they realized something simple and powerful: if they were already out on the trails, they could also help take care of them - so they started carrying a trash bag and grabber.

And then there’s the love story…

On a chilly October day in 2022, just after crossing the big bridge on the Secchia side of the park, Grant dropped to one knee and proposed, with Wally by their side. Wally passed away just two months later, making those memories (walking the park, caring for the land, and sharing that “yes” moment) even more meaningful.

Since 2022, Lori and Grant have contributed over 600 volunteer hours simply because they care. Their story reminds us that stewardship doesn’t always look like a big event. Sometimes it’s just showing up, together, again and again.

With these cooler temperatures, our Animal Shelter wants to remind you that Michigan weather will always keep us guessing and to remind everyone that winter weather can be tough on pets.

Here are a few quick tips to keep them safe and comfortable:

• Bring pets indoors during freezing temperatures and provide a warm sleeping area.
• Wipe paws after walks to remove ice melt and prevent irritation.
• Limit time outside, especially for puppies, seniors, and short-haired pets.
• Check that outdoor water isn’t frozen.
• Tap your car hood before starting to protect cats seeking warmth.
• Make sure collars and microchip information are up to date in case pets get lost.

If you need support this winter, KCAS is here to help, together we can keep pets safe and families together.

Pictured above, MayMay, out on a field trip in her winter sweater. She is ready for adoption at KCAS!

Did you know that you can properly dispose of worn/damaged American flags at our Veterans Services Building at 836 Fuller Ave. in Grand Rapids? There is a box in their lobby where flags can be dropped off and are collected to be given a retirement ceremony, according to US Flag Code.

Proper flag retirement is a meaningful way to honor the symbol of our nation and the service members who have defended it. If you have a flag ready to be retired, consider stopping by and ensuring it receives the dignity and respect it deserves.

The Annual Report is available in Arabic, French, Kinyarwanda, Spanish, Swahili, and Vietnamese.

To view and read the full report, please visit here.

Please join us in congratulating Jerry Miller, Chair of the Kent Conservation District, on receiving the NACD Distinguished Service Award! 

Jerry has dedicated his career to conservation through science, service, and leadership. He serves as Kent County Conservation District Chair, represents Michigan on the NACD Board, and has advanced soil and water conservation nationwide through research, education, and advocacy. His leadership has also secured historic state funding to strengthen Michigan’s conservation districts.

We’re proud to see Jerry recognized nationally for his outstanding contributions to protecting our natural resources!