A Note From The Administrator
Last week, I was proud to attend the groundbreaking of the Grand River Restoration’s Lower Reach Project - a major step toward restoring the river through Downtown Grand Rapids. Over the next two years, this phase of work will remove four low-head dams, improve river safety, and restore aquatic habitat, creating better conditions for native fish and wildlife. This milestone reflects years of collaboration among tribal partners, nonprofits, public agencies, and community organizations working toward a shared vision for a healthier, more accessible river.
I also had the pleasure of attending the annual dinner of the Economic Club of Grand Rapids, where the highlight of the program was a conversation between former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. It was refreshing to see two leaders from different political parties engage in a thoughtful, respectful discussion, while also sharing good-natured humor and mutual appreciation. It was an enjoyable evening and a reminder of the value of dialogue and civility.
These two events are just a small example of the exciting things happening in Kent County and it is energizing to see that momentum, and to feel confident about the direction we are heading as a region.
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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Residents May Notice Low-Flying Helicopters During Utility Inspections
Residents and visitors in Kent County may notice low-flying helicopters between June 12–17 as part of routine electric transmission line inspections.
The inspections are being conducted by ITC to assess high-voltage transmission lines, structures, and equipment. Helicopters may fly at lower altitudes than usual to allow crews to safely inspect transmission infrastructure and identify potential maintenance needs, including damaged equipment and vegetation hazards.
These flights are part of regular system maintenance and reliability requirements. There is no cause for alarm if you see a low-flying helicopter near transmission lines during this period.
Inspections are weather-dependent and may occur throughout Kent County and neighboring counties.
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Parks Department and Library Partner for Summer Fun
Our Parks Department and Kent District Library are teaming up again this summer to bring reading and outdoor adventure together through KDL's Summer Wonder 2026 program.
Families can enjoy scavenger hunts, outdoor storytimes, StoryWalks, and Bookmobile visits at parks throughout Kent County. Children who register for Summer Wonder or the Grand Rapids Public Library Summer Reading Challenge will also receive a free family day pass to Millennium Park Beach.
The partnership encourages families to explore local parks, stay active, and discover the joy of reading all summer long. To learn more, visit here.
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Spring Into Action Luncheon Highlights Community Impact
From food distribution and water and utility assistance to essential senior services, our programs help meet some of Kent County’s most pressing needs. Attendees heard firsthand from staff and program participants about how these services are making a meaningful difference in the lives of residents every day.
A special thank-you to Commissioner Nancy Morales for her leadership and support, Advisory Board Member Daniel VanderMolen for his dedication, and everyone who attended and contributed to the event. We are also grateful to our generous sponsors: Consumers Energy, Intandem Credit Union, and Well Design Studio. Your generosity helps strengthen our community and support neighbors in need.
If you were unable to join us but would still like to support Community Action’s work, please consider making a donation at kentcountymi.gov/KCCAdonate.
Support Farmland Preservation at Culver’s Share Night
Volunteers Needed to Support Veterans Events in Kent County
Our Veterans Services team is seeking volunteers to support two meaningful events, honoring veterans and community traditions. Volunteers are needed on Tuesday, June 16 at 3 PM (rain date June 18) at Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids to respectfully collect and prepare for storage approximately 5,500 flags placed on veterans’ and spouses’ graves for Memorial Day; participants may arrive between 3:00 - 5:00 PM and stay as long as they are able.
In addition, volunteers are needed to help hand out items during the City of Grandville’s 4th of July parade on Saturday, July 4, 2026, beginning at 10 AM on Wilson Avenue.
Those interested in either opportunity can contact Tiffany Carr at carrt1@michigan.gov or Dan Zar at daniel.zar@kentcountymi.gov to get involved and support local veterans and community celebrations.
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Summer of Second Chances Adoption Event
Our Animal Shelter is helping more dogs find loving homes this month with its Summer of Second Chances Adoption Event, running through June 20.
During the event, dog adoption fees are reduced to just $70, making it the perfect opportunity to welcome a new companion into your family. Every adopted dog goes home spayed or neutered, microchipped, and up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations.
Whether you're looking for an active adventure partner, a loyal companion, or a new family pet, the shelter has many wonderful dogs waiting for their second chance. Visit the Kent County Animal Shelter to meet adoptable dogs and learn more about the adoption process.
View all adoptable pets online and help give a deserving dog the loving home they deserve.
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Board of Commissioners Recognizes Men's Health Month
Health Department Medical Director Reports Rise in Lyme Disease and Invasive Strep
We are proud to highlight a special article in the Kent County Medical Society Bulletin from our Health Department Medical Director, Dr. Kristin Oldenberg, highlighting significant increases in both Lyme disease and invasive Group A Streptococcal (iGAS) infections in Kent County.
Lyme disease cases have risen nearly 1,900% over the past decade as black-legged ticks continue to expand across Michigan. At the same time, invasive strep infections have increased since 2021, reflecting trends seen nationwide.
As residents spend more time outdoors this summer, the Health Department encourages preventive measures such as checking for ticks after outdoor activities, properly caring for wounds, and seeking medical attention when symptoms of infection arise. To read the full article, visit here.
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Make Spring Cleaning Easier with Kent County’s Recycling & Waste Directory
Spring cleaning often uncovers items that don't belong in your curbside recycling cart or household trash. From old electronics and rechargeable batteries to mattresses, paint, and other hard-to-dispose-of materials, knowing what to do with unwanted items can be a challenge.
Now, our Public Works team is making it easy with its online Recycling & Waste Directory. The searchable tool helps residents find local options to recycle, donate, or properly dispose of nearly any item, making spring cleaning simpler while helping keep reusable materials out of landfills.
Before tossing something in the trash, check the Recycling & Waste Directory to find the best disposal option and help support a cleaner, more sustainable Kent County.
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Announcing Two Community Fest Events This Year!
After a hugely successful event last year, we are excited to announce that we will be hosting two FREE Kent County Community Fests this year!
Our South Community Fest will be happening on Wednesday, July 29, from 4 to 7 PM at Brewer Park in Byron Center AND our North Community Fest will be happening on Thursday, August 13, from 4 to 7 PM at our North Campus in Cedar Springs.
These free, family-friendly events promise fun for all ages - so bring your friends and family to join the celebration!
Highlights include:
- Food trucks & free ice cream
- Kids’ activities: face painting, glitter tattoos, balloon animals
- Big trucks on display: fire engines, road equipment
- Meet 20+ County departments & access resources
- Sheriff’s K-9 demos & Mounted Unit meet-and-greets
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Beneath the Surface: The Sheriff's Office Dive Team
 Warm weather brings thousands of people to lakes, rivers, and beaches across West Michigan. While most days on the water are safe and enjoyable, emergencies can happen - and when they do, our Sheriff's Office Underwater Search and Recovery (USR) Team is ready to respond.
The 14-member team, made up of specially trained deputies and a public safety officer, conducts critical missions including recovering drowning victims, locating evidence, and assisting with complex water-related incidents. Team members train year-round, like in the above video, working in challenging conditions such as cold water, strong currents, and low visibility.
Equipped with specialized boats, advanced diving gear, underwater communications, and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the USR Team provides an essential public safety service throughout Kent County.
Whether responding locally or assisting elsewhere in the state, these highly trained professionals stand ready to help when emergencies occur on the water.
Apply For Our Board, Commission and Committee Openings!
Our Board of Commissioners is seeking residents interested in serving the community through appointment to its boards, commissions, and committees, and we have four vacancies listed below! Please review these opportunities and apply here.
The four vacancies that have been posted are:
- Agricultural Preservation Board - Conservation Representative
- Kent County Community Action Advisory Governing Board - Public Sector 3
- Kent Hospital Finance Authority - County Representative 1
- Remonumentation Peer Review Group - Professional Surveyor 1
How To Apply...
Qualified residents may apply by completing an online account and submitting an application on the County's website. Resumes and cover letters are encouraged. The application deadlines are 11:59 p.m. today or June 11, 2026.
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County Offices and Health Clinics Closed June 19 for Juneteenth
All County offices and Health Department clinics will be closed on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, the day when news of emancipation finally reached enslaved people in Galveston, Texas - more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued. The holiday recognizes the end of slavery in the United States and serves as a time to reflect on our nation's history, celebrate freedom, and honor the contributions of African Americans.
Regular business hours will resume on Monday, June 22.
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Explore Rewarding Careers At Kent County Today
A career with Kent County offers the chance to make a meaningful impact in the community through a wide range of roles in public service, including health, public safety, parks, courts, administration, and many other areas that support residents every day. 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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