Public Meetings - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Public Safety Committee met on September 23, 2025, for a 56-minute session featuring presentations from the Fire Department and Police Department, a detailed update on a new domestic violence lethality assessment program, and a statement from the Mayor regarding federal immigration enforcement. Fire Department Presentation - Deputy Chief Keith Borson presented data showing reported structure fires (top yellow/gold line) have continued to trend upward since 2020, while actual fires responded to (blue line) have remained stagnant. Year-to-date 2025: 112 actual structure fires. - The Fire Prevention Division has performed 589 operational permit inspections, 326 construction plan reviews, over 250 rough-in and final building inspections, and supported special event safety. - The Residential Safety Program has installed 5,000 smoke alarms and 1,900 carbon monoxide alarms in over 800 owner-occupied homes in 2025. Since inception: 88,700 smoke alarms, 20,800 CO detectors, and 16,000 homes visited. - Over 100 community events have been conducted, and Fire Safety Week in October 2025 will focus on lithium-ion battery safety. - Deputy Chief Borson noted the fire prevention division’s education efforts have helped keep actual fires down despite increased reporting. A committee member highlighted a roughly 10% drop in actual fires over four years. - The department spends approximately $300,000 per year on smoke detectors from its general operating fund, supplemented by federal grants; demand for detectors is fully met. Police Department Presentation - Chief Winstram reported continued declines in auto thefts, robberies, and person‑shot incidents. Auto theft numbers are down significantly from 2022 highs. - Year‑to‑date 2025: 9 murders (compared to 10 at this point in 2024); first 6 of the 9 have been closed by arrest, 3 are active investigations. The murder clearance rate is high, partly due to lower caseloads for detectives. - Fatal overdoses have decreased to 11 recorded last year, and over 1,000 illegally possessed guns have been recovered. - Aggravated assaults show no statistical significance; many are lower‑level incidents that receive quick police response. The chief attributed part of the robbery decline to community surveillance (e.g., Ring cameras) and proactive business partnerships. - The chief also reported the upcoming launch of five Community Policing Officers (CPOs), with interviews completed and equipment on order. Domestic Violence Initiative (Victim Services) - Victim Services Manager Clarissa Novak presented a grant‑funded project to improve response to intimate partner violence. The program uses the Danger Assessment for Law Enforcement (DAL), an 11‑question tool to identify victims at high risk of lethal or near‑lethal injury. - Officers will administer the DAL on scene and, for those above the threshold, make an immediate connection to advocates from Safe Haven Ministries and YWCA (grant‑funded sub‑awardees). - Implementation schedule: survivor listening session on October 16, training for GRPD in November, full DAL implementation on December 1, 2025. A multidisciplinary high‑risk team will launch in spring 2026. - Other victim services expansions include a victim response team (riding with patrol two days a week), crisis management briefings for neighborhoods, and a therapy dog. - Commissioner questions addressed inclusivity for LGBTQ+ victims (not yet directly partnered with LGBTQ+ organizations) and services for male victims (all genders are served by the partner agencies). - Chief Winstram noted domestic‑violence‑related homicides account for 10–20% of yearly homicides and that 60% of homicide offenders nationally have a history of domestic violence. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational. - The Mayor delivered a statement on a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision allowing skin color as a factor in probable cause for immigration enforcement. He expressed strong opposition and affirmed that the city’s public safety departments will not use that standard, remaining focused on local safety for all residents. - The City Manager noted that decisions regarding National Guard deployment are state‑level matters. - The meeting closed with appreciation for the presentations and a commitment to continued community‑centered public safety work.

The Fiscal Committee of the Grand Rapids City Commission met on September 23, 2025, at 8:30 AM and adjourned at 8:42 AM. All resolutions and reports were approved unanimously. Key discussions included contracts for police technology and complaint management software, a grant for auto theft prevention, budget adjustments, and economic updates from the Treasurer. Consent Calendar - Axon Enterprises Contract Amendment: Authorized a $277,155.90 contract amendment (total not to exceed $7,393,142) for 25 officer safety plans, 10+ bundles, and 10 pro license bundles for the Grand Rapids Police Department. The amendment supports increased staffing levels. (Item 1) - Civil Technologies Complaint Management Software: Authorized a contract not to exceed $22,500 (with two one-year renewal options) for a case and complaint management software solution for the Office of Police Accountability (OPA) and Office of Equity and Engagement. The software allows complainants to track progress online. (Item 2) - Auto Theft Prevention Authority Grant: Accepted continuation of a $1,121,067 grant from the Auto Theft Prevention Authority with a local match of $706,272. Due to the state budget impasse, the split is 37% state and 63% local (normally 60/40). Funds cover salaries for officers and a sergeant focusing on auto theft. (Item 3) - We RGR Cost Sharing Agreement: Approved a cost-sharing agreement among the City of Grand Rapids, Grand Rapids Public Schools, and Grand Rapids Public Library for production and distribution of We RGR. The City's share will increase from $25,000 to approximately $32,000. (Item 4) - GRPS Educational Television Authority Grant Reimbursement: Approved $37,484.02 in grant reimbursement from revenue sharing with cable providers for capital reinvestment in communications equipment. (Item 5) - Park Capital Projects Budget Substitution: Authorized an $830,000 budget substitution due to permitting challenges on the Lower Reach River project. Funds originally set aside for Anabuin Park repair will be reappropriated to fiscal year 2027 for other immediate park needs. (Item 6) - Budget Ordinance Amendment 2 (FY26): Approved amendment including third ward equity investments: two crosswalks, summer youth programming (OPA), $80,000 Girl 1000 allocation, mural and cultural tour, Sullivan Field, MLK Community Center (programming and a new position), domestic violence specialty court grant, and a support pilot program. (Item 7) - Bid List Resolution: Approved four routine bid list items for September 23, 2025. (Item 8) Comptroller's Warrant Report (August 26 – September 8, 2025) The report for cash payments totaling $31,465,357.12 was received and filed. This includes $6.1 million for employee payroll, $106,000 for income tax warrants, 339 income tax refunds, and 1,065 checks/electronic payments. (Item 9) Treasurer's Report (August 28 – September 9, 2025) The Treasurer reported on economic conditions: jobless claims rose to 263,000 (highest in nearly four years), job growth was revised down by 900,000, and August growth was only 22,000. Inflation remains at 3–3.1%, above the Fed's 2% target. The Federal Reserve recently cut interest rates by 25 basis points, with possibly one more cut by year-end. The City's total portfolio stands at $796 million, earning 3.59%. The report was received and filed. (Item 10) Key Outcomes All items were approved unanimously by voice vote. The meeting adjourned at 8:42 AM.

The Community Development Committee met on September 23, 2025, at 9:15 AM. The committee considered and unanimously approved five resolutions related to water system improvements, railroad crossing agreements, pedestrian safety beacons, park upgrades, and consulting services. A farewell was given to departing staff member Mr. Berkman. Discussion Items 1. Resolution Awarding Contract for Carbon Feed and Chemical Unloading Improvements - Mr. Berkman presented the project, which includes a new carbon feed process and chemical unloading into an underground containment tank. The current manual system requires bags to be carried to the third floor. Earhart Construction provided the low bid of $5,375,000, well under the engineer's estimate of $7.6 million. Construction will begin July 2026. The total not-to-exceed amount is $7,761,835 from the water system fund. Approved unanimously. 2. License Agreement with Grand Elk Railroad for Water Main Relocation - This agreement is part of the MDOT bridge replacement on Martin Luther King Jr. Street. The city previously approved a noise variance in August 2025 and an encroachment agreement with CSX in March 2025. This license agreement with Grand Elk Railroad allows the water main relocation needed for new bridge piers and foundations. Costs are funded by MDOT. Approved unanimously. 3. Agreement with MDOT for Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs) - The city received a Highway Safety Improvement Program grant of $1,071,000 for RRFBs at 14 locations (listed on page 11 of the packet). Mobile GR selected locations based on traffic volumes, pedestrian generators, access to schools/parks, crash data, bicycle/transit routes, social equity, and past concerns. MDOT administered the federal funding; Strain Electric provided the low bid of $1,064,873 (under the engineer's estimate of $1.2 million). Total project cost is $1.7 million. This resolution approves the MDOT agreement and authorizes a local share of $629,000 from the Vital Streets Capital Fund traffic safety line item. Commissioners requested a map of RRFB locations and broader discussion on pedestrian safety, potentially at a committee of the whole. Approved unanimously. 4. Increase in Scope for Ottawa Hills Park Restrooms/Parking and Housman Field Improvements - The parks department worked with community groups to rebuild the playground at Housman Field. The existing contract with Ketterberg Verhagen Inc. was expanded to include demolition and on-site support for the community build. This resolution authorizes an additional $123,650 and reallocates $550,000 in existing bond funds to the project (total not to exceed $1,168,524). The ribbon cutting for Housman Field occurred the previous week. Approved unanimously. 5. Consulting Services with Geotech Inc. for Energy, Lighting, and Communications (ELC) - This resolution authorizes $883,000 in engineering support services for ELC for fiscal year 2026. Tasks include maintaining records, reviewing designs, assisting with permitting, and master planning. The amount is budgeted in ELC's contract services line item. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five resolutions passed unanimously. - Commissioners requested a map of RRFB locations and a broader conversation on pedestrian safety, possibly through performance management or committee of the whole. - The committee recognized Mr. Berkman for his six years of service, with his last day on September 26, 2025. Farewell and adjournment around 9:30 AM.

The Committee of the Whole met on September 9, 2025, to discuss a welcoming week proclamation, a resolution for economic development bonds, and briefings on financial disclosure policies and the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center project. The meeting concluded with a motion to move into closed session. Welcoming Week Proclamation - Mayor David LeGrand proclaimed September 12–21, 2025, as Welcoming Week in Grand Rapids, emphasizing the city's commitment to inclusivity. The proclamation highlighted the National Welcoming Week 2025 theme "Stories We Share." - Representatives from the West Michigan Welcome Plan steering committee, including the Chamber of Commerce and Samaritas, attended. An invitation was extended to the West Michigan 2025 Global Gathering on September 13, 2025, at Garfield Park (12–6 p.m.). Consent Calendar - Resolution to Set Public Hearing for Beacon Hill at Eastgate Bonds: The committee unanimously approved (voice vote, all aye) a resolution to schedule a public hearing on September 23, 2025, for the Michigan Christian Home (d.b.a. Beacon Hill at Eastgate) application to issue up to $190 million in economic development bonds. The bonds would fund expansion and renovation, including demolition of obsolete assisted living and memory care buildings, renovation of the skilled nursing building (adding 29 units), and construction of 101 new independent living apartments and 48 assisted living units. The city noted the bonds do not impact the city's credit or create financial obligations. Discussion Items Fiscal Disclosure Policy Update - City Attorney presented three options: (1) strengthen compliance with the existing policy, (2) refer the matter to the Fiscal Committee for a revised form, or (3) innovate collaboratively. - Commissioners discussed the importance of transparency and trust. Commissioner supported referring to the Fiscal Committee, noting the need to include spouses to avoid loopholes and to require regular updates. Commissioner emphasized user-friendliness and avoiding burdensome requirements, while Commissioner suggested linking disclosure forms to commissioner biographies and noted differences from state-level requirements. - The consensus was to refer the matter to the Fiscal Committee for further development of a concise, effective form. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center Update - The nearly $20 million project, funded through parks millage, city capital, Third Ward Equity Fund, ARPA, and a MEDC grant, is under construction and expected to open in February 2026. - The facility features a full-size basketball court, rentable event space (capacity 200), fitness studio, two rentable classrooms, and office space for Our Community's Children and the King Park Neighborhood Association. - Programming includes free open gym basketball, a free after-school teen program (3–6 p.m.), free pickleball, expanded summer day camp, and youth/adult fitness classes. The event space will be available for rent at $150/hour for residents, $300 for non-residents (3-hour minimum); classrooms at $50/$100 per hour. - Staffing includes one full-time recreation supervisor and multiple part-time positions. The FY26 budget amendment (to be presented September 23) is $262,000 (over 90% from parks millage), with full annual operations projected at $450,000–$500,000. - Commissioners requested consideration of extended evening hours, affordability of rental rates, and potential community services like a drop-in office for city transactions. The City Manager committed to a comparative fee analysis before finalizing rates. Key Outcomes - Resolution passed: Unanimous approval to set a public hearing for Beacon Hill bonds on September 23, 2025. - Fiscal disclosure: Referred to the Fiscal Committee to draft an improved form and process, with emphasis on including spouses and regular updates. - MLK Community Center: Staff directed to bring a budget amendment to the September 23 meeting and to evaluate rental fees for accessibility. The facility is on track for a February 2026 opening. - The meeting moved into closed session to discuss labor and employee matters.

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on September 9, 2025, to address routine approvals, several public hearings, and resolutions on employee compensation. The meeting included public comments on the Safe Pitch Task Force, ArtPrize funding, a special assessment appeal, and concerns about a water main break. The mayor delivered a strong statement opposing racial profiling following a recent Supreme Court decision. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the August 26, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. - Petitions and communications were received and filed, including letters from Don Biker (driving/walking conditions), Heritage Hill board (Mobile GR projects), Easttown Community Association (stump removal funding), Heritage Hill Neighborhood Association (support for Sylvan Area Neighbors), Sophia Ward Brewer (resignation from Police Civilian Appeal Board), Guillermo Cesaros (resignation from Economic Development Corporation), Robert Cloy II (resignation from Urban Agricultural Committee), Scott Etchison (suggested name for new soccer team), Olivia Fussman (Garfield Park Neighborhood Association support for Sylvan neighbors), and John R. Albany (FOIA request). - Reports of city officers: Comptroller's warrant report for August 12-25, 2025 totaling $204,267,925.75; Treasurer's report for August 12-27, 2025; City Manager's report on contract and purchase approvals for January 2024 through August 2025. - The consent agenda, including items passed unanimously out of committee, was approved, with one item removed (ArtPrize funding) for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - D. Jones (entrepreneur) spoke in strong support of Resolution 1, which provides $50,000 to the Safe Pitch Task Force. He described his entrepreneurial start through the program in 2018, highlighted achievements (scholarships, bringing Epic Games, esports partnerships), and urged continued investment. - D. Jones (again) provided additional comments on a streaming platform (PARTI) and its sponsorship of upcoming esports finals at DeVos Place, noting that 50% of participants will be from Kent County. He also mentioned speaking at the Computer Science for Michigan conference. - Aaron (resident) appealed a special assessment of $1,138.90 for having a secondary resident, questioning why it must be classified as a rental when he lives there. - Mark (Grand Rapids resident) expressed concern about racial profiling of Latinos and Asians following a Supreme Court decision, citing ICE roundups at a Hyundai plant in Georgia. He urged boycott of Tesla. - Pete Walsh (attorney, 50-year resident) spoke about the Sylvan Adams water main break, alleging a similar incident in 2013 that flooded eight houses. He argued that governmental immunity does not bar the city from settling claims and urged the commission to address the issue. Discussion Items - ArtPrize Funding: Commissioner Robbins recused himself due to a committee affiliation. The commission approved funding for organizations to promote ArtPrize, aiming to enhance the event's economic impact across neighborhoods. Motion passed unanimously. - Resolution on Non-Represented Employee Compensation: Commissioner Purdue introduced a resolution summarizing adjustments to compensation and benefits for non-represented employees, designed to be comparable to already-approved union agreements. The three-year step increase is 5% (2025), 4% (2026), and 4% (2027). The mayor noted that this triggers pay adjustments for the commission itself, but acknowledged the Local Officers Compensation Committee's decision. Motion passed unanimously. - Salary Ordinance for Non-Represented and Executive Employees: A roll call vote resulted in unanimous approval. Immediate effect was granted. - Salary Ordinance for Appointed Officials: Commissioner Ysasi explained the schedule: 5% effective retroactively in 2025, 4% on July 1, 2026, and 4% on July 1, 2027. Roll call vote unanimous; immediate effect granted. - Public Hearing: Special Assessments and Nuisance Rolls: The city assessor reported that in July 2025, the commission ordered creation of a special assessment roll for unpaid code violations (January-June 2025). Property owners were notified August 8, and the roll was open for public viewing. Six appeals were received, and the hearing was closed with no further public testimony. Key Outcomes - Minutes of August 26, 2025 approved unanimously. - Petitions and communications received and filed as listed. - Consent agenda passed unanimously, with one item removed (ArtPrize funding) and later approved separately. - ArtPrize funding (grant for organizations) approved unanimously. - Resolution on non-represented employee compensation approved unanimously. - Salary ordinance for non-represented/executive employees approved unanimously (roll call) with immediate effect. - Salary ordinance for appointed officials approved unanimously (roll call) with immediate effect. - Public hearing on special assessments closed; six appeals received but no further action taken during the meeting. - Mayor's statement: The mayor condemned a recent Supreme Court decision allowing racial profiling, stating the commission will not participate in unconstitutional acts and that law enforcement will not discriminate based on skin color, accent, or language. - The meeting then moved into closed session for a review of an employee.

The Grand Rapids Community Development Committee met on September 9, 2025, at 9:15 AM to consider ten agenda items, all of which were approved unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 AM. Consent Calendar All items below were approved unanimously with no opposition. - Fireworks Permit: Approved a fireworks discharge permit for ATL Special FX for indoor special effects at Van Andel Arena in conjunction with the John Party concert on September 18, 2025. Inspector Ted Jensen recommended approval. - Sullivan Field Phase Two: Awarded a contract with Rockford Construction Company for construction management services for improvements to Sullivan Field Phase Two in the amount of $2,835,646, with total not to exceed $3,490,362. Work includes aesthetic grandstand improvements, museum space, new concession building, rehabilitated restrooms, and field work. Construction starts fall 2025, completion by end of 2026. - Oakley Place Reconstruction and Perkins Avenue Drainage: Awarded a contract with Wyoming Excavators Inc. for reconstruction of Oakley Place from Lyon Street to Crescent Street and drainage improvements on Perkins Avenue in the amount of $723,134, with total not to exceed $1,076,640. Work includes water main replacement, road reconstruction, new driveways, lead service line replacements (Oakley), and a ditch/culvert for erosion control (Perkins). Construction planned for 2026. - Government Center Ramp Signage: Awarded a contract with HL Bulcama Decorating for government center ramp signage and wayfinding painting in the amount of $125,970, with total not to exceed $255,635. No bids were received initially; the proposal was significantly under the engineer's estimate of $448,000. Funded by the parking services fund. - East Riverfront Project Amendment: Approved an increase of $677,250.87 to the construction contract with Owen Ames Kimball and authorized a memorandum of understanding with Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. to add $963,362 in grant funding from MEDC's wrap grant, for a total not to exceed $19,838,807. The additional scope includes pavers and swing benches. Project remains on schedule for 2026 completion. - Fire Training Facility Design Services: Authorized an increase to the professional services agreement with Williams Architects for the fire training facility at 8850 Panel Street NW in the amount of $865,000, with total not to exceed $27,721,892. The first bid package was awarded in March 2025. Future bid packages will establish a guaranteed maximum price estimated at $46 million. Project completion anticipated spring 2027. - Sidewalk and Utility Easement (1535 Adams St SE): Accepted a sidewalk and utility easement at 1535 Adams Street SE and authorized payment of $3,560 in conjunction with a water main project on Adams Street. This housekeeping item formalizes an existing sidewalk on private property. - Utility Easement (1700 28th St): Accepted a utility easement at 1700 28th Street for nominal consideration of $1 for a fire hydrant at the new Meyer gas station at 28th and Kalamazoo. - Brownfield Plan Amendment – 443 Sheldon Ave SE: Scheduled a public hearing for September 23, 2025, to consider an amendment to the City Brownfield plan for the 443 Sheldon Avenue SE redevelopment project. The property has been vacant since 2000, transferred to the State Land Bank and then to the Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority. The project includes 26 apartments in an 18,000 square foot building, with 6 units (20%) at 60% Area Median Income (AMI). Total eligible activities: approximately $3.8 million. - Brownfield Plan Amendment – Powers Place (764 & 800 Powers Ave NW): Scheduled a public hearing for September 23, 2025, to consider an amendment to the City Brownfield plan for the Powers Place Redevelopment Project. The project includes two buildings with four townhomes each (8 total). Construction costs approximately $2.7 million, with $1.18 million in eligible activities, including over $800,000 for site preparation. Staff recommended a waiver to interim housing guidelines to require one unit to remain affordable for 25 years, which was approved by the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. Discussion Items Staff provided additional context for several items as summarized in the Consent Calendar. Key presentations included: - Sullivan Field Phase Two: Carrie Enriquez (Parks Department) described the partnership with fans of Valley Field, the structural issues encountered in Phase One, and the scope of Phase Two improvements. - Oakley Place and Perkins Avenue: Jeff McCaw (Engineering) explained the bid packaging for efficiency and the specific work at each location. - Government Center Ramp: Staff noted the unique scope led to a lack of bids; a direct proposal was obtained at a favorable price. - East Riverfront Project: Mike Stahl (Engineering) detailed the original bid overage, removal of scope, and subsequent addition of grant funding to restore features. - Fire Training Facility: Staff updated on the design services contract and anticipated future costs. - Utility Easements: Staff explained the housekeeping nature of the Adams Street easement and the correction for the Meyer gas station easement. - Brownfield Plans: Miss Renero presented both Brownfield items, highlighting affordability components, eligible activities, and the site preparation cost for Powers Place. A commissioner noted that the Powers Place developer also received an emerging developer grant earlier in the year. Key Outcomes - All ten agenda items were approved unanimously by voice vote. - Public hearings for two Brownfield plan amendments were scheduled for September 23, 2025. - Construction contracts awarded for Sullivan Field Phase Two, Oakley Place/Perkins Avenue improvements, and government center ramp signage. - Contract amendments approved for the East Riverfront project and fire training facility design services. - Easements accepted for water utility projects.

The Fiscal Committee of the City of Grand Rapids met on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 8:30 AM to consider a series of resolutions, financial reports, and grant agreements. The committee unanimously approved all agenda items, including funding for gun violence prevention, cultural event promotion, ADA polling improvements, lead hazard remediation, stormwater and solar infrastructure, and an ERP contract change order. Financial reports and a city manager's contract report were received and filed. Discussion Items - Resolution 1: SAFE Task Force Pitch and Highlight Night – The committee approved $50,000 in funding to support the SAFE Task Force's annual event, which awards up to $10,000 each to five community organizations working to limit gun violence. Programs include recreational activities and mental health support. (Moved and supported; voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 2: Art Prize 2025 Cultural Promotions – The committee approved $15,000 to the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, West Michigan Asian Association, and African American Art and Music Celebration (each $5,000) to promote Art Prize 2025 and increase cultural representation. Commissioner King recused himself due to his role as city liaison. Other commissioners expressed support for engaging diverse groups. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 3: ADA Infrastructure Grant for Polling Place – The committee accepted a $10,000 grant from the Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks to fund ADA door upgrades at New Hope Baptist Church on Delaware Street. City Clerk Chris Hondorp explained the church will cover remaining project costs. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 4: Lead Hazard Control Grant – The committee accepted a $720,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for the eighth year of the Medicaid/CHIP Lead Hazard Control Program. The program provides housing rehabilitation for children with elevated blood lead levels, with referrals from the health department. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 5: Butterworth Street Stormwater Project Grant – The committee approved a $959,752 grant agreement with the U.S. EPA for the Butterworth Street Stormwater Project. City engineer Mike Stahl confirmed the total project cost is $3.3 million, including city funds, and will reconstruct the road and add stormwater features. Construction is expected to start in 2026. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 6: Solar Array Infrastructure Grant – The committee approved a $3,000,000 grant agreement with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) to build infrastructure connecting a proposed solar array at the Butterworth Landfill to the city's primary circuit line. The project includes running a circuit line and reconstructing Wealthy Street. Bidding is expected fall 2025, construction spring 2026. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 7: High Street IT Solutions Change Order – The committee approved a $690,500 change order to the ERP post-go-live support contract with High Street IT Solutions. Finance staff explained the need for additional stabilization, report refinement, and budget module support due to higher-than-anticipated post-launch needs. The total contract value is now approximately $13.3 million (original $10.3 million plus $3 million in change orders). A future presentation on ERP go-live lessons learned and ongoing support strategy is planned. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) - Resolution 8: Bid List Resolution for September 9, 2025 – The committee approved the routine bid list without specific discussion. (Voice vote passed unanimously.) Financial Reports - Comptroller's Report – For the period August 12–25, 2025, cash payments of $204,269,925.75 were released, including $5.6 million in payroll and $286,000 in income tax warrants. City Comptroller Max France noted that a paragraph was added to the report claiming compliance with all applicable rules, but he had not submitted that paragraph and requested a list of the referenced regulations, which had not yet been provided. The report was received and filed. - Treasurer's Report – For the period August 12–27, 2025, the city's investment portfolio stood at $834 million earning 3.65%. The treasurer discussed a 92% probability of a 25-basis-point Federal Reserve rate cut in the upcoming meeting, but cautioned that inflation may worsen before improving in 2026. The portfolio is positioned with flexibility in short-term U.S. treasuries. The report was received and filed. - City Manager's Report on Contract and Purchase Approvals – The committee received a summary of the city manager's use of purchasing authority (up to $100,000 for routine purchases, up to $500,000 for emergencies) from January 2024 through August 2025, provided for transparency. The report was received and filed. Key Outcomes All resolutions were approved unanimously by voice vote. All reports were received and filed. The committee adjourned at 9:00 AM.

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on August 26, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. with Mayor LeGrand presiding. Commissioners present: Kilbar, Knight, Balchak, Purdue, Sasi, and later Robbins. The meeting included public comments, a tribute to retiring City Attorney Anita Hitchcock, rezonings, budget amendments, labor agreements, opioid settlements, and a litigation settlement. Consent Calendar - Approvals of minutes, petitions and communications (including support and opposition letters on the climate action plan, comments on drone parking, and others), treasurer’s and comptroller’s reports (comptroller warrant report: $48,170,885.79 for July 22–August 11, 2025), and a city manager update on CAP implementation. Item E4 (appointment of interim city attorney) was pulled for separate discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - D. Jones spoke twice: first on agenda items, urging the city to invest in 3D-printed housing to address the housing crisis and invited commissioners to a future groundbreaking; later in general public comment he reiterated his support and thanked the retiring city attorney. - Mark from Grand Rapids suggested moving the Art Prize event to September 18–October 4 for better weather and increased revenue. - Aiden Wysackey thanked City Attorney Anita Hitchcock for her service. - Amy Brock criticized city policies on homelessness, urged empathy, and asked the commission to commit to no kickbacks from federal orders targeting unhoused residents. She also cited the need for rent control and expansion of services. - Austin McFarland called for greater city support for STEM education, noting a 17.3% proficiency rate in Grand Rapids Public Schools for math and science. - Sydney Deans raised concerns about river pollution and proposed a new burner for the landfill/waste plant. - An anonymous speaker made unrelated remarks but also thanked the retiring city attorney. - Lisa Griffin advocated for a police-community mentorship task force to improve communication and trust. - Stephanie Hall, representing residents affected by the June 2024 flood, asked for fair treatment and said previous pleas have fallen on deaf ears. Discussion Items - Tribute to City Attorney Anita Hitchcock and Appointment of Interim City Attorney: All commissioners expressed gratitude for Hitchcock's 26 years of service, highlighted her leadership and integrity, and welcomed Deputy City Attorney Philip Strom as interim city attorney. The motion to appoint Strom passed unanimously by voice vote. - Rezonings (two ordinances): 1. Rezoning the southerly 40.5 feet of 1362 Leonard Ave NW to MCN-LDR (low-density residential) to allow Mount Calvary Cemetery improvements; passed 7-0 by roll call. 2. Rezoning 1,916 square feet of 1364 Leonard Ave NW to TNTBA (traditional business area) to resolve a cemetery encroachment; passed 7-0 by roll call. - Budget Ordinance Amendment (2025-11, Amendment 1): Included debt service for soccer stadium/amphitheater bonds, police generator replacement, parks environmental justice grant, Roosevelt Park/Plaza grant, 61st District Court drug court grant, violence intervention grants, police COPS hiring grant, and city commission meeting streaming indexing/captioning. Also included elevator repairs. Passed 7-0 with immediate effect. - Police and Fire Retirement System Ordinance: Amended pension escalator to 1.5% compounding benefit after five years for retirees on/after July 1, 2025, per the GRPOA collective bargaining agreement. Passed 7-0 with immediate effect. - Salary Ordinance – Emergency Communication Supervisors (Teamsters 406): 5% wage increase effective July 1, 2025, 4% July 1, 2026, 3% July 1, 2027. Passed 7-0 with immediate effect. - Salary Ordinance – Association of Public Administrators (APAGR): 5% first year, 4% second and third years. Passed 7-0 with immediate effect. - Collective Bargaining Resolutions: Separate resolutions approving contracts with Emergency Communication Supervisors and APAGR for July 1, 2025–June 30, 2028. Both passed unanimously. - Opioid Settlement Resolutions: 1. Settlement with defendants (Elegant Inc., new pharmaceuticals, etc.) for estimated $128,877.87 over 15 years for abatement/prevention. Passed. 2. Settlement with Purdue Pharma and Sackler family for estimated $824,818.39 over 15 years. Passed. - Litigation Settlement – AB2 LLC v. City of Grand Rapids: Settlement for alleged breach of lease; city to provide parking validations (up to $3,000/month for Aug–Oct), hood parking meters on Ottawa Ave, and a one-time $5,000 rent reduction. Passed. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous (7-0 when all commissioners were present). - Philip Strom appointed interim city attorney. - Two rezonings approved to resolve cemetery encroachment. - Budget amendment and immediate effect adopted. - Police/fire pension escalator amended. - Wage increases approved for emergency communication supervisors and APAGR. - Two opioid settlement participation agreements approved, funds restricted to treatment/abatement. - AB2 LLC settlement approved. - Commissioner Purdue requested formal full-body briefings on federal and state policy changes (e.g., National Guard deployments, health care, housing). City Manager Washington acknowledged ongoing committee discussions and affirmed commitment to local control and constitutional policing. - Mayor LeGrand and City Attorney Hitchcock offered closing remarks on resilience and values-driven governance. - Meeting adjourned.

The Community Development Committee met on August 26, 2025, at 9:30 AM to consider six resolutions. All items were approved unanimously. The meeting was chaired by the committee chair, and presentations were led by staff members including Mr. Berkman and Ms. Enriquez. Discussion Items - Resolution awarding a contract for Oxford Trail improvements: The committee approved a contract with Earhart Construction for $5,015,335.98 for reconstruction and extension of the Oxford Trail from Wealthy Street to Hall Street. The total project cost is not to exceed $9 million. Funding comes from city ARPA funds and DGRI greenway funding. The project aims to connect the Black Hills and Roosevelt Park neighborhoods. Two bids were received, and Earhart came in under the engineer's estimate. Earhart will subcontract 15% of the work to an MLBE firm. The motion passed unanimously. - Resolution rejecting bids for Oxford Street reconstruction (Norwich to Godfrey): The committee voted to reject all five bids received on July 31, 2025, for reconstructing 800 feet of Oxford Street, including combined sewer separation and bridge rehabilitation. The low bid exceeded the $1.9 million estimate by approximately $1 million (over 50%). The city plans to review the scope and reissue a bid package in fall 2025 for construction next year. The motion passed unanimously. - Resolution approving a construction agreement and accepting 10 public utilities easements for Walnut Woods: The committee approved a construction agreement for a private residential development of 62 single-family homes in Kentwood, covering installation of public sanitary sewer and water main. Acceptance of easements gives the city rights to maintain those utilities. The motion passed unanimously. - Resolution accepting a utility easement at 220 Graham Street SW for water main relocation: The committee accepted a permanent easement on the south side of the property at 220 Graham Street SW for $19,800, related to the MLK Jr. Street bridge replacement project. Payment will come from the Vital Streets Fund. The motion passed unanimously. - Resolution granting a noise variance to MDOT for MLK Jr. Street bridge replacement: The committee granted a noise variance allowing MDOT to perform construction operations on up to 45 nights between March 30 and November 20, 2026, for the eastern portion of the MLK bridge replacement. Extremely loud operations (e.g., pile driving) remain prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM. A public hearing on August 12, 2025, received no comments. Residents within 600 feet were notified. The motion passed unanimously. - Resolution setting a public hearing for special assessment nuisance roll 8800: The committee set Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 2:00 PM as the date for the city commission to sit as the board of review to hear appeals on unpaid charges for services and code violations from January to June 2025. Property owners were notified on August 8, 2025. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All six resolutions were approved unanimously. - The Oxford Trail construction contract was awarded to Earhart Construction. - Bids for Oxford Street reconstruction were rejected, with a new bid package to be issued in fall 2025. - A noise variance for the MLK bridge replacement was granted. - A public hearing for special assessment appeals was scheduled for September 9, 2025.