Public Meetings - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Grand Rapids City Commission met as a Committee of the Whole on September 8, 2026. The meeting opened with a Welcoming Week proclamation, followed by approval of economic development resolutions, an election update from the City Clerk, a briefing on the Kent County corrections millage, and a statement from the Mayor on immigration and surveillance policies. Proclamation and Recognitions - Mayor David Le Grand proclaimed September 10–19, 2026 as Welcoming Week in Grand Rapids, emphasizing the city’s commitment to inclusion and support for immigrant and refugee communities. - Sierra (last name not provided) and Omar from the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce spoke in support of the West Michigan Welcome Plan, highlighting collaborative efforts and the importance of welcoming initiatives. Business Items (Resolutions) - Industrial Development District for City Built Brewing: Unanimously approved a resolution establishing an industrial development district at 1560 Taylor Avenue for a beverage production facility, taproom, and commercial destination. - 12-Year Tax Exemption: Unanimously approved a 12-year Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for the same project. - Downtown Social District Expansion: Approved addition of 1151–1517 South Division to the Commons social district, followed by approval of the social district for that area. All votes were unanimous. Closed Session - The commission voted to enter closed session to discuss litigation matters. Election Update - City Clerk Joel Hunterman presented an update on the August 4, 2026 primary election: 153,000 registered voters, 47,000+ voted (31% turnout), a 7.36% increase from 2022 and 12,000 more voters. Highest precinct turnout was 50.2% in Precinct 25 (Second Ward); only one precinct had under 10% turnout. - Discussed absentee and early voting trends, the impact of Proposal 2 (2018) and Proposal 3 (2022) on registration and voting. - Outlined plans for the November 3, 2026 election: 13 days of early voting (October 20–November 1) at four locations, including a new site at New Hope Baptist Church. Halloween hours (Oct 31) are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Same-day registration available November 2–3 at DeVos Place. - Addressed potential impacts of Executive Order 14399 (citizenship verification) on ballot mailing and noted ongoing legal challenges. Clerk assured monitoring and promised memos as needed. - Social media and billboard campaigns planned in English and Spanish. Briefing: Kent County Corrections and Detention Millage - Sheriff Michelle Shell (retiring after 37 years) and Deputy Chief Mike Maycroft presented a proposal for a 20-year renewal and increase of the corrections millage from 0.73 to 0.98 mills. The millage funds operation of the jail and juvenile detention facility. Current millage expires in 2029; proposal appears on the November ballot. - Savings for Grand Rapids: Elimination of per diem fees (saving $547,000/year from FY25 billing) and reduction of booking fee to $25 (10% of cost). The city spent $637,000 in FY25 and $764,000 in FY26 on lodging and booking. - Sheriff emphasized rehabilitation programs (e.g., MAP program reduces recidivism from 48% to 23%), medical and mental health services, and the need to replace the outdated 1972 medical wing. Facility needs estimated at $38 million for improvements. - Commissioners raised concerns about the rushed process, lack of a specific spending plan in ballot language, and the impact on residents (estimated $24/year per $100,000 taxable value). Commissioner Purdue noted the city would save $500,000 but residents would pay $2 million more annually, and pointed to recent county decisions on the zoo/museum millage as eroding trust. - Commissioner Sasi asked about the municipal fee framework being separate from ballot language; Sheriff clarified that fee changes require separate county action. - Commissioner Belcher and others called for more detailed planning and suggested taking up the issue in legislative committee. - Mayor noted that the city currently subsidizes courts with nearly $10 million annually and has police overtime costs for jail transport, and the millage would provide fiscal relief. Mayor’s Statement on Welcoming Policies and Surveillance - Mayor Le Grand read a statement reaffirming the city’s welcoming values. He clarified that Grand Rapids does not enforce federal civil immigration warrants, has no 287(g) agreements, and does not operate detention centers. - Announced that license plate readers will now be covered under the city’s community surveillance policy, placing a moratorium on new cameras without commission approval. Future efforts will focus on limiting data sharing and exploring alternative vendors. - Encouraged reporting of any policy violations to the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (industrial district, tax exemption, social district addition, social district approval) passed unanimously. - Closed session held for litigation. - Clerk to provide updates on election executive orders via memos. - Possible legislative committee discussion on whether the commission should take a formal position on the corrections millage (suggested by Commissioner Purdue). - Mayor’s statement serves as policy clarification for immigration and surveillance.

The Fiscal Committee of the City of Grand Rapids met on September 8, 2026, at 8:30 AM. The meeting addressed several funding resolutions, salary ordinances, and financial reports. All resolutions were approved unanimously. The committee also received reports on a recent bond sale, warrant payments, and the city's investment portfolio. Consent Calendar - Resolution Recognizing Beer City Dog Biscuits as a Local Civic Organization: Approved unanimously. The nonprofit provides work skills and employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, serving over 350 participants. The resolution allows the organization to obtain a state lottery license for fundraising. - Resolution Accepting $720,000 Grant from MDHHS for Lead Hazard Control: Approved unanimously. The grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services funds lead hazard reduction in homes with young children. A commissioner noted the program's positive impact on families. - Resolution Accepting $834,595 Grant from Auto Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA): Approved unanimously. The grant supports the combined auto theft team with two officers and one detective. The amount is lower than previous years ($1.1 million) due to Wyoming's non-participation, and the state match decreased from 40% to 35%. - Resolution Authorizing $485,000 Budget Substitution for LED Replacement Phase Three: Approved unanimously. The project is over 99% complete; the remaining funds cover non-standard fixtures. A commissioner requested follow-up information on energy and carbon savings. - Salary Ordinance Amending Election Technician Aid Classification: Approved unanimously. The classification, used for internal staff and returning retirees assisting during elections, received a wage increase for the first time since 2017. - Salary Ordinance Creating Utility Valve Specialist Classification: Approved unanimously. The new position brings previously outsourced work in-house. - Bid Resolution List for September 8, 2026: Approved unanimously. Eleven routine items were included with no questions. Public Comments & Testimony - Miss Hooker, representing Beer City Dog Biscuits, presented the organization's mission to provide work skills, life skills, community, and employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She noted that about 80% of the budget comes from fundraising and 20% from dog biscuit sales. The organization serves 350 individuals four days a week, half from the ISD Transition Program. She invited commissioners to tour or volunteer. Discussion Items - Report of Bond Sale – $39,540,000 Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds Series 2026A: The city sold bonds with a premium, resulting in $41.5 million in proceeds. The funds will complete the Fire Training Center campus and the Scribner public works facility. The bonds were oversubscribed, reflecting strong investor confidence in Grand Rapids. The city's AA rating contributed to favorable pricing. The treasurer noted that bond proceeds must be spent within two years. - Comptroller's Warrant Report (August 11–24, 2026): Total cash payments released were $69,426,965.73, including $6.4 million for payroll, 181 income tax warrants with 772 refunds, and 1,141 accounts payable. The report was received and filed. - Treasurer's Report (August 12–25, 2026): The city's investment portfolio stands at $670 million with a yield of 3.26%. Interest rates held at 3.5%–3.75%. The treasurer noted that 162,000 jobs were added, increasing the probability of a rate hike in September to 60%. He emphasized the importance of Federal Reserve independence and expressed concern about political pressure for rate cuts. The report also included commentary on rising costs for groceries, gas, and back-to-school expenses, and the impact on community budgets. The report was received and filed. Key Outcomes - All seven resolutions and salary ordinances were approved unanimously. - The bond sale report, comptroller's warrant report, and treasurer's report were received and filed. - No further action was taken. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 AM.

The Community Development Committee met on September 8, 2026, from 9:18 a.m. to 9:36 a.m. The chair opened with thanks to the labor movement. All 13 agenda items were approved unanimously by voice vote. The committee scheduled multiple September 22, 2026 public hearings, approved a green-space memorandum of understanding, and authorized contract and easement agreements. Special Assessment Public Hearing - Approved a resolution setting Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 7 p.m. as the date for the City Commission to convene as Board of Review to hear appeals on Nuisance Roll 8808. The transcript shows the date first stated as 2025, then immediately corrected to 2026. - Staff reported the roll covers unpaid charges for services and code violations issued between January and June 2026, including housing violations, yard violations, rental certifications, and blight monitoring. Property owner notices were sent August 14, and the roll was open for inspection in the assessor's office. Obsolete Property Rehabilitation (OPRA) Districts and Exemption Certificates - 1956 Eastern LLC, 1956 Eastern Avenue SE: Scheduled a September 22, 2026 public hearing for an OPRA district and an 11-year exemption certificate. The project will rehabilitate an 800-square-foot structure into eight one-bedroom apartments, with an estimated $1.5 million investment. Staff said developer Mary Malone is in the paused emerging developer program queue and will be considered when funding is available; a commissioner noted the city has worked with her since 2017. - 1024 MLK LLC, 1024 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE: Scheduled a September 22, 2026 public hearing for an OPRA district and a 10-year exemption certificate. The project will rehabilitate a 5,300-square-foot structure into a child care facility plus flexible after-school and community space, with about $1 million investment, a 20% inclusion plan goal, and eight full-time equivalent jobs. Developer Latrice Hampton also applied for a corridor improvement district facade grant. - North Quarter Development LLC, 2130 Plainfield Avenue NE: Scheduled a September 22, 2026 public hearing for an OPRA district and a 10-year exemption certificate. The project will rehabilitate a 3,000-square-foot structure into four one-bedroom apartments at 100% AMI, create a new 1,600-square-foot commercial white-box building, and share a courtyard. Staff highlighted an 82% inclusion plan goal, described as the highest the office has seen, with a micro-local contractor already identified. Industrial Facilities Exemption Revocation - Approved a resolution requesting revocation of an existing industrial facilities exemption certificate under PA 198 for Hudsonville Products LLC. Staff said the recipients sold the property and no longer occupy it, so the certificate is being revoked for cleanup. Green Space MOU – 863 7th Street NW - Approved a resolution authorizing an MOU with Commonwealth Development Corporation of America for future conveyance of green space. Parks staff said Commonwealth is acquiring the property from Grand Rapids Public Schools and, after acquisition, will convey about 0.6 acres to the city; the parks department will maintain and develop it as parkland. - Commissioner Belshack provided context from a West Side CIA presentation: the city will take over the southwest quadrant with existing structures and fences; the front lawn will remain green space and be subject to historic federal funds; and the middle green space between the building and the alley may be developed into housing and parking, requiring future planning commission work. Staff noted the full site is about three acres, making the 0.6-acre conveyance a significant portion. Gateway Signage, Construction and Easement Agreements - Approved a contract with J. Rank Electric Inc. for West Side gateway signage at three locations: Leonard Street (blue branding), Bridge Street (green), and Fulton Street (red), in the amount of $1,198,991.50 with a total not to exceed $1,700,000. Staff said heights were set at 16 feet and signs can be removed for oversized loads. Commissioner Belshack said the West Side CIA accepted a bid about 30% higher than estimated to avoid rebidding and keep the timeline; signs could be installed in February, April, or May after winter fabrication. - Approved a construction agreement and public utilities easement for Lakewood site condominiums, a private Kentwood development near 52nd Street and Wing Avenue, with utilities maintained under the city's utility service contract. - Approved a construction agreement and sidewalk/utilities easement for JARS Cannabis at 1947 Alpine Avenue, including traffic signal work for driveway access and sidewalk improvements to create a more pedestrian-friendly space. - Approved a sidewalk and utility easement at 915 Leffingwell Avenue NE for $1 in connection with the Leffingwell and Bradford reconstruction, extending the easement for bridge structural anchoring in an area with questionable soils entering a wetland. Key Outcomes - All 13 agenda items passed unanimously by voice vote. - Public hearings were scheduled for September 22, 2026 for Nuisance Roll 8808 appeals and for OPRA district/exemption applications from 1956 Eastern LLC, 1024 MLK LLC, and North Quarter Development LLC. - The committee approved the green-space MOU, the gateway signage contract, construction and easement agreements, and the industrial facilities exemption revocation.

The Committee on Appointments convened at 8:00 a.m. and adjourned at 8:02 a.m. The short agenda focused on the current board and commission vacancy list, upcoming year-end appointment planning, and a request for additional membership detail in vacancy materials. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. Discussion Items - Miss Bosker reported that the vacancy list is largely unchanged. The mayor has someone in mind for the Land Bank appointment, and committee members have someone in mind for a Vital Streets appointment; staff are finalizing vetting and hope to place those on the next agenda. - Bosker said she will provide a draft of the year-end agenda item to the mayor this week, consolidating expected appointments, vacancies, and reappointments, and will share it with committee members. - Applications are coming in for some Corridor Improvement Authority (CIA) vacancies, and those will continue to be processed even though those terms do not end at year end. - Commissioner Isassi asked about the required makeup of CIA bodies, specifically whether each body can have up to two resident members. Bosker said the requirement is at least one resident, and that practice has been to avoid a resident majority because of business/property-owner interests. - Commissioner Isassi requested that the vacancy sheet include information on the makeup of each body (number of residents versus property/business owners) as members are added or lost. Bosker acknowledged the request. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were taken. - Next steps include adding Land Bank and Vital Streets appointments to a future agenda, preparing the year-end appointment agenda item, continuing CIA vacancy fills, and updating vacancy sheets to show resident versus property/business-owner membership composition.

The Grand Rapids City Commission held a regular meeting on August 25, 2026, beginning in the evening. The meeting included public comments on agenda items, a budget ordinance amendment, public hearings on an industrial facilities exemption for City Built Brewing, and extensive public testimony opposing the city's use of Flock automatic license plate readers (ALPRs). Commissioners and the mayor committed to continued discussion and review of the Flock program but took no immediate action to alter it. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda, which included routine approvals and items that passed out of committee unanimously, was approved without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Ivan Diaz (First Ward) spoke on item C1, the Cure Violence contract, urging the commission to use its lobbyists to advocate for state and federal investments in social services and housing, and for increased taxes on the wealthy to fund such services. - Lucas (First Ward) addressed item E2 (2027 meeting schedule), criticizing the cancellation of an evening meeting in July and the overall schedule changes that reduce public access. He urged the commission to hold all scheduled meetings and to prioritize public participation. - Mark (Grand Rapids) spoke on item regarding a contract with VO4 for shared micromobility services, expressing concern about potential policy changes under a new transportation secretary that could eliminate bike lanes and ride-share services. He warned of unpredictable federal actions. - Daniel (30-year resident) opposed the Cure Violence contract (item C1) from a religious perspective, urging the money be used instead to stop abortions at 425 East Cherry. He claimed the leading cause of death for African Americans is abortion. - Alex Straith attempted to speak on a moratorium on expanding the Flock network but was informed the item was not on the agenda and could be addressed in the later general public comment period. - Eric (Second Ward) spoke in favor of the VO4 contract, praising the switch from Lime and advocating for safer bike lanes and better e-bike infrastructure. - D Jones supported the Cure Violence initiative but called for also addressing poverty, affordable housing, and healthcare. He urged the city to also support local neighborhood organizations with global goals. - Martha Cooper (Grand Rapids) raised a point of order about unequal treatment of speakers, noting a previous speaker was allowed to speak on abortion (not on agenda) while another was stopped from speaking on Flock. - Cindy Hicks (Sheldon Ave) opposed the Cure Violence contract, stating it has not reduced violence in her neighborhood. She described a recent incident where GRPD officers beat a youth due to a Flock camera, and she criticized the over-concentration of Flock cameras in her area. - Public Hearing on City Built Brewing: Several speakers expressed support, including Lucas (commending the business), D Jones (supporting jobs), Emma Kema (supporting community involvement), and another speaker praising the brewery's food. One speaker opposed the brewery on religious grounds, citing harm from alcohol. The hearing was closed without a vote, referred to committee. - General Public Comment (primarily on Flock): Over 40 speakers addressed the commission, the vast majority opposing the use of Flock cameras. Speakers raised concerns about Fourth Amendment violations, lack of warrants, racial profiling, data security and sharing, federal access (ICE), opposition to mass surveillance, and demanding cancellation of the contract and adoption of sanctuary city policies. A few speakers expressed general support for the police but still opposed Flock. No speaker spoke in favor of Flock cameras. Discussion Items - Budget Ordinance Amendment (Fiscal Year 2027): Commissioner Isassi presented a series of budget adjustments covering various departments, including receipt of a NextCycle Michigan grant for food scrap bins, improvements to the Grand River, Belknap Park pickleball court design, a FEMA hazard mitigation grant, Lincoln Park improvements, fleet vehicle purchases, support for the South Town Arts and Culture Initiative (Third Ward Equity Fund), capital bond and millage alignment for parks, program income for community development, Art Prize South Prize funding, North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority signage, and a WEGE Foundation grant for a wood chipper. Commissioner Kilgore highlighted the South Prize initiative expanding Art Prize venues in the Third Ward from one to 24, and noted economic challenges due to federal policies affecting city contracts. The ordinance passed unanimously on a roll call vote (5-0). Immediate effect was approved. - Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for City Built Brewing: The Economic Development Department presented a 12-year tax exemption for City Built Brewing at 1560 Taylor Avenue. The $1.6 million project would rehabilitate a vacant property for beverage production and a tap room, retaining 14 jobs and creating 12 new jobs at an average wage of $30/hour. Commissioners expressed support, noting livable wages and community benefits. The public hearing was held, and then closed with referral to the committee of the whole. - Flock Cameras/ALPRs: Although not a formal agenda item, the topic dominated the meeting. Commissioners and the city manager acknowledged the public concerns and committed to further review. Mayor LeGrand stated the meeting was a starting point for conversation, not a decision point, and praised the reasoned testimony. Commissioner Kilgore confirmed she supported ACLU recommendations and will work on an ordinance. Commissioner Isassi noted there are 31 Flock cameras (not 100+ as some speakers claimed) and that the conversation is ongoing. The city manager thanked the police department and the public, and said staff will reflect on input and work with the city attorney. Key Outcomes - The Budget Ordinance Amendment for Fiscal Year 2027 was approved unanimously (5-0) with immediate effect. - The public hearing on the City Built Brewing industrial facilities exemption was closed; no vote was taken. The matter was referred to the committee of the whole for further discussion. - Several petitions and communications were received and filed, including messages expressing concern about Flock cameras, the Cambridge Park pilot program, police use of force, and noise from Accurisure Amphitheater. - No action was taken on Flock cameras. Commissioners and the mayor committed to continued dialogue, transparency, and possible policy adjustments. Commissioner Kilgore announced a community conversation on September 15 with the police chief to further discuss Flock and surveillance.

The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee met on August 25, 2026, at 8:30 AM (adjourned at 8:49 AM) to consider several budget substitutions, grant appropriations, and routine financial reports. All items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Resolution authorizing a contract with Cure Violence Global (not to exceed $125,000) for training and technical assistance to support the Cure Violence model in Grand Rapids. Approved. - Budget substitution of $700,000 for improvements to Grand River Riverfront Phase 1 (US 131 to CSX Railroad). Approved. - Budget substitution of $2.9 million for construction of Grand River Edges Trail East (Grand Rapids Eastern Railroad to Ann Street). Approved. - Budget substitution of $2.9 million for improvements to Oxford Trail (Wealthy Street to Hall Street). Approved. - Budget substitution of $40,000 for the Irene and Linda water main extension (PFAS-impacted area). Approved. - Budget substitution of $263,000 for phase 4 of the headworks grit pass upgrade (engineering services). Approved. - Bid list resolution for August 25, 2026 – nine routine items, including an increase to the West Michigan janitorial contract for the Martin Luther King Community Center. Approved. Discussion Items - Ordinance amendment to the 2026 budget (amendment No. 2): Multiple grant appropriations were approved, including: $10,000 (Eagle next cycle Michigan grant), $12.9 million (Grand River revitalization from Fulton St. to I-196), $36,000 (pickleball club donation for Bell Map), $150,000 (FEMA hazard mitigation planning), $55,000 (Lincoln Park capital improvements), annual fleet carry-forward funds, $20,000 (South Town Arts and Culture Initiative from Third Ward equity fund), $1.3 million (parks capital bond/millage realignment), various CDBG and HOME program income appropriations, $30,000 (South Prize event from Third Ward equity fund), $150,000 (North Quarter corridor signage), and $335,000+ (WEGE Foundation grant for wood chipper procurement with matching funds). Commissioners expressed enthusiasm for Third Ward equity fund rollouts and the South Prize extension to the south side. - Comptroller's Warrant Report (July 28 – August 10, 2026): Total warrants issued: $189,200,114.64, including $6.5 million for payroll and 608 income tax refunds. Report received and filed. - Treasurer's Report (July 29 – August 11, 2026): Interest rates held at 3.5–3.75%; July jobs report showed a loss of 23,000 jobs. Consumer prices up 3.4%. City investments remain strong at $721 million total (including $50 million fiduciary tax money). Summer tax collection rate reached 94%. Treasurer highlighted escalator clauses in contracts tied to fuel costs. Report received and filed. Key Outcomes - All eight resolutions and ordinance amendments passed unanimously without opposition. - Comptroller's and Treasurer's reports were received and filed. - Meeting adjourned at 8:49 AM.

The City Commission convened as a Committee of the Whole on August 25, 2026, to address several agenda items, including a development liquor license, the 2027 meeting schedule, election polling locations, Art Prize 2026, the SAFE Task Force annual update, and an update from Just GR. All votes were unanimous. The meeting concluded with a motion to move into closed session for litigation discussion. Consent Calendar - Resolution for Development Liquor License (1415 Plainfield NE – Hoxie House LLC): Approved unanimously. The 102‑year‑old building will house a café-by-day, bar-by-evening concept run by first‑time restaurateur Angela Tramper. - Resolution Adopting the 2027 City Commission Meeting Schedule: Approved unanimously. The schedule includes a budget work session in early May and a special meeting tentatively set for November 12 for the annual workshop. The Mayor noted that meetings may be cancelled if there is insufficient work, and public comment remains available at other meetings and via direct contact with commissioners. - Resolution Approving Election Day Polling Locations and Early Voting Sites for the 2026 Election: Approved unanimously. Changes from the August primary include adding a fourth early voting site at New Hope Baptist Church, moving the Yankee Clipper Library location back (flooding resolved), and extending early voting from 9 to 13 days to align with the 14‑day in‑person registration period. - Resolution Approving Art Prize as a Special Event (Sept 1 – Oct 10, 2026): Approved unanimously after a detailed presentation. - Motion to Move into Closed Session for Litigation Discussion: Approved unanimously. The closed session will be held in the law library (room 601) after the public meeting. Discussion Items Art Prize 2026 Presentation Yvette Pittman (Office of Special Events) and Art Prize Executive Director Tyler Loftus, along with deputy directors Ellen Trombow and Coleman Brooke, presented the vision for the 17th annual Art Prize. Key points: - Expected to welcome more than 900,000 visitors, with an economic impact of $82.6 million (based on 967,000 visitors in 2025). - This year’s theme incorporates America’s 250th anniversary and President Ford’s legacy; branding includes Roman numeral 38 on the Blue Bridge. - Four themed weekends: Dance, Music, Visual Arts, and Fashion, each curated by local arts organizations (Grand Rapids Ballet, Opera Grand Rapids, etc.). - Major events: Opening celebration on Pearl Street Bridge with the “Earth Harp” (world’s largest stringed instrument), a parade with 14‑foot puppets representing city commissioners, fireworks, and a drone show at the awards ceremony. - New venue cluster at 1111 Godfrey in the Black Hills neighborhood; West Side venue fees waived through CIA/CID support. - “South Prize” partnership: 24 businesses in the third ward hosting artworks; a trolley will connect South Prize to downtown Art Prize on voting day (Sept 26). - Over 1,100 artists and 1,025 entries – the largest number since 2018. 159 venues, with city sites including Blue Bridge, Sixth Street Park, Calder Plaza, and City Hall. - Awards include the city‑supported Community Awards, a new Delta Airlines Award (artwork to hang in the Detroit Sky Club for one year), and a Guinness World Record attempt for the most attended fashion show (current record 3,000; amphitheater capacity 12,000). - SAFE Task Force will host the Gun Violence Memorial Art Installation RFP reception on October 1 during Art Prize. - City Manager Mark Washington and several commissioners expressed strong support, highlighting the event’s unique role in Grand Rapids’ identity and its expanding reach into neighborhoods. SAFE Task Force Annual Update Letisha Lipscomb, Civilian Violence Prevention and Intervention Manager, presented the FY26 update alongside pitch winners Duke Turley (ADT Logistics Drive Your Future) and a mentee. Key details: - SAFE Task Force was founded in 2015. The annual Pitch Night awards $50,000 in grants (up to five projects at $10,000 each). - Highlighted projects: ADT Logistics Drive Your Future (workforce development for at‑risk youth ages 16‑21, full enrollment, new center and website launched) and African Resource Center’s Safe Youth project (empowering African immigrant youth ages 16‑24 with socio‑emotional skills and mental health resources). - Technical assistance provided by Renard Jenkins (Side Strategies) through workshops on grant readiness, vision/mission, and organizational infrastructure. - Gun Violence Memorial Art Installation: $20,000 RFP for a 3D sculpture; RFP release coming in the following week, with a community informational meeting, artist selection, and a reception on October 1, 2026. - Other initiatives: Safe Summer poster campaign (150 posters), tabling at events, $500 sponsorship for an accessible playground in the third ward, and ongoing collaboration with KConnect on out‑of‑school time for suspended/expelled youth. - Commissioners praised the work, noting the importance of addressing basic needs and violence prevention. Commissioner Knight highlighted that basic needs like housing and jobs are community safety issues. Just GR Update Pastor Paris McMurray (co‑chair) and Rafa Castanon (Corewell Health) presented findings from data analysis of public safety systems. Key findings: - Over‑reliance on arrest and pretrial custody: 45% of jail admissions (about 3,500 per year) are released within 24 hours for non‑DUI, low‑risk offenses like trespassing. - 33% of all custodial situations come from just 7 neighborhoods, which represent only 10% of Grand Rapids’ population. - Domestic violence accounts for 54% of violent crime jail bookings but 28% of cases are denied prosecution; concentration in neighborhoods with high stress and instability. - Police‑community disconnect is cited as a top challenge in distressed neighborhoods; arrests for violations of law enforcement conditions cost over $1 million annually. - The Heart Side neighborhood ranks highest in combined eviction filings, jail bookings, and ER visits, with no systematic data sharing among shelters, hospitals, and jails. - Next steps: “Action sprints” (listening sessions) with nonprofit, institutional, and neighborhood partners in fall 2026 to gather community‑generated solutions. A cross‑sector data dashboard will be made publicly available. - Mayor LeGrand and commissioners emphasized the need to reform pretrial detention, reduce recidivism, and address root causes like housing and economic insecurity. The city manager noted that the best way to reduce jail costs is to prevent entries, and supported face‑to‑face visits in jail to lower recidivism. Key Outcomes - Liquor license for 1415 Plainfield NE: Approved unanimously. - 2027 city commission meeting schedule: Approved unanimously. - Election polling locations and early voting sites for 2026: Approved unanimously. - Art Prize 2026 special event: Approved unanimously. - Move into closed session for litigation: Approved unanimously. - SAFE Task Force update: Received; no vote required. - Just GR update: Received; no vote required. Commissioners directed staff to explore integration with housing and basic needs efforts.

The Community Development Committee met on August 25, 2026, at 9:15 AM and adjourned at 9:23 AM. The committee unanimously approved seven resolutions including a fireworks discharge permit for Art Prize, a water main extension contract in partnership with Cascade Township and EGLE for PFOS remediation, a parking lot cost increase, a development agreement, easement actions, and a new micromobility services agreement with Vio. Consent Calendar No consent calendar was identified; each item was individually moved and seconded. Discussion Items - Fireworks Discharge Permit (Resolution 1): Approved a permit for Pyro Technico Fireworks Inc. for special effects at Gillette Bridge on September 18, 2026, in connection with Art Prize. The date was amended from September 19 to September 18. Approximately 5,000 shells (1.25 to 3 inches) will be launched starting at about 9:30 PM. Motion passed unanimously. - Water Main Extension Contract (Resolution 2): Awarded a contract to CL Trucking and Excavating LLC for water main extension on Irene Avenue, Linda Avenue, and public easement southeast, and water services on Burton Street. The contract amount is $1,259,200.76, with a total not to exceed $1,724,980. The project is a partnership with Cascade Township, the water department, and EGLE (Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy) to address PFOS detected in residential wells. A grant from EGLE was accepted in July 2025 and later amended. Motion passed unanimously. - Richmond Park Parking Lot Increase (Resolution 3): Approved an increase of $20,000 for the Richmond Park parking lot project, bringing the total not to exceed $620,000. The project is substantially complete with final completion work incurring additional costs. Motion passed unanimously. - 45 Vista Development Agreement (Resolution 4): Approved a construction agreement and accepted four public utility easements for the 45 Vista development in the city of Walker, south of Lake Michigan Drive and west of Wilson Avenue. The development will add public utilities on private roads. Motion passed unanimously. - Cross Creek Condominiums Easement (Resolution 5): Approved releasing a sanitary sewer and water main easement and accepting a utility easement at Cross Creek Condominiums (3723 Portman Lane SE) in connection with storm sewer relocation for nominal consideration of $1. Old easement will be abandoned after new utilities installed. Motion passed unanimously. - Wealthy Street Easement (Resolution 6): Accepted a sidewalk and utility easement at 1555 Wealthy Street SE for the Wealthy Street reconstruction project (Ethel Avenue to east city limits) for $1. The project reconfigures the street to provide inset parking for restaurants; the property owner granted an easement to shift the sidewalk back against the building (BC Pizza is located there). Motion passed unanimously. - Micromobility Agreement with Vio (Resolution 7): Authorized execution of a no-cost agreement with Vio for shared micromobility services (e-scooters and bikes). Staff highlighted safety technology and affordable pricing, including the Vio Access program for low-income users. The vendor was selected through an RFP process emphasizing safety and affordability. The agreement will go to the mayor's office for signature. Committee members expressed support for the safety features, seated options, and affordability. Motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All seven resolutions were approved unanimously by voice vote (no opposed). - The fireworks date was amended from September 19 to September 18, 2026. - The water main extension contract and micromobility agreement represent new partnerships for the city. - No public comments were made during the meeting.

The Public Safety Committee met on August 25, 2026, to receive updates on the Fire Department's medical outreach program, a detailed presentation on the use of Flock automated license plate readers (ALPRs), an overview of upcoming reports from the Office of Public Accountability (OPA), and monthly crime statistics. The meeting also included recognition of City Manager Mark Washington for intervening in a mental health crisis. Public Comments & Testimony - Commissioner Kilger read into the record a letter from the ACLU of Michigan expressing concerns about ALPR technology and recommending the city either cancel its contract or, at minimum, engage in extensive community dialogue, establish strict auditing requirements, and enact data storage and sharing restrictions before renewing. Discussion Items Medical Priority and Wellness Response (EMPOWER) Program Update - Fire Chief and EMS Captain Hutter presented a six-month update on the EMPOWER team, a proactive medical outreach program in partnership with Corewell Health designed to reduce repeat 911 calls. The program has received 30 referrals, logged 175 client interactions, and made 76 resource connections. Notable wins include reducing calls on Leonard Street NW from 5 per month to 2, achieving a 50% reduction in alarms on Sinclair, and diverting loneliness-related 911 calls on Jeanette by providing a direct line. The program aims to expand its referral pipeline and document a drop in repeat 911 use among high-need residents. Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR/Flock) Presentation - Deputy Chief Mike Maycroft and representatives from Flock Safety presented on the use of ALPR technology in Grand Rapids. GRPD has used ALPRs for 14 years and transitioned to Flock in January 2024, installing 31 fixed cameras. The presentation emphasized that the system is not used for immigration enforcement, reproductive health searches, facial recognition, or audio monitoring. All searches require a criminal offense code and case number (optional now, mandatory by Jan 2027 for all agencies). Searches are audited monthly, data is retained for 30 days and then permanently deleted, and any misuse can lead to criminal charges. The department reported zero compliance violations in 14 years. Flock noted that data is owned by the city and never sold, and that the company does not contract with DHS/ICE. Commissioners and citizen members raised concerns about privacy, potential misuse, transparency, and the need for a public-facing portal showing camera locations and data-sharing agreements. Commissioner Usasi asked about the surveillance policy covering ALPR; OPA Director Davis clarified that ALPR was grandfathered from the 2015 policy and not subject to annual reporting. The city manager committed to providing an annual departmental report on ALPR use and reviewing whether to bring ALPR under the formal surveillance policy. Office of Public Accountability (OPA) Schedule of Reports and Studies - OPA Director Mr. Davis presented the planned schedule for FY27: K9 benchmarking (June 2026 completed), Safe Task Force annual report (June), civilian violence intervention update (September), Civilian Appeals Board biannual report (October), annual surveillance report (November), Cure Violence annual report (November), CAB reimagination update (December), traffic stop study (January 2027), second CAB reimagination report (March 2027), and foot pursuit policy benchmarking (May 2027). Commissioner Usasi requested that the traffic stop study also examine possible violations of the city's foreign national policy regarding immigration status inquiries; the city manager noted that would be looked into but accessing county-level data may be limited. Crime Statistics and Commendations - Chief Trig and Deputy Chief Maycroft presented monthly crime statistics showing auto theft and robbery numbers trending down, person shot incidents decreasing, and a homicide clearance rate of 10 out of 11 (91%), well above the national average of 55%. They also shared thank-you notes from community members. The meeting concluded with recognition of City Manager Mark Washington for intervening and helping to disarm an individual in a mental health crisis who was threatening self-harm and others, until GRPD officers arrived. The chief praised his actions and noted that the department is adding three community officers and two traffic officers in September. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The city manager committed to producing an annual report on the use of license plate reader and Flock technology, and to review whether to bring ALPR under the city's surveillance policy. OPA will proceed with its scheduled studies and reports. The committee expressed support for continued transparency and community dialogue on surveillance technology.