Public Meetings - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Committee on Appointments met on April 14, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. to consider several appointments to city boards and commissions and to discuss the upcoming First Ward appointment process and current vacancy list. Appointments Approved - Danielle Daniel Savage to Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeal Board (Mayor's appointment) - unanimous. - Ronisha Harden to Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeal Board (Commissioner Knight's appointment) - unanimous. - Monica App to Grand Rapids Housing Commission (City Manager's reappointment) - unanimous. Commissioner expressed support but noted concerns about market rate pressures and the need to expand housing for lower-income residents. - Jordan Eatman to Smart Zone Local Development Finance Authority (GRPS reappointment) - unanimous. Commissioners praised his work and discussed the Smart Zone's role in supporting high-tech entrepreneurs. Appointments Debated - Joshua Lunger to Grand Rapids Housing Commission (City Manager's appointment) - passed with opposition. Commissioner voiced opposition citing the Grand Rapids Chamber's record on affordable housing legislation, misinformation about the climate action plan, and role in the 2023 nuisance ordinance. Other commissioners (Commissioners Yassi Sasi and Sasi) supported Lunger, noting his expertise and the value of collaboration. Commissioner Sasi clarified that the nuisance ordinance did not criminalize homelessness and was a targeted measure. The motion carried but not on the consent agenda, indicating split support. First Ward Appointment Process - First round interviews for the First Ward vacancy will be held Friday, April 17, 2026, in commission chambers. Each of the ten applicants will have 15 minutes. Committee members will each ask one question, and a ranking system will be used. The top three will proceed to final round interviews on April 22, 2026, before the full commission. All applicants have been confirmed and informed of the process. Board and Commission Vacancy Update - Clerk's office reported on current vacancies. Two Civil Service Board terms are up for reappointment (commissioner appointments). Urban Agriculture received another resignation; will be on next agenda. Applications continue to come in. Commissioner noted satisfaction with community interest in serving on boards and commissions. Adjournment - The meeting adjourned at 8:19 a.m.

The Committee of the Whole met on April 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m., chaired by a commissioner filling in for Mayor David LeGrand (who was absent but expected for closed session and the 2:00 p.m. meeting). The meeting covered routine consent items, a downtown improvement district reauthorization presentation, the affirmation of the city attorney, and briefings on the Affordable Housing Fund Board's progress and the Climate Action Adaptation Plan (CAP). All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Resolution approving election day polling locations for the May 5, 2026 special election and fixing inspector pay: The May 5 special election is for a Kentwood Public School Millage. Because fewer than 5,000 voters are expected, state law allows precinct consolidation to one location: Brookside Christian Reformed Church at 28th and 36th Street. Inspector pay is being increased due to the rise in the minimum wage. All election costs are paid by Kentwood Public Schools. Motion carried unanimously. - Resolution establishing an obsolete property rehabilitation district for the Gideon Project LLC at 801 Oakdale Street Southeast: The project will rehabilitate existing connected commercial properties into two main-floor commercial spaces and two second-story apartment units. One unit will be rented at 80% Area Median Income (AMI) and the other at 50% AMI. The project qualifies for a base 10-year property tax abatement, with an additional year added for the deeply affordable unit. Motion carried unanimously. - Resolution approving an 11-year obsolete property rehabilitation exemption certificate for the same project: Companion item to the previous resolution. Motion carried unanimously. - Resolution to set a public hearing on April 28, 2026 on the necessity of a special assessment roll for the Downtown Improvement District (DID): This sets the hearing for the reauthorization of the DID. Motion carried unanimously. Discussion Items - Downtown Improvement District (DID) Reauthorization Briefing: Melvin Elledge, director of operations at Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI), presented an overview of the DID. The district was established in 2000 to provide enhanced place management services (sidewalk sweeping, snow removal, public safety assistance, homeless outreach) beyond city services. It is funded by a special assessment on properties within the district. The proposed 2027–2029 operations plan includes: a 3% assessment increase in FY2027 (to a total budget of $1.5 million, including snowmelt funds), a corresponding increase in the residential flat rate to $124 annually, 4% increases in FY2028 and FY2029 (capped at the state inflation multiplier), and an expansion of the service area to include the newly constructed amphitheater. The snowmelt assessment (for properties adjacent to the steam-based snowmelt infrastructure) would remain flat. A stakeholder survey (110 respondents, the most ever) showed approximately 70% rated DID services as “very good” or “good.” Commissioners asked about the unhoused storage program (not included in the current plan but open to future conversation), snowmelt details, and the impact of DID expansion on city tax revenue (none, as it is a separate assessment). The presentation concluded with approval to set the public hearing. - Affordable Housing Fund Board Update: Deputy City Manager Kate Barrens and Ryan Kilpatrick presented the board’s progress. The Affordable Housing Fund (a separate donor-directed fund held by the Community Foundation) was established to catalyze affordable housing at 80% and below AMI for rentals and 100% and below for homeownership. The board has already invested $5 million in ARPA funds and has focused on building units at scale, leveraging the Neighborhood Investment Plan process. A “grow the fund” subcommittee evaluated multiple housing finance tools used by other communities: municipal bonds (general obligation vs. revenue bonds), property tax millages, tax increment financing (TIF), public-private partnerships, and special assessment districts. Their recommendation, endorsed by the full board, is to conduct further due diligence on revenue bonds as a short-term priority, as they can provide lower-cost financing for 60–100% AMI housing when paired with other subsidies. Longer-term, a millage may be pursued. Commissioners expressed strong support for moving forward with the revenue bond analysis, requested better metrics than AMI (e.g., housing + transportation index), and noted the need to address emerging developer gaps and home repair costs. The city manager clarified the staff recommendation is to focus on revenue bonds first. Commissioners gave a “head nod” to proceed with due diligence. - Climate Action Adaptation Plan (CAP) Feasibility and Analysis Update: Chief Sustainability Officer Annabelle Wilkinson presented an analysis of the 20 priority actions selected by the commission in August 2025. The analysis was performed by Fresh Coast Climate Solutions, a Michigan-based firm. Key greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction percentages (against 62.8% by 2030 and 100% by 2050 targets) include: partnering with utilities to meet clean energy commitments (20%), advocating for community solar legislation (5%), bike lane expansion (0.63%), tree planting (0.06%), and various smaller actions. Many actions (like resilience hubs, innovative housing, and food system changes) primarily contribute to resiliency and equity, with modest or non-quantifiable GHG reductions. Financial analysis is ongoing for summer 2026 completion. Current fiscal year 2026 investments include $310,000 for the DART EV car share program (pilot continuing), $117,000 for tree planting programs, $195,000 for an in-vessel composter, and $30,000 for compost collection receptacles. Future budget considerations include $30,000 for the DART EV program's final months and potential funding for the ESTEAME program ($310,000 annually) to support property owners near the energy plant. Progress updates: a University of Michigan graduate student will study resilience hub pilots; a WEGA grant application was submitted for a commercial energy coordinator; the urban forestry code revisions are under review; and the urban agriculture committee is reviewing compost and livestock ordinances. Commissioners inquired about timelines for code changes and DART EV usage data. The presentation closed with a note that a full feasibility report and progress update will come in fall 2026. Key Outcomes - All resolutions on the consent calendar were passed unanimously. - The commission approved the resolution to set the public hearing for the Downtown Improvement District reauthorization for April 28, 2026. - The commission approved the employment agreement and reaffirmation of oath for City Attorney Philip Strom, effective April 1, 2026 through December 31, 2028. His salary is set at Step D of the salary ordinance, with retroactive pay. The oath ceremony will take place at the end of the 2:00 p.m. commission meeting. - The commission voted unanimously to go into closed session for two pending litigation matters. - The commission gave direction to proceed with due diligence on revenue bonds as the primary short-term strategy for the Affordable Housing Fund, with a longer-term exploration of a potential millage. - Staff will return in fall 2026 with the full feasibility and cost analysis for the 20 CAP priority actions and a progress report.

The Community Development Committee of the City of Grand Rapids met on April 14, 2026 to consider 12 agenda items including permits, special assessments, contracts for infrastructure projects, and a development proposal. All resolutions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved a fireworks discharge permit for RKM Fireworks Company for special effects at AcroShare Amphitheater on May 9, 2026 in connection with the Acrossure Amphitheater Contractor Appreciation Music Festival. - Recommended approval of the Clean Water State Revolving Fund final project planning document for the Godfrey combined sewer separation project, estimated at $28 million, designating an authorized project representative. - Awarded a contract to Groundhog Excavating & Landscaping LLC for replacement of lead service lines at various locations for $1,876,312 (total project cost not to exceed $2,889,800), with about $2.5 million in debt forgiveness from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund. - Awarded a contract to Montgomery Excavating LLC for rotomilling and resurfacing of streets at various locations for $3,594,403 (total not to exceed $4,744,300), with 14.9% micro-LBE participation. - Accepted a utility easement at the intersection of Ripens Drive NW and Mullins Avenue NW in Walker for $1, in connection with the partial vacation of Ripens Drive. - Accepted two utility easements at 725 Wealthy St SW and 336 Straight Ave SW for $890 and $1,485 respectively, in connection with the Butterworth Solar Project. - Accepted a release of easement at 123 2nd Street NW. Discussion Items - Confirmation of Special Assessment 8774 – Crescent Alley Improvements: The committee confirmed a special assessment of $11,736 for Crescent Alley improvements completed in 2025. The total project cost was $119,628. Three appeals were received from property owners who purchased after the work was completed, arguing they were not notified. Staff explained that notification is between buyer and seller and the city followed proper procedures. The committee confirmed the assessment unanimously. - Union Suites on Coit 2 Project: Authorized a memorandum of agreement with the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office and the Wyoming Housing Commission for 52 affordable rental units (80% AMI and below) at 628–646 Coit Avenue in the Belknap neighborhood. The project will have an adverse effect on historic properties, requiring the owner to record existing conditions, create a permanent record of seven buildings to be demolished, and display a historical photo map. If the owner fails to comply, the Wyoming Housing Commission may withdraw project-based voucher support. - Reconstruction of Leffingwell Avenue and Bradford Street: Awarded a contract to Wyoming Excavators Inc. for $4,438,153.25 (total not to exceed $5,491,880). Corewell Health contributed approximately $5.3 million toward reconstruction. The project will add storm sewer, street lighting, a shared use path, and close a water main gap. The road was previously unimproved. - 1225 Plymouth Flats Redevelopment Project: Scheduled a public hearing for April 28, 2026 to consider TIFF assistance for the redevelopment of a former credit union site at 1225 Plymouth Avenue NE. The project includes three residential buildings with 48 units, 20% of which (9–10 units) will be affordable to households at 90% AMI. Total development cost is approximately $10.5 million, with eligible activities of $1.75 million. The developer has an aspirational goal of 30% subcontractor participation by micro-local, women-owned, and minority-owned enterprises. - Setting Public Hearing for Nuisance Special Assessment Roll 8802: Set a public hearing for April 28, 2026 to hear appeals on unpaid charges for code violations, rental certifications, and blight monitoring from July to December 2025. Commissioners discussed the challenge of repeat offenders and the time it takes for unpaid assessments to become liens. Staff mentioned the Special Case Action Team (SCAT) and a full-time social worker who connects property owners to resources. A briefing on the code enforcement process is planned for the Public Safety Committee in May. Key Outcomes - All 12 resolutions were approved unanimously by the committee. - Public hearings were scheduled for April 28, 2026 for both the 1225 Plymouth Flats redevelopment and the nuisance special assessment roll 8802. - Staff will prepare a briefing on the nuisance and code enforcement process for a future committee meeting, potentially the Public Safety Committee in May.

The Fiscal Committee of the City of Grand Rapids met on April 14, 2026, at 8:30 AM. The meeting lasted approximately 11 minutes and covered six agenda items, all of which were approved or received and filed unanimously. Key items included recognition of the Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives, a joint grant agreement with Kent County, bond authorization for a fire training center, and financial reports from the Comptroller and Treasurer. Consent Calendar - Resolution recognizing Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives (GRAMA): Approved as a local civic organization. The organization needed quick approval for an upcoming event. City staff confirmed GRAMA is in good standing and compliant with state laws. (Item carried unanimously.) - Resolution authorizing MOU with Kent County for JAG grant funds: Approved a memorandum of understanding for the fiscal year 2025 Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant totaling $196,530. The funds will support the city's Neighborhood Investment Plan and Kent County's emergency operations center/sheriff's office. A public comment period runs April 9–24. (Item carried unanimously.) - Bid list resolution for April 14, 2026: Approved eight routine bid items. (Item carried unanimously.) Discussion Items - Resolution for fire training center bond authorization: Authorized publication of a supplemental notice of intent to issue bonds under Michigan Act 34 to finance capital improvements for the fire training center campus. The city secured roughly $15 million in state grants, leaving an estimated $31 million gap to be bonded. The resolution set a not-to-exceed amount of $35 million to cover contingencies. Discussion included the rationale for bonding as a tool for intergenerational assets (useful life of 50 years). City staff noted that a 45-day referendum period will follow, and a full bond authorizing resolution will return later. The upcoming budget will include a forecast of future bond issuances (street lighting, water/sewer, and possibly parks). (Item carried unanimously.) - Comptroller's warrant report (March 17–30, 2026): The Comptroller reported cash payments released totaling $30,418,179.20, including $5.9 million for employee payroll expenses. A negative figure on the income tax warrants was flagged as potentially incorrect and is under investigation. In terms of payment volume, 5,656 income tax refunds and 1,339 accounts payable checks/electronic payments were issued. The report also included a quarterly small claims report for January–March 2026, showing total payouts of just over $40,000 across 33 claims. The reports were received and filed. - Treasurer's report (March 18–31, 2026): The Treasurer reported stable economic conditions with an uptick in inflation, and the Federal Reserve is not expected to change rates for the rest of 2026. The interest rate yield curve is beginning to normalize, which may lead to changes in investment strategy. The city recently purchased $7 million of MISHTA bonds (affordable housing in Michigan) out of a desired $20 million (prorated). The Treasurer is seeking legislative approval (Public Act 20 investment legislation) to allow out-of-state municipal bond purchases, which would enable investment of an additional $13 million. The report also noted upcoming professional conferences (GFOA, Michigan Municipal Treasurers Association) that highlight Grand Rapids as a leader. The report was received and filed. Key Outcomes - All five resolutions were approved unanimously. - The Comptroller's and Treasurer's reports were received and filed without objection. - The meeting adjourned at 8:41 AM.

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on March 31, 2026, to approve several resolutions, receive briefings on the Neighborhood Investment Plan funding and officer-involved shootings, and conduct interviews for the city attorney position. All resolutions were passed unanimously. The meeting also included a closed session for pending litigation and a public forum for city attorney candidates. Consent Calendar (Unanimously Approved Items) - Commissioner Attendance: Approved Commissioner Belcheck's attendance at a summit in May. - Downtown Social Districts: Revised to add five locations around the amphitheater, extending to railroad tracks. - Social District Application: Approved permit for Beastro Bellavita (Bistro Elvida). - Lake Eastbrook Apartments Brownfield Plan: Approved a brownfield plan for a 132-unit apartment development at 3538 Lake Eastbrook. The developer (Scott Weirda) will designate 45% (60 units) at 90-100% AMI for up to 25 years. Eligible housing TIFF activities are approximately $10.8 million over 25 years, with a total capital investment of $26 million. Aspirational participation goals for micro, local, women-owned, and minority-owned enterprises are 15.38% ($3.6 million). - Nap Hills Development Brownfield Plan Amendment: Approved a brownfield plan amendment for 38 townhomes at 27 Lake (Wheeler Group). 20% of units set aside for 100% AMI, total development costs $12.3 million, with 12 years of reimbursement. Diversity participation goals set at 22%. - Market Properties Transfer: Approved execution of documents to transfer three properties (201, 235, 333 Market) to the Convention and Arena Authority. The city will retain a pocket park, a 50-foot riverside trail, and a connecting trail. The second parcel is anticipated for private development with up to 20% affordable housing at 100% AMI. Briefings and Discussion Neighborhood Investment Plan Funding Mr. Tucker presented the funding recommendations for the Neighborhood Investment Plan, approved in January 2026. The plan utilizes federal funds (CDBG $3.9 million, HOME $2.4 million, ESG $302,000), opioid settlement funds ($730,000), affordable housing fund ($700,000), and Justice Assistance Grant. 120 applications were received for the Notice of Intent, requesting $58 million—the largest year on record. Recommendations cover eight outcome areas, including homelessness prevention, affordable housing creation, homeownership support, behavioral health, economic opportunity, and neighborhood safety/engagement. Commissioners expressed support for the process and highlighted the importance of neighborhood associations. Some discussion centered on ensuring that funds for neighborhood safety achieve measurable outcomes. Commissioner Covar noted progress in harm reduction (e.g., Narcan accessibility). Commissioner Jester thanked staff for navigating federal uncertainty. The public comment period runs March 27 to April 29, with final approval expected May 12. Officer-Involved Shootings Review Interim Chief Trig presented a review of ten officer-involved shootings (OIS) from 2022-2025, excluding two (one pending litigation, one under investigation). Each incident involved subjects who presented weapons (firearms or bladed weapons). Five subjects shot at officers, three raised firearms, and two charged with blades. In all cases, the subject's actions initiated the deadly force response. Prosecutor Becket found all officer uses of force justified. The presentation also included data on gun seizures: a 126% increase in illegally possessed firearms seized post-COVID (476 per year vs. 210 pre-COVID). Community shootings (non-OIS) trends were shown by ward. The department emphasized de-escalation training, grappling techniques, and a sanctity of life policy. Commissioners discussed officer mental health support, diversity in hiring, and the duty to intervene policy. The mayor highlighted the department's transparency in releasing body camera footage. The chief noted that two officers resigned after OIS incidents. Closed Session The commission moved into closed session to discuss pending litigation. City Attorney Interviews The commission conducted public interviews for three city attorney candidates: Sarah Hartman (current city attorney), Matt Cross (outside candidate from northern Michigan), and Philip Strom (interim city attorney). Each candidate answered 14 questions on leadership, experience, transparency, and community engagement. After the interviews, Mosaic Public Partners summarized feedback from stakeholder panels (executive team, community stakeholders, law community, law department staff, and a public forum). Key themes: All candidates were well-qualified. Sarah Hartman was noted for strong litigation experience but seen as conservative. Matt Cross brought diverse experience from smaller agencies but lacked experience in a diverse urban setting. Philip Strom was viewed as most aligned with the city's needs, with strong institutional knowledge and community involvement, though some questioned his ability to delegate. Commissioners shared initial impressions. They decided to reconvene on April 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. to deliberate and make a final decision. The public was invited to provide input at the evening commission meeting. Key Outcomes - All six resolutions were unanimously approved. - The Neighborhood Investment Plan recommendations will proceed to public comment and final adoption in May. - The commission received the officer-involved shootings briefing and will continue discussions on pursuit policy and civilian appeals board review in future months. - The city attorney selection process will conclude with a decision on April 1.

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on March 31, 2026, to address a wide range of legislative, development, and community safety issues. The meeting included approval of consent items, two ordinances, public hearings for a tax abatement project, and extensive public comment on police accountability, traffic safety, sanctuary policies, and other matters. Commissioners responded to concerns, outlined ongoing processes, and announced upcoming actions. Consent Calendar - Approval of prior meeting minutes. - Received and filed communications, including concerns about Flock cameras, street renaming, a FOIA request, and support for a city attorney candidate. One communication regarding a resignation from the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority was referred to committee. - Consent agenda adopted unanimously. Public Hearings - Gideon Project LLC – Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District and Tax Exemption Certificate: The commission held two public hearings for a project at 801 Oakdale. The proposal involves rehabilitating a blighted commercial building into a cafe, ice cream shop, community event space, and two housing units (one 1-bedroom and one 2-bedroom) with rent affordable to households at 50–80% AMI, plus an additional efficiency unit at 60% AMI. Total project cost is approximately $2.1 million. The developer, Tasha Cruz and Kurt Repart, noted support from the Southtown CIA and city staff. No public comment was offered. The 11-year exemption certificate was approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers demanded justice for Daquan Johnson, a man killed by GRPD, calling for release of unedited body camera footage, naming and prosecution of the officer, and independent oversight. Several referenced previous cases such as Patrick Lyoya. - A group from the King Park Neighborhood Association and Together West Michigan requested traffic safety improvements on Kalamazoo Avenue, including a four-way stop at Adams and a flashing crosswalk at Ewing/Hancock, citing dangerous speeds. - Speakers urged adoption of six sanctuary city policies to protect immigrant neighbors, oppose ICE cooperation, and criticized the city's current policies as insufficient. - Concerns were raised about Flock cameras, police accountability, the process for filling a vacant commission seat, and the city's economic development priorities. - Some speakers expressed support for the police, urged patience with investigations, and advocated for community healing. - Additional comments touched on water pollution, 3D printing construction, youth mentorship, cannabis ordinance reforms, and charter reform. Discussion Items - Traffic Safety: The mayor and commissioners acknowledged the need for traffic calming, referencing a global push for 20 mph speed limits. The city manager stated that funding for Kalamazoo Avenue safety projects is being allocated, potentially crossing budget years. - Police Accountability: Commissioners noted the morning presentation on officer-involved shootings and promised a policy review in the summer. Several commissioners expressed grief over community losses and pledged continued work on reform. - City Attorney Selection: Commissioner Purdue reported that interviews with three candidates were held, and a vote on the appointment would occur April 1 at 9 a.m. - First Ward Vacancy: The city clerk detailed the process: 10 candidates vetted, interviews by the Appointments Committee on April 17, and final commission interviews on April 22. - Mayor's Comments on Sanctuary Policies: The mayor stated that several of the six proposed policies do not apply locally, that the city has no 287(g) agreements, and that GRPD has a non-cooperation policy with ICE. He encouraged reporting any violations to the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability. - Neighborhood Investment Plan: The city manager noted over $8 million in federal funding allocated to housing, homelessness, and public safety, with a public hearing forthcoming. Key Outcomes - Budget Ordinance Amendment 6 (Fiscal Year 2026): Approved unanimously (roll call vote). Items included $100,000 for police recruit stipends, $2.5 million for Grand River's Edge Trail construction, $50,000 for the DID Snow Mount fund, and a $1 million+ carry forward for cloud services. Immediate effect motion carried. - Rezoning Ordinance (3113 Plaza Drive NE): Approved unanimously (roll call vote) from NOS to MON-MDR, permitting moderate-to-high density mixed residential development. - Obsolete Property Tax Exemption for Gideon Project: Approved after public hearing, providing an 11-year certificate to encourage rehabilitation. - Next Steps: City attorney appointment vote on April 1; first ward vacancy interviews on April 17 and April 22; traffic safety projects on Kalamazoo Avenue to begin as soon as summer; policy review on officer-involved shootings expected later in summer. The meeting adjourned with the mayor thanking all participants and emphasizing the city's commitment to public safety and community engagement.

The Community Development Committee met on March 31, 2026, and unanimously approved 16 agenda items covering infrastructure grants, construction contracts, lead service line replacement, riverfront revitalization, brownfield redevelopment, and historic preservation. All motions passed by voice vote with no opposition. The meeting adjourned at 9:09 AM. Discussion Items - Bridge Preventative Maintenance Grants: Approved a resolution to apply for $2,725,000 in MDOT grants for preventative maintenance of the Wealthy Street, Bridge Street, and Sixth Street bridges, with a city match of $1,000,100 (as stated in the transcript, though the amount may be a transcription error). Repairs include sidewalks, joints, and epoxy sealing. Fiscal year 2029. - Valley Avenue Reconstruction: Approved an agreement with MDOT for reconstruction of Valley Avenue from 100 feet north of First Street to Fourth Street, authorizing a local share of $1,196,024. Project includes water main work, concrete curb, drainage, and ADA compliance. - Lead Service Line Replacement Contract: Awarded a contract to Groundhog Excavating & Landscaping LLC for lead service line replacement at various locations, $1,893,350 (total project cost not to exceed $2,442,300). The city has replaced approximately 16,800 of an estimated 25,000–26,000 lead lines (about one-third complete). - MLK Park Neighborhood Association Lease: Authorized a lease agreement with the Martin Luther King Park Neighborhood Association for space at the MLK Community Center for $1 per year. The lease is shorter than the standard three-year term to align expiration dates with other associations. - Pedestrian Bridge Encroachment Agreement: Approved an encroachment agreement on Lake Michigan Drive NW for a pedestrian bridge connecting the parking ramp to the YMCA, part of the soccer stadium project (Phase 2). - Eastern Railroad to Grand River Trails East Increase: Approved a $422,537 increase for the trail project, total not to exceed $6,358,237, to cover relocation of Consumers Energy assets. - Grand River East Riverfront Increase: Approved a $182,000 increase for the East Riverfront project (US 131 to CSX Railroad), total not to exceed $20,020,807, for additional flood wall repairs. - Architectural Historian Services: Approved an agreement with Past Perfect Inc. for $67,188 to document the removal of low-head dams, required by a 2022 MOU with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and State Historic Preservation Office. - Endangered Mussel Work: Approved an amendment to the agreement with Biosurvey Group LLC for $156,468.84 to remove mussels near a dam and conduct additional monitoring as required by federal and state permits. Over 9,000 mussels were relocated in 2024. - Lower Grand River Water Trail: Approved an agreement with the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council for $34,000 to develop wayfinding and education for the water trail through the city, addressing gaps caused by dam hazards. - Lake Michigan Filtration Plant Surge Valve Replacement: Awarded a contract to Allied Mechanical Service Inc. for $371,490 (total not to exceed $611,620) to replace surge valves at the water plant. - Buchanan Avenue Reconstruction: Approved an agreement with MDOT for reconstruction of Buchanan Avenue from Corrine Street to Hall Street, authorizing a local share of $4,618,740. Project includes asphalt, raised bike lanes, inset parking, water main replacement, storm sewer, infiltration basins, ADA compliance, and street trees. - Butterworth Street Reconstruction: Awarded a contract to Montgomery Excavating LLC for reconstruction of Butterworth Street from West City Limits to O'Brien Road, at $3,241,631.03 (total not to exceed $4,481,195). Addresses stormwater challenges and safety improvements. - 528 Bridge Street NW Redevelopment (Brownfield TIF): Approved a resolution to schedule a public hearing on April 14, 2026, for a traditional brownfield TIF plan at the former rail depot at 528 and 532 Bridge Street NW. The renovation will house Advantage Real Estate headquarters and another commercial space. Total development costs are $2.7 million, with $710,000 for demolition, site prep, and infrastructure. A cost-sharing agreement will add a sidewalk along Seward. - Falk Sheet Metal LLC Industrial Facilities Exemption: Approved a resolution to schedule a public hearing on April 14, 2026, for a 12-year industrial facilities exemption certificate for Falk Sheet Metal LLC at 1782 Northridge Avenue NW. The company is expanding its existing 130,000-square-foot facility by 50,000 square feet, with a $5.4 million investment. - Dean Kendall House Historic Landmark: Approved a resolution to schedule a public hearing on April 14, 2026, to consider an ordinance designating the Dean Kendall House at 2350 Leonard Street NW as a historic landmark. The property owner, Frank Pattis, spoke in support. Public Comments - Frank Pattis, owner of the Dean Kendall House, thanked the committee for considering the historic landmark designation and expressed appreciation for the assistance of historic preservation specialist Rhonda Baker. Key Outcomes All 16 agenda items were approved unanimously by voice vote. The committee adjourned at 9:09 AM.

The Committee on Appointments met on March 31, 2026 at 8:00 AM and adjourned at 8:09 AM. The committee unanimously approved a resolution to reappoint current members to economic development boards aligning terms with the fiscal year, and discussed the current board and commission vacancy list, including scheduling interviews for the First Ward vacancy. The meeting also included announcements for the day's schedule: Fiscal Committee at 8:15 AM, Community Development at 8:45 AM, Committee of the Whole at 9:15 AM, city attorney interviews at noon, and the commission night out at GRPS University at 6:00 PM. Consent Calendar Resolution confirming reappointments of current members to various boards and commissions (CDAs, Economic Development Corporation, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Smart Zone): The resolution changes term end dates to June 30 or the first Monday in July to align with the fiscal year. Unanimously approved by voice vote (motion and second). Discussion Items Board and commission vacancy report (Ms. Bosker): Noted that the Grand Rapids Housing Commission, Civil Service Board (May term expirations including Commissioner Sasi), Board of Art and Museum Commissioners, and Civilian Appeal Board have upcoming term ends. The clerk's office will send more information to move appointments forward. First Ward vacancy (Clerk): 10 candidates cleared vetting (income tax and treasurer's department). Interviews scheduled for April 17. The committee discussed the interview format: Commissioner Saucy suggested the possibility of narrowing down candidates rather than interviewing all 10, noting that the committee is not required to interview all who pass vetting. Commissioner Senor expressed preference to give all 10 an equal opportunity to appear. Consensus: Interview all 10 candidates, each for 15 minutes with 5-minute breaks between. No alternative interview dates will be offered; candidates must be available on April 17. Key Outcomes Reappointment resolution passed unanimously. First Ward interview schedule: April 17, 15 minutes per candidate, 5-minute breaks; all 10 candidates who passed vetting will be interviewed. Next steps: Clerk's office to coordinate housing commission and civil service board reappointments; information to be provided for upcoming meetings. The committee also noted progress in aligning board terms and streamlining processes ahead of fall elections. Other Business Meeting adjourned at 8:09 AM with reminders of the day's subsequent meetings and evening community event.

The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee met on March 31, 2026, to consider several resolutions and reports including renewal of Oracle ERP contracts, a contract for the Grow 1000 summer internship program, auditing services, park capital budget substitution, bid list, budget amendments, and financial reports from the Comptroller and Treasurer. Discussion Items - Oracle ERP System Contract Renewal: A resolution to renew the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system contracts with Oracle America for SaaS and Oracle Guided Learning for $1,111,539.33. Ms. Claren reported ongoing challenges with implementation partner High Street, leading to hiring Iteria to remediate issues with W-2s and 1099s. Commissioner Kilgore expressed concerns about system performance. Ms. Claren committed to providing a further update in a few months. - Grow 1000 Summer Internship Program: A resolution approving a contract with Management Business Solutions (MBS) for up to $500,000 to manage payroll and administration for the program. Director Harris noted the program is in its seventh year, targeting 175 participants aged 15-24, and has already received 212 applications. The city will absorb outsourcing costs so donations go to wages. - Audit Services Renewal: A three-year renewal with Plant Moran PLLC for auditing services totaling $761,505 over FY2026-2028. Staff decided to extend rather than issue an RFP due to ERP workload. - Park Capital Budget Substitution: A $220,000 budget substitution for higher-than-expected bids at Riverside Park and Plaster Creek trail work. - Bid List Resolution: Approved five routine items, including development of a compost operations business plan for Public Works. - Budget Ordinance Amendment: Amendment Six for FY2026 included appropriations for police recruit stipends ($100,000), Grand River Edges Trail East ($2.4 million), downtown snow melt fund ($50,000), and a carry-forward for legacy system A360 ($1 million). - Comptroller's Report: Cash payments of $37,432,396 for March 3–16, 2026, including payroll and income tax refunds. February travel report showed 53% of budget spent. - Treasurer's Report: Treasurer discussed economic conditions, inflation, interest rates, and the city's $698 million portfolio. He noted bond funds are restricted and pooled funds are departmental. A commissioner asked about implications for budget season. Key Outcomes - Resolution 1 (Oracle ERP renewal) passed unanimously. - Resolution 2 (Grow 1000 MBS contract) passed unanimously. - Resolution 3 (Plant Moran audit services) passed unanimously. - Resolution 4 (Park budget substitution) passed unanimously. - Resolution 5 (Bid list) passed unanimously. - Ordinance amendment (Budget Amendment Six) passed unanimously. - Comptroller's and Treasurer's reports received and filed.