Public Meetings - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The Fiscal Committee met on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, from 8:30 AM to 8:55 AM. The committee reviewed and approved several resolutions and contracts, and received financial reports. All votes were unanimous. Recognition of Meltrotter Ministries as a Local Civic Organization Pam Liggett, Director of Philanthropy, presented on behalf of Meltrotter Ministries, the largest homeless shelter in Grand Rapids. She noted that on a typical night they serve 550 people, expanding to 650-675 during cold weather (Cold Blue). Annually, they serve 5,000 unique individuals, provide 222,000 meals, and helped 225 children remain in their homes through prevention and diversion programs. The organization also operates a new tiny home community welcoming its first residents in March 2026. The resolution was approved unanimously. Contract with Side Strategies for Violence Prevention Capacity Building The committee approved a $23,380 contract with Side Strategies to provide capacity building services to emerging violence prevention nonprofits. The City Manager’s office noted that many small organizations lack infrastructure to pursue larger grants, and this contract aims to support their innovation and collaboration. Approved unanimously. Acceptance of $775,000 MEDC Grant for Revitalization and Placemaking The committee accepted a $775,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) under the Revitalization and Placemaking (WRAP) 3.0 program. The funds will support two historic preservation facade projects in Ward 1 and Ward 3 that are shovel-ready and follow the city’s Corridor Improvement Authority facade program. This is the final iteration of the WRAP program. Approved unanimously. Agreement with ParkMobile for Parking Reservation Software The committee approved a one-year pilot agreement with ParkMobile to provide parking reservation software for city-owned parking facilities. The contract is zero-dollar to the city; ParkMobile will charge users a 15% service fee plus $0.20 per transaction. The system will allow customers to reserve spaces for special events, helping to manage demand and provide certainty. The pilot will be evaluated over the year. Commissioners discussed balancing reserved spots with daily parking for non-event visitors. Approved unanimously. Bid Resolution for March 17, 2026 Eight routine bid items were approved, including a lawn mower and greens roller for the Parks Department (leased rather than purchased) and a contract with RSM for technology services (Microsoft Copilot implementation). RSM was selected over a lower bid due to their specific experience with similar implementations. Approved unanimously. Comptroller’s Warrant Report The comptroller reported cash payments of $55,740,619.02 for the period February 10 - March 2, 2026, including $11.7 million in payroll and $1.6 million in income tax refunds. The year-to-date travel report showed 45% of the $2.3 million budget spent. Reports were accepted. Treasurer’s Report The treasurer reported the city’s investment portfolio at $712 million with a 3.25% return, heavily weighted in U.S. Treasuries, agencies, and municipal bonds. He highlighted economic risks including persistent inflation, Fed policy uncertainty, energy volatility, commercial real estate stress, and global trade tensions. The portfolio remains liquid and highly rated. Report accepted. Key Outcomes - All resolutions and contracts were approved unanimously. - The city’s financial reports for the period were accepted. - The ParkMobile agreement is a one-year pilot with evaluation. - The next meeting was scheduled for 9:15 AM (Community Development).

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on March 17, 2026, to approve a travel resolution, schedule interviews for a First Ward vacancy, and receive a detailed update on the search for a new city attorney. Resolutions Approved - Travel Approval: The Commission unanimously approved Commissioner Sasi's travel to the Local Government Hispanic Network 2026 conference. - First Ward Vacancy Interviews: The Commission unanimously approved the schedule to fill the First Ward vacancy. The Committee on Appointments will conduct first-round interviews on April 17. Finalist interviews are set for April 2 following the Brownfield meeting. The City Clerk confirmed the application deadline is March 24 at 5:00 PM. Discussion: City Attorney Recruitment Greg Nelson of Mosaic Public Partners, alongside Interim City Attorney Philip Strom, presented the search process. - Search Background: The national search opened January 12, 2026, and closed February 23. The candidate profile was shaped by meetings and surveys conducted in November 2025. - Candidate Pool: Nine people expressed interest; one withdrew. Three candidates are recommended to advance: two internal and one external. - Recommended Finalists: - Matthew Cross (External): Partner at Cummings McClory Davison Acho, based in Traverse City. JD from Wayne State University. Experience in litigation and general municipal representation. - Sarah Hartman (Internal): Director of Legal Affairs, Litigation Division. 19 years of experience (8 in local government). JD from Thomas Cooley Law School. - Philip Strom (Internal): Deputy City Attorney / Interim City Attorney. 17 years of experience (15 in local government). JD from Thomas Cooley Law School. - Diversity & Outreach: In response to the Mayor's question, Mr. Nelson stated the firm specifically advertised and directly recruited diverse candidates. Two highly qualified diverse candidates were closely engaged; one nearly submitted and one submitted but withdrew days before the meeting. - Next Steps: - March 30: Public forum (evening, livestreamed) and day of candidate interviews with the executive team, law community, stakeholders, and law department staff. An online survey opens for community members to suggest questions. - March 31: Commission interviews with finalists. - April 1: Backup date for Commission deliberation. - April 14: Next regular commission meeting, if needed. - Goal: Appointment in April 2026. Key Outcomes - Authorized Commissioner Sasi's travel to the LHGN conference. - Approved First Ward vacancy interview schedule (April 17 first round, April 2 finalists). - Application deadline for First Ward vacancy: March 24 at 5:00 PM. - City Attorney search timeline confirmed for an April appointment. - Public engagement for City Attorney search begins with March 30 forum and online survey.

The Committee on Appointments met at 8:00 AM on March 17, 2026, to confirm several board and commission appointments, discuss vacancy lists, and receive updates on the first ward vacancy process. The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 AM. Consent Calendar - All appointments were approved via unanimous consent; no opposition was noted on any item. Appointments - Commissioner Kilgore's Appointment – Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeal Board: Kimberly Williams was appointed to the board. The resolution passed unanimously. - Mayor LeGrand's Appointment – South Town Corridor Improvement Authority: Sarah Noster (Kanooster) was appointed. Commissioner Sassy noted that Noster is a longtime business owner whose company, Mixed Staffing, works with employers on second-chance and supportive employment. The resolution passed unanimously. - Mayor LeGrand's Appointment – Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority: Rachel Wingo was appointed. Commissioner Sassy commented on the positive trend of filling uptown corridor positions, noting that in her year on that body, quorum was missed only once. The resolution passed unanimously. - Mayor LeGrand's Appointment – Vital Streets Oversight Commission: RL Ullis was appointed. Discussion included potential conflicts based on her work; the clerk noted that all members complete a conflict resolution form, and conflicts will be handled through the regular process. Commissioner Sassy expressed confidence in Ullis's brilliance and anticipated a strong contribution. The resolution passed unanimously. - City Commission's Appointment – Vital Streets Oversight Commission: Nate Rowberry was appointed. Rowberry also serves on the Grand Rapids Climate Coalition and is a representative of Weemia. The resolution passed unanimously. - City Commission's Appointment – Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority: Wayne Jernberg was appointed. The resolution passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Board and Commission Vacancy List: The clerk reported that most vacancies are filled or in process, with many members serving until replacements are appointed, ensuring quorum. Two resignations were noted: Nathan Hirsch Henschel from Southtown and Brooke O. Osterman from the Grand Rapids Housing Commission. - Museum and Art Board Vacancy: Commissioner Sassy noted that new PIFs had been submitted and suggested there is a clear leading candidate, but the group agreed to wait until full vetting is complete before naming the applicant. - First Ward Vacancy: The clerk reported that two applications had been received, with one week remaining for submissions. Initial interviews are scheduled for April 17, 2026, and the full commission will approve special meeting dates at that day's calendar meeting. Key Outcomes - All six appointments were confirmed unanimously. - The clerk will continue processing applications for the first ward vacancy, with interviews set for April 17, 2026. - The committee noted two resignations and asked the clerk to continue managing the vacancy process.

Committee on Appointments Confirms Seven Appointments to City Boards (Feb. 24, 2026)\n\nThe Grand Rapids Committee on Appointments met on February 24, 2026, at 8:00 AM to consider and confirm seven appointments to various city boards and commissions. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 AM.\n\n Consent Calendar\n- Kurt Repart appointed to the Local Officers Compensation Commission. A commissioner noted his tenure as a former First Ward commissioner provides valuable perspective on the role (Unanimous).\n- Amanda Faber appointed to the Urban Agriculture Committee (Unanimous).\n- Elizabeth McDonald appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission. A commissioner praised her diverse experience (Unanimous).\n- Lindsay Perez Pleasure appointed to the Mobile GR Commission (Unanimous).\n- Samuel \"Chip\" Hurley appointed to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfields Redevelopment Authority (Unanimous).\n- Nate Rawberry appointed to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. A commissioner highlighted his leadership roles with the West Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Grand Rapids Climate Coalition (Unanimous).\n- Mark Bejeland appointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals. A commissioner noted this fills the last vacancy on the board and emphasized its importance for citizen complaints regarding zoning decisions (Unanimous).\n\n Discussion Items\n- Vacancy List Update: Ms. Bosker reported a resignation from the South Town board, creating a vacancy. Upcoming term expirations for the Housing Commission and Civil Service Board (April/May) were identified. The committee plans to fill remaining vacancies, including a Vital Streets and WMIAC position, at upcoming meetings.\n- Mobile GR Commission Composition: Commissioner Isassi raised concerns about the body's makeup, noting it appears heavy on Second Ward appointees and lacks Black and Brown representation. He argued the commission's focus on user experience necessitates a broader recruitment pool.\n- Civil Service Board: Commissioner Isassi inquired about expiring terms and the board's functions. Ms. Bosker confirmed two terms are expiring (city commission appointments, no term limits) and detailed the board's responsibilities, which include governing employment rules, approving job descriptions, and overseeing the city's compensation study.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- All seven appointments confirmed unanimously via voice votes.\n- Next Steps: Ms. Bosker will continue collecting applications for upcoming vacancies. The committee will fill seats at its next meeting.

The Grand Rapids City Commission met on February 24, 2026, to consider routine business, but the meeting was dominated by public comment and commissioner responses regarding the recent police killing of Daquan Johnson and broader concerns about policing, ICE collaboration, and community safety. The commission also approved consent agenda items, resolutions for an industrial development district and a 12-year tax exemption for Long Road Distillers, and an ordinance amending the planned redevelopment district for the Boston Square Together project. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda, including routine approvals and reports. Public Comments & Testimony - Police Accountability and Daquan Johnson: Over 30 community members spoke, expressing anger, grief, and demands for justice after Daquan Johnson was shot and killed by GRPD on February 17, 2026. Many called for the release of the officer’s name, full unedited body camera footage, and policy changes regarding canine use, pursuit policies, and accountability. Several speakers noted the historical pattern of police violence against Black residents and criticized the commission for inaction. - Long Road Distillery: Three speakers addressed the distillery items: one opposed expansion due to alcohol’s harm; one supported the business and its jobs; one opposed cooperation with Long Road due to its alleged ties to ICE and a boycott by immigrant rights groups. - ICE and Sanctuary City: Multiple speakers demanded the city adopt sanctuary policies, end cooperation with ICE, and reject surveillance tools like Flock cameras. - 3D Printing and Budget: One speaker advocated for 3D-printed housing and urged the city to schedule budget sessions at times accessible to the community. Discussion Items - Commissioner Comments: Commissioners Purdue, Kilgore, Isassi, Belcher, Knight, and Mayor LeGrand each responded to public comments. They acknowledged the community’s pain, listed past reforms (e.g., youth interaction policy, foreign national policy, oversight office, mental health co-response), and committed to further review of K9 deployment, pursuit policies, and the OPA complaint intake process. Commissioner Isassi noted that Flock cameras were grandfathered from surveillance policy but that a report was presented in public safety committee. Mayor LeGrand emphasized the need for collective deliberation and promised continued work on justice issues. - Appointment for Vacancy: City Manager Washington reported that a process to fill the First Ward vacancy was discussed in committee and will be finalized soon. Key Outcomes - Industrial Development District for Long Road Distillers: Resolution passed (voice vote, mayor recused). - 12-Year Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for Long Road Distillers: Companion resolution approved (voice vote). - Major Amendment to Planned Redevelopment District at 1150 Adams Avenue (Boston Square Together): Ordinance adopted unanimously on roll call (6-0). - Commitments: Commissioner Purdue called for immediate review of pursuit policy, K9 policy, and OPA complaint intake process. City Manager and City Attorney stated they are already working on these issues. Mayor LeGrand announced continued conversations at Mayor’s Mondays (next in March) and a coffee hour on March 13.

The City Commission met on February 24, 2026, to approve several resolutions, receive a comprehensive mid-year financial and performance review, and discuss the process for filling an upcoming vacancy in the First Ward. Key actions included unanimous approval of scheduling changes for city attorney selection and budget deliberations, tax incentives for Long Road Distillers, and an ordinance update for the downtown steam district. The financial presentation highlighted slowing income tax growth, projected deficits starting in FY28, and the need for cautious budgeting. On the vacancy, the commission directed staff to begin an appointment process immediately but to delay the final decision until after the April 21 filing deadline for the November election. Consent Calendar - Resolution to schedule 2026 meetings: Approved scheduling an April 1 meeting (if needed) for city attorney deliberation, a May 5 special meeting for the preliminary budget review, and adjusted start times for December meetings (Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. with oath of office at 7 p.m.). Passed unanimously. - Industrial development district and tax exemption for Long Road Distillers: Approved a resolution establishing an industrial development district and a 12-year industrial facilities exemption certificate for a $680,000 project at 1750 Elizabeth Avenue NW. Passed unanimously. - Thermal energy franchise ordinance change: Approved a resolution for publication of an ordinance change to allow Vicinity Energy to sell steam generated by electric boilers (previously limited to natural gas) to downtown customers. Passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Discussion Items - Mid-Year Financial and Performance Review (Presentation): CFO Molly Claren outlined economic concerns including tariff effects, a national unemployment rate of 4.3%, Michigan unemployment at 5–5.5%, and a potential depression projected by ITR for 2030. The city's income tax is outperforming projections at 4.2% growth, but the general fund is projected to operate at a deficit in FY28 if current trends continue. The budget stabilization fund is below its 10% policy level (requires $850,000 to reach policy). ARPA funds of $92.3 million have $8.7 million remaining, to be spent by December 2026. City projects totaling $6.777 million were at risk from state clawback but were deemed already encumbered. The presentation also covered progress across six strategic priority areas, including housing (1,621 new dwelling units permitted in FY25, 636 affordable units completed), public safety (full beat coverage for first time in a decade, 13 murder victims in 2024), and infrastructure (e.g., lead service line replacement). Commissioner discussion focused on trade-offs, affordability, and the need to balance services with fiscal constraints. - First Ward Vacancy: City Clerk presented options for filling the seat vacated by Commissioner Robbins (resignation effective March 6, 2026). Commissioners debated four options: (1) wait until November election, (2) wait until April 21 filing deadline, (3) set a timeline immediately, (4) delay setting a timeline. After extensive discussion, the commission reached a consensus to adopt an approach similar to option 2/5: begin the application process immediately but conduct interviews and make the final appointment after the April 21 filing deadline. The Committee on Appointments will lead the process. Commissioner Purdue noted that starting soon would allow a new member to participate in major decisions like the city attorney selection and budget deliberations. Key Outcomes - All three resolutions were approved unanimously. - The commission directed the city clerk to open applications for the First Ward vacancy immediately, with interviews by the Committee on Appointments after April 21, 2026, and a final appointment vote at a special meeting between April 21 and the regular April 28 meeting. - Staff will proceed with the FY27 budget process, aiming to present a balanced budget on April 28, 2026, while addressing structural deficits. The CFO indicated that program reductions or fee increases may be necessary to maintain service levels. - The city will continue to monitor federal and state funding uncertainties and advocate for legislative fixes on court funding and public safety revenue sharing.

This meeting of the Public Safety Committee covered crime statistics, a recent officer-involved shooting, the introduction of an interim police chief, planning for major events at the Acrisure Amphitheater and soccer stadium, and the FY2025 surveillance technology report. The meeting lasted approximately two hours, with extensive discussion on staffing challenges, community concerns, and transparency. Crime Statistics & Officer-Involved Shooting - Chief Winstrom presented year-to-date crime statistics for January 2026. Auto thefts increased slightly but were not statistically significant. Robbery totals were stagnant. Three fatal shootings were domestic-related (a single incident), which Chief Winstrom highlighted as an outlier. He praised the detective work and victim advocates. - Chief Winstrom discussed the DALE (Domestic Abuse Lethality Assessment) screening tool, noting that GRPD is the first in the region to implement it. Officers average one referral per day to partners (YWCA, Safe Haven). - Chief Winstrom addressed the officer-involved shooting from the previous week (the 12th since his tenure). He stated that Michigan State Police (MSP) are investigating and that GRPD will release no further footage until MSP and the prosecutor complete their review. He praised MSP's professionalism. - Commissioner Golston requested a comprehensive report on all 12 officer-involved shootings since 2022, noting that nine occurred in the southeast quadrant. He urged transparency and accountability. The city manager committed to working with OPA and the police chief to develop a response, but cautioned against re-litigating closed cases. - Commissioner Sasi (Saucy?) asked about the process for releasing body-worn camera footage from the second officer at the scene. Chief Winstrom reiterated that MSP controls all evidence and that GRPD will not release anything until the investigation concludes. - Interim Chief Joe Trig was introduced and thanked Chief Winstrom for his leadership. Chief Trig emphasized continuity, accountability, and community partnerships. Public Safety & Emergency Management for Large Events - City staff presented plans for the Acrisure Amphitheater (opening 2026) and the Grand Rapids Soccer Stadium (2027). Key areas: scheduling, safety, severe weather, parking, and traffic. The city is coordinating with multiple departments, MDOT, Michigan State Patrol, and venue operators. - Commissioner Saucy asked about staffing: state law requires uniformed officers at crosswalks. Initial estimates require 24 officers per event at the amphitheater, plus 8 at the Van Andel Arena on double-booked days (at least 8 such days). Chief Winstrom acknowledged staffing strain and said they will overstaff initially and adjust. The city is exploring interagency support and alternative traffic management devices. - Commissioner Fin expressed concerns about late hours, intoxicated pedestrians, and micro-mobility (scooters, etc.). Staff noted geofencing will be used to disable scooters near venues. Parking challenges were acknowledged; the city encourages use of the Dash shuttle and parking further away. - Commissioner Zuckerman (?) praised the effort to diversify economic impact and highlighted the Dash route as an underutilized transit option. Surveillance Technology Report (FY2025) - Mr. Davis (OPA) presented the FY2025 surveillance report, covering GRFD and GRPD. - GRFD: 126 drone flights (down 51 from FY2024). 77 for training, 15 for reconnaissance, 12 for public relations, 11 for water rescue, 11 for structure fires. Majority in Ward 3. No complaints. Cost: $7,581.85. - GRPD: Two instances of body-worn camera policy violations (one late activation, one uncharged battery). No complaints about drone misuse. 483 drone flights (up 26% from FY2024), with 279 for overwatch, 162 for locating persons, 39 for evidence collection, 3 for crime prevention. 158 deployments were warrant-authorized. Cost: $26,699.17 (including $17,600 for software). - OPA received one complaint about license plate reader (LPR) misuse for immigration enforcement. An expedited review found no policy violation. Commissioner Sasi highlighted this as a critical response to community fears about immigration enforcement. - OPA will continue to monitor civil rights impacts. Facial recognition technology is a horizon issue. - Commissioner Kilver asked about accountability for body-worn camera violations. Interim Chief Trig explained progressive discipline (coaching to written counseling). - Commissioner Sasi requested a future public education session on LPR technology to dispel myths. Key Outcomes - The "Know Your Rights" item was deferred to the next meeting. - The city manager will work with OPA and the police chief to develop a report on officer-involved shootings since 2022, respecting legal and collective bargaining constraints. - No formal votes were taken; all items were for discussion and informational purposes.

The Community Development Committee met on February 24, 2026, at 9:15 AM. The committee approved multiple consent agenda items, including fireworks permits and contract extensions, and discussed and voted on several infrastructure, brownfield, and trail projects. The meeting concluded with a major presentation and contract award for the Grand River Vitalization Project, a 17-year initiative to restore rapids and improve river access. Consent Calendar - Fireworks Discharge Permits: Approved three permits: for Strictly FX indoor special effects at Van Andel Arena in connection with IPR (February 24, 2026); for Broadway Grand Rapids' "Juliet" performances at DeVos Performance Hall (March 10–15, 2026); and for Strictly FX at Van Andel Arena in connection with Bailey Zimmerman (March 12, 2026). All passed unanimously. - Time Extensions: Approved time extensions for geotechnical services and construction materials testing (no cost increase, previously authorized $7 million) and for evaluation and maintenance structures and coatings with Dixon Engineering Inc. (no cost increase, previously authorized $250,000). Both passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Contract for Electrical Improvements at WRRF: Awarded to Basin Electric Co. for $1,763,067 (total not to exceed $2,763,935) for critical electrical component replacement at the Water Resource Recovery Facility's North Secondary Control Building. Included a 0.25% micro-local business enterprise discount and $255,000 in subcontracting. Passed unanimously. - Grand River Edges Trail East (Leonard to Ann): Approved an agreement with MDOT authorizing $2,140,352 local share to construct the trail from Leonard Street to the Grand Rapids Eastern Railroad, closing a key gap. The project leverages TAP and MDNR grants and West Michigan Trails contributions. Discussion included ARPA fund expiration concerns and connections to bike infrastructure. Passed unanimously. - Water Service Replacement on Oakwood Avenue: Awarded to C&D Hughes Inc. for $4,957,748 (total not to exceed $6,190,962) to replace an aged water main and 73 lead service lines. Contract includes 9% micro-LBE participation (voluntary due to DWRF funding restrictions). Passed unanimously. - Oxford Street Reconstruction (Norwick to Godfrey): Awarded to Anlon Corporation for $1,986,602 (total not to exceed $2,834,733) for sewer separation, bridge rehabilitation, and road narrowing to support the Oxford Trail project. The city is 99.9% sewer separated; this is one of the last areas. Passed unanimously. - Monroe Avenue Mill and Resurfacing: Approved an agreement with MDOT authorizing $791,120 local share for resurfacing from Newberry Street to Coldbrook Street, including curb changes for pedestrian safety. Construction set for May/June, approximately 8 weeks, with one side open at a time. Passed unanimously. - Trench Repair Contract: Awarded to Lodestar Construction Inc. for $976,690 (total not to exceed $1,120,000) for trench repair in outlying communities. Passed unanimously. - Easements for Leffingwell and Bradford Reconstruction: Accepted multiple easements at 915 Leffingwell Ave, 2984 Bradford St, and 2848 Bradford St for $1 each. Corewell Health is a partner; total investment about $4.5 million. Passed unanimously. - Brownfield Plan Amendment – Knapp Hills: Scheduled a public hearing for March 17, 2026, to consider including the Knapp Hills Redevelopment Project (2070 Dean Lake Ave NE). The Wheeler Group proposes 38 townhomes (21% at 100% AMI), $12.3 million total cost, $2 million eligible activities. Passed unanimously. - Brownfield Plan Amendment – Lake Eastbrook Depots: Scheduled a public hearing for March 17, 2026, to consider including the Lake Eastbrook Depots redevelopment (3538 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE). Scott Weirda proposes 132 apartments (45% monitored at 90–100% AMI for 25 years), $25 million total cost, $10.6 million eligible activities including financing gap. Passed unanimously. Grand River Vitalization Project Presentation and Contract Award - Contract Award: Approved a contract with Taplin Group LLC for the Grand River Vitalization Project (lower reach) in the amount of $14,562,625.98, with a total not to exceed $25,982,101. The project will remove four dams between I-196 and Fulton Street and replace them with natural rock features, restoring rapids, improving fish habitat, and enhancing public access. Construction begins spring 2026 and will last approximately two years; Ah-Nab-Awen Park will be closed during this time. - Presentation: Mike Stahl (City Engineering) and Matt Chapman (Grand Rapids Whitewater) presented the project's goals and design, emphasizing collaboration with state and federal agencies and integration with parks and trails. The project is the culmination of 17 years of effort. - Discussion: Committee members asked about community engagement (including with advocacy groups), a consolidated information webpage, and inclusion of local workforce and subcontractors. Staff noted that federal funding (NRCS) limits the ability to require micro-local participation on the construction contract, but they are exploring other professional services opportunities. Deputy City Manager Barrens committed to providing a comprehensive look at micro-local objectives. - Vote: The resolution passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All 15 resolutions were approved unanimously. - A public hearing for the Knapp Hills and Lake Eastbrook brownfield plan amendments was scheduled for March 17, 2026. - Construction of the Grand River Vitalization Project will begin spring 2026, with ongoing updates to be consolidated on river-related websites.

On February 24, 2026, the City of Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee held a regular meeting lasting from 8:30 AM to 8:49 AM. The committee approved a power purchase agreement for a solar array, a budget substitution for a renewable natural gas skid, a budget substitution for an electrical substation replacement, accepted a grant for a food scrap collection pilot, and approved the bid list. The comptroller's and treasurer's reports were also presented. Consent Calendar - The meeting did not include a consent calendar; all items were discussed individually. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments or testimony were presented. Discussion Items - Power Purchase Agreement with Interlogics Network Inc. – The committee approved a resolution for a 25-year power purchase agreement to develop a solar array on the Butterworth Landfill. Under the agreement, the developer owns and operates the facility, and the city pays for the electricity generated. The estimated annual savings compared to the current renewable energy program subscription with Consumers Energy is approximately $58,000. This project fulfills a climate action plan goal and concludes a 10+ year effort. Passed unanimously. - Budget Substitution for Renewable Natural Gas Conditioning Skid – A $765,000 budget substitution from the Infrastructure Investment Project (IIP) fund was approved to procure a new RNG upgrading skid. The skid is needed after gas production from the third digester quadrupled following a pilot study with the City of Wyoming. The lead time is 42–52 weeks. Funds come from sewer ratepayer money (not taxpayer funds). The biodigestion process reduces biosolids by 50–57% and produces renewable natural gas sold on the market. Passed unanimously. - Budget Substitution for Electrical Substation Replacement – The committee approved a $968,329 budget substitution from various closed or deferred capital projects to fund the city-county complex electrical substation replacement at 300 Monroe. The substation feeds electricity to City Hall, the Kent County Administrative Building, and Calder Plaza. Temporary power has been in use since October 2025; the project is nearing completion. Passed unanimously. - Food Scrap Collection Pilot Grant and Composter Purchase – The committee accepted a $10,000 grant from Next Cycle Michigan (EGLE) for a food scrap collection pilot. Staff presented progress: since 2025, six city facilities have collected over 5,000 pounds of food waste (about 200 pounds per week), diverting it from the incinerator. The pilot aims to expand to ten facilities with a goal of 500 pounds per week, register 500 residents, and establish six community drop-off sites (two per ward). Three community engagement sessions are scheduled for the following week. An in-vessel composter (funded through the refuse budget) is also on the bid list. The compost will be delivered to neighborhood gardens and available for resident pickup. Passed unanimously. - Bid List Resolution – The committee approved nine items, including Cayento services (bill/software for utilities), a mowing contract, and the composting unit discussed above. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Resolution 1 (Solar PPA): Approved unanimously. - Resolution 2 (RNG Skid): Approved unanimously; $765,000 from IIP fund. - Resolution 3 (Substation): Approved unanimously; $968,329 transferred from other projects. - Resolution 4 (Grant Acceptance): Approved unanimously; $10,000 grant accepted. - Bid List: Approved unanimously. - Comptroller's Report: For the period January 27 – February 9, 2026, cash payments totaled $34,929,461.06, including $6 million in payroll and $313,000 in income tax warrants; 270 income tax refunds and 1,280 checks/electronic payments were issued. - Treasurer's Report: The economic environment is described as stable but sensitive. Interest rate outlook uncertain with potential for increases or decreases. The city's portfolio stands at $715 million with a 3.24% interest rate.