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OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD

Record of Proceedings

City Commission Committee of the Whole Meeting - September 22, 2026

Meeting Portal — Tuesday, September 22, 2026

BodyGrand Rapids, Michigan

SessionMeeting Portal

DateTuesday, September 22, 2026

StatusFILED

Video Record

0:00 / 2:17:45

Transcript — VerbatimClick a timed line to jump · ⧉ to share it

0:02

I'm going to call this meeting of the community of the whole to order.

0:06

And our first item of business is a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month.

0:10

So I'm going to go to the podium and be joined by Mr.

0:14

Davis and other members of the community.

0:34

So before I read the proclamation, um, I'll point out that one of the things that we continue to have conversations about on this commission and in the community is how to be a truly welcoming community.

0:47

And it's uh our city always continues to change, and fortunately we do have new people who join us.

0:54

Uh I think our city manager uh found uh did a little research recently and found out that uh about one in ten of people who identify as black in our community actually weren't born in the United States.

1:07

So uh there are lots of communities that were um members of that community weren't in fact uh born in the U.S.

1:13

and are and are new not just to this community but to our country.

1:17

Um our Hispanic community in Grand Rapids has grown uh dramatically, and in fact, um the most recent stats I looked at, the uh our our black or African American community in town is about equal in size to our Hispanic community at this point.

1:32

So they're both about one sixth of the Grand Rapids population, and that's a number that's really increased.

1:38

Um and as my friend uh Guillermo Suners always points out, uh it's expected to increase uh even more in the in the coming years.

1:46

So um in that context, of course, highlighting um the contributions and the uh and the value of our Hispanic community is uh particularly important.

1:55

But I wanted to frame that before I made the proclamation.

1:58

So, whereas Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States is a month-long period that honors the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Hispanics and Latin that Hispanics and Latin Latinos have made to the United States, including the arts, sciences, education, business, government, and civil rights.

2:15

And whereas the city of Grand Rapids is proud to uplift the national recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month to highlight the contributions and accomplishments of both the local and national Hispanic and Latina uh community.

2:28

And whereas the theme for this year is celebration, pioneers of change shaping the future together, celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latina Americans and honors the trailblazing spirit of Hispanic and Latina leaders who have made significant impacts in fields such as civil rights, arts, science, politics, and sports.

2:50

And whereas Hispanics and Latinos have played a vital role in the shaping of our history and identity both locally and nationally, from the early settlers to the many who work tirelessly to build a brighter future for all, and whereas Hispanic Heritage Month offers the opportunity to honor and celebrate the cultural traditions, achievements, and lasting impact of the Hispanic and Latina community.

3:13

And whereas we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, and our city affirms its contribution to ensure all communities are welcome to live authentically, seek opportunities safely, and remain valued and respected.

3:30

Now, therefore, I, David Le Grand, mayor of the City of Grand Rapids, do hereby proclaim September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, and invite all residents, businesses, organizations, and educational institutions to join in celebrating pioneers of change shaping the future together through events, education, and recognition that embody the theme spirit.

3:53

Mr.

3:54

Davis.

3:55

Thank you.

3:56

Thank you, Mayor, City Commission, City Manager.

3:58

It's my honor to take a moment to recognize uh Hispanic Heritage Month, and more importantly, to express our gratitude to the people who make our city stronger every day.

4:07

To our Hispanic uh Latinx employees across the city of Grand Rapids, thank you.

4:12

Thank you for your service, your leadership, your talents, and the perspective you bring to our organization.

4:17

Your work matters, and we're grateful for the ways you help us serve our residents and move our city forward.

4:23

To our Hispanic and Latinx residents, families, business owners.

4:27

Community leaders and organizations, thank you for the many ways you contribute to the life and culture of Grand Rapids, whether through entrepreneurship, public service, education, arts and culture, neighborhood leadership, or simply investing in your family and communities.

4:40

Your contributions are an important part of our shared story.

4:43

Hispanic Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate that history, recognize those contributions, and continue building a city where everyone has the opportunity to belong, contribute, and thrive.

4:55

At this time, I'd like to welcome representatives from Michigan Local Government Latino Network or MLGL in and share a few remarks.

5:02

And after that, we will hear from uh Gier Guillermo uh from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

5:09

Good morning, everyone, commissioners, mayor, and uh city manager.

5:14

I I'm Ismar with the Michigan Local Government Hispanic Network.

5:17

Um we're local ERG group here with the city.

5:19

And I just really wanted to invite you guys.

5:21

We have an event today at noon um where we're gonna be having food.

5:24

It's kind of kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, the celebration.

5:27

So we'll have food, um, networking, music, and also we'll have a photograph local photographer from Isabel and Media Studios taking headshots of people that are attending the event today.

5:36

So I hope to see and see you guys all there.

5:38

Thank you.

5:39

Oh, sorry, Calder Plaza.

5:45

Well, good morning, everyone.

5:47

Thank you uh for having me this morning.

5:49

I want to thank uh Mayor David Lagrande uh for the warm welcoming and the entire uh city commission of the Cierra Grand Rapids.

5:56

And I really want to express my gratitude for recognizing and for giving us this proclamation as Hispanics.

6:04

I was in Texas uh last week, and um every year that we get together at a national level, you know, we hear the numbers of the economic impact of Latinos in this country.

6:17

This year, uh the numbers presented are that Latinos contributed last year to 4.4 trillion dollars to the economy.

6:27

If Latinos in the United States states were to be its own country, we would be the fourth economy in the world.

6:36

The fourth economy in the world.

6:39

As you said, this country was built by immigrants.

6:44

For the ones that don't know the data, 33% of people that work in a in um in sorry, I have I have these numbers in my head.

6:57

50% of people that work in construction in this country are immigrants.

7:03

50%.

7:05

67% of people that work in agriculture in this country are immigrants.

7:11

67%.

7:13

And 27% of people that work in healthcare are immigrants.

7:18

What does that tell you?

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting

Technology and Innovation████████████████16%

Public Engagement█████████████13%

Affordable Housing██████████10%

Public Safety█████████9%

Community Engagement███████7%

Economic Development███████7%

Environmental Protection█████5%

Mobility█████5%

Procedural████4%

Summary of Proceedings

City Commission Committee of the Whole Meeting - September 22, 2026

This meeting of the Grand Rapids City Commission Committee of the Whole opened with a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month and included several resolutions, a request for closed session, and a detailed annual performance report covering fiscal year 2026 (ending July 30, 2026). City staff presented updates on governmental excellence, economic prosperity, housing, mobility, public safety, and environmental initiatives. Commissioners posed questions and made comments on topics including artificial intelligence, 311 wait times, housing affordability, anti-displacement policy, EV infrastructure, and community safety programs. The meeting concluded with agreement to continue key discussions at the November 12 prioritization workshop.

Proclamation & Public Remarks

Mayor David Le Grand read a proclamation declaring September 15 to October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month, noting that the Hispanic community now represents about one-sixth of Grand Rapids' population and continues to grow.
City Manager Mark Washington and Mr. Davis recognized Hispanic and Latinx employees, residents, and community leaders for their contributions.
Ismar from the Michigan Local Government Latino Network invited attendees to a kick-off event at noon on Calder Plaza featuring food, networking, and headshots.
Guillermo (Hispanic Chamber of Commerce) highlighted the economic impact of Latinos: $4.4 trillion contributed to the U.S. economy last year, and noted that 50% of construction workers, 67% of agricultural workers, and 27% of healthcare workers are immigrants.

Consent Calendar / Routine Approvals

No formal consent calendar was presented. The following resolutions were approved by voice vote:
- Resolution affirming the appointment of Stephen Hudson as City Assessor (effective October 12). He brings over 40 years of municipal experience.
- Resolution approving Mayor Le Grand's travel to the Michigan Land Bank Association Leadership Summit in Battle Creek (no travel costs; only dues). Mayor recused himself from the vote, but the clerk advised it was unnecessary.
- Resolution approving a request for closed session immediately following the meeting to discuss pending litigation (roll call vote: all in favor).

Annual Performance Report Discussion

City Manager Mark Washington, along with Deputy City Managers Kate Bearens and Eric Matthews, presented the fiscal year 2026 annual performance report, organized by strategic plan focus areas.

Governmental Excellence (Eric Matthews):

Employee turnover dropped to 7.9% (target 10%) and time to hire for non-sworn positions was cut nearly in half.
Launched an AI Council with subcommittees on policy, ethics, data governance, and sustainability; initiated a limited Microsoft Copilot pilot.
Developed a long-term data strategy with local firm Mutually Human; continued ERP improvements and water billing system upgrade (83,000 accounts).
First formal internal audit plan developed; achieved ninth consecutive year of double-digit growth in electronic collections (over $1 billion total).
Received 2025 GFOA Award for Financial Reporting and Budgeting Excellence.

Commissioner questions:

Commissioner Kilgore asked about AI ethics and agentic AI; city staff noted cautious approach with human oversight.
Commissioner Purdue emphasized incentivizing city employees to live in Grand Rapids and maintaining non-digital options for residents.
Commissioner Knight inquired about employee surveys linking to turnover; city staff acknowledged the connection.
Commissioner Asazi asked for public access to AI Council membership; city manager noted it is currently an internal body but may evolve.
Mayor LeGrand highlighted 311 average wait time of 300 seconds (5 minutes), far exceeding the target of 30 seconds; city manager noted RFP for AI chatbot to improve self-service, and existing options (app, email, courtesy callback).
Commissioner Sitzia suggested prioritizing FOIA requests and 311 using technology; mayor agreed to include in November workshop.

Economic Prosperity & Affordability (Kate Bearens):

First contract with West Michigan Black Business Alliance completed; $4.3 million state talent partnership grant for North Monroe corridor.
Housing units added in calendar year 2025: 1,075 units affordable at 80-120% AMI, and 605 units at or below 80% AMI.
Affordable Housing Fund Board has invested $5.8 million in 11 projects, creating 161 rental units and 59 ownership units. The board now has ~$11 million available and is considering retaining some for ongoing income and prioritizing deeply affordable units (at or below 60% AMI).
Emerging developer grant program paused; five applicants remain in limbo; staff is seeking alternative funding from Affordable Housing Fund Board and other sources.
Inclusion plan commitments to MLBE increased from 4.5% to 16% between calendar years 2024 and 2025.

Commissioner comments:

Commissioner Kilgore asked for clarity on "deeply affordable" – defined as at or below 60% AMI.
Commissioner Knight praised increased housing supply and asked about sustaining the affordable housing fund through philanthropy and investments.
Commissioner Purdue requested follow-up on emerging developer communication and permitting process improvements.
Commissioner Asazi urged development of a comprehensive anti-displacement policy before aggressive land bank activity.
Commissioner Knight noted the need to track executed (not just committed) inclusion plan dollars.

Engaged & Connected (Eric Matthews):

Completed community engagement framework; launched online portal Engaged GR.
Customer ombudsperson participated in 97 community meetings; 864 sustainability office touch points.
311 evaluation of post-survey services and AI chatbot capabilities ongoing; average wait time rose due to staffing challenges.
1,900 people educated on leadership and civic engagement; 700 on active involvement; 984 participated in know your rights events.

Health & Environment (Mark Washington and Eric Matthews):

Parks: 81% of parks in fair or better condition (up from 15% in 2019); MLK Community Center opened; pool pass usage doubled.
Water: Over 1,400 lead service lines replaced; recognized by Service Line Replacement Collaborative. 39 homes cleared of lead paint hazards.
Carbon reduction: 47% reduction from 2008 benchmark (target 85% by 2030). Launched air quality monitoring program (transitioned from DGRI).
Stormwater: One of wettest springs on record; new flood barrier systems purchased; developing a 20-30 year stormwater resilience plan.
1,700 trees planted; 407 stumps ground; 500 tree removals.
Commissioner Belchak noted EV infrastructure and fleet electrification are not yet in CAP; requested future discussion.

Mobility (Kate Bearens):

Safety: 65 ADA curb ramp barriers removed; half-mile sidewalk gap closed; traffic calming budget doubled to $340,000.
Dash service redesigned; ridership steady with increased event night use.
Parking: Downtown parking system assessment found sufficient stalls; first reservation system launched; 90% of event parkers satisfied.
Mobility blueprint launched to guide investment and design standards through 2027.

Commissioner comments:

Mayor LeGrand requested long-term visioning staff; emphasized need for reversible, affordable, compatible improvements.
Commissioner Kilgore praised Mobile GR's social media engagement on VO scooters and highlighted accessible trike options.
Commissioner Knight asked about insurance challenges for non-traditional vehicles; city attorney to provide follow-up.

Safe Community (Mark Washington):

Crime trends: Decrease in property crime and motor vehicle theft; crimes against persons increased slightly; murders about same as prior year.
Beat coverage at 100% for patrol – first time meeting target in years.
911 dispatch: 96.9% of calls answered within 15 seconds; average response time for critical incidents under 3 minutes.
Co-response model with Network 180: nearly 2,800 calls; 80% of encounters diverted to crisis stabilization unit.
Violence prevention: 727 youth through summer programs, over 300 youth employed, Cure Violence and Urban League engaged nearly 3,000 individuals.
Fire facilities: $68 million investment; new stations and training center progressing.
Emergency management: 101 residents completed CERT training; disaster relief fund partnership with United Way.
Mayor noted upcoming meeting with Cure Violence Global.
Commissioner Kilgore thanked police for participation in LGBTQ+ safe interactions event.
Commissioner Belchak highlighted CERT Level 1 training she attended.

Closing Items:

City manager noted several positions funded only through end of calendar year 2026 (Office of Equity & Engagement, sustainability, communication support) and requested commission direction before November workshop.
Deferred discussion on mediation/trauma-informed pilot and Third Ward Neighborhood Association Fund allocation to a future meeting.
Confirmed dates: Prioritization workshop November 12, 2026; mid-year performance update February 2027.

Key Outcomes

Approved appointment of Stephen Hudson as City Assessor (voice vote).
Approved mayor's travel to Michigan Land Bank Association Leadership Summit (voice vote).
Approved closed session for pending litigation (roll call 7-0).
Commission directed staff to include AI, 311, FOIA, anti-displacement strategy, EV infrastructure, and emerging developer program in November workshop agenda.
City manager to provide follow-up on AI Council public engagement and insurance for non-traditional vehicles.
Staff to continue seeking funding for five emerging developer applicants and report back.
Closed session convened at approximately 2:30 PM; committee adjourned thereafter.

Meeting Transcript

I'm going to call this meeting of the community of the whole to order. And our first item of business is a proclamation for Hispanic Heritage Month. So I'm going to go to the podium and be joined by Mr. Davis and other members of the community. So before I read the proclamation, um, I'll point out that one of the things that we continue to have conversations about on this commission and in the community is how to be a truly welcoming community. And it's uh our city always continues to change, and fortunately we do have new people who join us. Uh I think our city manager uh found uh did a little research recently and found out that uh about one in ten of people who identify as black in our community actually weren't born in the United States. So uh there are lots of communities that were um members of that community weren't in fact uh born in the U.S. and are and are new not just to this community but to our country. Um our Hispanic community in Grand Rapids has grown uh dramatically, and in fact, um the most recent stats I looked at, the uh our our black or African American community in town is about equal in size to our Hispanic community at this point. So they're both about one sixth of the Grand Rapids population, and that's a number that's really increased. Um and as my friend uh Guillermo Suners always points out, uh it's expected to increase uh even more in the in the coming years. So um in that context, of course, highlighting um the contributions and the uh and the value of our Hispanic community is uh particularly important. But I wanted to frame that before I made the proclamation. So, whereas Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States is a month-long period that honors the rich history, traditions, and contributions of Hispanics and Latin that Hispanics and Latin Latinos have made to the United States, including the arts, sciences, education, business, government, and civil rights. And whereas the city of Grand Rapids is proud to uplift the national recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month to highlight the contributions and accomplishments of both the local and national Hispanic and Latina uh community. And whereas the theme for this year is celebration, pioneers of change shaping the future together, celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latina Americans and honors the trailblazing spirit of Hispanic and Latina leaders who have made significant impacts in fields such as civil rights, arts, science, politics, and sports. And whereas Hispanics and Latinos have played a vital role in the shaping of our history and identity both locally and nationally, from the early settlers to the many who work tirelessly to build a brighter future for all, and whereas Hispanic Heritage Month offers the opportunity to honor and celebrate the cultural traditions, achievements, and lasting impact of the Hispanic and Latina community. And whereas we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, and our city affirms its contribution to ensure all communities are welcome to live authentically, seek opportunities safely, and remain valued and respected. Now, therefore, I, David Le Grand, mayor of the City of Grand Rapids, do hereby proclaim September 15 to October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month, and invite all residents, businesses, organizations, and educational institutions to join in celebrating pioneers of change shaping the future together through events, education, and recognition that embody the theme spirit. Mr. Davis. Thank you. Thank you, Mayor, City Commission, City Manager. It's my honor to take a moment to recognize uh Hispanic Heritage Month, and more importantly, to express our gratitude to the people who make our city stronger every day. To our Hispanic uh Latinx employees across the city of Grand Rapids, thank you. Thank you for your service, your leadership, your talents, and the perspective you bring to our organization. Your work matters, and we're grateful for the ways you help us serve our residents and move our city forward. To our Hispanic and Latinx residents, families, business owners. Community leaders and organizations, thank you for the many ways you contribute to the life and culture of Grand Rapids, whether through entrepreneurship, public service, education, arts and culture, neighborhood leadership, or simply investing in your family and communities. Your contributions are an important part of our shared story. Hispanic Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate that history, recognize those contributions, and continue building a city where everyone has the opportunity to belong, contribute, and thrive. At this time, I'd like to welcome representatives from Michigan Local Government Latino Network or MLGL in and share a few remarks. And after that, we will hear from uh Gier Guillermo uh from the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Good morning, everyone, commissioners, mayor, and uh city manager. I I'm Ismar with the Michigan Local Government Hispanic Network. Um we're local ERG group here with the city. And I just really wanted to invite you guys. We have an event today at noon um where we're gonna be having food. It's kind of kick off Hispanic Heritage Month, the celebration. So we'll have food, um, networking, music, and also we'll have a photograph local photographer from Isabel and Media Studios taking headshots of people that are attending the event today. So I hope to see and see you guys all there. Thank you. Oh, sorry, Calder Plaza. Well, good morning, everyone. Thank you uh for having me this morning. I want to thank uh Mayor David Lagrande uh for the warm welcoming and the entire uh city commission of the Cierra Grand Rapids. And I really want to express my gratitude for recognizing and for giving us this proclamation as Hispanics. I was in Texas uh last week, and um every year that we get together at a national level, you know, we hear the numbers of the economic impact of Latinos in this country. This year, uh the numbers presented are that Latinos contributed last year to 4.4 trillion dollars to the economy.

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