East Grand Rapids public meetings in 2025

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission meeting scheduled for Dec 25, 2025 was canceled. No agenda items were considered. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, Jan 26, 2026 at 6:00 PM.

City Commission

The City Commission will consider opting out of the state's 80/20 health insurance contribution requirement for 2026. The body will also approve a permit extension for private communication lines and award flooring improvement contracts.

• Resolution to opt out of Public Act 152 health insurance contributions for 2026
• Metro Act Right-of-Way permit extension for Verizon through December 5, 2030
• Award of flooring improvements contract for $85,745 plus 15% contingency
• Approval of carpet, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile flooring improvements
• Setting of annual Strategic Planning Session for February 7, 2026

The City Commission unanimously approved a resolution to opt out of the 80/20 health‑care premium contribution required by Michigan Public Act 152 for 2026. It also approved a right‑of‑way permit extension for Verizon, a $85,745 flooring contract, the date for the 2026 strategic planning session, and a change to the vesting schedule for non‑union directors. Finally, the consent agenda covering meeting minutes and several payroll and other fund disbursements was approved.

• Approved resolution opting out of health‑care premium 80/20 split for 2026 (5-0)
• Approved Metro Act Right‑of‑Way Unilateral Permit Extension with Verizon Access Transmission Services through Dec 5 2030 (5-0)
• Approved awarding carpet, vinyl tile, and ceramic tile flooring improvements to Seelye Group Ltd‑Shaw Industries for $85,745 plus 15% contingency (5-0)
• Approved setting the annual Strategic Planning Session for Saturday, Feb 7 2026 (5-0)
• Approved changing vesting schedule for Non‑Union Department Directors from 5 years to 3 years (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda: meeting minutes, payroll disbursements of $10.56 and $328,699.82, county/school disbursements of $57,959.74, remaining disbursements of $1,127,065.55, and Parks & Recreation commission minutes (5-0)

Planning Commission

The East Grand Rapids Planning Commission voted to approve the site plan for Calvin University’s football stadium phases 2 and 3, adding conditions on event scheduling, storm‑water management, lighting, and sound. The commission also held a public hearing on the proposed expansion of the North Parking Garage at 1840 Wealthy Street and requested additional information before reconsidering the plan. Additional agenda items included a review of the Draft Master Plan and a report from the City Commission on the Gaslight Investors PUD approval, which is currently paused.

• Approval of Calvin University football stadium site plan (phases 2 & 3) with conditions
• Public hearing on North Parking Garage expansion at 1840 Wealthy Street – information requested
• Review of Draft Master Plan
• City Commission report on Gaslight Investors PUD approval (paused pending petitions)
• Public comments on noise, lighting, and traffic for stadium and garage projects

City Commission

The East Grand Rapids City Commission will hear an audit presentation on the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for FY ending June 30, 2025. Commissioners will consider approving an updated Poverty Exemption Policy resolution and discuss starting an independent review of the Department of Public Safety. They will also vote on a $71,214 change order to refinish concrete at elementary school playgrounds, with the school district reimbursing half the cost, and approve scheduled fund disbursements.

• Audit presentation by Vredeveld Haefner, LLC on the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (FY ended June 30, 2025)
• Consider approval of the updated Poverty Exemption Policy resolution
• Discuss initiating an independent review of the Department of Public Safety
• Authorize a change order of $71,214 to refinish concrete on elementary school playground sites, with EGRPS reimbursing 50%
• Approve disbursements: payroll $313,956.47; county and school $52,056.47; remaining $377,900.03

The commission approved the meeting agenda as presented and added oaths of office to the agenda before public comment. It removed the Poverty Exemption item from the agenda. Commissioners voted unanimously to proceed with an independent review of the Department of Public Safety. They also authorized a $71,214 change order to refinish elementary school playground concrete, with the school district reimbursing half the cost.

• Approved agenda as presented (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Added oaths of office to agenda before public comment (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Removed Poverty Exemption from agenda (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved independent review of the Department of Public Safety (consensus to proceed)
• Authorized $71,214 change order for playground concrete refinishing, 50% reimbursed by EGRPS (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved consent agenda, including minutes and disbursements (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved communications item (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved disbursement of funds: payroll $313,956.47; county and school $52,056.47; remaining $377,900.03 (6 yeas, 0 nays)

City Commission

The East Grand Rapids City Commission will hear an audit presentation for the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and review financial reports for the quarter ending September 30, 2025. Commissioners will consider approving an amended City Poverty Exemption Policy that raises income and asset limits and removes section 7. They will also consider a resolution amending the FY 2025‑26 budget and a resolution rejecting the Gaslight Investors protest petition.

• Audit presentation by Vredeveld Haefner, LLC on the 2025 ACFR
• Consider approval of amended City Poverty Exemption Policy to raise limits and eliminate section 7
• Consider approval of resolution amending the FY 2025‑26 budget
• Consider approving resolution rejecting the October 6, 2025 Gaslight Investors protest petition
• Disbursement of payroll $331,004.51; county and school $42,596.85; remaining $431,915.81

The East Grand Rapids City Commission approved an amendment to the City Poverty Exemption Policy that raises the income limit to twice the federal level, sets the asset limit to $40,000, and removes section 7. The commission also approved the FY 2025‑26 budget amendment, removed the audit presentation from the agenda, changed the protest petition item to a Gaslight Investors project update, and entered a closed‑session for attorney‑client communication. All votes were unanimous.

• Removed audit presentation (Item 6) from agenda – Approved (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Changed protest petition (Item 10) to Gaslight Investors project update – Approved (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Amended resolution to replace required documentation wording – Approved (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved amended City Poverty Exemption Policy – Approved (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution amending FY 2025‑26 budget – Approved (7 yeas, 0 nays)
• Entered closed session for attorney‑client communication – Approved (7 yeas, 0 nays)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will review permit requests for three 2026 community events. Members will also provide feedback on Manhattan Park pickleball usage statistics and a memorial viewfinder donation.

• Special Event Permit request: 2026 EGRPS Middle School Regatta
• Special Event Permit request: 2026 Gaslight Village Criterium
• Special Event Permit request: 2026 East Grand Rapids Fine Art Fair
• Review of Manhattan Park 2025 Pickleball Court Usage Statistics
• Discussion of Memorial Viewfinder Donation

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved three special events for 2026: the EGRPS Middle School Regatta, the Gaslight Village Criterium, and the East Grand Rapids Fine Art Fair. Each event was approved unanimously with a 9‑0 vote. The commission also approved the September 22, 2025 meeting minutes by a 9‑0 vote.

• Approved September 22, 2025 minutes (9-0)
• Approved 2026 EGRPS Middle School Regatta (9-0)
• Approved 2026 Gaslight Village Criterium (9-0)
• Approved 2026 East Grand Rapids Fine Art Fair (9-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will consider approving a $6,000 contract with the Gaslight Village Business Association to operate the 2025 Tree Lighting Event in Regatta Plaza. The body will also discuss entering a closed session to review attorney communications and the City Manager's performance.

• Contract with Gaslight Village Business Association for $6,000
• Closed session for City Manager evaluation
• Closed session for attorney communications
• Tree Lighting Event in Regatta Plaza
• Public Comment period

The commission voted 6‑0 to approve a $6,000 contract with the Gaslight Village Business Association for the 2025 Tree Lighting Event. It also voted 6‑0 to enter an executive session at 6:06 p.m. to discuss City Attorney communications and the City Manager evaluation. A motion to create an ad‑hoc committee for manager‑evaluation tools failed 2‑4. Finally, the commission approved the revisions and renewal of the City Manager’s employment agreement by a 5‑1 vote.

• Approved $6,000 contract with Gaslight Village Business Association (6-0)
• Entered executive session at 6:06 p.m. (6-0)
• Motion to form ad hoc evaluation committee failed (2-4)
• Approved revisions and renewal of City Manager employment agreement (5-1)

Public Notices

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a site plan review for 1840 Wealthy St. SE. The proposal from Corewell Health involves a one-story vertical expansion of the northwest parking ramp (Parking Ramp 2).

• Site plan review for 1840 Wealthy St. SE (Blodgett Hospital)
• Proposed one-story vertical expansion of Parking Ramp 2

Public Notices

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a site plan review for a football stadium at 3120 Lake Dr. SE. The commission may make a decision on the proposal at the end of the hearing.

• Site plan review for Calvin University football stadium at 3120 Lake Dr. SE

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings for two site plan reviews. The meeting will address proposed expansions for a university stadium and a hospital parking ramp.

• Public Hearing: Site Plan Review for 3120 Lake Dr. (Calvin University) Football Stadium Phases 2 & 3
• Public Hearing: Site Plan Review for 1840 Wealthy St. (Blodgett Hospital) Ramp 2 (north) Vertical Expansion

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the September 9 minutes. It approved the site‑plan for Calvin University’s Phase 2 and Phase 3 stadium construction, adding several conditions, by a 7‑1 vote. The commission did not act on the North Parking Garage expansion, instead requesting more information before reconsideration. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (8‑0)
• Approved September 9 minutes (8‑0)
• Approved Calvin University stadium Phase 2‑3 site plan with conditions (7‑1)
• Requested additional information on North Parking Garage expansion (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (8‑0)

Planning Commission

The commission will hold public hearings on the site‑plan review for 3120 Lake Dr (Calvin University football stadium phases 2 & 3) and for 1840 Wealthy St (Blodgett Hospital ramp 2 north vertical expansion). Commissioners will also discuss amendments to the Gaslight Investors Planned Unit Development, covering reductions in building count, height, rental units and parking, and language on a social‑hub space, parking‑garage timing, public access, and maintenance responsibilities. No final votes are recorded; these items are for public comment and staff‑level review.

• Public hearing – site‑plan review for 3120 Lake Dr (Calvin University football stadium phases 2 & 3)
• Public hearing – site‑plan review for 1840 Wealthy St (Blodgett Hospital ramp 2 north vertical expansion)
• Amendment proposal for Gaslight Investors PUD: reduce buildings from 9 to 8, remove Building E, lower tallest building to 5 stories, cut rental units from 180 to 147, and reduce parking from 503 to 493 spaces
• Discussion of social‑hub space requirements and phase‑timing language in the Gaslight PUD amendment
• Consideration of parking‑garage construction timing and maintenance language for the Gaslight PUD

City Commission

The East Grand Rapids City Commission will discuss amending the Poverty Exemption Policy to raise income and asset limits and remove the special circumstances provision. Commissioners will also vote on purchasing 25 Microsoft Office LTSC Standard 2024 licenses for $11,000 and approving HVAC equipment funding of $261,600 plus contingency. Additional consent items include meeting minutes, fund disbursements, and an executive session for a city manager personnel evaluation.

• Amend Poverty Exemption Policy: raise income/asset limits, eliminate Section 7
• Purchase 25 Microsoft Office LTSC Standard 2024 licenses – $11,000
• Approve HVAC equipment project – $261,600 plus 10% contingency
• Disburse funds: payroll $310,282.38; county/school $83,512.14; remaining $730,996.98
• Executive session request for city manager personnel evaluation

The commission voted unanimously to approve a facility HVAC equipment replacement contract with Northwest Kent Mechanical for $261,600 plus a 10% contingency. It also approved the purchase of 25 Microsoft Office LTSC licenses for $11,000 and adopted the consent agenda items, including payroll and other fund disbursements. An executive session was entered to conduct a personnel evaluation of the City Manager.

• Approved facility HVAC equipment replacement with Northwest Kent Mechanical for $261,600 plus 10% contingency (7-0)
• Approved purchase of 25 Microsoft Office LTSC Standard 2024 licenses for $11,000 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda: minutes of Oct. 20, 2025 meeting (7-0)
• Approved disbursement of payroll $331,529.70, county/school $62,238.64, remaining $549,547.02 (7-0)
• Approved communications item (7-0)
• Entered executive session for City Manager personnel evaluation (7-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The regular meeting of the East Grand Rapids Parks and Recreation Commission scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025 was canceled. No agenda items were considered. The commission’s next meeting is set for Monday, November 24, 2025 at 6:00 PM. No decisions or discussions will occur at the canceled meeting.

City Commission

The East Grand Rapids City Commission will vote on adding a Roth (post‑tax) contribution option to the city employees’ 457 Deferred Compensation Plan. It will also consider amending the City Poverty Exemption Policy to raise income and asset limits and remove a special‑circumstances provision. Additional items include approval of sidewalks at Remington Park for up to $11,000, a lake‑management services contract averaging $27,400‑$34,800 per year for 2026‑2030, and a $12,188 holiday lighting contract for the Gaslight Village Business District. An e‑bike/scooter discussion and an executive session on attorney‑client matters are also on the agenda.

• Add Roth contribution option to city employee 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
• Amend Poverty Exemption Policy: raise limits and eliminate Section 7
• Approve sidewalk placement at Remington Park (max $11,000)
• Approve lake management services contract (annual average $27,400‑$34,800, 2026‑2030)
• Award $12,188 contract for holiday lighting on street trees in Gaslight Village

The City Commission voted unanimously to add a Roth contribution option to the 457 Deferred Compensation Plan for employees. It also approved a sidewalk project at Remington Park, lake‑management services for 2026‑2030, and a holiday‑lighting contract for Gaslight Village. The consent agenda items were approved as well.

• Approved adding Roth contribution option to city employees' 457 Deferred Compensation Plan (7-0)
• Approved placement of sidewalks at Remington Park, cost not to exceed $11,000 (7-0)
• Approved lake management services for 2026‑2030, annual average cost $27,400‑$34,800 (7-0)
• Approved holiday lighting contract for Gaslight Village Business District, $12,188 (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (6-0)

City Commission

The East Grand Rapids City Commission will decide whether to award the sidewalk rehabilitation and replacement program contract to AJZ Concrete LLC, with a maximum of $200,000 for fiscal year 2025/26 and $250,000 for fiscal year 2026/27. Commissioners will also vote on two candidates for the Michigan Municipal League Liability and Property Pool. A final reading and approval of the Gaslight Investors PUD amendment and resolution will be considered. Additional agenda items include routine reports, a public comment period, and a Hearts of Gold presentation.

• Award sidewalk rehabilitation and replacement contract to AJZ Concrete LLC, not to exceed $200,000 FY25/26 and $250,000 FY26/27
• Vote on two candidates for the Michigan Municipal League Liability and Property Pool
• Final reading and approval of Gaslight Investors PUD amendment and resolution
• Public comment period for residents
• Report of Mayor, City Commissioners, and City Manager

The commission voted 4‑3 to approve and adopt the final reading of the Gaslight Investors PUD ordinance amendment and resolution. It also unanimously approved a sidewalk rehabilitation contract with AJZ Concrete LLC for up to $200,000 in FY25/26 and $250,000 in FY26/27, and unanimously cast votes for two Michigan Municipal League Liability and Property Pool candidates. A motion to postpone discussion of the protest petition failed 3‑4, and the consent agenda and fund disbursements were approved unanimously.

• Award sidewalk rehabilitation contract to AJZ Concrete LLC (up to $200K FY25/26, $250K FY26/27) – Yeas 7, Nays 0
• Cast vote for two Michigan Municipal League Liability and Property Pool candidates – Yeas 7, Nays 0
• Approve final reading and adopt Gaslight PUD ordinance amendment – Yeas 4, Nays 3
• Motion to move Item 9.A and discuss protest petition – Yeas 3, Nays 4 (failed)
• Approve consent agenda – Yeas 7, Nays 0
• Approve disbursement of funds: payroll $320,464.67 and $313,210.49; county and school $1,007,834.34; remaining $805,889.53 – Yeas 7, Nays 0

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals held a training brush‑up session and elected new officers. A public hearing was held on a variance request to reduce the front‑yard setback at 2727 Reeds Lake Blvd from 58.2 ft to 51.2 ft. The board voted to deny the request because it did not meet all applicable standards. New member Janet Dietsch was introduced and no other business was discussed.

• Training Brush‑Up Session for ZBA members
• Election of Chairman, Vice‑Chairman, and Secretary
• Public hearing and denial of variance request for 2727 Reeds Lake Blvd (7 ft front‑yard encroachment)
• Introduction of new ZBA member Janet Dietsch
• No additional ZBA business

Parks & Recreation Commission

The East Grand Rapids Parks & Recreation Commission meeting on September 22, 2025 will consider a request to approve a special event permit for the 2026 Corewell Health Irish Jig. The agenda also includes approval of the August 25 meeting minutes, election of a Chair and Vice‑Chair, and updates on Manhattan Park usage and the upcoming large dog park. Public comment and reports from commissioners and the director are scheduled.

• Approve special event permit for the 2026 Corewell Health Irish Jig (estimated 4,000 participants, 500 spectators, 70 staff, 50 volunteers; location 2211 Lake Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI)
• Approve minutes of the regular meeting held August 25, 2025
• Elect Patrick Parkes as Chair and Michelle Brown as Vice‑Chair of the commission
• Review Manhattan Park usage update, noting doubled pavilion rentals and active pickleball courts
• Report that the large dog park is expected to open soon

The commission approved the minutes from the August 25 meeting with an 8‑0 vote. It also approved the 2026 Corewell Health Irish Jig special event permit, allowing the long‑running race and post‑race celebration to proceed. No other motions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved August 25 minutes (8-0)
• Approved 2026 Corewell Health Irish Jig special event permit (8-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will decide whether to approve a change order that adds artificial turf to the Lakeside Elementary greenspace, costing up to $190,850 and to be reimbursed by East Grand Rapids Public Schools. Commissioners will also review an AT&T lease amendment to add a backup generator at the water tower site, which would raise lease rent by $200 per month. A discussion on a Gaslight Investors PUD amendment and routine consent agenda items, including payroll disbursements, will be presented.

• Change order for artificial turf at Lakeside Elementary – up to $190,850, reimbursement by EGRPS
• AT&T lease amendment for backup generator at water tower – rent increase $200/month
• Gaslight Investors PUD amendment discussion and introduction
• Payroll disbursements of $317,588.56 and other funds totaling $723,327.96
• Approval of minutes from the September 2, 2025 regular meeting

The City Commission approved a PUD ordinance amendment with a 4‑3 vote. It also unanimously approved a change order for artificial turf at Lakeside Elementary and an AT&T lease amendment for a backup generator. The consent agenda, including payroll disbursements of $317,588.56 and remaining funds of $723,327.96, was approved unanimously.

• Approved change order for artificial turf at Lakeside Elementary (7‑0)
• Approved AT&T lease amendment for backup generator (7‑0)
• Approved PUD ordinance amendment (4‑3)
• Approved consent agenda covering minutes, payroll disbursements $317,588.56 and total remaining $723,327.96 (7‑0)

Public Notices

The East Grand Rapids Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Planned Unit Development amendment and a resolution to approve an updated concept plan for Gaslight Investors LLC (formerly Jade Pig Ventures) at 2255 Wealthy Street SE and 515 Lakeside Drive SE. The commission may recommend the amendment to the City Commission, which would end the concept‑plan review phase and begin the final‑plan preparation phase. No development can occur until a final plan is approved by the City Commission. The amendment includes reductions in commercial area, residential units, and parking, and eliminates Building E.

• PUD amendment and updated concept plan for Gaslight Investors LLC at 2255 Wealthy St SE / 515 Lakeside Dr SE
• Commercial C‑1 area reduced by 44% (from 77,500 USF to 32,000 USF)
• Residential units reduced from 180 to 147
• Parking spaces reduced from 583 to 493
• Building E removed; building heights adjusted (e.g., Building C four stories, Building D five stories)

Planning Commission

The East Grand Rapids Planning Commission will hold an introduction and public hearing on a Planned Unit Development amendment for Gaslight Investors at 2255 Wealthy St. SE and 515 Lakeside Dr. SE. Commissioners will also approve the site‑plan review for Grace Episcopal Church’s rain garden at 1815 Hall St., and authorize distribution of the draft Master Plan with noted changes. The meeting includes the election of a Chairperson, Vice‑Chairperson and Secretary.

• Public hearing on Gaslight Investors PUD amendment (2255 Wealthy St. SE and 515 Lakeside Dr. SE)
• Approval of site‑plan review for Grace Episcopal Church rain garden at 1815 Hall St., removing 3,000 ft of parking and 10 spaces
• Authorization to distribute draft Master Plan with updated language on complete streets, mobility and carbon‑neutrality goals
• Election of Planning Commission officers: Chairperson, Vice‑Chairperson, and Secretary
• Discussion of Master Plan updates and related recommendations

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 13, 2025 minutes. Commissioners elected Mary Mapes as Chairperson, Brian Miller as Vice‑Chairperson, and Matt Feyen as Secretary. The commission held a public hearing on amendments to the Gaslight Investors PUD but did not take any formal action.

• Approved agenda (7‑0)
• Approved May 13, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Elected Mary Mapes as Chairperson (7‑0)
• Elected Brian Miller as Vice‑Chairperson (7‑0)
• Elected Matt Feyen as Secretary (7‑0)
• Held public hearing on Gaslight Investors PUD amendments (discussion, no vote)

City Commission

The commission voted 6-1 to move the public‑comment agenda item to the October meeting. A motion to postpone further discussion of the Gaslight Investors concept plan failed 4‑3, and the council voted 4‑3 to table the discussion until the next meeting. A motion to authorize participation in the National Opioid Settlement Agreement was introduced, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome.

• Approved moving public comment agenda to October meeting (6-1)
• Motion to postpone Gaslight Investors discussion failed (3-4)
• Tabled Gaslight Investors discussion until next meeting (4-3)
• Motion to authorize participation in National Opioid Settlement Agreement introduced (vote outcome not recorded)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission will meet to elect officers and review a special event permit for the 2025 EGR Harvest Festival. Members will also discuss updates regarding the usage of Manhattan Park.

• Election of 2025 Parks and Recreation Commission Officers
• Special Event Permit request for 2025 EGR Harvest Festival
• Manhattan Park usage update

The commission voted unanimously to appoint Patrick Parkes as Chair and Michelle Brown as Vice‑Chair for the fiscal year. It also approved the special events permit for the 2025 EGR Harvest Festival. The meeting approved the minutes from the June 23, 2025 commission meeting.

• Approved June 23, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Elected Patrick Parkes as Chair (7‑0)
• Elected Michelle Brown as Vice‑Chair (7‑0)
• Approved 2025 EGR Harvest Festival permit (7‑0)

City Commission

The East Grand Rapids City Commission unanimously approved a final reading and amendment to the City’s Purchasing Ordinance. It also authorized the purchase of three custom sidewalk snow/ice removal equipment attachments for $43,650 (plus $4,350 contingency) and approved the purchase of winter road salt. The board postponed revisions to the Snow and Ice Guidelines to allow staff to rewrite the language, and it approved revisions to winter maintenance and sidewalk priority routes. The consent agenda, including payroll and other disbursements, was also approved.

• Approved final reading and amendment to the City’s Purchasing Ordinance (7-0)
• Authorized purchase of three custom sidewalk snow/ice removal equipment attachments from Prosource Metal Works, LLC for $43,650 plus $4,350 contingency (7-0)
• Authorized purchase of winter maintenance road salt (7-0)
• Postponed revisions to Snow and Ice Guidelines to allow staff to revise language (7-0)
• Approved proposed revisions to winter maintenance and sidewalk priority routes (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda items: minutes of Aug 4 meeting, payroll disbursements $325,566.10, county and school disbursements $4,583,028.44, remaining disbursements $1,402,657.24 (7-0)

City Commission

The commission adopted an amendment to the City’s Purchasing Ordinance that adds the word “electronic” to Section 1.211 and changes gender‑specific pronouns to gender‑neutral language (5‑0). It also approved a one‑year pool use agreement with Aquinas College (5‑0) and adopted the consent agenda items, including payroll disbursements of $314,871.17 (5‑0). A motion to move public comment to the start of agenda items with ten or more speakers and set a September 15 deadline for agenda submissions passed (4‑1).

• Approved amendment to Purchasing Ordinance adding “electronic” and gender‑neutral pronouns (5‑0)
• Approved one‑year pool use agreement with Aquinas College (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (minutes, payroll disbursements, communications) (5‑0)
• Passed motion to move public comment to the beginning of agenda items with ten or more speakers and set agenda deadline to Sep 15 2025 (4‑1)
• Failed motion to add discussion of Gaslight Investors concept‑plan standards (2‑3)
• Failed motion to require consultants working 30+ days to have a City email on the agenda (2‑3)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The board approved the meeting minutes (vote tally not recorded). Members elected Andrew Howard as Chairman, David Jackson as Vice‑Chairman, and Jonathan Paasch as Secretary, each unanimously approved. The board denied the variance request for 2727 Reeds Lake Blvd. by a 0‑6 vote. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes (vote tally not recorded)
• Elected Chairman Andrew Howard (unanimous yeas, 0 nays)
• Elected Vice‑Chairman David Jackson (unanimous yeas, 0 nays)
• Elected Secretary Jonathan Paasch (unanimous yeas, 0 nays)
• Denied variance request for 2727 Reeds Lake Blvd. (0 yeas, 6 nays)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous yeas, 0 nays)

City Commission

The City Commission elected Commissioner Schwartz as president for FY 2025‑26, with a unanimous 6‑0 vote. It approved a one‑year pilot contract costing $50,000 with East Grand Rapids Public Schools to provide vertical integration of middle‑school sports, also by a 6‑0 vote. The Commission further approved renaming the boathouse and adding donor‑recognition signage, again unanimously.

• Elected Commissioner Schwartz as president for FY 2025‑26 (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved one‑year pilot contract with East Grand Rapids Public Schools for $50,000 for middle‑school sports integration (6 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved EGR Crew request to rename the boathouse and add donor recognition signage (6 yeas, 0 nays)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the minutes from the April 28, 2025 meeting. It also approved permits for the 2026 Winterfest at Manhattan Park, the 2025 Gaslight Village Taste of East, the 2025 Resolution Run, and the 2025 Gaslight Village Tree Lighting Ceremony. Each approval was voted 7‑0 in favor.

• Approved April 28, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved 2026 Winterfest at Manhattan Park (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Gaslight Village Taste of East (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Resolution Run (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Gaslight Village Tree Lighting Ceremony (7-0)

City Commission

The commission unanimously approved a four‑year HVAC preventative‑maintenance contract for up to $71,287. It also approved the revised meeting schedule for FY 2025‑26 and a resolution amending the FY 2024‑25 budget. The consent agenda, including payroll disbursements, hardware purchases totaling $9,908.48, and communications items, was approved. Finally, the commission voted to enter a closed executive session at 6:50 p.m.

• Approved four‑year HVAC preventative‑maintenance contract (up to $71,287) – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved revised meeting schedule for FY 2025‑26 – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved amendment to FY 2024‑25 budget – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved consent agenda items: workshop minutes, payroll disbursements $304,531.64, remaining disbursements $778,779.76 – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved purchase of HP hard drives and PCs for $9,908.48 – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved communications items on consent agenda – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved entry into executive (closed) session at 6:50 p.m. – 7 yeas, 0 nays

City Commission

The commission unanimously approved the FY 2025‑2026 budget and set millage rates. It also approved a purchase of sound‑curtain panels for Manhattan Park pickleball courts, the distribution of the Draft Master Plan Update, and the FY 2025‑2026 fee and water/sewer rate schedules. The agenda was amended to remove Item 7 and the consent agenda was adopted.

• Approved agenda amendment removing Item 7 (7‑0)
• Approved purchase of Pickleblock sound curtains for Manhattan Park courts up to $24,600 (7‑0)
• Approved distribution of Draft Master Plan Update to neighboring communities (7‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (minutes, payroll disbursements, communications) (6‑0)
• Approved FY 2025‑2026 budget and millage rates (7‑0)
• Approved FY 2025‑2026 fee schedule (7‑0)
• Approved FY 2025‑2026 water and sewer rates (7‑0)

City Commission

The City Commission approved the pavement marking cross‑section for Plymouth Road from Hall Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Street, selecting Option 1, with a 5‑1 vote. The meeting agenda was also approved. A request to replace motor equipment using the MERF for $1,180,000 with a 15% contingency was considered, but no vote outcome was recorded. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (2025-57)
• Approved pavement marking cross section for Plymouth Road (5-1 vote) (2025-062-A)
• Considered MERF replacement purchases $1,180,000 with 15% contingency (no vote recorded) (2025-63)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the agenda and minutes unanimously. It then approved the Grace Church rain‑garden site plan with an 8‑0 vote. Commissioners also voted 8‑0 to recommend the draft master plan be distributed to the city commission.

• Approved agenda (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved April 15 minutes with updates (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Approved Grace Church rain‑garden site plan (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Recommended distribution of draft master plan to city commission (8 yeas, 0 nays)
• Adjourned meeting (7 yeas, 0 nays)

City Commission

The commission unanimously approved the purchase and installation of an HVAC heat pump/mini‑split system for $18,452 with a 7‑0 vote. It also approved participation in a joint City/School subcommittee to study high‑school and Gaslight Village parking, again by a 7‑0 vote. The consent agenda, including payroll and other disbursements, was approved unanimously, and the CIP work session was rescheduled by consensus.

• Approved HVAC heat pump/mini‑split system $18,452 (7‑0)
• Approved participation in joint City/School parking subcommittee (7‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items, including payroll disbursements (7‑0)
• Rescheduled CIP work session (consensus)
• Approved agenda (2025‑57) without objection

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the March 24 meeting (5‑0). It also approved the 2025 Wednesdays on Wealthy food‑truck request for the season (5‑0). No action was taken on the proposed 2025 Winterfest at Manhattan Park. The board discussed the upcoming July 4th road closures but did not vote on any changes.

• Approved March 24, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved 2025 Wednesdays on Wealthy food‑truck request (5‑0)
• No action taken on 2025 Winterfest at Manhattan Park request
• Discussed 4th of July road closure plan (no vote)

Planning Commission

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda as presented. It also approved the minutes from the February 11, 2025 meeting with a 7‑0 vote. No other formal actions were taken during the session.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 11, 2025 minutes (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission approved its agenda for the March 31 meeting. It voted unanimously to purchase modular study rooms and associated furniture from Custer Furniture for $56,284.91. The commission also approved the consent agenda, which included payroll disbursements of $314,458.92 and other fund allocations, as well as the 2025‑26 meeting schedule.

• Approved agenda (2025-57) – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved purchase of modular study rooms and furniture for $56,284.91 (2025-061-A) – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved consent agenda items, including payroll disbursement of $314,458.92 and other funds (2025-063) – 7 yeas, 0 nays
• Approved meeting schedule for 2025‑26 (as part of consent agenda) – 7 yeas, 0 nays

Zoning Board of Appeals

The East Grand Rapids Zoning Board of Appeals approved the meeting minutes with a 7‑0 vote. No other formal actions were taken; the rain‑garden variance request was discussed but no decision was recorded.

• Approved meeting minutes (7-0)

Parks & Recreation Commission

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 24 meeting. It also unanimously approved special event permits for the 2025 GVBA After Dark Party and the 2025 Reeds Lake Trailblazer Run. No other actions were decided; construction updates were discussed but not voted on.

• Approved February 24, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Approved 2025 GVBA After Dark Party special event permit (7-0)
• Approved 2025 Reeds Lake Trailblazer Run special event permit (7-0)