Grand Rapids public meetings in 2025
243 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The authority will hold an informational meeting on the 2025 calendar year overview. The board is scheduled to decide on the 2026 meeting schedule, elect 2026 board officers, and act on Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects.
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Election of Board Officers for Calendar Year 2026
- Approval of the 2026 Meeting Schedule
- Discussion on Southeast Economic Development Lead and Corridor Management Role
- Southside Creekways Project Update
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will approve the schedule for its 2026 meetings. Members will elect a vice‑chair for calendar year 2026. The board will consider a request for a bike rack.
- Approve 2026 meeting schedule
- Elect Vice‑Chair for 2026
- Consider Bike Rack Request
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to approve year-end appointments to various boards and commissions. The body will also discuss the current vacancy list for these groups.
- Resolution approving year-end appointments to various Boards and Commissions
- Discussion on the current Board and Commission Vacancy list
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is meeting to review several financing agreements, grant awards, and budget substitutions. The body will also examine the Comptroller's Warrant Report and the Treasurer's Report.
- $680,000 financing agreement with Fans of Valley Field for Sullivan Field improvements
- $25,000 grant award from the Outdoor Foundation for GR Outside
- $90,000 agreement with Friends of Grand Rapids Parks
- $50,000 Budget Substitution for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Bond Issuance Costs
- Comptroller's Warrant Report totaling $47,280,078.67
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several lease agreements for city parks and funding for infrastructure projects. The body will discuss contracts for facility maintenance and road resurfacing.
- HVAC and Hot Water Boiler Replacement at Police Administration Building with Hurst, Inc. ($783,495 to $1,183,850)
- Rotomill/Resurfacing of Cherry Street from Sheldon Avenue to LaGrave Avenue and Prospect Avenue to 100' west of Madison Avenue (total not to exceed $672,500)
- Lease agreement with Fashion Has Heart for Veterans Memorial Park building
- Lease agreements with Northeastern Little League (Huff Park) and Southern Little League (MacKay-Jaycee Park)
- Watershed Plan and Project Agreement with Natural Resource Conservation Service for Grand River Revitalization
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will adopt several resolutions, including a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for the 125 Ottawa II, LLC project at 125 Ottawa Avenue NW. It will also approve adjustments to city water and sewer rates, amend the Brownfield Plan for the Seeds of Promise Redevelopment Project, and update the memorandum of understanding for ArtPrize 2.0. Briefings on the Parks & Recreation annual update and a zoning ordinance process preview will follow.
- Resolution establishing a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for 125 Ottawa II, LLC at 125 Ottawa Avenue NW
- Resolution approving adjusted City water and sewer rates based on the 2025 Water/Sewer Rate Study
- Resolution approving an updated memorandum of understanding between Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., Ferris State University's Kendall College of Art and Design, and the City for ArtPrize 2.0
- Resolution approving an amendment to the Brownfield Plan for the Seeds of Promise Redevelopment Project
- Resolution authorizing publication and setting the date to consider an amendment to Noise Control code within 100 feet of a Health Care Facility
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive informational updates from city departments. The meeting includes reports on crime statistics, emergency management, and a medical response partnership.
- GRFD update on Medical Priority and Wellness Response Program with Corewell Health
- Office of Emergency Management update
- Informational update on Urban Deer Management
- Grand Rapids Police Department presentation on monthly crime stats
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will consider adjusting city water and sewer rates based on a 2025 study. The body is also reviewing several facility contracts, park lease agreements, and a multi-year housing and community development plan.
- Approval of adjusted City water and sewer rates per the 2025 Water/Sewer Rate Study
- Contract for HVAC and Boiler Replacement at Police Administration Building ($783,495 to $1,183,850)
- Financing agreement with Fans of Valley Field for Sullivan Field improvements ($680,000)
- Establishment of a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for 125 Ottawa Avenue, NW
- Increase of $10,530 for Cherry Street resurfacing (total not to exceed $672,500)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority will elect officers for 2026 and approve the meeting schedule. The body will also review a memorandum of understanding regarding business associations and receive updates on the 1350 Cesar Chavez Ave. property and Southside Creekways project.
- Electing Board Officers for Calendar Year 2026
- 2026 South Division Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority Meeting Schedule
- Memorandum of Understanding with Business Associations
- 1350 Cesar Chavez Ave. Property Updates
- Southside Creekways Project Update
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously elected officers for 2026, approved the 2026 meeting schedule, and approved a Memorandum of Understanding providing $12,000 to each Business Association.
- Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Elected 2026 officers: Chair Ken Miguel‑Cipriano, Vice‑chair Synia Jordan, Secretary Leonard Van Drunen (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
- Approved Business Associations MOU, $12,000 to each association (unanimous)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will consider two action items: approving the 2026 meeting schedule and electing board officers for calendar year 2026. The board will also discuss the Southeast Economic Development Lead and Corridor Management role and receive an update on the Southside Creekways Project. Public comment periods are scheduled for the calendar year overview and agenda items.
- Approval of the 2026 Meeting Schedule
- Electing Board Officers for Calendar Year 2026
- Discussion of Southeast Economic Development Lead and Corridor Management Role
- Southside Creekways Project Update
- Public Comment on Calendar Year 2025 Overview
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The board will hold an informational meeting on the 2025 calendar year overview followed by a regular meeting. Members are scheduled to vote on facade improvement grants and guidelines, as well as elect 2026 board officers.
- Facade Improvement Program Grant Application
- Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment
- Albatross Aviary Letter of Support
- Approval of the 2026 Meeting Schedule
- Gateway Signage Project Report
The board approved the amendment to the Facade Improvement Program Guidelines. It postponed the application for 637 Stocking Ave, approved a combined grant of up to $7,500 (plus up to $2,500 additional reimbursement) for 540 Leonard St., and approved the 2026 meeting schedule, officer slate, and other items. The request for an Albatross Aviary support letter was withdrawn pending a zoning ruling.
- Approved Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment (unanimous)
- Postponed Facade Improvement Program grant application for 637 Stocking Ave (unanimous)
- Approved combined grant for 540 Leonard St.: up to $7,500 plus up to $2,500 additional reimbursement (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
- Approved officer nominations for 2026: Chair Jon O’Connor, Vice-chair Brent Gibson, Secretary Kathryn Chaplow (unanimous)
- Withdrew Albatross Aviary letter of support pending zoning appeal ruling
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District will approve its 2026 meeting schedule and elect officers. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from August 6, 2025, and interim financial statements as of September 30, 2025.
- Approval of 2026 Meeting Schedule
- Election of 2026 Officers
- Approval of August 6, 2025 Minutes
- Interim Financial Statements as of September 30, 2025
The board approved the minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting and accepted the interim financial statements for September 30, 2025, both unanimously. The 2026 meeting schedule was also approved unanimously. The election of 2026 officers was postponed to the next meeting.
- Approved August 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of Sep 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
- Election of 2026 officers tabled until next meeting (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is meeting to vote on several Emerging Developer Grants and redevelopment agreements. The body will also review the 2026 meeting schedule and authorize the Executive Director to enter contracts.
- Act 381 Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for 125 Ottawa Avenue NW
- Emerging Developer Grants for 824 Lake Michigan Drive (up to $98,020), 343 Indiana Avenue NW (up to $200,000), and 111 Barnett Street NE/830 Fourth Street NW (up to $200,000)
- Emerging Developer Grants for 626-646 Coit/210 Fairbanks Avenue SE (up to $193,500) and 2130 Plainfield Avenue NE (up to $108,000)
- Invoice approval and agreement assignment for the Talbot Quimby, LLC project at 220 Quimby Street NE
- Resolution authorizing the Executive Director to enter contracts
The Authority unanimously approved the Act 381 work plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for the 125 Ottawa Avenue NW project. It also approved six Emerging Developer Grants ranging from $98,020 to $200,000 for various sites, authorized the Executive Director to enter contracts, and adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. All actions were taken with unanimous votes.
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan for 125 Ottawa Ave NW (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $98,020 for 824 Lake Michigan Dr (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $200,000 for 343 Indiana Ave NW (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $200,000 for 111 Barnett St NE & 830 Fourth St NW (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $193,500 for 626‑646 Coit & 210 Fairbanks Ave SE (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $108,000 for 2130 Plainfield Ave NE (unanimous)
- Approved resolution authorizing Executive Director to enter contracts (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
Economic Development Corporation - Special Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will consider several action items. These include approving the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting, adopting the 2026 meeting schedule, and continuing financial support for the Construction Allies in Action program. The board will also nominate officers. Public comment will be allowed on agenda items.
- Approval of minutes from November 5, 2025
- Approval of the 2026 meeting schedule
- Continued financial support for Construction Allies in Action
- Nomination of officers
The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting. They also unanimously approved the 2026 meeting schedule. Finally, they unanimously approved a $30,000 financial support award for Construction Allies in Action.
- Approved November 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
- Approved $30,000 financial support for Construction Allies in Action (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider several applications affecting properties in the Heritage Hill and Fairmount Square historic districts, including a request to install exterior line sets at 525 College SE, a request to remove a block chimney at 266 Prospect SE, and a request to install a rear pergola at 923 Virginia SE. The meeting also includes advisory discussions on renovations at 61 & 59 Commerce SW and an attached carriage house at 433 Madison SE, as well as staff updates on issued Certificates of Appropriateness. The commission will vote on officer elections for 2026 and approve the meeting schedule.
- 525 College SE – request to install exterior line sets (Heritage Hill Historic District)
- 266 Prospect SE – request to remove block chimney (Heritage Hill Historic District)
- 923 Virginia SE – request to install rear pergola (Fairmount Square Historic District)
- 61 & 59 Commerce SW – advisory discussion on renovations (Heartside Historic District)
- 433 Madison SE – advisory discussion on attached carriage house (Heritage Hill Historic District)
The commission approved the November 5 minutes and issued Certificates of Appropriateness for three historic‑district projects at 525 College SE, 266 Prospect SE, and 923 Virginia SE, all unanimously. It also appointed Matt Dixon as Chair, Anna Kindt as Vice Chair, and Heather VanWormer as Secretary for 2026, and adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. All actions were carried unanimously.
- Approved November 5 minutes (unanimous)
- Issued Certificate of Appropriateness for 525 College SE with exterior line stipulations (unanimous)
- Issued Certificate of Appropriateness for 266 Prospect SE to remove block chimney (unanimous)
- Issued Certificate of Appropriateness for 923 Virginia SE to install rear pergola (unanimous)
- Approved staff issuance of Certificate of Appropriateness permits (unanimous)
- Appointed Matt Dixon as Chair, Anna Kindt as Vice Chair, Heather VanWormer as Secretary for 2026 (unanimous)
- Adopted 2026 Historic Preservation Commission meeting schedule (unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will review its 2025 calendar year overview and hear public comments. The board will approve the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting, adopt the 2026 meeting schedule, and elect officers for 2026. No other substantive actions are listed.
- Approval of minutes from November 5, 2025 meeting
- Approval of 2026 meeting schedule
- Election of 2026 officers
- Public comment on 2025 calendar year overview
The Authority unanimously approved the minutes from the November 5, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved the 2026 meeting schedule, changing the April meeting from the 1st to the 15th. The election of 2026 officers was unanimously tabled until the next meeting. No other actions were taken.
- Approved November 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule, April date moved to the 15th (unanimous)
- Tabled election of 2026 officers (unanimous)
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider four resolutions: approving a liquor permit for Distinctive Catering by Branns, establishing an Industrial Development District for Falk Material Wool, granting a 12‑year Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for Falk Material Wool’s $8.9 million project, and amending the Brownfield Plan for the 125 Ottawa Redevelopment Project. Briefings will update the council on the city attorney search and a possible ordinance to regulate amplified sound near medical facilities.
- Resolution to recommend Michigan Liquor Control Commission approval for Doyle Operations, LLC dba Distinctive Catering by Branns at 401 Hall St SW
- Resolution establishing an Industrial Development District for Falk Material Wool at 1920 Northridge Drive NW
- Resolution approving a 12‑year Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for Falk Material Wool’s $8.9 million project at 1920 Northridge Drive NW
- Resolution amending the Brownfield Plan for the 125 Ottawa Redevelopment Project
- Briefing on potential ordinance to regulate amplified sound near medical facilities
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The team will receive a briefing on the Black Business Voices Advisory Committee's framework and engagement efforts. Members will also review the performance of Fund I of the New Community Transformation Fund and the October 2025 Development Center Report.
- Briefing on Black Business Voices Advisory Committee's organizational framework and metrics
- Performance update on the New Community Transformation Fund, which received a $100,000 city investment in 2023
- October 2025 Development Center Report including $70 million in investment for the month
- New $39 million elementary school project at 928 Aberdeen St NE
- New $3 million elevator tower addition at 272 Pearl St NW
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will meet to discuss the current list of vacancies on the city's boards and commissions.
- Discussion on current Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider resolutions to approve three-year and one-year contracts for employee services and risk management, authorize payments to the Kent County Drain Commission, and approve budget substitutions for electrical switchgear and a road project. The meeting also includes salary ordinances for court employees and a report on the Comptroller's warrant.
- Resolution approving $132,480 contract for employee assistance program
- Resolution approving $58,850 contract extension for risk management
- Payment of $28,136.57 to Kent County Drain Commission
- Budget substitution of $3,265,506 for Stevens-Steele to Randolph project
- Salary Ordinance for Non-Represented Management Employees of the 61st District Court
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee is meeting to review a resolution regarding bridge work. The item involves an agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation.
- Agreement with Michigan Department of Transportation for Bridge Reconstruction on Martin Luther King Jr. Street over US-131, CSX Railroad, and Grand Elk Railroad
- Authorization of $1,413,100 for the local share of project costs
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will vote on several infrastructure projects, industrial tax exemptions, and city contracts. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Seeds of Promise redevelopment project.
- 12-year Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for an $8.9 million project at 1920 Northridge Drive NW
- $1,413,100 local share for bridge reconstruction on Martin Luther King Jr. Street over US-131
- Budget substitutions of $500,000 for LMFP Switchgear and $3,265,506 for Stevens – Steele to Randolph project
- Three-year contract for employee assistance program services through Ulliance, Inc. not to exceed $132,480
- Public hearing for Brownfield Plan Amendment for Seeds of Promise redevelopment project at multiple SE locations
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings on two variance applications: a use variance for 163 Ann St NE and multiple dimensional variances for 1900 Will Ave NW. After the hearings, the board will discuss the 2026 meeting schedule, elect officers for the coming year, receive a staff update on meeting minutes, and review the zoning ordinance update RFP response from Codametrics.
- 163 Ann St NE – Use variance request for office use in TN-LDR zone (Case P-BZA-2025-0017)
- 1900 Will Ave NW – Dimensional variances for building setbacks, alley access, and parking in SD-IT zone (Case P-BZA-2025-0018)
- Discussion of 2026 meeting schedule
- Annual election of board officers
- Review of Codametrics RFP response for zoning ordinance update
The Board approved the September 18, 2025 minutes unanimously. It granted a use variance for 163 Ann St NE with signage and tenant‑review conditions, and tabled the variance requests for 1900 Will Ave NW. The Board also approved the 2026 meeting schedule, appointed Lynn Rabaut as Chair and Tracy Montgomery as Vice Chair, selected Codametrics to lead the zoning ordinance update, and postponed the online map‑based tool for the ordinance.
- Approved September 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved use variance for 163 Ann St NE with conditions (unanimous)
- Tabled variance requests for 1900 Will Ave NW (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (motion passed)
- Appointed Lynn Rabaut as Chair of the Board of Zoning Appeals (unanimous)
- Appointed Tracy Montgomery as Vice Chair of the Board of Zoning Appeals (unanimous)
- Selected Codametrics to lead zoning ordinance update (unanimously selected)
- Postponed creation of online map‑based tool for zoning ordinance
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will hold an informational meeting to review the 2025 Annual Report and approve minutes from October 2025. The body will also consider a project for the North Quarter Facade Improvement Program and discuss the calendar year 2026 meeting schedule.
- Approval of October 16, 2025 minutes
- North Quarter Facade Improvement Program Project
- Calendar Year 2026 Meeting Schedule
- Corridor Manager Report
- Michigan Public Act 57 Annual Report
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved a not‑to‑exceed $8,000 façade improvement application for 1809‑1811 Plainfield Avenue. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved $8,000 façade improvement for 1809‑1811 Plainfield Ave (unanimous)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will approve minutes from June 18, 2025, review interim financial statements, and elect board officers for 2026. The meeting also includes presentations on a housing strategy and an ArtPrize report, as well as a discussion on the corridor management job update.
- Approval of minutes from June 18, 2025 (motion required)
- Review of interim financial statements as of August 31, 2025
- Election of board officers for calendar year 2026
- Presentation of the Corridor Housing Strategy – Flywheel
- Discussion of the corridor management job update
The Authority approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting and the interim financial statements as of August 31, 2025. It unanimously elected Jeffrey King as Chair, Thomas Dann as Vice‑Chair, and Christopher Swank as Secretary for calendar year 2026. The updated 2026 meeting schedule was also approved unanimously.
- Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of Aug 31, 2025 (unanimous)
- Elected Jeffrey King Chair, Thomas Dann Vice‑Chair, Christopher Swank Secretary for 2026 (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is meeting to confirm several mayoral and commission appointments to city boards. The body will also discuss the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Appointment of Andrew Meyer as alternate to the Utility Advisory Board
- Appointment of Mitchell Nelson as alternate to the Housing Appeal Board
- Appointment of Trevor TenBrink to the Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority
- Appointment of Steve Tibbe to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
- Discussion of the Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will vote on several resolutions, including a $300,000 trust fund grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for Bike Park upgrades. Other items include a $750,000 agreement with the Grand Rapids Urban League for Cure Violence, and a $100,000 city sponsorship plus $50,000 Mobile GR contribution for ArtPrize 2026. The committee will also consider ordinance amendments and routine financial reports.
- Resolution accepting $300,000 grant for Bike Park improvements
- Resolution authorizing up to $750,000 agreement with Grand Rapids Urban League
- Resolution approving $100,000 and $50,000 city sponsorship contributions for ArtPrize 2026
- Resolution approving purchase of Oracle ERP licenses up to $110,105
- Resolution authorizing contract with National Research Center, Inc. up to $30,000 for a community survey
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will vote on resolutions to approve fireworks discharge permits for multiple indoor events at Van Andel Arena and DeVos Hall, along with contracts for street resurfacing, elevator upgrades, and park maintenance.
- Fireworks permits for TSO, Jonas Brothers, and WWE SmackDown at Van Andel Arena
- Resolution awarding contract for Police Admin Building Elevator Upgrades ($1,206,999)
- Resolution awarding contract for Rotomilling/Resurfacing of Streets ($930,000)
- Resolution accepting easements for Waterford Reserve and 540 Russwood Street NE
- Resolution scheduling public hearing on Brownfield Plan amendment for Seeds of Promise project
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider several resolutions, including approval of liquor licenses for four establishments, a travel request for the mayor, naming a new park, and updates to water agreements and the ethics policy. The liquor license approvals cover Ideal Tavern L.L.C. (Holiday Bar) at 801‑803 5th St NW, Henchmen House, LLC at 1503 Plainfield Ave NE, Sugah Please CH Holdings at 1 Carlton Ave SE Unit A, and SMG Food & Beverage, LLC at 201 Market Ave SW (Acrisure Amphitheatre). Additional items include authorizing the mayor’s travel to a national conference, naming Unity Park at 680 César E. Chávez Avenue, and adopting amendments to the water and sanitary wholesale agreement and the conflicts of interest policy. Briefings will provide updates on the city attorney search, materials management, and a pilot program evaluation.
- Approve liquor license for Ideal Tavern L.L.C. (Holiday Bar) at 801‑803 5th St NW
- Approve liquor license for Henchmen House, LLC at 1503 Plainfield Ave NE
- Approve liquor license for Sugah Please CH Holdings at 1 Carlton Ave SE Unit A
- Approve liquor license for SMG Food & Beverage, LLC at 201 Market Ave SW (Acrisure Amphitheatre)
- Approve mayor’s travel to Washington, D.C. for US Conference of Mayors (Jan 27‑31, 2026)
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive a briefing on the FY25 Cure Violence Annual Report and a presentation on monthly crime statistics from the Grand Rapids Police Department. The committee will also receive an update regarding medical facilities and amplified sound.
- FY25 Cure Violence Annual Report briefing
- Grand Rapids Police Department monthly crime statistics presentation
- Amplified Sound and Medical Facility update
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will consider several infrastructure contracts, liquor license requests, and board appointments. The meeting includes public hearings on industrial development and housing plans.
- Contract with McGraw Construction Inc. for Police Admin Building Elevator Upgrades for $1,206,999
- Agreement with Grand Rapids Urban League for Cure Violence Grand Rapids not to exceed $750,000
- Sponsorship contributions for ArtPrize 2026 totaling $150,000
- Public hearing for a $8.9 Million project by Falk Material Wool at 1920 Northridge Drive NW
- Contract with Mosaic Public Partners for City Attorney executive search not to exceed $32,500
City Commission Fall Workshop
The City Commission will hold a workshop to discuss the City Manager's 2026-2030 Strategic Plan and draft FY2027 focus areas. The meeting includes the introduction of the 2025 Water/Sewer Rate Study and the start of a 20-day comment period.
- 2025 Water/Sewer Rate Study introduction and initiation of 20-day comment period
- City Manager’s 2026-2030 Strategic Plan Update
- Draft FY2027 Focus Areas discussion
- Governing Together presentation by Mark Funkhouser, Funkhouser & Associates
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Community Improvement Authority will discuss funding requests for holiday decorations and a facade improvement project, along with updates on the Flower Hill development and streetscape design.
- Holiday Decorations Funding Request
- Facade Improvement Application
- La Posada Event Funding Request
- 1350 Cesar Chavez Ave. Property Updates
- Streetscape Design Guidelines and Alleyway Activation Projects Updates
The board unanimously approved the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved a holiday decorations funding request up to $4,000. It approved a façade grant of $8,733.50 for 1546 Clyde Park Ave. It approved a La Posada event funding request up to $3,000. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved September 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved holiday decorations funding request up to $4,000 (unanimous)
- Approved façade grant for 1546 Clyde Park Ave up to $8,733.50 (unanimous)
- Approved La Posada event funding request up to $3,000 (unanimous)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will consider approval of the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes and review interim financial statements as of October 31, 2025. It will also vote on the 2026 meeting schedule and hear several reports on operations, the business accelerator fund, Tech Week outcomes, and marketing. Finally, the board will conduct elections for its officers.
- Approval of minutes from September 10, 2025 (motion required)
- Interim financial statements as of October 31, 2025
- Approval of the 2026 meeting schedule
- Election of board officers (nominations)
- Reports: SmartZone Operators (July‑Sept 2025), Business Accelerator Fund, Tech Week GR 2025, Marketing and Branding
The board accepted the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes without comment. The interim financial statements as of October 31, 2025 were approved. The authority adopted the 2026 meeting schedule. All votes were unanimous.
- Accepted September 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of Oct 31, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will vote on approving minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting and interim financial statements as of October 31, 2025. It will consider approving invoices for eligible public infrastructure expenses tied to the 1601 Madison, LLC redevelopment project. Additional items include the Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects, a holiday decorations funding request, and discussion of a potential partnership and utility‑pole banner policy.
- Approval of minutes from October 8, 2025
- Approval of interim financial statements as of October 31, 2025
- Approval of invoices for eligible public infrastructure expenses for the 1601 Madison, LLC redevelopment project at 1601 Madison Avenue SE
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects
- Holiday decorations funding request
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority unanimously approved the minutes from October 8, 2025, and the interim financial statements as of October 31, 2025. It also approved three funding requests: a $140,765 invoice for the 1601 Madison redevelopment, $80,000 for two façade improvement projects, and $20,000 for holiday decorations. All motions passed with unanimous support.
- Approved October 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of Oct 31, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved $140,765 invoice for 1601 Madison redevelopment (unanimous)
- Approved $80,000 for Gideon Project and JKGR façade projects (unanimous)
- Approved $20,000 holiday decorations funding request (unanimous)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will meet to review interim financial statements and approve minutes. The body is deciding on a resolution to authorize the issuance and sale of limited obligation revenue bonds for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate Project.
- Resolution for Limited Obligation Revenue Bonds for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate Project
- Interim Financial Statements as of September 30, 2025
The commission approved the minutes from the August 27, 2025 meeting. The September 30, 2025 interim financial statements were accepted. A resolution authorizing the issuance and sale of limited‑obligation revenue bonds totaling $175 million for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate project was approved.
- Approved August 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved September 30, 2025 interim financial statements (unanimous)
- Approved $175 M bond issuance for Beacon Hill at Eastgate project (unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will discuss and vote on several requests, including a recommendation for a development area liquor license for Sugah Please CH Holdings at 1 Carlton Ave. SE. It will also review an application for a public art mural at 606 Wealthy Street, a funding request for a Shop Hop event, and a funding request for the Hermitage at Diamond 150th Anniversary Campaign. Minutes from the September 3, 2025 meeting will be approved.
- Recommend a development area liquor license for Sugah Please CH Holdings at 1 Carlton Ave. SE
- Uptown Public Art Mural Application – 606 Wealthy Street
- Shop Hop Funding Request
- Hermitage at Diamond 150th Anniversary Campaign Funding Request
The board approved the minutes from September 3, 2025 and accepted the interim financial statements as of September 30, 2025. It recommended a Development Area Liquor License for Sugah Please CH Holdings at 1 Carlton Ave. SE. The authority also approved a $5,000 art mural at 606 Wealthy Street, a $7,500 Shop Hop 2025 funding request, and a $2,500 Hermitage at Diamond anniversary sponsorship. All motions passed unanimously except the liquor license recommendation, which passed 5‑0 with one abstention.
- Approved minutes from September 3, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of September 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved recommendation for Development Area Liquor License for Sugah Please CH Holdings at 1 Carlton Ave. SE (5‑0, 1 abstention)
- Approved art mural application for 606 Wealthy Street, not‑to‑exceed $5,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Shop Hop 2025 funding request of $7,500 (unanimous)
- Approved Hermitage at Diamond 150th Anniversary sponsorship of $2,500 (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will vote on approving three redevelopment projects, including the Seeds of Promise and 443 Sheldon Avenue SE, and authorize invoices for the 1601 Madison Avenue SE project.
- Resolution to approve Brownfield Plan Amendment for Seeds of Promise
- Resolution to approve Act 381 Work Plan for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE
- Resolution to approve Act 381 Work Plan for Powers Place
- Approval of invoices for 1601 Madison Avenue SE redevelopment
- Activity report for Environmental Site Assessment Program
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority excused two absent members and unanimously approved the September 24, 2025 minutes and the interim financial statements. It approved a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Seeds of Promise project (6‑0) and unanimously approved Act 381 work plans and development agreements for the 443 Sheldon Avenue SE and Powers Place projects. The board also approved reimbursement of invoices for the 1601 Madison project and the November 2025 Environmental Site Assessment activity report.
- Excused Jeff Edwards and Lynee Wells (unanimous)
- Approved September 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted interim financial statements (unanimous)
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment for Seeds of Promise Redevelopment Project (6-0)
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and Development Agreement for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE Redevelopment Project (unanimous)
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and Development Agreement for Powers Place Redevelopment Project at 800 and 764 Powers Avenue NE (unanimous)
- Approved reimbursement of invoices for 1601 Madison, LLC Redevelopment Project (unanimous)
- Approved Activity Report for Environmental Site Assessment Program for November 2025 (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider several requests for alterations to properties within the Heritage Hill, Fairmount Square, and Wealthy Street historic districts. The body will review requests for fences, signs, garages, and additions.
- 601 Paris SE: request for front yard fence
- 500 Fulton East: request for a monument sign
- 550 College SE: request to construct detached garage
- 327 Hollister SE: request to construct rear porch
- 337 Visser SE: request for a rear addition
The commission approved Certificates of Appropriateness for six historic‑district projects, including a front‑yard fence at 601 Paris SE and a detached garage at 550 College SE. It also approved retaining the projecting sign at 975 Cherry SE. The commission denied the application to retain two channel‑lit wall signs at 975 Cherry SE and ordered their removal within two months.
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 601 Paris SE (front‑yard fence) – unanimous
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 500 Fulton East (monument sign) – unanimous
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 550 College SE (detached garage) – unanimous
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 327 Hollister SE (rear porch) – unanimous
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 337 Visser SE (rear addition) – unanimous
- Approved retention of projecting sign at 975 Cherry SE – unanimous
- Denied retention of two channel‑lit wall signs at 975 Cherry SE; signs to be removed within two months – unanimous
- Tabled application for 525 College SE (exterior line sets) – unanimous
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Grand Rapids Committee on Appointments will vote on resolutions to approve several appointments made by the Mayor and City Commission. Appointees include members for the Mayor's Youth Council, Water System Advisory Council, Utility Advisory Board, Police and Fire Retirement System Board, Housing Appeal Board, Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and the South Division-Grandville Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority. The meeting will also include a discussion of the current Board and Commission vacancy list.
- Appointment of Rocio Rodriguez to the Grand Rapids Water System Advisory Council
- Appointment of Nick Fisher as alternate member to the Utility Advisory Board
- Appointment of Peggy Korzen as Citizen Trustee to the Police and Fire Retirement System Board of Trustees
- Confirmation of Peter Bruinsma to the Housing Appeal Board
- Confirmation of Orlando Bonifacio to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Community Development Committee will consider ten resolutions, including permits, grant matches, contracts, and public hearings. Key items involve a $2,578,645 city contribution for rebuilding Cesar E. Chavez Avenue and contracts for lead line replacement and roof improvements. The meeting also schedules hearings on a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone and an Industrial Development District.
- Approve $2,578,645 local share for reconstruction of Cesar E. Chavez Avenue from Hall Street to Tenhaaf Court
- Award $534,792 contract to Groundhawg Excavating & Landscaping, LLC for private lead service line replacement (total not‑to‑exceed $635,330)
- Award $317,844 contract to Arrow Roofing and Supply Inc for LMFP Roof Y, BB, and EE improvements (total not‑to‑exceed $460,484)
- Increase $125,000 for preventative maintenance of Pearl Street Bridge, Burton Street Bridge, and Hall Street Bridge
- Schedule public hearing on Nov 18, 2025 to consider a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for the 125 Ottawa Redevelopment Project
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will vote on a resolution approving an agreement with the City of Wyoming to temporarily accept and process municipal wastewater sludge at the Grand Rapids Waste Resource Recovery Facility. It will also set a date to consider amending the city code related to the Police and Fire Retirement System under the current collective bargaining agreement, and approve amendments to Equal Business Opportunity policies for construction and goods/services. Briefings will cover the City’s Artificial Intelligence Council initiatives and an update on the city attorney selection process.
- Resolution approving agreement with City of Wyoming to process municipal wastewater sludge at the Grand Rapids WRRF
- Resolution setting date to consider amendment to Article 5, Chapter 7, Title I of the City Code on Police and Fire Retirement System
- Resolution approving amendments to Equal Business Opportunity policies 600-12 (Construction) and 600-15 (Goods and Services)
- Proclamation for Lights On Afterschool! scheduled for October 23, 2025
- Briefings on the AI Council initiatives and city attorney selection process
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive a presentation from the Grand Rapids Police Department regarding monthly crime statistics. The Grand Rapids Fire Department will also provide a presentation on water rescue.
- Grand Rapids Police Department monthly crime statistics presentation
- Grand Rapids Fire Department water rescue presentation
City Commission Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will vote on a range of items including infrastructure projects, financial contracts, and ordinance updates. Key decisions include funding the local share of the Cesar E. Chavez Avenue reconstruction, approving a $690,000 grant for a traffic management center, and authorizing a $352,000 zoning ordinance update contract. The agenda also contains appointments, bond authorizations, and scheduled public hearings on redevelopment projects.
- Resolution authorizing $2,578,645 for the local share of the Cesar E. Chavez Avenue reconstruction from Hall Street to Tenhaaf Court
- Resolution approving a $690,000 grant agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation for the Traffic Management Operations Center
- Resolution authorizing a contract with Codametrics, Inc. for the Zoning Ordinance Update (up to $352,000)
- Resolution awarding a $534,792 contract to Groundhawg Excavating & Landscaping for replacement of private lead service lines (total project not to exceed $635,330)
- Resolution increasing preventative maintenance funding by $125,000 for Pearl Street Bridge, Burton Street Bridge, and Hall Street Bridge
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider several resolutions, including accepting an $18,886.91 highway safety grant, approving a $690,000 Michigan Department of Transportation grant for a Traffic Management Operations Center, and authorizing contracts for watershed services, zoning updates, and routine mayoral documents. It will also adopt ordinances to issue sanitary sewer and water supply revenue refunding bonds and amend the 2025-11 Budget Ordinance for FY 2026. Additional items include a bid list resolution and financial reports.
- Resolution approving $690,000 MDOT Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant for Traffic Management Operations Center
- Resolution authorizing $352,000 contract with Codametrics, Inc. for Zoning Ordinance Update
- Resolution authorizing up to $108,875.10 contract with GVMC/LGROW for watershed and stormwater services
- Series Ordinances authorizing issuance of Sanitary Sewer System Revenue Refunding bonds, Series 2025
- Series Ordinances authorizing issuance of Water Supply System Revenue Refunding bonds, Series 2025
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission will discuss progress updates and extension requests for 100 Sheldon SE, and consider alteration requests for several Heritage Hill properties, including an egress window at 555 Morris SE, garage replacement at 407 College SE, rear‑window removal at 424 Prospect SE, and an advisory discussion on an attached carriage house at 433 Madison SE. Staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness will also be noted. The meeting includes a public hearing and public comment period.
- 100 Sheldon SE – progress update and extension request
- 555 Morris SE – request for an egress window and well
- 407 College SE – request to replace attached garage
- 424 Prospect SE – request to remove rear windows
- 433 Madison SE – advisory discussion on attached carriage house
The commission unanimously denied the application for an egress window and well at 555 Morris SE, allowing the applicant to reapply within a year with required information. It also unanimously approved Certificate of Appropriateness extensions and issuances for 100 Sheldon SE, 407 College SE, and 424 Prospect SE. Staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness were approved unanimously. All votes were recorded as unanimous.
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness extension for 100 Sheldon SE (unanimous)
- Denied application for 555 Morris SE egress window and well (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 407 College SE garage replacement (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 424 Prospect SE window removal (unanimous)
- Approved staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness (unanimous)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will vote on a grant writing proposal for the MLK Streetscape Project and an additional funding request for Building Bridges. The body will also review a revenue analysis and a corridor strategy presentation by Flywheel.
- MLK Streetscape Project Grant writing Proposal
- Building Bridges-Additional Funding Request
- Southtown CIA Revenue Analysis
- Corridor Strategy Presentation with Flywheel
- Third Ward Cultural Tour and Mural Update
The Authority approved a $19,654 funding increase for Building Bridges after a 3‑to‑2 vote. Earlier, a motion to deny the Building Bridges request was rejected 2‑to‑3. The MLK Streetscape grant proposal was tabled unanimously. Minutes from the September 10 meeting were approved unanimously.
- Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled MLK Streetscape Project grant writing proposal (unanimous)
- Denied Building Bridges additional funding request (2‑to‑3)
- Approved Building Bridges additional funding of $19,654 (3‑to‑2)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will meet to approve a specific board appointment and discuss current vacancies. The body is reviewing the list of open positions on city boards and commissions.
- Appointment of Lindsay Sagorski Munsell to the Utility Advisory Board
- Discussion on the Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will consider several resolutions, including extending a contract for interim human resources leadership with Ovell Rome and Associates (Ask Ovell) up to $100,000, authorizing a joint use agreement with AT&T for shared utility wood pole infrastructure, and approving budget substitutions totaling $2,296,115 for capital projects and water facility improvements. The committee will also review a bid list, a proposed amendment to Policy 100-06 adding fiscal disclosure requirements for elected officials, and the Comptroller’s warrant and Treasurer’s report for September 2025.
- Resolution to extend contracted interim HR leadership services with Ovell Rome and Associates (Ask Ovell) up to $100,000 (total contract $200,000)
- Resolution authorizing a $1,596,115 budget substitution for the city‑match portion of four DWRF‑funded capital projects
- Resolution authorizing a $700,000 budget substitution for Phase 2 of the Grit Tank Improvements at the Water Resource Recovery Facility
- Resolution authorizing a joint use agreement with AT&T for shared use of utility wood pole infrastructure
- Resolution referring proposed changes to Policy 100‑06 to add fiscal disclosure requirements for elected officials
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will consider resolutions to approve engineering service extensions, award construction contracts for water filtration and street resurfacing, and authorize the construction of a new fire department training facility.
- Resolution awarding $40M contract for Construction of Fire Department Training Facility at 850 Pannell Street NW
- Resolution approving three-year extensions for engineering services with a total not-to-exceed $30,000,000
- Resolution awarding $11M contract for Construction of Grand River Edges Trail East
- Resolution scheduling public hearing to name new park space at 680 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue SW 'Unity Park'
- Resolution scheduling public hearing on Brownfield Plan amendment for 125 Ottawa Redevelopment Project
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will vote on several resolutions, including authorizing special events under Chapter 53, setting polling locations and inspector pay for the November 2025 special election, and granting a liquor license to Elite District, LLC at 115-117 Division Ave S. It will also consider Brownfield Plan Amendments for the 443 Sheldon and Powers Place redevelopment projects, and approve the project plan and bond issuance for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate Phase IV development.
- Resolution authorizing certain special events under Chapter 53 of the City Code
- Resolution approving Election Day polling locations for the November 2025 Special Election and fixing inspector pay
- Resolution approving a Development District Liquor License for Elite District, LLC at 115-117 Division Ave S, First Floor
- Resolution approving Brownfield Plan Amendments for the 443 Sheldon Redevelopment Project at 443 Sheldon Avenue SE and for the Powers Place Redevelopment Project at 764 & 800 Powers Avenue NW
- Resolution approving the Project Plan and issuance of bonds for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate Phase IV Project
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will vote to approve the minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting. The team will discuss an update on the Third Ward Legacy Tour and the commissioning of new murals in the Third Ward. A proposal for a FY2025 Third Ward Equity Fund revolving loan to support small businesses will be considered. The meeting will also explore a potential partnership for a Southeast Grand Rapids strategic investment lead and include a verbal Development Center report for September 2025.
- Approval of minutes from September 9, 2025 (motion required)
- Update on Third Ward Legacy Tour and commissioning of new murals in the Third Ward
- FY2025 Third Ward Equity Fund Small Business Support – Revolving Loan Fund proposal
- Potential partnership opportunity – Southeast Grand Rapids Strategic Investment Lead
- Verbal Development Center report – September 2025
The Economic Development Project Team approved the minutes from the September 9, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other actions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the meeting.
- Approved September 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission is voting on several infrastructure contracts, budget substitutions, and brownfield plan amendments. The meeting includes decisions on city facility repairs and the scheduling of public hearings for housing and park naming.
- Increase of $11,000,862 for Fire Department Training Facility at 850 Pannell Street NW
- Contract with Kent Companies Inc. for Lake Michigan Filtration Plant repairs for $1,215,678.23
- Contract with BRiK Plumbing, LLC for private lead service line replacement for $647,759.80
- Budget substitution of $1,596,115 for four DWRF-funded capital projects
- Public hearing scheduling for naming a new park at 680 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue, SW 'Unity Park'
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will consider approving minutes from August 1, 2025, and take action on the Facade Improvement Program Grant Application and Guidelines Amendment. The board will also receive a report on the Gateway Signage Project.
- Approval of August 1, 2025, minutes
- Facade Improvement Program Grant Application
- Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment
- Gateway Signage Project Report
- Design Committee and Corridor Manager reports
The Authority approved the minutes from the August 1, 2025 meeting unanimously. The Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment was approved with conditions and then formally accepted, both unanimously. The grant application for 1034 Bridge St. was denied unanimously. The earlier grant application was tabled until after the guidelines discussion, also unanimously.
- Approved August 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled Facade Improvement Program Grant Application pending guidelines discussion (unanimous)
- Approved Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment with conditions (unanimous)
- Accepted Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment (unanimous)
- Denied Facade Improvement Program Grant Application for 1034 Bridge St. (unanimous)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will consider several funding requests, including money for lights on Creston, an art bash, and a pride festival. It will also discuss bioretention island improvements and the Grand River Greenway Project. A corridor management service agreement will be voted on as a separate action item.
- Funding Request for Lights on Creston
- Creston Neighborhood Association Art Bash Funding Request
- Sponsorship Request – Creston Pride Festival
- Bio‑Retention Islands Maintenance Funding Request
- Corridor Management Service Agreement
The authority approved the August 21, 2025 minutes unanimously. It approved six funding requests totaling $22,200, including lights, a service agreement, an art bash, a pride festival sponsorship, and bioretention island maintenance. The board also adopted a DBA name change, adding Creston Corridor Improvement Authority to the agenda and formally adopting it as the authority’s doing‑business‑as name.
- Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved $15,000 Lights on Creston funding (unanimous)
- Approved $40,950 Corridor Management Service Agreement (unanimous)
- Approved $1,000 Creston Neighborhood Association Art Bash funding (unanimous)
- Approved $3,000 Creston Pride Festival sponsorship (unanimous)
- Approved $3,200 Bio‑Retention Islands Maintenance funding (unanimous)
- Adopted addition of DBA name to agenda (unanimous)
- Adopted Creston CIA as DBA name for the authority (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider several resolutions, including approving a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the 125 Ottawa Redevelopment project at 125 Ottawa Avenue NW. It will also vote on Act 381 Work Plans and Development & Reimbursement Agreements for the Breton Meadows project at 4325 Breton Avenue SE and the 280 Ann Street NW project. Additional items are the FY2026 Brownfield Tax Increment Reimbursements and the assignment and assumption of the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant Agreement for the 1163 Giddings Avenue SE project. An update on the Fulton & Market Transformational Brownfield Project will be discussed.
- Resolution approving a Brownfield Plan Amendment for 125 Ottawa Redevelopment (125 Ottawa Ave NW)
- Resolution approving an Act 381 Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for Breton Meadows (4325 Breton Ave SE)
- Resolution approving an Act 381 Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for 280 Ann Street NW project
- Resolution on FY2026 Brownfield Tax Increment Reimbursements
- Resolution on assignment and assumption of the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant Agreement for 1163 Giddings Avenue SE
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a plan amendment for the 125 Ottawa project and authorized Act 381 work plans and Development & Reimbursement Agreements for the Breton Meadows and 280 Ann projects. The FY2026 Brownfield Tax Increment Reimbursements and the assignment of the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant for the 1163 Giddings Avenue SE project were also approved. All motions passed unanimously.
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment for 125 Ottawa Redevelopment (unanimous)
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for Breton Meadows Redevelopment (unanimous)
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for 280 Ann, LLC Redevelopment (unanimous)
- Approved FY2026 Brownfield Tax Increment Reimbursements (unanimous)
- Approved Assignment and Assumption of Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant for 1163 Giddings Avenue SE (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider a resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Ken Miguel‑Cipriano to the Mobile GR Commission. The committee will also discuss the current board and commission vacancy list as of September 23, 2025.
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Ken Miguel‑Cipriano to the Mobile GR Commission
- Discussion of the current Board and Commission Vacancy List – September 23, 2025
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several contract amendments and new software agreements. The body will also discuss a budget substitution for park capital projects and a grant for auto theft prevention.
- Contract amendment with Axon Enterprises, Inc. for police equipment totaling up to $7,393,142
- Contract with Sivil Technologies for case management software not to exceed $22,500
- Grant award of $1,121,067 from the Auto Theft Prevention Authority with a $706,272 local match
- Budget Substitution of $830,000 for Park Capital Projects
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for $31,465,357.12 (August 26 to September 8, 2025)
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will vote on five resolutions. These include awarding a contract to Erhardt Construction for LMFP carbon feed and chemical unloading improvements, approving a license agreement with Grand Elk Railroad for utility crossings along Martin Luther King Jr. Street, and approving a MDOT agreement for rapid flashing beacons up to $629,000. The committee will also increase the scope of work for Katerberg‑Verhage, Inc. at Ottawa Hills Park and Houseman Field with an additional $123,650, and authorize consulting services with Geotech, Inc. for FY 2026 support up to $883,000.
- Award contract to Erhardt Construction Company for LMFP Carbon Feed & Chemical Unloading Improvements, $5,375,000 (not to exceed $7,761,835)
- Approve license agreement with Grand Elk Railroad for wire, pipe and cable crossings and water main relocation along Martin Luther King Jr. Street
- Approve MDOT agreement for installation of rectangular rapid flashing beacons, up to $629,000
- Add $123,650 to Katerberg‑Verhage, Inc. contract for restroom and parking lot improvements at Ottawa Hills Park and additional work at Houseman Field, total not to exceed $1,168,524
- Authorize consulting services with Geotech, Inc. for FY 2026 energy, lighting, and communications support, not to exceed $883,000
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider resolutions regarding a water testing agreement with Caledonia Charter Township and a services agreement with Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. The meeting also includes briefings on Butterworth Solar and the FY2025 Annual Performance Report.
- Water testing agreement with Caledonia Charter Township
- Services agreement with Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. for the Uptown Business Improvement District
- National Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation 2025
- Briefing on Butterworth Solar
- FY2025 Annual Performance Report
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The committee will hear presentations from the Grand Rapids Fire Department regarding the Fire Prevention Division and from the Police Department on monthly crime statistics.
- Presentation: Grand Rapids Fire Department on Fire Prevention Division
- Presentation: Grand Rapids Police Department on Monthly Crime Statistics
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will vote on several high-value contracts for police equipment and infrastructure improvements. The body will also hold public hearings regarding housing programs, economic development bonds, and Brownfield Plan amendments.
- Contract with Erhardt Construction Company for LMFP Carbon Feed & Chemical Unloading Improvements for $5,375,000
- Contract amendment with Axon Enterprises, Inc. for police equipment not to exceed $7,393,142
- Budget substitution of $830,000 for Park Capital Projects
- Public hearing for Brownfield Plan amendments for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE and 764/800 Powers Avenue NW
- Public hearing for economic development bonds for Beacon Hill at Eastgate
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will approve the minutes from its August 21, 2025 meeting. It will hold public hearings on four dimensional variance applications. The variances seek changes to parking setbacks, required parking numbers, landscape screening, and building setbacks at 902 Scribner Ave NW, 1440 Front Ave NW, 2058 Calvin Ave SE, and 735 Ritzema Ct SW. Decisions will affect parking configurations and building footprints in the respective zones.
- 902 Scribner Ave NW – Dimensional variance to allow front‑yard parking, exceed required parking spaces, and eliminate required landscape screening.
- 1440 Front Ave NW – Dimensional variance to allow front‑yard parking, exceed required parking spaces, and eliminate required landscape screening.
- 2058 Calvin Ave SE – Dimensional variances reducing setbacks for a warehouse/industrial building (front, side, and side‑yard setbacks).
- 735 Ritzema Ct SW – Dimensional variance to permit front‑yard parking and reduce the front‑yard setback from 20 ft to 10 ft for a community center.
The Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved a dimensional variance for 2058 Calvin Ave SE, reducing the front yard setback to 1.9 feet and eliminating the required parking. The same meeting also unanimously approved dimensional variances for 902 Scribner Ave NW, 1440 Front Ave NW, and approved a variance for 735 Ritzema Ct SW by a 5‑to‑0 vote. All minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting were accepted unanimously.
- Approved dimensional variance for 2058 Calvin Ave SE, reducing front setback and eliminating parking (unanimous)
- Tabled 2‑foot side‑yard setback variance for 2058 Calvin Ave SE
- Approved dimensional variance for 902 Scribner Ave NW allowing front‑yard parking and extra spaces (unanimous)
- Approved dimensional variance for 1440 Front Ave NW allowing front‑yard parking and extra spaces (unanimous)
- Approved dimensional variance for 735 Ritzema Ct SW reducing front setback to 10 ft and allowing front‑yard parking (5‑0)
- Accepted minutes from August 21, 2025 (unanimous)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will receive presentations on the Mobile GR parking strategy and updates on streetscape design and alleyway activation projects. The body will also consider a facade improvement application.
- Mobile GR Parking Strategy presentation
- Streetscape Design and Alleyway Activation Projects updates
- Facade Improvement Application
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 12, 2025 meeting. It also approved a $10,000 façade improvement grant for the project at 2041 Division Avenue S. The council adopted a motion to add a Letter of Support for 525 Century Ave to the agenda and adopted a Letter of Support for Muller Realty, with a 3‑to‑0 vote and one abstention.
- Approved minutes from June 12, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved $10,000 façade improvement grant for 2041 Division Avenue S (unanimous)
- Adopted motion to add Letter of Support for 525 Century Ave to agenda (unanimous)
- Adopted Letter of Support for Muller Realty (3-0, 1 abstain)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will consider approving a Memorandum of Understanding with business associations, a Request for Proposals for corridor management, and funding for a Southeast Showcase event. The body will also discuss the MLK Streetscape Project.
- Approval of August 13, 2025 minutes
- Memorandum of Understanding with Business Associations
- Corridor Management Request for Proposals
- Southeast Showcase Event Funding Request
- MLK Streetscape Project Update
The Authority approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting unanimously. It also approved a Business Associations Memorandum of Understanding, an updated Corridor Management Request for Proposals, and a funding request of up to $5,000 for the Southeast Showcase Event (5‑1 vote). The board decided to suspend the Property Maintenance RFP process and will conduct a walkthrough to assess needs.
- Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Business Associations MOU (unanimous)
- Approved updated Corridor Management RFP (unanimous)
- Approved Southeast Showcase Event funding up to $5,000 (5‑1)
- Suspended Property Maintenance RFP process (decision, no vote recorded)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will hold an informational meeting to recap FY2025 company highlights. The regular meeting includes a review of operator reports from April 1 to June 30, 2025, and a vote on a grant agreement.
- Resolution to approve and authorize a grant agreement with Midwest House
- FY2025 SmartZone Company Highlight Recap
- SmartZone Operators Report for April 1, 2025 - June 30, 2025
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting unanimously. It also approved a resolution authorizing the execution of a grant agreement with Midwest House, also by unanimous vote. No public comments were made.
- Approved minutes from August 13, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved grant agreement with Midwest House (unanimous)
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission is deciding on salary ordinances and compensation changes for non-represented and executive employees. The body is also reviewing several infrastructure contracts and grant awards for community development.
- Salary Ordinance for Non-Represented and Executive Employees and Appointed Officials
- Contract with Rockford Construction Co. for Sullivan Field Phase 2 improvements ($2,835,646)
- Grant agreement with Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy ($3,000,000)
- Funding increase for the East Riverfront project totaling not-to-exceed $19,838,807
- Public hearings scheduled for September 23 regarding Brownfield Plan amendments for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE and 764 & 800 Powers Avenue NW
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to confirm four individuals to city commissions and authorities. The body will also discuss the current Board and Commission Vacancy List as of September 9, 2025.
- Appointment of Rick Treur to the City Planning Commission
- Appointment of Sheona Nidefski to the Community Relations Commission
- Appointment of Carlos Pava to the Community Relations Commission
- Appointment of Kevin Austin to the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Discussion of the Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider resolutions to approve funding for various community and infrastructure grants, including $3 million for environmental projects and $720,000 for lead hazard control. The body will also review a contract change order for IT services and the Comptroller's warrant report.
- Resolution approving $3,000,000 grant with Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
- Resolution approving $959,752 grant with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Resolution approving $720,000 grant with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
- Resolution approving $690,500 change order with Highstreet IT Solutions, LLC
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for August 12, 2025 through August 25, 2025
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Community Development Committee will vote on ten resolutions, including permits, contract awards, and public‑hearing schedules. Items include a fireworks permit for the Jon Pardi concert, several construction contracts, and two public hearings on brownfield‑plan amendments. The committee will also consider a contract increase and additional funding for the East Riverfront project.
- Resolution approving a fireworks discharge permit for ATL Special FX at Van Andel Arena (Jon Pardi concert)
- Resolution awarding a $2,835,646 contract (not‑to‑exceed $3,490,362) to Rockford Construction Co. for Sullivan Field Phase 2
- Resolution awarding a $723,134 contract (not‑to‑exceed $1,076,640) to Wyoming Excavators, Inc. for Oakley Place reconstruction and drainage improvements
- Resolution approving a $677,215.87 increase and $963,362 MOU for a total not‑to‑exceed $19,838,807 on the East Riverfront project
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on Sep 23, 2025 to consider a Brownfield Plan amendment for the 443 Sheldon Redevelopment project
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will adopt a 2025 Welcoming Week Proclamation and consider a resolution to set a public hearing date for an economic development bond application submitted by Michigan Christian Home d/b/a Beacon Hill at Eastgate. The meeting also includes briefings on Fiscal Disclosures and City Commission Policy 100-06 and on the MLK Community Center.
- Adopt 2025 Welcoming Week Proclamation
- Resolution to set public hearing date for economic development bonds submitted by Michigan Christian Home d/b/a Beacon Hill at Eastgate
- Briefing on Fiscal Disclosures and City Commission Policy 100-06
- Briefing on MLK Community Center
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will vote to approve the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting. The team will discuss updates to the Michigan Local Business Enterprise (MLBE) policy. A verbal report on the Development Center for August 2025 will be presented.
- Approval of minutes from August 12, 2025
- Discussion of MLBE policy updates
- Verbal Development Center report – August 2025
The Economic Development Project Team approved the minutes from the August 12, 2025 meeting. The motion was moved by Commissioner Lisa Knight, seconded by Commissioner Drew Robbins, and passed with unanimous yeas from Mayor David LaGrand, Commissioner Lisa Knight, and Commissioner Drew Robbins. No other actions were decided at this meeting.
- Approved August 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will consider several action items, including a contract for accounting services, a sponsorship request for Fulton Street Market, a funding request for street poles, and an application for a public art mural at 700 Wealthy Street. The board will also approve minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting. Decisions will be made by motion during the regular meeting on September 3, 2025.
- Accounting Services Contract – Hungerford Nichols
- Fulton Street Market Annual Sponsorship Request
- Street Poles Garland Funding Request
- Uptown Public Art Mural Application – 700 Wealthy Street
- Approval of Minutes from August 6, 2025
The board unanimously approved funding for a CPA services contract with Hungerford Nichols up to $12,000. It also approved a $2,500 sponsorship for Fulton Street Market, a $15,000 street‑poles garland fund, and a $6,000 public‑art mural at 700 Wealthy Street. All motions passed without opposition.
- Approved $12,000 CPA services contract with Hungerford Nichols (unanimous)
- Approved $2,500 Fulton Street Market sponsorship (unanimous)
- Approved $15,000 street‑poles garland funding (unanimous)
- Approved $6,000 public‑art mural at 700 Wealthy Street (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from August 6, 2025 (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness and several alteration requests for properties in historic districts. Items include a garage construction request at 333 Charles SE, a second‑story addition at 130 Packard SE, and a main entry system replacement at 25 S Division. The agenda also lists a public hearing on a National Register nomination update for 24 Ransom NE and staff COA permits.
- Certificates of Appropriateness issued by staff
- Request to construct new garage at 333 Charles SE (Cherry Hill Historic District)
- Request for second‑story addition at 130 Packard SE (Cherry Hill Historic District)
- Request to replace main entry system at 25 S Division (Heartside Historic District)
- National Register nomination update for 24 Ransom NE
The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness. It also unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 255 College SE, requiring a 3‑over‑3 muntin pattern and a six‑inch vertical mullion on the wood windows. No formal decision was made on the 25 S Division storefront entry replacement; the commission continued to discuss the proposal.
- Approved staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 255 College SE with conditions: 3‑over‑3 muntin pattern and six‑inch vertical mullion (unanimous)
- No decision reached on 25 S Division storefront entry replacement; discussion continued
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Economic Development Corporation will meet on August 27, 2025. The board will vote on a resolution to approve and recommend the project plan for the 2025 Beacon Hill at Eastgate project. The agenda also includes routine items such as public comment, approval of minutes from July 23, 2025, and other business.
- Resolution to approve and recommend the 2025 Beacon Hill at Eastgate project plan
- Approval of minutes from July 23, 2025
- Public comment on agenda items
The council unanimously approved the minutes from the July 23, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved a resolution to approve and recommend the 2025 Beacon Hill at Eastgate project plan.
- Approved minutes from July 23, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved 2025 Beacon Hill at Eastgate project plan (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will vote on several resolutions, including plan amendments for the 443 Sheldon Avenue SE and Powers Place projects, a work plan for the Annex Fulton Redevelopment, and two Emerging Developer Grants. One grant could provide up to $200,000 for a project at 40 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE. The meeting also includes routine items such as minutes approval, financial statements, and an activity report on the Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program.
- Resolution approving a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the 443 Sheldon Avenue SE Redevelopment Project
- Resolution approving a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Powers Place Redevelopment Project at 764 and 800 Powers Avenue NW
- Resolution approving a Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for the Annex Fulton Redevelopment Project at 657 Fulton Street W
- Emerging Developer Grant up to $98,500 for a project at 1024 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE
- Emerging Developer Grant up to $200,000 for a project at 40 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE
The Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved plan amendments and work plans for several redevelopment projects, including Sheldon Avenue SE, Powers Place, Annex Fulton, and Pleasant Hills. It also approved two Emerging Developer Grants totaling $298,500 for properties on Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE. All motions passed with unanimous support.
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE (unanimous)
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment for Powers Place (764 & 800 Powers Avenue NW) (unanimous)
- Approved Work Plan & Development & Reimbursement Agreement for Annex Fulton Redevelopment (657 Fulton Street W) (unanimous)
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan & Development & Reimbursement Agreement for Pleasant Hills Project (539 New Avenue SW) (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $98,500 for 1024 Martin Luther King Jr. St SE (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $200,000 for 40 Martin Luther King Jr. St SE (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from July 23, 2025 (unanimous)
City Commission Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider a consent agenda, adopt several ordinances, and vote on contracts and resolutions. Key items include a $5,015,335.98 contract with Erhardt Construction for Oxford Trail improvements, a $30,000 authorization for drone‑based parking data collection, rezoning ordinances for two parcels on Leonard Avenue, and collective bargaining agreements for emergency communications supervisors. The commission will also set a public hearing date for a special assessment nuisance roll.
- Contract awarded to Erhardt Construction for Oxford Trail improvements – $5,015,335.98 (not‑to‑exceed $9,000,000)
- Resolution authorizing up to $30,000 for drone‑based parking data collection
- Ordinance rezoning 40.50 ft of 1362 Leonard Ave NW to low‑density residential zone
- Ordinance rezoning 1,916 sq ft of 1364 Leonard Ave NW to traditional business zone
- Resolution approving collective bargaining agreement with Emergency Communications Supervisors (July 1 2025 – June 30 2028)
Board of Election Commissioners - Regular Meeting
The Board of Election Commissioners will consider a resolution to combine Precincts 45 and 51 for the special election on November 4, 2025. If approved, the two precincts would be consolidated for that election. The meeting also includes standard public‑comment periods.
- Resolution to consolidate Precincts 45 & 51 for the November 4, 2025 special election
The Election Commissioners adopted a resolution to consolidate certain precincts for the November 4, 2025 special election. The motion was moved by Commissioner Strom, supported by Commissioner Post, and passed with a 3‑0 vote. No other actions or public comments were recorded.
- Approved precinct consolidation for Nov 4, 2025 special election (3-0)
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The committee will continue discussions on the Community Informed Training Program and receive updates on public health and safety ordinances. The meeting also includes presentations from the Fire Department and Police Department.
- Discussion of the Community Informed Training Program
- Fire Department presentation on the Technical Rescue Team (TRT)
- Update on Public Health and Safety Ordinances
- Police Department presentation on monthly crime statistics
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will vote on two mayoral appointments: Dakota Riehl‑Davis to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and Michelle Williams to the Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeal Board. The committee will also discuss the current board and commission vacancy list as of August 26, 2025.
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Dakota Riehl‑Davis to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
- Resolution recognizing Commissioner Ysasi's appointment of Michelle Williams to the Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeal Board
- Discussion of the Board and Commission Vacancy List – August 26, 2025
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider several financial actions, including a resolution to approve an $81,044.20 grant reimbursement to Grand Rapids Community College HETA and a resolution to authorize up to $30,000 for drone‑based parking data collection. It will also vote on an amendment to the 2025‑11 Budget Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2026 and adopt the bid list for the meeting date. The committee will receive a briefing on the internal audit plan and review the Comptroller's warrant report of $48,170,885.79 along with the Treasurer’s financial report for late July to early August 2025.
- Resolution approving $81,044.20 grant reimbursement to Grand Rapids Community College HETA
- Resolution authorizing up to $30,000 for drone‑based parking data collection
- Ordinance amendment to Budget Ordinance 2025‑11 for Fiscal Year 2026
- Comptroller's warrant report totaling $48,170,885.79
- Treasurer’s report for July 31‑August 11, 2025
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will review contracts for infrastructure improvements and utility easements. The body is also considering a noise variance for a bridge replacement project and scheduling a public hearing for nuisance roll appeals.
- Contract with Erhardt Construction for Oxford Trail improvements: $5,015,335.98 (not-to-exceed $9,000,000)
- Rejection of bids for Reconstruction of Oxford Street from Norwich Avenue to Godfrey Avenue
- Utility easement at 220 Graham St SW for Water Main Relocation along Martin Luther King Jr. Street: $19,800.00
- Noise variance for Michigan Department of Transportation regarding Martin Luther King Jr Street bridge replacement
- Public hearing date for Special Assessment Nuisance Roll 8800 set for September 9, 2025
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will review amendments to Brownfield Plans for two redevelopment projects. The body will also consider the appointment of an interim City Attorney and the 2026 meeting schedule.
- Brownfield Plan amendment for Breton Meadows Redevelopment Project
- Revised Brownfield Plan amendment for 280 Ann Redevelopment Project
- Appointment of Interim City Attorney
- Approval of ArtPrize as a special event from September 18 - October 4, 2025
- Adoption of the 2026 City Commission meeting schedule
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings and decide on dimensional variance requests for properties at 1722/1726/1730 Kendall St SE and 1712 Kendall St SE. A separate variance request for 801/811 Coit Ave NE is listed as tabled. The board will also consider a variance for 1846 Clyde Park Ave SW and approve the minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting.
- Dimensional variance for 1722/1726/1730 Kendall St SE to reduce rear setback from 40' to 27.6'
- Dimensional variance for 1712 Kendall St SE to reduce rear yard setback from 40' to 12.5'
- Dimensional variance for 801/811 Coit Ave NE (multi‑family project) – tabled
- Dimensional variance for 1846 Clyde Park Ave SW to reduce side yard setback from 25' to 5'
- Approval of minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals unanimously approved the minutes from the July 17, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously granted a 27.5‑ft dimensional variance to reduce the rear‑yard setback from 40 ft to 12.5 ft for the properties at 1722/1726/1730 Kendall St. SE. A second identical variance was unanimously approved for 1712 Kendall St. SE.
- Approved July 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Granted dimensional variance for 1722/1726/1730 Kendall St SE (27.5 ft setback reduction) (unanimous)
- Granted dimensional variance for 1712 Kendall St SE (27.5 ft setback reduction) (unanimous)
- Closed public hearing for 1722/1726/1730 Kendall St SE (unanimous)
- Closed public hearing for 1712 Kendall St SE (unanimous)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will approve minutes, interim financial statements, and facade improvement projects. The meeting includes a presentation on mobile parking strategy and a discussion on bioretention islands.
- Approval of Interim Financial Statements as of June 30, 2025
- Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Mobile GR Parking Strategy Presentation
- Bioretention Islands Improvements
- Cheshire Village feedback
The Authority unanimously approved the minutes from June 23, 2025 and the interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025. It also unanimously approved two façade improvement grants: up to $13,516 for 3164 Plainfield Ave and up to $22,500 for 1431 Plainfield Ave. No other actions were taken.
- Approved June 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement grant up to $13,516 for 3164 Plainfield Ave (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement grant up to $22,500 for 1431 Plainfield Ave (unanimous)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Community Improvement Authority will consider two strategy presentations: one on corridor development and another on mobile parking for Grand Rapids. Updates on streetscape design, alleyway activation projects, and the corridor manager report will also be discussed. The meeting includes routine approval of June 12 minutes and review of interim financial statements.
- Corridor Strategy Presentation
- Mobile GR Parking Strategy Presentation
- Streetscape Design and Alleyway Activation Projects Updates
- Corridor Manager & Committee Report
- Approval of Minutes from June 12, 2025 (motion required)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will consider approvals for facade improvement projects and an extension for the Interim Corridor Manager service agreement. The body will also review a Corridor Maintenance RFP and receive a presentation on the Mobile GR parking strategy.
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Interim Corridor Manager Service Agreement Extension
- Corridor Maintenance RFP
- Mobile GR Parking Strategy Presentation
The Authority adopted the ArtPrize event onto the agenda and approved a funding allocation of up to $22,600 for the event (6‑1 vote). It also approved façade improvement grants for 807 MLK St SE ($17,500), 2417 Eastern ($17,500) and 722 Eastern ($10,000), each unanimously. The Corridor Manager service agreement was extended for $10,666, and the updated maintenance request for proposals was approved unanimously.
- Adopted ArtPrize Event on agenda (unanimous)
- Approved ArtPrize Event funding up to $22,600 (6‑1)
- Approved façade improvement for 807 MLK St SE, up to $17,500 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement for 2417 Eastern, up to $17,500 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement for 722 Eastern, up to $10,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Manager Service Agreement extension, up to $10,666 (unanimous)
- Approved updated Request for Proposal for corridor maintenance (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30 2025 (unanimous)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will consider two action items: a recommendation to approve a $25,000 sponsorship for Grand Rapids Tech Week 2025, and a resolution to approve and authorize execution of a grant agreement with Midwest House. The meeting also includes approval of June 11, 2025 minutes, review of interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025, and a operators report covering April‑June 2025.
- Recommendation to approve $25,000 sponsorship for Grand Rapids Tech Week 2025
- Resolution to approve and authorize execution of a grant agreement with Midwest House
- Approval of minutes from June 11, 2025 (motion required)
- Review of interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025
- SmartZone Operators Report for April 1 – June 30, 2025
The Authority approved the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting and accepted the interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025, both unanimously. It approved a $25,000 sponsorship for Tech Week Grand Rapids 2025 with a 6‑to‑0 vote, two members abstaining. The grant agreement with Midwest House was tabled until the next meeting by unanimous vote. No operators report was given due to lack of time.
- Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved $25,000 Tech Week 2025 sponsorship (6-0)
- Tabled grant agreement with Midwest House (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to confirm two appointments: Tamara VandenBerg to the Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority and Nick Fisher to the Grand Rapids Water System Advisory Council. The meeting will also include a discussion on the Board and Commission Vacancy List.
- Resolution to confirm Tamara VandenBerg to Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority
- Resolution to appoint Nick Fisher to Grand Rapids Water System Advisory Council
- Discussion on Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider several resolutions, including accepting a grant of up to approximately $5 million from the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission to fund the FY26 Compliance Plan. It will also vote on accepting $112,500 in Hazard Mitigation Grant funds, a $75,650 agreement for an eviction‑prevention eligibility specialist, and a $150,000 contract with Experience Grand Rapids. Additional items include salary ordinance changes and a payment of up to $25,000 for drain maintenance.
- Resolution to accept up to $5 million grant from Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC)
- Resolution to accept $112,500 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds
- Resolution authorizing $75,650 Donated Funds Agreement with MDHHS for eviction‑prevention specialist
- Resolution authorizing $150,000 contract with Experience Grand Rapids
- Resolution approving payment up to $25,000 to Kent County Drain Commissioner for Paris Drain maintenance
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will vote on several resolutions, including approving a $2,752,671 contract with Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Company for improvements to the Community Archives and Research Center. It will also consider rezoning actions for two parcels on Leonard Avenue NW and schedule a public hearing on housing program performance. Additional items include a fireworks permit for Van Andel Arena and design services for a water facility.
- Approve $2,752,671 contract (up to $3,433,056) for Community Archives and Research Center improvements (Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Company)
- Approve $589,287 contract (up to $833,525) for Paul I Phillips Gymnasium interior and exterior improvements
- Approve design phase services for North‑South UV Disinfection Replacement at Water Resource Recovery Facility, $760,000 (not‑to‑exceed $942,401)
- Set August 26, 2025 to consider rezoning 1,916 sq ft of 1364 Leonard Ave NW to TN‑TBA zone
- Set August 26, 2025 to consider rezoning 40.50 ft of 1362 Leonard Ave NW to MCN‑LDR zone
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will vote on resolutions to approve Development District Liquor Licenses for That Earlybird, LLC at 1445 Lake Dr SE and for Terra Firma Holdings, LLC at 701 Wealthy St SE. It will also consider an amendment to the Brownfield Plan for the Pleasant Hills Phase III Redevelopment Project and the adoption of the Grand Rapids Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. Briefings will cover a noise ordinance near medical facilities, an update on the Third Ward Equity Fund, and the Michigan Talent Partnership grant application process.
- Resolution approving a Development District Liquor License for That Earlybird, LLC at 1445 Lake Dr SE
- Resolution approving a Development District Liquor License for Terra Firma Holdings, LLC at 701 Wealthy St SE
- Resolution to amend the Brownfield Plan for the Pleasant Hills Phase III Redevelopment Project
- Resolution accepting the Grand Rapids Climate Action and Adaptation Plan
- Presentation on Noise Ordinance related to amplified sound near medical facilities
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will consider approval of the April 15, 2025 meeting minutes. Members will receive a planning update on the Southside Creekways project. A verbal report from the Development Center covering July 2025 will also be presented.
- Approval of minutes from April 15, 2025
- Southside Creekways planning update
- Development Center report – July 2025
The Economic Development Project Team met on August 12, 2025. The team approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting unanimously. The meeting also included a presentation on the Silver and Plaster Creek Transformation Project (Phase 1 – Discovery) and a development center report, but no other actions were taken. The meeting adjourned at 1:03 PM.
- Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will consider approving collective bargaining agreements for various city employee unions and several zoning changes. The agenda also includes resolutions for financial grants and contracts, as well as public hearings on redevelopment and noise.
- Resolution approving Collective Bargaining Agreement with Emergency Communications Operators
- Resolution setting date to consider rezoning 1364 Leonard Avenue NW to TN-TBA
- Resolution accepting Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Funds in the amount of $112,500
- Resolution awarding contract with Owen-Ames-Kimball for Archives Center in the amount of $2,752,671
- Resolution setting date to consider rezoning 1356 Kalamazoo Avenue SE to TN-TBA
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will review liquor license recommendations for two businesses and a retainer proposal. The body will also consider design assistance for a facade improvement project and a funding request. A presentation on the Mobile GR parking strategy is scheduled.
- Liquor license recommendation for That Early Bird at 1445 Lake Dr. SE
- Liquor license recommendation for Terra Firma Holdings LLC at 701 Wealthy St. SE
- Facade Improvement Program Design Assistance for 1001 E. Fulton St.
- Lydia Writes Good monthly retainer proposal
- Affordable Limousine funding request
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority approved several unanimous actions, including recommending development area liquor licenses for That Earlybird and Terra Firma Holdings, and approving a $16,500 monthly retainer for Lydia Writes Good. It also approved funding requests of $7,500 each for a façade improvement at 1001 E. Fulton St. and for Affordable Limousine, and adopted a $6,000 public art funding request. Additionally, the board added a public art grant application to the agenda and approved the meeting minutes and interim financial statements.
- Approved minutes from June 4, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved recommending a Development Area Liquor License for That Earlybird at 1445 Lake Dr. SE (unanimous)
- Approved recommending a Development Area Liquor License for Terra Firma Holdings LLC at 701 Wealthy St. SE (unanimous)
- Approved Lydia Writes Good monthly retainer up to $16,500 (unanimous)
- Approved Facade Improvement Program Design Assistance for 1001 E. Fulton St. up to $7,500 (unanimous)
- Approved Affordable Limousine funding request up to $7,500 (unanimous)
- Adopted public art grant application to agenda and approved funding up to $6,000 (unanimous)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will consider several items, including approval of the June 4, 2025 meeting minutes and review of interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025. The primary decision is a service agreement between Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. and the City of Grand Rapids. The board will also vote on renewing the Simply Gardens landscape maintenance contract and receive committee meeting notes.
- Approve minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting (motion required)
- Review interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025
- Vote on service agreement between Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. and the City of Grand Rapids (motion required)
- Renew Simply Gardens landscape maintenance contract (motion required)
- Receive committee meeting notes report
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting and accepted the interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025. It also approved a three‑year renewal of the Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. service agreement with the City of Grand Rapids and renewed the Simply Gardens landscape maintenance contract for up to $47,520.
- Approved minutes from June 4, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved 3-year Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. service agreement with City of Grand Rapids (unanimous)
- Approved Simply Gardens landscape maintenance contract renewal, not‑to‑exceed $47,520 (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will review several requests for modifications to properties in historic districts and local landmarks. The body will discuss specific exterior updates, including signage, painting, and the installation of solar panels and art.
- Request for upper level projecting sign at 40 Pearl NW
- Request to paint brick above storefront at 25 South Division
- Request for exterior line sets at 1120 Wealthy SE
- Request to install solar panels on garage roof at 425 Pleasant SE
- Request to install temporary art prize exhibit at Blue Bridge
The Historic Preservation Commission approved the July 16, 2025 minutes. It unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the new projecting sign at 40 Pearl NW, finding the design compatible with historic guidelines. It also approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for painting a small brick band at 25 Division S, with the condition that exterior‑grade latex paint with a permeability rating of 20 or higher be used. No formal action was taken on the additional storefront panel request, and the AC line‑set proposal for 1120 Wealthy SE was discussed but not decided.
- Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 40 Pearl NW sign (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 25 Division S brick painting with paint specification (unanimous)
- No action taken on additional storefront panel request (not part of application)
- Discussed 1120 Wealthy SE AC line‑set request; no decision made
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will review several action items, including a grant application for the Facade Improvement Program, a funding request for WGNO CPTED training, and two requests for proposals—one for banner installation and maintenance and another for banner printing. The board will also consider an amendment to the Facade Improvement Program guidelines and hear a presentation on the Mobile GR Parking Strategy, followed by reports on the Gateway Signage Project and corridor management.
- Facade Improvement Program Grant Application (motion required)
- WGNO CPTED Training Funding Request (motion required)
- Request for Proposals – Banner Installation and Maintenance (motion required)
- Request for Proposals – Banner Printing (motion required)
- Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Amendment (motion required)
The Authority approved the June 6, 2025 minutes and the interim financial statements for June 30, 2025. It approved several grant and funding requests, including façade improvement grants totaling $9,299.94, CPTED training funding up to $1,500, and two banner‑related RFPs (printing and installation/maintenance up to $250,000). The board also tabled a façade‑improvement guidelines amendment and adopted a letter opposing Matthew’s House relocation to the Planning Commission.
- Approved June 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement grant applications for 629 Leonard and 1620 Leonard, total $9,299.94 (unanimous)
- Approved CPTED training funding request up to $1,500 (unanimous)
- Approved RFP for banner printing (unanimous)
- Approved RFP for banner installation and maintenance, not‑to‑exceed $250,000 (unanimous)
- Tabled façade improvement program guidelines amendment to next meeting (unanimous)
- Adopted Letter of Opposition to Matthew’s House project for Planning Commission (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will vote on resolutions confirming the mayor’s appointments of David LaGrand, Eric Brown, Guillermo Cisneros, Kurt Reppart, Kris Spaulding, and Randy Thelen to the Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority. It will also approve the City Commission’s appointment of John Gorney as the Street Administrator. Finally, the committee will discuss the current Board and Commission vacancy list.
- Confirm appointments of six individuals to the Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority
- Approve appointment of John Gorney as Street Administrator for the City of Grand Rapids
- Discuss the Board and Commission vacancy list
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will consider several resolutions authorizing contracts and agreements, including energy audits, inspection services, a website platform, and broker/dealer participation in investment bids. It will also approve a payment of up to $500,000 to the Kent County Drain Commissioner for maintenance of Knapp’s Corner Drain. The committee will receive the Comptroller’s warrant report for $53,395,739.15 and the Treasurer’s report for the first half of July.
- Resolution authorizing up to $235,000 contract with Tower Pinkster for energy audits of City facilities
- Resolution authorizing up to $400,000 agreement with SAFEbuilt Michigan for inspection and plan review services
- Resolution authorizing up to $150,000 agreement with GHD Digital for GovStack website solutions
- Resolution authorizing payment to Kent County Drain Commissioner for FY 2026 maintenance assessments for Knapp’s Corner Drain, not to exceed $500,000
- Comptroller's warrant report for July 1‑15, 2025 in the amount of $53,395,739.15
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several infrastructure contracts and development agreements. The body is also scheduling public hearings for August 12 regarding brownfield plan amendments and a noise variance.
- Agreement with MDOT for US-131/Wealthy Street Interchange reconstruction not to exceed $7,000,000
- Contract with Diversco Construction Company Inc. for Stevens Street reconstruction not to exceed $4,997,407
- Funding increase for Grand Rapids Public Museum Expansion Phase 1A of $4,152,828
- Proposed rezoning of 1356 Kalamazoo Avenue SE to TN-TBA Zone District
- Brownfield Plan amendments for 280 Ann NW and 4325 Breton Road SE
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will review a collective bargaining agreement and salary adjustments for IAFF Local 366 firefighters. The body will also discuss changes to the governance of the Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority Board. Additionally, the police department will present improvements made since 2022.
- Collective bargaining agreement with International Association of Firefighters, Local 366 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2028)
- Ordinance to adjust salaries and compensation rates for Grand Rapids Firefighters union employees
- Resolution modifying governance of the Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority Board
- Rescheduling of the November 11, 2025 City Commission Meeting to November 13, 2025
- Police Department presentation on improvements since 2022
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will schedule a public hearing for August 12, 2025, to consider approval of an administrative policy regarding parking count data collection. The committee will also review monthly crime statistics and strategic planning for the Fire Department.
- Resolution to schedule public hearing for Parking Count Data Collection (Administrative Policy 15-03)
- Presentation on Monthly Crime Statistics and Public Safety Improvements Since 2022
- Update on the Community Informed Training Program
- Update on GRFD FY26-28 Strategic Planning Process
- Update on Noise Ordinance Considerations Related to Amplified Sound
City Commission Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider several ordinances, including one that changes salary ranges for IAFF Local 366 firefighters. It will also vote on multiple contracts and resolutions for city services and infrastructure projects. Public comments and committee reports will precede the votes.
- Ordinance adjusting salaries and compensation ranges for IAFF Local 366 firefighters
- Resolution authorizing a contract up to $235,000 with Tower Pinkster for energy audits of select city facilities
- Resolution authorizing an agreement up to $400,000 with SAFEbuilt Michigan, LLC for inspection and plan review services
- Resolution approving a contract up to $150,000 with GHD Digital for GovStack website solutions platform
- Resolution authorizing expenditures up to $7,000,000 for reconstruction of the US‑131/Wealthy Street interchange
Economic Development Corporation - Special Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will adopt its Fiscal Year 2026 budget and vote on a resolution to approve revenue bonds and amend the project plan for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate development.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2026 Economic Development Corporation Budget
- Resolution to approve revenue bonds and amend project plan for Beacon Hill at Eastgate
The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 1, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2026 Economic Development Corporation budget. Finally, the commission unanimously approved a resolution to issue revenue bonds and amend the project plan for the Beacon Hill at Eastgate project.
- Approved May 1, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Adopted FY 2026 Economic Development Corporation budget (unanimous)
- Approved revenue bond resolution and project plan amendment for Beacon Hill at Eastgate (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is meeting to vote on plan amendments and reimbursement agreements for specific redevelopment projects. The body will also consider two Emerging Developer Grants and approve invoices for a property on 44th Street SE.
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for Breton Meadows Redevelopment at 4325 Breton Avenue SE
- Development & Reimbursement Agreement for Robinson Flats Redevelopment at 1407, 1409, and 1417 Robinson Road
- Emerging Developer Grant up to $157,538 for 807 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE
- Emerging Developer Grant up to $59,000 for 1133 Fulton Street W
- Invoice approval for 44th Street Properties, LLC at 1151 44th Street SE
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved a plan amendment for the Breton Meadows project at 4325 Breton Avenue SE. It also approved a work plan and development agreement for the Robinson Flats project, several emerging developer grants, an invoice for 44th Street Properties, and the June 2025 activity report. All motions passed with unanimous votes.
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment for Breton Meadows Redevelopment at 4325 Breton Ave SE (unanimous)
- Approved Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for Robinson Flats Redevelopment at 1407, 1409, 1417 Robinson Rd (unanimous)
- Approved invoice for 44th Street Properties, LLC at 1151 44th St SE (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $157,538 for project at 807 Martin Luther King Jr St SE (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $59,000 for project at 1133 Fulton St W (unanimous)
- Approved Activity Report for Environmental Site Assessment and Emerging Developer Grant Programs for June 2025 (unanimous)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings to consider dimensional variance requests for four properties. These requests involve adjustments to setbacks and building transparency requirements.
- 3521 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE: Request to eliminate 25' front setback and reduce water's edge setbacks
- 1111 Second St NW: Request to reduce rear setback to 0.6' and combined side yard setback to 2.6'
- 465 Fuller Ave SE: Request to reduce required window visible light transmission from 70% to 30%
- 15 Congress Ave SE: Request to reduce rear yard setback to 12.5' and side yard setback for accessory structure to 3'
The Board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 17, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved a dimensional variance request for 3521 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE, granting reductions to front and water‑edge setbacks. Both public hearings were closed by unanimous motions.
- Approved April 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved dimensional variance for 3521 Lake Eastbrook Blvd SE (unanimous)
- Closed public hearing for variance P-BZA-2025-0007 (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission will consider staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness and discuss several project requests. Old business includes a door‑muntin addition at 601 Cherry SE and an awning material change at 1017 Wealthy SE. New business items cover a south egress window and well at 555 Morris SE, an illuminated wall sign at 40 Pearl NW, solar panels at 66 College NE, and a new garage at 341 Charles SE. A public hearing and comment period will follow the discussions.
- 601 Cherry SE – add muntins to rear French doors
- 1017 Wealthy SE – change material for awning
- 555 Morris SE – request south egress window & well
- 40 Pearl NW – request internally illuminated wall sign
- 66 College NE – request for solar panels
The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 4, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 601 Cherry St SE, finding the work complies with historic guidelines. The application for 1017 Wealthy SE was unanimously tabled pending additional information. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 601 Cherry St SE (unanimous)
- Tabled application for 1017 Wealthy SE pending more details (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to confirm several individuals to city commissions and boards. The body will also discuss the current Board and Commission Vacancy List.
- Appointment of Lucas Stier to the Vital Streets Oversight Commission
- Appointments of Janelle Rai and Wesley Wilson to the Mobile GR Commission
- Appointment of Kara Gates to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
- Recognition of Todd Hurley's appointment to the SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority Board
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will adopt resolutions recognizing a local civic organization and accepting a $500,000 Environmental Justice Impact Grant for urban agriculture projects. It will also approve several professional services agreements, including contracts of $66,000 with the Children’s Assessment Center, $84,000 with Boys & Girls Clubs, $99,258 for police recruit training, and $244,039 for Network 180 social work services. Additional items include a two‑year Consumers Energy demand‑response agreement, a $450,000 budget substitution for water facility improvements, and the write‑off of FY2025 water and sewer account balances, followed by financial reports.
- Accept $500,000 Environmental Justice Impact Grant for urban agriculture projects
- Approve $66,000 professional services agreement with Children’s Assessment Center
- Approve $84,000 professional services agreement with Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth
- Authorize up to $99,258 for Grand Rapids Police recruit class training at external academies
- Authorize first‑year $244,039 (total $753,255 over three years) for Network 180 social work services supporting the Homeless Outreach Team
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will vote on several resolutions, including contracts for street improvements and easements, and will schedule public hearings on redevelopment and brownfield plans. Major items include a $2,735,327 rotomilling/resurfacing contract, a $959,684 contract to reconstruct Plainfield Avenue, and a $370,000 contract for LMFP East Lagoon improvements. The committee will also consider easements, commemorative designations, and a fireworks permit for the Van Andel Arena.
- Resolution awarding $2,735,327 (not‑to‑exceed $3,633,500) to Wyoming Excavators, Inc. for rotomilling/resurfacing at various locations
- Resolution awarding $959,684.10 (not‑to‑exceed $1,600,000) to C&D Hughes, Inc. for reconstruction of Plainfield Avenue from Fuller Avenue to I‑96 eastbound on‑ramp
- Resolution awarding $370,000 (not‑to‑exceed $513,970) to Diversco Construction Company Inc. for LMFP East Lagoon Improvements
- Resolution approving $905,249 increase for East Riverfront Phase I improvements (total not‑to‑exceed $18,875,445)
- Resolution scheduling public hearing on July 29, 2025 for Brownfield Plan Amendment for Pleasant Hills Phase III at 539 New Avenue SW
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will vote on several resolutions, including a recommendation to approve a Social District Permit for Grand Vin, LLC and two twelve‑year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificates for ICCF Nonprofit Housing Corporation and Laura Chivis‑Scott. It will also authorize a Memorandum of Understanding with Canal Street Brewing Co., LLC and set July 29, 2025 as the date to consider an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance’s lot and yard requirements. Briefings will provide updates on the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan and the Facilities Master Plan with Calder Plaza enhancements.
- Resolution recommending approval of a Social District Permit for Grand Vin, LLC at 15 Ionia Ave SW Suite 120
- Resolution approving a twelve‑year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for ICCF Nonprofit Housing Corporation at 2017 Eastern Ave SE
- Resolution approving a twelve‑year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for Laura Chivis‑Scott at 1032 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE
- Resolution authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding with Canal Street Brewing Co., LLC
- Resolution setting July 29, 2025 to consider an amendment to Sections 5.2.05 and 5.3.06 of the Zoning Ordinance
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will review a consent agenda of routine items, including the approval of street name changes to Amillier Penn Way and Dr MaLinda Sapp Way, and various contracts for public services and infrastructure. The body will also hear public comments and hold hearings on a Brownfield Plan Amendment and a Downtown Improvement District assessment.
- Resolution approving $500,000 Environmental Justice Impact Grant
- Resolution awarding $959,684.10 contract for Plainfield Avenue reconstruction
- Resolution approving Commemorative Designation of 'Amillier Penn Way'
- Resolution approving Commemorative Designation of 'Dr MaLinda Sapp Way'
- Public hearing on FY2026 Downtown Improvement District Special Assessment Roll
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is meeting to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The body will consider resolutions regarding plan amendments, loan agreements, and reimbursement agreements for multiple redevelopment projects across the city.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Budget Adoption
- Plan amendment and loan agreement for Pleasant Hills Project at 539 New Avenue SW
- First Amendment to the Brownfield Plan for 280 Ann Street NW
- Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for M-Village at 1865 Eastern Avenue SE and 716 Elliot Street SE
- Grant agreement amendment for Well House LDHA, LLC at 32 Pleasant SE
The board excused Kaylee Dillard’s absence and approved the May 28 minutes. It adopted the FY2026 Brownfield Redevelopment Authority budget. It unanimously approved five resolutions covering the Pleasant Hills loan, amendments for the 280 Ann and Well House projects, a work plan for M‑Village, and a grant amendment. All actions were recorded as unanimous approvals.
- Excused Kaylee Dillard’s absence (unanimous)
- Approved May 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 Brownfield Redevelopment Authority budget (unanimous)
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment and loan for Pleasant Hills Project at 539 New Avenue SW (unanimous)
- Approved First Amendment to Brownfield Plan for 280 Ann, LLC project at 280 Ann Street NW (unanimous)
- Approved Work Plan and Development & Reimbursement Agreement for M‑Village Redevelopment at 1865 Eastern Ave SE and 716 Elliot St SE (unanimous)
- Approved First Amendment to Local Brownfield Revolving Fund grant for Well House LDHA, LLC at 32 Pleasant SE (unanimous)
- Approved invoices for Marywood Motherhouse, LLC project at 43 Lakeside Drive NE (unanimous)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Authority is meeting to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and review interim financial statements. Members will also consider agreements for trash maintenance and event sponsorships.
- Fiscal Year 2026 North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority Budget Adoption
- ActivCity Trash Maintenance Agreement
- Creston After Dark Sponsorship
- Holistic Shop Hop Event Sponsorship
- Naming Hierarchies discussion
The Authority approved the minutes from May 8, 2025. The FY 2026 budget was adopted without modifications. Three sponsorship and service agreements were approved: ActivCity trash maintenance ($13,000), Creston After Dark event ($15,000), and the Holistic Shop Hop event ($5,000). All actions passed unanimously.
- Approved FY 2026 budget (unanimous)
- Approved ActivCity Trash Maintenance Agreement, not‑to‑exceed $13,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Creston After Dark Sponsorship, not‑to‑exceed $15,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Holistic Shop Hop Event Sponsorship, not‑to‑exceed $5,000 (unanimous)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will consider approving its fiscal year 2026 budget. The board will also review a proposal for planning a Poutine Week event and discuss a community celebration for the Midtown Neighborhood Playground opening. Minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting will be approved.
- Approval of FY 2026 budget for the Authority
- Poutine Week Event Planning Proposal – Well Design
- Midtown Neighborhood Playground Opening Community Celebration
- Approval of minutes from May 21, 2025
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. It then adopted the FY2026 budget without changes. The board also approved the Poutine Week event proposal for up to $81,000, added a Marketing Committee fund item to the agenda, allocated $5,000 for a Poutine Week spend overage, and approved a $2,000 community celebration for the Midtown Neighborhood Playground opening.
- Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 budget (unanimous)
- Approved Poutine Week event proposal, not-to-exceed $81,000 (unanimous)
- Added Marketing Committee Fund action item to agenda (unanimous)
- Allocated discretionary $5,000 for Poutine Week spend overage (unanimous)
- Approved Midtown Neighborhood Playground opening celebration, not-to-exceed $2,000 (unanimous)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority will adopt its Fiscal Year 2026 budget and approve a service agreement for the Corridor Manager. The body will also consider extending a service agreement for Business Associations Managers.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Adoption
- Corridor Manager Service Agreement Approval
- Business Associations Managers Service Agreement Extension
- Streetscape Design Project Update
- Minutes Approval from April 10, 2025
The council approved the minutes from April 10, 2025 and adopted the FY 2026 budget without changes. A part‑time Corridor Manager agreement for Pablo Garcia was approved for $33,000, and the Business Associations Managers service agreements were extended for three months at a not‑to‑exceed $7,999.98. The July meeting was cancelled.
- Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Adopted FY 2026 budget (unanimous)
- Approved part‑time Corridor Manager agreement for Pablo Garcia, $33,000 (unanimous)
- Extended Business Associations Managers service agreements, $7,999.98 for three months (unanimous)
- Cancelled July meeting (unanimous)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The authority is meeting to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and review a TIF and Development Plan. Members will vote on several service agreements and a request for tax increment revenues for a specific project.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority Budget Adoption
- Passthrough of Tax Increment Revenues for the M-Village Project at 1865 Eastern Avenue SE
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- ActivCity Trash Maintenance Agreement-FY2026
- Building Bridges Contract Renewal
The board unanimously adopted the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. It also approved several façade improvement grants totaling $47,000, a $40,000 trash‑maintenance agreement, a three‑month Building Bridges landscaping contract, an interim corridor manager service agreement, and a tax‑increment revenue passthrough for the M‑Village affordable‑housing project. Additionally, the board adopted and funded a $5,000 sponsorship for the UMCH Family Field Day event.
- Approved FY2026 budget (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement for 956 Hall St. SE up to $7,000 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement for 2017 Eastern St. SE up to $10,000 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement for 809 & 811 Oakdale St. up to $30,000 (unanimous)
- Approved trash maintenance agreement up to $40,000 (6-0)
- Approved 3‑month Building Bridges landscaping contract $3,281.60 per month (6-0)
- Approved interim corridor manager recommendation and service agreement up to $10,667 (unanimous)
- Approved tax‑increment revenue passthrough for M‑Village Project (unanimous)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The board will adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority. It will also consider three resolutions: a third addendum to the incubator operator MOU with Spartan Innovations and Start Garden, support for the Spartan Innovations Conquer Accelerator and CADE program, and an agreement for branding, marketing, and communication services. Minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting and interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 will be approved.
- Resolution approving a Third Addendum to the SmartZone Incubator Operator MOU with Spartan Innovations and Start Garden
- Resolution approving support for the Spartan Innovations Conquer Accelerator and CADE program
- Resolution approving and authorizing execution of an agreement for SmartZone LDFA branding, marketing, & communication services
- Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority
- Approval of minutes from May 14, 2025 and interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025
The board unanimously approved the minutes from May 14, 2025, accepted the interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025, and adopted the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. It also approved a third addendum to the Incubator Operator MOU with Spartan Innovations and Start Garden, a resolution supporting the Spartan Innovations Conquer Accelerator and CADE program, and a resolution authorizing a branding, marketing, and communication services agreement. All votes were unanimous except for two abstentions on the addendum and accelerator resolutions.
- Approved minutes from May 14, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 budget for SmartZone (unanimous)
- Approved Third Addendum to Incubator Operator MOU with Spartan Innovations and Start Garden (unanimous, Jerry Kooiman abstained)
- Approved support for Spartan Innovations Conquer Accelerator and CADE program (unanimous, Jerry Kooiman abstained)
- Approved branding, marketing & communication services agreement (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will vote on resolutions to recognize or confirm four appointments to city committees and authorities. The body will also discuss current board vacancies and the criteria used for appointments.
- Appointment of Sherlynn James to the Public Safety Committee
- Appointment of Michelle Eddie to the Kent Hospital Finance Authority
- Appointment of Christina Vandam to the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Appointment of Patrick Hilton to the Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority
- Review of the June 10, 2025 Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will consider several resolutions, including amending investment policy, approving a no‑cost amendment to a USGS funding agreement, and accepting a $5,000,000 grant from the State of Michigan for Plaza Roosevelt and Roosevelt Park upgrades. It will also authorize FY2026 insurance renewals costing $3,249,378, and consider a series ordinance for up to $18 million in water‑system revenue bonds. Additional items include budget ordinance amendments, a bid list, financial reports, and a $122,270,000 bond sale for a soccer stadium and amphitheater.
- Resolution to accept a $5,000,000 grant for Plaza Roosevelt and Roosevelt Park improvements
- Resolution authorizing FY2026 insurance renewals totaling $3,249,378.00
- Series Ordinance for Water Supply System Improvement Junior Lien Revenue Bonds up to $18 million
- Resolution approving a no‑cost amendment to a Joint Funding Agreement with the USGS
- Report of $122,270,000 Series 2025 Capital Improvement Bonds for a soccer stadium and amphitheater
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will review a liquor permit application and a land bank agreement amendment. The meeting also includes a proclamation and a request for a commissioner to attend a national conference.
- Social District Permit application for Twisted Tap Distillery, LLC at 146 Monroe Center St NW Unit 150
- First Amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement with the State Land Bank Authority regarding board composition
- Commissioner Perdue’s request to attend the National League of Cities, City Summit in Salt Lake City, Utah
- Pride Month Proclamation
- Dr. Schnoor Scholarship Award presentation
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The body is also considering the approval of a Corridor Manager recommendation and service agreement.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Adoption
- Corridor Manager Recommendation and Service Agreement Approval
- Interim Financial Statements as of April 18, 2025
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the May 15 meeting, accepted the interim financial statements, adopted the FY2026 budget, and approved the Corridor Manager Recommendation and Service Agreement. No other actions were taken.
- Approved May 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 budget (unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Manager Recommendation and Service Agreement (unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will adopt the Fiscal Year 2026 budget and approve a Memorandum of Understanding with the Business Association. The meeting includes action items for event support contracts, public art mural applications, and a service agreement with Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2026 Budget
- Business Association Memorandum of Understanding
- Event Support Contract
- Uptown Public Art Mural Application - 1450 Wealthy Street
- Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. Service Agreement
The Authority unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. It also approved the Business Association Memorandum of Understanding, $15,000 sponsorship support, a $15,000 event support contract, a $6,000 public‑art mural, a $10,000 Eastown Hub lot grant, and a service agreement with Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. All motions passed unanimously.
- Approved FY 2026 Budget (unanimous)
- Approved Business Association Memorandum of Understanding and annual financial support (unanimous)
- Approved Neighborhood and Business Association Sponsorship Requests up to $15,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Event Support Contract up to $15,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Public Art Mural Application for 1450 Wealthy St, up to $6,000 pending Design Committee approval (unanimous)
- Approved Eastown Hub Lot Outdoor Space Activation Grant up to $10,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Uptown Grand Rapids, Inc. Service Agreement (unanimous)
- Approved Minutes from May 7, 2025 (unanimous)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will consider several agenda items at its regular meeting. It will approve the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting and adopt the fiscal year 2026 budget. The board will also vote on renewing the Uptown Ambassador Services contract for FY2026 and review recent board and committee meeting notes. Public comment will be allowed before adjournment.
- Approve minutes from May 7, 2025
- Adopt Fiscal Year 2026 budget
- Renew Uptown Ambassador Services contract for FY2026
- Review Uptown Inc. Board & Committee meeting notes
- Public comment on agenda items
The board approved the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting unanimously. The FY2026 budget was adopted with a unanimous vote. The Ambassador Services Contract was renewed for a not‑to‑exceed amount of $72,356.90, also unanimously approved.
- Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 budget (unanimous)
- Renewed Ambassador Services Contract for $72,356.90 (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission will consider two applications for alterations in historic districts: a mural structure on the north wall of 54 Jefferson SE in the Heritage Hill Historic District, and a rear awning at 1017 Wealthy SE in the Wealthy Street Historic District. Staff will also report on Certificates of Appropriateness that have been issued. The meeting includes routine items such as approval of the May 7, 2025 minutes.
- Review request for mural structure on north wall at 54 Jefferson SE (Heritage Hill Historic District)
- Review request for rear awning at 1017 Wealthy SE (Wealthy Street Historic District)
- Staff report on Certificates of Appropriateness issued
- Approval of minutes from May 7, 2025
The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 7, 2025 meeting. It approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 54 Jefferson SE with conditions on board material, flashing and caps. The commission recused Dru Chapman from the 1017 Wealthy St SE case and then unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for that property with conditions on awning height and window protection.
- Approved May 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 54 Jefferson SE with conditions (unanimous)
- Recused Dru Chapman from 1017 Wealthy St SE case (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 1017 Wealthy St SE with conditions (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will vote on officer elections and financial statements. The body is deciding on a plan amendment for Robinson Flats and two grant agreements for projects on Sheldon Avenue SE and Martin Luther King Junior Street SE.
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for Robinson Flats Redevelopment at 1407, 1409, and 1417 Robinson Road
- Emerging Developer Grant up to $200,000 for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE
- First Amendment to Local Brownfield Revolving Fund grant for 1032 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE
- Election of Officer for Calendar Year 2025
- Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program activity report for May 2025
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved several unanimous actions, including appointing Kaylee Dillard as Secretary and adopting a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Robinson Flats project. It also approved a $200,000 Emerging Developer Grant for a project at 443 Sheldon Avenue SE and a first amendment to the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund grant for the 1032 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE project. Additional approvals covered minutes, financial statements, and an activity report for the Environmental Site Assessment Grant program.
- Approved excusing absences of Jeff Edwards and Kyle VanStrien (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from May 1, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Kaylee Dillard as Secretary (unanimous)
- Approved Brownfield Plan Amendment for Robinson Flats at 1407, 1409, 1417 Robinson Road (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant up to $200,000 for 443 Sheldon Avenue SE (unanimous)
- Approved First Amendment to Local Brownfield Revolving Fund grant for 1032 Martin Luther King Junior Street SE (unanimous)
- Approved Activity Report for Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program May 2025 (unanimous)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to discuss and vote on a Request for Proposals for corridor management. The body will also consider a letter of support for the Colorful Pathways Program.
- Corridor Management RFP
- Colorful Pathways Program Letter of Support
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. It also approved an updated Request for Proposal for corridor management costing up to $62,000. In addition, the updated Colorful Pathways Program Letter of Support was approved, with all votes unanimous.
- Approved minutes from April 16, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Management RFP up to $62,000 (unanimous)
- Approved updated Colorful Pathways Program Letter of Support (unanimous)
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will consider a resolution to raise funding by $464,465 for accessibility upgrades at 300 Monroe Avenue, bringing the project total to a not‑to‑exceed $3,970,225. It will also vote on a contract with Anlaan Corporation for Gilette Bridge improvements worth up to $866,000. A public hearing is scheduled for June 10 to discuss an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate for ICCF Nonprofit Housing at 2017 Eastern Avenue, SE.
- Resolution increasing $464,465 for 300 Monroe accessibility improvements (total cap $3,970,225)
- Resolution awarding Anlaan Corporation contract for Gilette Bridge improvements ($467,985, total cap $866,000)
- Resolution scheduling public hearing June 10 for Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate for ICCF Nonprofit Housing at 2017 Eastern Avenue, SE
- Resolution confirming Special Assessment Nuisance Roll Number 8794
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The committee will consider several resolutions regarding FY2026 budgets and service fees. The meeting includes a proposal to establish the 2025 property tax millage and a briefing on the FY2026 proposed budget.
- Neighborhood Investment Plan funding awards and FY 2026 Annual Action Plan totaling $8,693,689
- FY2026 budgets for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Land Bank Authority, and various Corridor Improvement Authorities
- FY2026 budgets for the Downtown Development Authority, Downtown Improvement District, and Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority
- Establishment of 2025 Property Tax Millage
- Naming of new park space at 680 Cesar E Chavez Avenue, SW, as 'Navarro Plaza'
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Public Safety Committee will review the city's ISO Class 1 rating training. The committee will hear a presentation from the Grand Rapids Police Department covering monthly crime statistics, truck route enforcement, and recent policy and procedure changes. An update will be provided on the summer youth violence prevention program coordinated by the Office of Oversight and Accountability and community partners.
- Training and Insurance Services Office (ISO) Class 1 Rating
- Presentation from Grand Rapids Police Department on monthly crime statistics, truck route enforcement, and policy and procedure changes
- Update on summer youth violence prevention programming by the Office of Oversight and Accountability and community partners
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission is meeting to adopt the FY2026 City Budget and establish 2025 property tax millage. The body will also consider several budget substitutions for infrastructure and park projects, as well as various authority budgets for FY2026.
- Ordinance adopting the FY2026 City Budget
- Resolution establishing 2025 Property Tax Millage
- Budget substitutions: $2,455,000 for Park Capital Projects and $985,000 for multiple Lift Station projects
- Contract with Anlaan Corporation for Gilette Bridge improvements in the amount of $467,985
- Neighborhood Investment Plan funding awards and FY 2026 Annual Action Plan totaling $8,693,689
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will meet to confirm a City Manager appointment to a local commission. The body will also discuss the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Resolution to confirm Brooke Oosterman to the Grand Rapids Housing Commission
- Discussion of the Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will consider several budget substitution resolutions, moving funds to lift station projects, sewer and water work on Fuller Avenue, and park capital projects. The largest item is a $2,455,000 shift for park capital projects. The committee will also adopt a bid list resolution and review the Comptroller’s warrant and Treasurer’s report for early May.
- Resolution authorizing a $2,455,000 budget substitution for Park Capital Projects
- Resolution authorizing a $985,000 budget substitution for multiple lift station projects
- Resolution authorizing a $100,000 budget substitution for the sewer portion of the Fuller Ave – Kalamazoo to Adams project
- Resolution authorizing a $198,000 budget substitution for the water portion of the Fuller Ave – Kalamazoo to Adams project
- Bid List Resolution for May 20, 2025
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to approve minutes from the April 25, 2025 meeting and consider a funding request for the Gateway Project design. The meeting is scheduled for May 15, 2025, at 10:00 AM at 625 Fulton St W.
- Approval of April 25, 2025 minutes
- Gateway Project Design Funding Request (motion required)
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 25, 2025 meeting. It also approved a not‑to‑exceed $253,702.70 design‑funding request for the Gateway Signs project. Two unanimous motions added and approved a letter of support for acquiring the Straight School building for child‑care expansion.
- Approved April 25, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved $253,702.70 Gateway Signs design funding (unanimous)
- Adopted letter of support for Straight School building (unanimous)
- Approved letter of support for Straight School building (unanimous)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will meet to approve previous minutes and conduct public hearings. The session will also include the conclusion of board training.
- Approval of April 17, 2025 minutes
- Public hearings
- Conclusion of Board Training
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will approve minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting, review interim financial statements dated April 18, 2025, and vote on projects under the Southtown Facade Improvement Program. The board will also consider a Corridor Management request for proposals, hear a presentation on the TIF and development plan, and discuss the FY2026 Budget Priority Plan.
- Approval of minutes from April 16, 2025
- Interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025
- Vote on Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects
- Consideration of Corridor Management RFP
- Discussion of FY2026 Budget Priority Plan
The Authority approved the April 16 minutes and the interim financial statements unanimously. It approved a $10,000 façade improvement for 1032 MLK St SE and a $75,000 façade improvement for the Gideon Project, both unanimously. The board voted 6‑1 to have the executive committee update the RFP and appoint an interim Corridor Manager through September 30, 2025. All other items were informational.
- Approved April 16 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement application for 1032 MLK St SE, not‑to‑exceed $10,000 (unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement application for Gideon Project (801, 803, 805 Oakdale St and 1420, 1422 Eastern Ave), not‑to‑exceed $75,000 (unanimous)
- Approved executive committee to update RFP and appoint interim Corridor Manager through Sep 30 2025 (6‑1)
- Postponed application for 956 Hall St SE (no vote recorded)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will consider approving the minutes from its April 16, 2025 meeting. Members will hear the SmartZone Operators Report covering January 1–March 31, 2025, an update on the Gateway Grand Rapids Business Accelerator Fund, and a status report on the Marketing and Communications Request for Proposals. The agenda also includes time for public comment before adjournment.
- Approval of minutes from April 16, 2025
- SmartZone Operators Report for Jan 1 – Mar 31, 2025
- Gateway Grand Rapids Business Accelerator Fund update
- Marketing and Communications RFP update
- Public comment period
The board approved the minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. The motion was moved by Mark Washington and seconded by Jerry Kooiman. All present members voted yea, resulting in a unanimous acceptance. No other actions were decided at this meeting.
- Approved minutes from April 16, 2025 (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider four resolutions confirming recent mayoral and commission appointments. Two resolutions confirm Max Benedict's appointments to the Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority and the Uptown Business Improvement District, and one resolution approves Richard Wendt's appointment to the Grand Rapids Building Authority. The committee will also review the current board and commission vacancy list as of May 13, 2025.
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Max Benedict to the Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Max Benedict to the Uptown Business Improvement District
- Resolution approving the City Commission's appointment of Richard Wendt to the Grand Rapids Building Authority
- Review of the Current Board and Commission Vacancy List – May 13, 2025
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The committee will consider a resolution authorizing a three-year concierge recovery navigation service for injured firefighters provided by Ready Rebound, with a first-year cost of $95,000 and a total cost not to exceed $285,000. It will also approve the appointment of Bria Q. Adderley-Williams as Attorney Magistrate for the 61st District Court, adopt the FY2026 operations and maintenance budget for the Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority, and amend Section 1 of the 2024-23 Budget Ordinance (Amendment No. 8). The meeting includes review of the Comptroller’s warrant report for April 15-28 2025 totaling $29,701,189.85 and the Treasurer’s report for April 17-29 2025.
- Resolution authorizing Ready Rebound contract: $95,000 first year, up to $285,000 total
- Resolution appointing Bria Q. Adderley-Williams as Attorney Magistrate (61st District Court)
- Adoption of Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority FY2026 Operations and Maintenance Budget
- Ordinance amendment to Section 1 of Budget Ordinance 2024-23 (Amendment No. 8)
- Comptroller’s warrant report for April 15-28 2025 in the amount of $29,701,189.85
Community Development Committee Meeting
The committee will vote on a $1.59 million local share for reconstructing Ann Street and award a $100,700 contract for cleaning and painting Alger Reservoir. The body will also approve a fireworks permit for the Gillette Bridge and schedule public hearings for two street designations.
- Resolution approving $1,586,645 for Ann Street reconstruction
- Resolution awarding $100,700 contract for Alger Reservoir cleaning
- Resolution approving Fireworks Discharge Permit for Gillette Bridge
- Public Hearing scheduled for 'Dr. MaLinda Sapp Way' designation
- Public Hearing scheduled for 'Amillier Penn Way' designation
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will hold workshops on the FY2026 budget and the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan. The body will also consider a social district permit and a travel request for Commissioner Ysasi.
- Social District Permit application for Pickle and Pin, LLC at 662 Leonard St NW
- FY2026 Budget Review Workshop
- Climate Action and Adaptation Plan Prioritization and Work Session
- Travel request for Commissioner Ysasi to attend the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Conference
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will hold public hearings to establish property taxes, the proposed FY2026 budget, and FY2026 service provision fees. The body is also considering several infrastructure contracts and board appointments.
- Public hearing for FY2026 budget and property taxes
- Public hearing for FY2026 service provision fees
- Agreement with MDOT for Ann Street reconstruction from Monroe Avenue to Plainfield Avenue ($1,586,645 local share)
- Agreement with Ready Rebound for firefighter recovery navigation services (up to $285,000 total)
- Contract with Fedewa Inc. for Alger Reservoir cleaning and painting (up to $197,050)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will consider the FY2026 budget recommendation and a request for proposals for corridor management. The body will also review a facade improvement project at 1364 Plainfield Ave.
- FY2026 Budget Recommendation
- Corridor Management Request for Proposals
- 1364 Plainfield Ave. Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Sponsorship Request for Creston Neighborhood Pancake Brunch Street Party
The authority approved the minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting without comment. It then unanimously adopted the FY2026 budget recommendation. The board also approved an updated Corridor Management Request for Proposals, a $3,000 sponsorship for the Creston Neighborhood Pancake Brunch Street Party, and withdrew the 1364 Plainfield Ave. facade improvement project.
- Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved FY2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
- Approved updated Corridor Management Request for Proposals (unanimous)
- Approved $3,000 sponsorship for Creston Neighborhood Pancake Brunch Street Party (unanimous)
- Withdrawn 1364 Plainfield Ave. Facade Improvement Program project (unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to vote on tax increment revenue passthrough for the Robinson Road Flats Project. The body will also review public art mural applications and a planting bed maintenance proposal.
- Tax increment revenue passthrough request for Robinson Road Flats Project
- Public Art Mural Application for 1117 Wealthy Street
- Public Art Mural Application for 610 Wealthy Street
- Native Edge Planting Beds Maintenance Proposal
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority unanimously approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting and accepted the interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025. It also approved a tax‑increment revenue passthrough for the Robinson Road Flats Project at 1407, 1409, and 1417 Robinson Road. Additionally, the board approved two public‑art murals—one at 1117 Wealthy Street and another at 610 Wealthy Street—each for up to $6,000, and approved a $15,000 Native Edge Planting Beds Maintenance contract.
- Approved minutes from April 2, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved tax‑increment revenue passthrough for Robinson Road Flats Project (unanimous)
- Approved mural at 1117 Wealthy Street, not‑to‑exceed $6,000 (unanimous)
- Approved mural at 610 Wealthy Street, not‑to‑exceed $6,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Native Edge Planting Beds Maintenance proposal, not‑to‑exceed $15,000 (unanimous)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will approve minutes from the April 2 meeting, review interim financial statements as of April 18, and vote on a maintenance proposal for native edge planting beds. Public comment is scheduled before and after the agenda items. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.
- Approve minutes from April 2, 2025
- Review interim financial statements dated April 18, 2025
- Vote on Native Edge Planting Beds Maintenance Proposal
The Uptown Business Improvement District approved the minutes from the April 2, 2025 meeting. The interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 were accepted. The Native Edge Planting Beds Maintenance proposal was approved. All three actions passed unanimously.
- Approved April 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of April 18, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Native Edge Planting Beds Maintenance proposal (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will consider several requests for alterations and new construction within the Heritage Hill and Cherry Hill historic districts. The meeting includes discussions on building renovations, solar panels, and a National Register nomination for Auburn Hills.
- Request to build a carriage house at 233 College SE
- Request for solar panels at 306 James SE
- Request to retain storefront alterations at 721 Cherry SE
- Advisory discussion for a new building at 410 Charles SE
- Auburn Hills National Register nomination
The commission unanimously denied the request to retain the east line sets at 212 Union St SE. It then unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the revised line‑set location with a painting requirement. The commission also unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the proposed city‑wide bus shelters in historic districts.
- Approved minutes from April 16, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved staff Certificates of Appropriateness (unanimous)
- Denied application to retain east line sets at 212 Union St SE (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for revised line‑set location at 212 Union St SE with painting stipulation (unanimous)
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for city‑wide bus shelters in historic districts (unanimous)
City Commission Special Meeting
The City Commission will meet to receive a presentation of the proposed FY2026 budget. The meeting also includes time for public comments.
- Presentation of proposed FY2026 budget
Board of Election Commissioners - Regular Meeting
The Board of Election Commissioners will meet to discuss and potentially vote on a resolution regarding precinct boundaries. The meeting includes opportunities for public comment on agenda items.
- Resolution to combine, redraw and renumber precincts
The Grand Rapids Election Commission voted 2-0 to adopt a resolution that combines, redraws, and renumbers certain precincts. The resolution was moved by Commissioner Hitchcock and supported by Commissioner Hondorp. The approved precinct boundary amendments are set to take effect on May 7, 2025. No other actions were taken at the meeting.
- Approved precinct consolidation and boundary amendments (2-0 vote)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Special Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider several approvals, including invoices for a redevelopment project at 433 Leonard Street NW, a work plan and development agreement for 385 Leonard Street NE, an amendment to an environmental site assessment grant, and two Emerging Developer Grants of up to $190,000 and $182,810 for projects at 800 Burton Avenue SE and 800/764 Powers Avenue NW.
- Approve invoices documenting eligible expenses for Thrice D, LLC at 433 Leonard Street NW
- Approve work plan and Development and Reimbursement Agreement for 301 Leonard, LLC at 385 Leonard Street NE
- Approve amendment to FY2025 Environmental Site Assessment grant for WMHCC development project
- Approve Emerging Developer Grant up to $182,810 for project at 800 and 764 Powers Avenue NW
- Approve Emerging Developer Grant up to $190,000 for project at 800 Burton Avenue SE
Economic Development Corporation - Special Meeting
The Grand Rapids Economic Development Corporation will meet to approve the minutes from the December 11, 2024 meeting, review interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025, and consider the Fiscal Year 2026‑2030 Priority Plan. Each agenda item requires a motion to approve. The meeting also includes other business, public comment, and adjournment.
- Approve minutes from December 11, 2024
- Review interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025
- Consider Fiscal Year 2026‑2030 Priority Plan for the corporation
The Grand Rapids Economic Development Corporation unanimously approved the minutes from December 11, 2024. It also accepted the interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025. Finally, the FY2026 budget recommendation was approved unanimously.
- Approved December 11, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved FY2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will vote on several high-value construction and design contracts and update voting precinct boundaries. The body is also scheduling public hearings for the FY2026 budget and service fees, and holding a hearing on the Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
- Contract with Clark Construction Company for City Facilities at 1500 Scribner for $6,343,299 (total not-to-exceed $98,190,904)
- Contract with McGraw Construction, Inc. for parking ramps and Calder Plaza for $2,293,464.54 (total not-to-exceed $3,087,690.00)
- EPA Community Grants Program Grant Agreement in the amount of $1,700,000
- Ordinance to update the boundaries of voting precincts
- Public hearing to consider naming the park space at 680 Cesar E Chavez Avenue SW 'Navarro Plaza'
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider eight resolutions confirming or approving mayoral and commission appointments to city boards and authorities. The items include appointments to the Westside Corridor Improvement Authority, Uptown Business Improvement District Board, Mobile GR Commission, Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Income Tax Board of Review, Civil Service Board, and another Parks and Recreation Advisory Board seat. The meeting will also review the current board and commission vacancy list as of April 29, 2025.
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of William Neuson to the Westside Corridor Improvement Authority
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Jon O'Connor to the Uptown Business Improvement District Board
- Resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Adam Weiler to the Mobile GR Commission
- Resolution approving the City Commission's appointment of Sonja Forte to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
- Resolution approving the City Commission's appointment of Jason Miller to the Income Tax Board of Review
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will recognize a new civic organization, review a notice of intent to issue revenue bonds for the water supply system, and adopt a bid list resolution. It will also examine the Comptroller's warrant report covering $56,137,563.02 for the period March 25‑April 14, 2025, along with monthly travel and small claims reports. Finally, the committee will receive the Treasurer's report for April 3‑16, 2025.
- Resolution recognizing New Development Corporation as a local civic organization
- Notice of intent to issue water supply system revenue bonds
- Bid list resolution for April 29, 2025
- Comptroller's warrant report for March 25‑April 14, 2025 totaling $56,137,563.02
- Treasurer’s report for April 3‑16, 2025
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Community Development Committee will consider seven resolutions. These include approving a $1.7 million EPA community grants agreement, awarding a $2.29 million contract to McGraw Construction for parking ramp repairs, increasing design services for Sullivan Field, and approving a $6.34 million professional services agreement with Clark Construction that could total up to $98.19 million for work at 1500 Scribner. The committee will also grant a utility easement to Consumers Energy at 2151 Butterworth Drive SW, approve a construction agreement and public utilities easement for the GRR Ancillary project, and approve an encroachment agreement at 824 Lake Michigan Drive NW.
- Resolution approving a $1,700,000 Community Grants Program Grant Agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- Resolution awarding a $2,293,464.54 contract to McGraw Construction, Inc. for repair and improvement work at several parking ramps and Calder Plaza (not‑to‑exceed $3,087,690.00)
- Resolution approving a $6,343,299 professional services agreement with Clark Construction Company for construction at 1500 Scribner (not‑to‑exceed $98,190,904)
- Resolution granting a utility easement to Consumers Energy at 2151 Butterworth Drive SW
- Resolution approving an encroachment agreement at 824 Lake Michigan Drive NW
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is scheduling public hearings for May 13, 2025, regarding the FY2026 City Budget, property taxes, and service provision fees. The meeting also includes a briefing on the FY2026 Preliminary Fiscal Plan and an update on an election precinct ordinance amendment.
- Public hearing scheduling for Proposed FY2026 Service Provision Fees
- Public hearing scheduling for Proposed Property Taxes and FY2026 City Budget
- Introduction of the Fiscal Year 2026 Preliminary Fiscal Plan
- Update on Election Precinct Ordinance amendment
- Public Service Recognition Week 2025
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will hear a presentation of the Grand Rapids Police Department’s monthly crime statistics. It will also receive updates on the Aspen Institute’s Justice and Governance partnership, the city’s homeless outreach team, the 2023 Public Health and Safety Ordinances, Parks and Recreation summer programming and safety, and the SAFE Task Force’s summer violence‑prevention efforts. No formal actions or votes are listed on the agenda.
- Presentation of monthly crime statistics by the Grand Rapids Police Department
- Update on the Aspen Institute’s Justice and Governance Partnership (A Just‑GR)
- Update on the city’s Homeless Outreach team
- Update on implementation of the 2023 Public Health and Safety Ordinances
- Update from the SAFE Task Force regarding summer violence prevention
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to consider the FY2026 budget recommendation and interim financial statements. The body will also vote on several grant proposals, sponsorship requests, and requests for proposals.
- FY2026 Budget Recommendation
- West Fulton ArtPrize Grant Proposal
- WGNO Community Clean Up Sponsorship Request
- Request for Proposals for Banner Maintenance
- Request for Proposals for Corridor Management
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority approved the February 7, 2025 minutes and accepted the interim financial statements for March 31, 2025. The FY2026 budget recommendation was adopted unanimously. The board also approved several grant and project requests, including a $13,000 art mural grant, a $5,000 community clean‑up sponsorship, a $25,000 banner‑maintenance RFP, $40,000 for business‑improvement projects, and a corridor‑management RFP.
- Approved February 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025 (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
- Approved West Fulton ArtPrize Grant up to $13,000 (unanimous)
- Approved WGNO Community Clean Up Sponsorship up to $5,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Banner Maintenance Request for Proposals up to $25,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Business Improvement Program applications for 748 Fulton St. W and 851 Leonard NW totaling $40,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Management Request for Proposals (unanimous)
Board of Election Commissioners - Regular Meeting
The Board of Election Commissioners will hold a public accuracy test for the upcoming May 6, 2025 General Election. The meeting also includes routine items such as call to order, roll call, public comments, and commissioner comments.
- May 6, 2025 General Election Public Accuracy Test
The Grand Rapids Election Commission voted 3‑0 to approve the consolidation of certain precincts for the May 6, 2025 special election. It also approved appointing election inspectors and receiving board members, combining, redrawing and renumbering precincts, and recommending the City Commission adopt the new precinct boundaries, numbering and polling locations.
- Approved consolidation of certain precincts for May 6, 2025 special election (3‑0)
- Approved appointment of Election Inspectors and Receiving Board Members for May 6, 2025 special election (3‑0)
- Approved combining, redrawing and renumbering precincts (3‑0)
- Recommended City Commission adopt new precinct boundaries, numbering and polling locations (3‑0)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings to consider dimensional variance requests for three properties. These requests involve the construction of accessory dwellings, garages, and a spa business.
- 2128 Duiker Ave NE: Request for dimensional variances to build a detached garage and accessory dwelling unit
- 3535 Lake Eastbrook SE: Request for dimensional variances to establish a spa business
- 1722/1726/1730 Kendall St SE: Dimensional variance request for rebuilding a structure (TABLED)
The Board unanimously approved the March 20, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to close the public hearing was carried unanimously. The dimensional variance request for a front‑yard shed was denied with a 4‑yea, 2‑nay vote. The garage variance discussion was postponed, with the motion tabled until after further deliberation.
- Approved March 20, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Closed public hearing (unanimous)
- Shed dimensional variance denied (4 yeas, 2 nays)
- Garage dimensional variance motion tabled (no vote recorded)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will vote on approving the March 20 minutes, adopt the FY2026 budget recommendation, and consider three action items: a Request for Proposals for corridor management, a sponsorship request for a Creston neighborhood pancake brunch street party, and projects under the 1364 Plainfield Ave. Facade Improvement Program. A presentation on Creston Area Specific Plan updates and reports from the corridor manager and committee will also be heard.
- Approval of March 20, 2025 meeting minutes
- Adoption of FY2026 budget recommendation
- Request for Proposals for North Quarter CIA corridor management services
- Sponsorship request for Creston Neighborhood Pancake Brunch Street Party
- 1364 Plainfield Ave. Facade Improvement Program projects
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will review its FY2026 budget recommendation and financial statements. It will consider a sponsorship request for the One Peace Festival and updates to the Facade Improvement Program, including new guidelines and an architect RFP. Discussion items include the Southtown Does ArtPrize 2025 event and adoption of the 2025 Corridor Manager goals.
- FY2026 Budget Recommendation for the Authority
- Sponsorship Request for One Peace Festival
- Facade Improvement Program Guidelines Update
- Facade Improvement Program In‑House Architect RFP
- Southtown Does ArtPrize 2025 Event Discussion
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority adopted the FY2026 budget recommendation. It approved a sponsorship for the One Peace Festival up to $3,000 and updated the Facade Improvement Program guidelines effective July 1, 2025. Three facade improvement applications were approved for a total of $25,000, while one application and the in‑house architect RFP were postponed.
- Adopted FY2026 Budget Recommendation (unanimous)
- Approved One Peace Festival sponsorship up to $3,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Facade Improvement Program Guidelines update effective July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Facade Improvement Application for 1006 Division S, not to exceed $10,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Facade Improvement Application for 980 Hall, not to exceed $10,000 (unanimous)
- Approved Facade Improvement Application for 1115 Eastern, not to exceed $5,000 (unanimous)
- Postponed Facade Improvement Program In‑House Architect RFP
- Postponed Facade Improvement Application for 801 Oakdale
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will consider its interim financial statements and a budget recommendation for fiscal year 2026, along with a multi‑year priority plan through 2030. It will also vote on three resolutions: issuing an RFP for marketing and communications, approving a grant agreement with the Michigan Strategic Fund, and approving a sixth amendment to the Gateway Services Agreement with the Michigan State University Foundation.
- Interim financial statements as of February 28, 2025
- FY2026 budget recommendation and FY2027‑2030 priority plan
- Resolution to issue an RFP for SmartZone marketing and communications
- Resolution to approve a grant agreement with the Michigan Strategic Fund
- Resolution to approve a sixth amendment to the Gateway Services Agreement with the Michigan State University Foundation
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority approved the FY2026 budget recommendation and adopted several resolutions, including an RFP for marketing and communications, a grant agreement with the Michigan Strategic Fund, and a sixth amendment to the Gateway Grand Rapids Services Agreement. The interim financial statements and the February 12, 2025 minutes were also approved. All actions were adopted with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.
- Approved FY2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
- Approved issuance of an RFP for SmartZone Marketing and Communications (unanimous)
- Approved and authorized Grant Agreement with Michigan Strategic Fund for Gateway Representative and Business Accelerator Fund program (unanimous)
- Approved Sixth Amendment to Gateway Grand Rapids Services Agreement with Michigan State University Research Foundation (5‑0, 1 abstain)
- Approved interim financial statements as of February 28, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from February 12, 2025 (unanimous)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to consider the FY2026 budget recommendation and a Request for Proposals (RFP) for an in-house architect. The body will also receive a presentation on the ArtPrize Poutine Week event strategy.
- FY2026 Budget Recommendation
- Michigan Street In-House Architect RFP
- ArtPrize Poutine Week Event Strategy presentation
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority unanimously approved the minutes from the March 19 meeting, accepted the interim financial statements, and adopted the FY2026 budget recommendation. The board also approved the updated In‑House Architect Request for Proposal. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved FY2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
- Approved In‑House Architect RFP with updated edits (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Historic Preservation Commission will consider several applications for work on historic properties. Items include a request for an egress window and well at 536 Paris SE in the Heritage Hill Historic District, a window replacement at 1315 Walker NW, a mechanical request for 934‑936 Wealthy St SE, and a request to table an application for 212 Union SE. The commission will also discuss staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness and COA permits.
- 212 Union SE – request to table application (Heritage Hill Historic District)
- 536 Paris SE – request for an egress window and well (Heritage Hill Historic District)
- 1315 Walker NW – request to replace windows (Local Historic Landmark)
- 934‑936 Wealthy St SE – request for mechanical work (Wealthy Street Historic District)
- Staff‑issued Certificates of Appropriateness (COA permits)
The Historic Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the March 19, 2025 meeting and the certificates of appropriateness issued by staff, both unanimously. It voted 6‑0 to table the 212 Union SE application until the May 7, 2025 meeting. It also approved a certificate of appropriateness for 536 Paris SE, requiring the original head height be kept and all framing be clad in stucco, with a 6‑0 vote. The 1315 Walker NW window‑replacement project was discussed but no decision was made.
- Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved staff‑issued certificates of appropriateness (unanimous)
- Tabled 212 Union SE application to May 7, 2025 (6 yeas, 0 nays)
- Approved certificate of appropriateness for 536 Paris SE with head‑height and stucco conditions (6 yeas, 0 nays)
- Discussed 1315 Walker NW window‑replacement project; no vote recorded
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments considered three items. It adopted a resolution confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointment of Kathryn Chaplow to the Westside Corridor Improvement Authority. It adopted a resolution approving the City Commission's appointment of Jeffrey King to the City of Grand Rapids Affordable Housing Fund Board. It reviewed the current board and commission vacancy list as of April 15, 2025.
- Resolution confirming Kathryn Chaplow's appointment to the Westside Corridor Improvement Authority
- Resolution approving Jeffrey King's appointment to the City of Grand Rapids Affordable Housing Fund Board
- Review of the current board and commission vacancy list (April 15, 2025)
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is meeting to approve several grants, contract amendments, and a new salary classification. The body will also review the Comptroller's Warrant Report and the Treasurer's Report.
- Change order for Highstreet IT Solutions, LLC not to exceed $577,000
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for March 11-24, 2025 in the amount of $33,543,231.30
- Contract amendment for City of Rest to increase funding by $55,000 for Third Ward violence reduction
- Grant of $8,000 from Michigan College Access Network for Summer Melt programming
- Salary Ordinance creating a new Benefits Analyst classification
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will consider several resolutions, including approvals for fireworks permits at the Van Andel Arena, multiple contract awards for infrastructure projects, and funding increases for various city services. The largest item is a $3,000,000 increase for construction materials testing services, raising the authorized total to $7,000,000. The committee will also set a public hearing date for appeals on Special Assessment Nuisance Roll 8794.
- Approve fireworks discharge permits for Pyrotek Special Effects Inc. and Pyrotecnico at Van Andel Arena
- Award $349,800 contract (max $544,045) to Windemuller Electric for solar array at City Archives Center East
- Award $2,941,498.50 contract (max $3,536,000) to Miller Pipeline for lead service line replacement
- Approve $1,691,630 local share for MDOT Rotomill/resurfacing of Michigan Street (Maryland Ave to Leffingwell Ave)
- Approve $3,000,000 increase for construction materials testing services (total authorized $7,000,000)
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is meeting to consider several resolutions, including updates to voting precinct boundaries and special event authorizations. The body is also scheduling a public hearing for the city's climate plan.
- Public hearing for Grand Rapids Climate Action and Adaptation Plan set for April 29, 2025
- Proposed ordinance to update boundaries of certain voting precincts
- Social District Permit applications for Michigan Liquor Control Commission approval
- Authorization of special events under Chapter 53 of the City Code
- Request for Commissioner Belchak to attend Michigan Community Action Summer 2025 Conference
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will consider approval of the March 11, 2025 meeting minutes. They will discuss the Pole Banner Administrative Policy during their strategy discussion. A verbal update from the Development Center covering March 2025 will be presented.
- Approval of minutes from March 11, 2025
- Discussion of Pole Banner Administrative Policy
- Verbal update: Development Center Report – March 2025
The Economic Development Project Team approved the minutes from the March 11, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other actions were decided; a pole banner policy was discussed but not adopted. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Approved March 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
City Commission Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider several resolutions, including a $2,941,498.50 contract with Miller Pipeline, LLC to replace lead service lines at various locations. Other items include approvals for fireworks permits, a $349,800 solar power contract for the City Archives, and a $55,000 amendment for community‑based violence reduction in the Third Ward. The meeting also features public hearings on the FY 2026 Neighborhood Investment Plan and a climate action plan.
- Resolution awarding $2,941,498.50 contract to Miller Pipeline, LLC for lead service line replacement (total not‑to‑exceed $3,536,000)
- Resolution awarding $349,800 contract to Windemuller Electric Inc. for solar array at City Archives (total not‑to‑exceed $544,045)
- Resolution approving $55,000 contract amendment with City of Rest for violence reduction in the Third Ward
- Resolution approving $1,691,630 local share for MDOT Rotomill/resurfacing of Michigan Street (Maryland Ave to Leffingwell Ave)
- Public hearing on FY 2026 Neighborhood Investment Plan funding of $7,510,868
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority will review and vote on the FY2026 budget recommendation. The meeting will also approve the minutes from March 13, 2025, and examine interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025. Additional discussion items include a corridor manager update and a contract extension for business association managers. A report from the corridor manager and committee will be presented.
- Approve minutes from March 13, 2025
- Review interim financial statements as of March 31, 2025
- Consider FY2026 budget recommendation for the South Division-Grandville CIA
- Discuss corridor manager update
- Consider business association managers contract extension
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will consider approving minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting and reviewing the Fiscal Year 2026 budget recommendation. Board members will also discuss an ad planning marketing request, an employee benefit package for Uptown Grand Rapids Inc., and a request to pass through tax increment revenues for the Robinson Flats project located at 1407, 1409, and 1417 Robinson Road SE.
- Approval of March 5, 2025 minutes (motion required)
- Fiscal Year 2026 budget recommendation
- Ad Planning Marketing Request
- Uptown Grand Rapids Inc. Employee Benefit Package
- Request for Passthrough of Tax Increment Revenues for Robinson Flats Project (1407, 1409, 1417 Robinson Road SE)
The Authority approved the FY2026 budget recommendation and adopted a $40,000 advertising plan for 2026‑27. It also approved a $50,000 employee benefits package, rescinded the prior approval for the 935‑939 façade improvement, and approved the intent to passthrough tax‑increment revenues for the Robinson Flats project.
- Approved FY2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
- Adopted 2026‑27 advertising plan up to $40,000 (unanimous)
- Approved employee benefits package up to $50,000 (unanimous)
- Rescinded approval of 935‑939 façade improvement application (unanimous)
- Approved intent to passthrough tax‑increment revenues for Robinson Flats project (unanimous)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Special Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District will meet to review and potentially approve the budget recommendation for Fiscal Year 2026. The board will also consider the approval of minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting.
- Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Recommendation
- Approval of March 5, 2025 meeting minutes
The board approved the minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. It also approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Recommendation, again unanimously. Both motions were moved and seconded by board members.
- Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved FY 2026 budget recommendation (unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider several agreements and grants for specific property developments. The body is deciding on work plans, reimbursement agreements, and grant applications for multiple sites across Grand Rapids.
- Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Abode Fulton, LLC at 617 Fulton Street W and 17 Seward Avenue NW
- Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant Agreement with Habitat for Humanity Kent County for 48 Home Street SW
- Environmental Site Assessment grant application amendment for the 443 Sheldon project
- Emerging Developer Grant for a project at 1356 Kalamazoo Avenue SE
- Approval of eligible expense invoices for W&S Development Partners, LLC at 415 Sheldon Avenue SE
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved several project agreements, including a revolving‑fund grant for a Habitat for Humanity housing development at 48 Home Street SW. It also approved a work plan for Abode Fulton, an amendment to the FY2025 Environmental Site Assessment grant for the 443 Sheldon project, an emerging developer grant for 1356 Kalamazoo Avenue SE, and invoices for the W&S Development Partners project. Minutes from the February meeting and the interim financial statements were accepted, and three members were excused from attendance.
- Excused absences of Lynee Wells, Guillermo Cisneros and Brooke Oosterman (unanimous)
- Approved February 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted interim financial statements as of Feb. 28, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved work plan and Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Abode Fulton at 617 Fulton St W & 17 Seward Ave NW (unanimous)
- Approved amendment to FY2025 Environmental Site Assessment grant for 443 Sheldon project (unanimous)
- Approved Habitat for Humanity revolving‑fund grant for housing at 48 Home St SW (unanimous)
- Approved Emerging Developer Grant for 1356 Kalamazoo Ave SE (unanimous)
- Approved invoices for W&S Development Partners project at 415 Sheldon Ave SE (unanimous)
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider six resolutions to approve or confirm appointments made by the City Commission or the mayor. Each resolution names an individual and the board or commission to which they will be appointed. The meeting also includes a review of the current board and commission vacancy list as of March 25, 2025.
- Resolution appointing James Ouzts to the Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority
- Resolution appointing John Gorney to the Waste to Energy Advisory Committee
- Resolution appointing Jenna Lyons to the Historic Preservation Commission
- Resolution confirming Brooke Aernouts to the Community Relations Commission
- Resolution confirming Andres Hernandez to the South Division‑Grandville Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will consider several resolutions authorizing payments and contracts for city programs, including a $96,200 police academy cost, a $298,671 sub‑award for the West Michigan Water Career Program, and a $125,000 contract with Cure Violence Global. It will also approve reimbursements for PEG grants, a $166,311.66 affordable housing fund payment, and a $60,000 summer camp service agreement. The committee will receive the Comptroller’s Warrant Report covering $33,682,297.98 and the Treasurer’s Report for the recent period. A bid list resolution will also be presented.
- Resolution authorizing Grand Rapids Police Department Recruit Class 25-02 to attend Grand Valley State University Police Academy for up to $96,200
- Resolution authorizing a three‑year sub‑award with Grand Rapids Community College up to $298,671 for the West Michigan Water Career Program
- Resolution authorizing a contract with Cure Violence Global for $125,000
- Resolution authorizing payment to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation of $166,311.66 for the Affordable Housing Fund
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for February 25 – March 10 2025 in the amount of $33,682,297.98
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several infrastructure contracts and utility agreements. The body is deciding on funding for water main replacements, street reconstruction, and a new training facility. It is also scheduling a public hearing for a park naming proposal.
- Contract with Clark Construction Company for Fire Department Training Facility at 850 Pannell Street NW: $20,678,692
- Contract with Kamminga & Roodvoets Inc. for Burton Street water main and resurfacing: $9,213,896.50
- Contract with SPS Pro Plumbing, LLC for lead service line replacement: $2,925,737
- Contract with Ponstein Enterprises LLC for Kendall Street and Fruitwood Drive reconstruction: $1,938,359
- Public hearing scheduled for April 29, 2025, to name park space at 680 Cesar E Chavez Avenue SW 'Navarro Plaza'
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider a resolution for the Uptown Business Improvement District (Special Assessment Roll No. 8796). It will receive briefings on materials management, a feasibility study for a proposed golf entertainment center, and an update on a request for enhanced commission administrative support. The main funding recommendation presented is $7,510,868 for the FY 2026 Neighborhood Investment Plan.
- Resolution declaring necessity of the Uptown Business Improvement District (Special Assessment Roll No. 8796)
- Materials Management Overview and Update briefing
- Feasibility Study presentation for a Proposed Golf Entertainment Center
- FY 2026 Neighborhood Investment Plan funding recommendations totaling $7,510,868
- Update on Request for Enhanced Commission Administrative Support Pilot
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will review the 2024 Grand Rapids Fire Department annual report and receive updates on monthly crime statistics from the police department. The committee will also receive an update on the 2025 GRow1000 Summer Youth Employment Program.
- GRFD 2024 Annual Report
- Grand Rapids Police Department monthly crime statistics
- 2025 GRow1000 Summer Youth Employment Program update
City Commission Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will vote on two zoning ordinances, including an amendment to Zoning Map A that adds a new area to the Downtown Height Overlay district. Commissioners will also review several large contracts for public works projects, such as a fire department training facility and water main replacement. Additional resolutions address community programs and public safety initiatives.
- Ordinance amending Zoning Map A to add properties bounded by Leonard St, 6th St, US-131, and the Grand River to the DH-2(a) subarea
- Contract with Clark Construction Company for a Fire Department Training Facility at 850 Pannell St NW, $20,678,692 (not‑to‑exceed $26,856,892)
- Contract with Kamminga & Roodvoets Inc. for water main replacement on Burton Street, $9,213,896.50 (not‑to‑exceed $11,164,691)
- Contract with SPS Pro Plumbing, LLC for replacement of lead service lines, $2,925,737 (not‑to‑exceed $3,510,860)
- Resolution authorizing a $125,000 contract with Cure Violence Global for training and technical assistance
Local Officers Compensation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Local Officers Compensation Commission will meet on March 24, 2025 at 1:00 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers at 300 Monroe, NW. The agenda includes a public hearing on compensation of elected officials, a discussion of their salaries, and recommendations. The commission will also approve minutes from the March 4, 2025 meeting and consider any other business.
- Public hearing on compensation of elected officials
- Discussion of salaries of elected officials
- Approval of minutes from March 4, 2025 meeting
- Recommendations on compensation
- Any other business
The Local Officers Compensation Commission approved the minutes of the March 4, 2025 meeting unanimously. It then adopted a salary determination for fiscal year 2026 that ties elected officials' salaries to any percentage adjustments made for non‑represented city employees. The same approach was adopted for fiscal year 2027, also unanimously.
- Approved minutes of March 4, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2026 elected officials salary determination (unanimous)
- Adopted FY2027 elected officials salary determination (unanimous)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider a dimensional variance for 132 Diamond Pl NE to reduce driveway setbacks and width. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from February 20, 2025.
- Approval of minutes from February 20, 2025
- Public hearing for 132 Diamond Pl NE dimensional variance
- Variance requests: 15.5' driveway setback reduction, 1.5' width reduction, 1' lot line setback elimination
- Applicant/Owner: Allison Koetsier
- Zoning: TN-MDR
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The board unanimously approved the minutes from the February 5, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously accepted the interim financial statements as of February 28, 2025. Finally, the board approved a not‑to‑exceed $21,150 brand audit proposal from OFA.
- Approved February 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of Feb 28, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved $21,150 Brand Audit Proposal from OFA (unanimous)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will vote on three items that need board approval: a request for proposals for holiday decorations, a request for proposals for an in‑house architect, and guidelines for grant programs. The board will also discuss the Colorful Pathways program and potential traffic‑calming measures. All items are on the agenda for the March 19, 2025 meeting.
- Holiday Decorations RFP (motion required)
- Michigan Street In‑House Architect RFP (motion required)
- Michigan Street Grant Programs Guidelines (motion required)
- Colorful Pathways Program Discussion
- Traffic Calming Discussion
The Authority approved the February 19, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. The Holiday Decorations Request for Proposals was approved without a budget amount. The In‑House Architect RFP was tabled unanimously. The recommended Outdoor Activation and Mural Grant Programs were approved unanimously.
- Approved minutes from February 19, 2025 (unanimous)
- Approved Holiday Decorations RFP (unanimous)
- Tabled Michigan Street In‑House Architect RFP (unanimous)
- Approved Outdoor Activation Program and Mural Program (unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will review several alteration requests for properties in the Heritage Hill and Fairmount Square historic districts, including skylight additions, window changes, and door and railing retainments. It will also consider a determination request for a garage at 407 College SE and discuss staff‑approved Certificates of Appropriateness. Finally, the commission will consider the 2025 Historic Preservation award nominees.
- 255 College SE – request to add skylights to front and shed dormer rear of garage
- 320 East Fulton – request for window alteration for new use
- 351 Eureka SE – request to retain two metal doors
- 321 Diamond SE – request to retain porch alterations
- 451 Prospect SE – request to retain hand rails
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will consider amendments to the Facade Improvement Program and a funding request for the Taste of Burton event. The board will also hold an ideation session and approve minutes from the February 13, 2025 meeting.
- Amendments to the South Division – Grandville Facade Improvement Program
- Funding request for the Taste of Burton event
- Approval of minutes from February 13, 2025
- Board Ideation Session discussion
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will vote on a resolution to authorize capital improvement bonds not to exceed $128,000,000 for the Soccer Stadium Project and the Amphitheater Project. It will also adopt a bid list resolution for March 11, 2025. The committee will receive the Comptroller’s warrant report covering February 11‑24, 2025, showing a total of $26,041,909.61 plus travel expenses. Finally, the Treasurer’s report for February 11‑25, 2025 will be presented.
- Authorize up to $128,000,000 in capital improvement bonds for Soccer Stadium and Amphitheater projects.
- Adopt bid list resolution for March 11, 2025.
- Review Comptroller’s warrant report for Feb 11‑24, 2025 totaling $26,041,909.61 (including travel).
- Review Treasurer’s report for Feb 11‑25, 2025.
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will adopt resolutions on zoning changes, public hearings, and multiple infrastructure contracts. It will approve a $15,020,504 contract for the Grand River East Riverfront Phase 1 project and a $1,312,250 grant to the Michigan Department of Transportation for bridge maintenance. Additional items include a zoning map amendment for the Downtown Height Overlay District and a bond hearing for a health‑facility property.
- Resolution setting March 25, 2025 to consider a zoning map amendment for the Downtown Height Overlay District (DH‑2(a) subarea bounded by Leonard St, 6th St, US‑131, Grand River)
- Resolution approving a $15,020,504 contract with Owen‑Ames‑Kimball Company for Grand River East Riverfront Phase 1 (total not‑to‑exceed $17,970,196)
- Resolution approving a $1,312,250 grant to the Michigan Department of Transportation, matched with a city share of $950,000, for preventative maintenance of various bridges
- Resolution approving a $1,829,227 contract with Anlaan Corporation for reconstruction of Fuller Avenue from Kalamazoo Avenue to Boston Street (total not‑to‑exceed $2,462,000)
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on March 11, 2025 at 2:00 PM to consider a bond issuance for the Colorado Health Facilities Authority property at 2510 Lake Michigan Drive NW
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will schedule a special meeting for May 6, 2025, to review the proposed FY2026-FY2030 Preliminary Fiscal Plan. The body will also set March 25, 2025, to consider an ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance. Additionally, the committee will approve a request for Commissioner Perdue to attend the Michigan League for Public Policy's 2025 Forum.
- Resolution scheduling special meeting for FY2026-2030 fiscal plan review on May 6, 2025
- Resolution setting March 25, 2025, to consider ordinance amending Zoning Ordinance
- Resolution approving Commissioner Perdue's request to attend Michigan League for Public Policy's 2025 Forum
- Briefing on Kent County Food System Plan
- Discussion of Grand Rapids Land Bank governance options
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will meet to discuss opportunities for housing. The body will also receive verbal updates on several city projects and reports.
- Discussion of housing opportunities
- Public Museum update
- Third Ward Equity Fund update
- Right of Way Engagement Enhancements update
- Development Center Report for February 2025
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission is deciding on significant capital bonds and infrastructure contracts. The body will also hold public hearings regarding the Uptown Business Improvement District and a bond issuance for the Colorado Health Facilities Authority.
- Capital Improvement Bonds not to exceed $128,000,000 for the Soccer Stadium and Amphitheater Projects
- Contract with Owen-Ames-Kimball Company for Grand River East Riverfront Phase 1 ($15,020,504)
- Contract with Anlaan Corporation for Fuller Avenue reconstruction from Kalamazoo Avenue to Boston Street ($1,829,227)
- Grant applications of $1,312,250 to MDOT for bridge maintenance with a $950,000 City share
- Settlement agreement regarding the National Prescription Opiate Litigation
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to confirm nine individuals appointed by Mayor LaGrand to various city boards and commissions. The meeting also includes a review of the current board and commission vacancy list.
- Appointment of Edward Postma to the South Division-Grandville Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority
- Appointment of Nathan Orange to the Uptown Business Improvement District
- Appointments of Danielle Ellis, John LoPorto, Katherine White, and Richard Wilbert to the Community Relations Commission
- Appointments of Stephan Fellows, Stephen Staggs, and Jeffrey Sytsma to the Grand Rapids Historical Commission
- Review of the March 11, 2025, Board and Commission Vacancy List
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will review and vote on a Facade Improvement Program application. The board will also decide on a design and printing request for the annual report. Additional items include approval of minutes, interim financial statements, and a presentation on an amended HR policy.
- Facade Improvement Program Application (motion required)
- Annual Report Design and Printing Request – Lydia Writes Good (motion required)
- Approval of minutes from January 8, 2025 (motion required)
- Interim financial statements as of January 31, 2025 (motion required)
- Presentation of Uptown Grand Rapids INC. amended HR policy
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will review and vote on the Planting Beds Maintenance Request for Proposals. They will also approve the minutes from the January 15, 2025 meeting and review interim financial statements as of January 31, 2025. Public comment is scheduled before and after the agenda items.
- Approve minutes from January 15, 2025 (motion required)
- Review interim financial statements as of January 31, 2025
- Consider Planting Beds Maintenance RFP (motion required)
Local Officers Compensation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Local Officers Compensation Commission will elect a chair, approve prior minutes, receive an overview from the city attorney, and decide the compensation levels for the Mayor, City Commissioners and City Comptroller for fiscal years 2025‑2026 (FY26) and 2026‑2027 (FY27). The meeting also includes scheduling future sessions and a public comment period.
- Election of LOCC chairperson
- Approval of minutes from the April 17, 2023 meeting
- Establishment of salaries for Mayor, City Commissioners and City Comptroller for FY26 (July 1 2025‑June 30 2026) and FY27 (July 1 2026‑June 30 2027)
- Scheduling of future LOCC meeting dates
- Public comment period
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will meet to review financial statements and approve meeting minutes. The body is deciding on a work plan and reimbursement agreement for a project at 1101 Godfrey Avenue SW.
- Development and Reimbursement Agreement for West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at 1101 Godfrey Avenue SW (Unit #2)
- Interim Financial Statements as of January 31, 2025
- Presentation on Auburn Hills Neighborhood Historical Recognition Efforts
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will hold a work session to review documents and discuss enhancements to its Facade Improvement Program. Members will consider a districtwide culinary competition and strategies for business district engagement and support. The agenda also includes a review of the Tax Increment and Development Plan and the BASP status, followed by brainstorming of CIA goals and corridor manager objectives.
- Facade Improvement Program Enhancements
- Southtown Districtwide Culinary Competition
- Business District Engagement and Support
- Tax Increment & Development Plan & BASP Status Review
- Brainstorm Southtown CIA Goals
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will vote on resolutions confirming Mayor LaGrand's appointments of Ryan Wheeler and Aidan Van Doren to the Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority. It will also review the current board and commission vacancy list as of February 25, 2025.
- Resolution confirming appointment of Ryan Wheeler to Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority
- Resolution confirming appointment of Aidan Van Doren to Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority
- Review of current board and commission vacancy list (February 25, 2025)
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing budget substitutions for road resurfacing and reconstruction. The body will also consider a payment increase for drain maintenance and a budget ordinance amendment.
- Budget substitution of $816,363 for Cesar Chavez Ave reconstruction from Clyde Park to Hall
- Budget substitution of $30,000 for Plainfield Avenue resurfacing from I-96 to Airway Drive
- Increase of $34,302.98 to Kent County Drain Commissioner for Knapp's Corner Drain maintenance
- Amendment No. 7 to Budget Ordinance 2024-23 for Fiscal Year 2025
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for $30,895,595.94 (Jan 28 – Feb 10, 2025)
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions for infrastructure contracts and utility easements. The meeting includes funding approvals for fire station construction, park improvements, and road repairs.
- Construction Management for Division Avenue Fire Station: $10,000,000 (not-to-exceed $12,439,275)
- Richmond Park Parking Lot improvements with Redline Excavating LLC: $457,908.60
- Trench Repairs (Contract 2023-1) increase of $650,000
- Sidewalk Repairs 2024 increase of $710,000
- Butterworth Landfill Solar Array professional services with Geotech, Inc.: $60,500
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is set to approve a liquor license for a development project and multiple brownfield plan amendments for redevelopment sites, including the M-Village and West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce headquarters.
- Resolution approving a liquor license for Ramon1088, LLC
- Resolution approving Brownfield Plan Amendment for M-Village at 1865 Eastern Avenue SE
- Resolution approving Brownfield Plan Amendment for West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at 1101 Godfrey Avenue SW
- Resolution establishing an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District for 1007 Wealthy Street SE
- Resolution approving a ten-year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 1007 Wealthy Street SE
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive briefings on surveillance, crime statistics, and court services. The meeting also includes an overview of Grand Rapids Fire Department construction projects.
- FY 2024 Annual Surveillance Report briefing
- Grand Rapids Police Department monthly crime statistics updates
- Grand Rapids Fire Department construction projects overview
- 61st District Court services and programs overview
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission is meeting to vote on several infrastructure contracts, budget substitutions for road work, and brownfield plan amendments. The body will also hold public hearings regarding property rehabilitation exemptions on Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE.
- Contract with EV Construction, Co. for Division Avenue Fire Station Construction: $10,000,000 (not-to-exceed $12,439,275)
- Budget substitution of $816,363 for Cesar Chavez Ave reconstruction from Clyde Park to Hall
- Contract with Redline Excavating LLC for Richmond Park Parking Lot improvements: $457,908.60 (not-to-exceed $600,000)
- Budget substitution of $30,000 for resurfacing Plainfield Avenue from I-96 to Airway Drive
- Public hearings for Obsolete Property Rehabilitation at 1032 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE
Board of Election Commissioners - Regular Meeting
The Board of Election Commissioners will consider resolutions regarding precinct consolidation and boundary changes. The body will also appoint inspectors for the May 6, 2025, Special Election.
- Consolidation of certain precincts for the May 6, 2025, Special Election
- Appointment of Election Day Precinct Inspectors and Receiving Board for May 6, 2025
- Resolution to combine, redraw, and renumber precincts
- Recommendation to City Commission regarding precinct boundaries, numbering, and polling locations
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board will consider a public request to grant a dimensional variance for a commercial retail expansion at 2225 Plainfield Ave NE. The applicant seeks reduced setbacks and removal of a landscape buffer between the commercial use and adjacent residential property. The board will vote on whether to approve the variance under the MCN-LDR zone regulations.
- Dimensional variance request for Kingma’s Market at 2225 Plainfield Ave NE
- Proposed reduction of commercial setback to 0.8 feet
- Proposed elimination/reduction of required landscape buffer
- Review of applicable ordinance sections 5.5.05.A, 5.5.06.E, 5.6.07.A, 5.6.07.E, 5.11.11.C
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will approve minutes from its February 5, 2025 meeting and discuss a letter of support for the Henchmen House. Additional discussion topics include the city’s 175th anniversary and the Colorful Pathways program. The meeting also includes reports from the corridor manager and committee.
- Approval of minutes from February 5, 2025
- Letter of support for Henchmen House
- Discussion of City 175th Anniversary
- Discussion of Colorful Pathways Program
- Corridor Manager and Committee reports
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority will consider two guideline packages that require a motion for approval: the Michigan Street Facade Improvement Program Guidelines and the Michigan Street Outdoor Space Activation Grant Guidelines. The board will also discuss the City 175th Celebration, the Colorful Pathways Program, and related promotional materials. Minutes from the January 15, 2025 meeting will be approved.
- Motion to approve Michigan Street Facade Improvement Program Guidelines
- Motion to approve Michigan Street Outdoor Space Activation Grant Guidelines
- Discussion of City 175th Celebration
- Discussion of Colorful Pathways Program
- Review of promotional materials
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will meet to elect 2025 board officers and review a facade improvement application. The body will also consider a corridor landscaping and beautification agreement. An informational meeting regarding the Michigan Public Act 57 Annual Report will precede the regular session.
- Election of Board Officers for Calendar Year 2025
- Facade Improvement Application for 2040 Division Ave S
- Corridor Landscaping and Beautification Agreement
- Michigan Public Act 57 Annual Report
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will consider funding requests for the Black Excellence Event and Southtown Wing Off, as well as facade improvement projects. The body will also discuss the FY2026 Budget Priority Plan and the Tax Increment Financing & Development Plan.
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Southtown Wing Off funding request
- Black Excellence Event funding request
- FY2026 Budget Priority Plan discussion
- Southtown CIA Tax Increment Financing & Development Plan discussion
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will meet on February 12, 2025. The board will vote on extending the Lambert contract and approve the minutes from the January 8, 2025 meeting. A SmartZone Operators Report covering October 1 to December 31, 2024 will be presented. The agenda also includes public comment and other business.
- Lambert Contract Extension
- Approval of Minutes from January 8, 2025
- SmartZone Operators Report for October 1 – December 31, 2024
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is meeting to review resolutions confirming several appointments to city boards and committees. These include positions on the Housing Appeal Board, Board of Review, and the ACSET/West Michigan Works! Governing Board.
- Appointment of Andrew Feikema to the Public Safety Committee
- Appointments of Joseph Kuilema and Andrew Smith to the Housing Appeal Board
- Appointments of AliciaMarie Belchak and Kelsey Perdue to the ACSET/West Michigan Works! Governing Board
- Appointments of Matias Martinez-Roca and Vanessa Corvers to the Board of Review
- Review of the February 11, 2025 Board and Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will vote on ten resolutions, including funding agreements and grant acceptances. It will approve a $75,000 pledge with The Right Place and a $250,000 state grant for mental health co‑response. It will accept a $2,000,000 grant from the Office of Justice Programs to expand community‑based violence intervention initiatives. It will also approve contracts for cloud services up to $1,630,000 and a utility‑billing system upgrade not to exceed $185,000, and authorize write‑offs of delinquent accounts.
- Accept $2,000,000 OJP grant for Community Based Violence Intervention and Prevention Initiatives
- Approve contract with CGI, Inc. for cloud support services up to $1,630,000
- Approve agreement with N. Harris Computer Corporation to upgrade Cayenta Utility Billing System up to $185,000
- Approve $75,000 one‑year pledge agreement with The Right Place (renewable to $225,000 total)
- Accept $250,000 grant from Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity for Mental Health Co‑Response
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several construction contracts for city infrastructure and parks. The body is also scheduling public hearings for property rehabilitation at 1032 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE.
- Contract with Owen-Ames-Kimball Co for Canal Park improvements: $7,558,843 (not-to-exceed $9,980,000)
- Contract with Wyoming Excavators Inc. for Boston Street reconstruction from Fuller Avenue to Plymouth Avenue: $4,995,761 (not-to-exceed $6,254,890)
- Contract with Epic Excavating, Inc. for systematic sidewalk repairs: $1,292,650 (not-to-exceed $1,400,000)
- Agreement with MDOT for Cherry Street resurfacing with a local share of $661,970
- Public hearings scheduled for Feb 25 regarding an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District and Certificate for 1032 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will discuss the 2025 Legislative Priority Agenda and a property purchase agreement for 427 Market Avenue. The body is also reviewing Brownfield Plan amendments and Neighborhood Enterprise Zones for developments on Fulton Street W. Briefings include updates on the Network180 Crisis Continuum and the Equal Business Opportunity Program.
- Option Agreement with PS Equities to purchase city-owned property at 427 Market Avenue
- Brownfield Plan Amendment and Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for Abode West Fulton (617 Fulton Street W and 17 Seward Avenue NW)
- Brownfield Plan Amendment and Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for Annex Fulton (657 Fulton Street W)
- Adoption of the City’s Legislative Priority Agenda for 2025
- Social District Permit application recommendation for the Michigan Liquor Control Commission
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will vote to approve the minutes from its January 14, 2025 meeting. The agenda includes a discussion of the Corridor Improvement Authorities, presented by Kate Berens. A verbal update on the Development Center for January 2025 will be given by Jonathan Oeverman. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.
- Approve minutes from the January 14, 2025 meeting
- Background presentation on the Corridor Improvement Authorities (Kate Berens)
- Development Center report for January 2025 (Jonathan Oeverman)
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission is meeting to vote on various infrastructure contracts, grant acceptances, and board appointments. The body will also hold public hearings regarding Brownfield Plan amendments and property rehabilitation exemptions.
- Contract with Owen-Ames-Kimball Co for Canal Park improvements not to exceed $9,980,000
- Contract with Wyoming Excavators Inc. for Boston Street reconstruction not to exceed $6,254,890
- Cloud support services contract with CGI, Inc. not to exceed $1,630,000
- Grant award of $2,000,000 from the Office of Justice Programs for violence intervention
- Public hearings for property rehabilitation at 1007 Wealthy Street SE and Brownfield amendments at 1865 Eastern Avenue SE and 1101 Godfrey Avenue SW
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will review and vote on two Business Improvement Program applications. The meeting will also discuss banner maintenance, community engagement for gateway signs, and a property acquisition. A design committee report will be presented, and the board will approve minutes from the December 6, 2024 meeting and interim financial statements as of January 31, 2025.
- Business Improvement Program Application (motion required)
- Business Improvement Program Application (motion required)
- Banner Maintenance discussion
- Gateway Signs Community Engagement discussion
- Property Acquisition discussion
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority is meeting to review action items. The primary focus of the meeting is a request for proposals regarding branding for the North Quarter CIA.
- North Quarter CIA Branding Request for Proposals
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider requests for window replacements, dormer additions, and fencing at specific addresses. The body will also hold an advisory discussion regarding a new building on a vacant lot at 858 Wealthy SE.
- 255 College SE: request to add dormers and a new garage window opening
- 24 Fountain NE: request to install fencing across recessed porticos
- 250 Morris SE: request to replace six windows
- 320 Fulton East: request to alter windows
- 858 Wealthy SE: advisory discussion on a new building on a vacant lot
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will adopt resolutions to approve a construction agreement and accept a public utilities easement for the Pheasant Preserve. It will also accept easements for 5725 52nd Street SE and for a sidewalk and utility at 640 Leffingwell Avenue NE for a nominal $1.00. Several public hearings are being scheduled for March and February 2025 on business improvement, brownfield, and property rehabilitation plans.
- Resolution approving a Construction Agreement and accepting a Public Utilities Easement for Pheasant Preserve
- Resolution accepting a Public Utilities Easement for 5725 52nd Street SE
- Resolution accepting a Sidewalk and Utility Easement at 640 Leffingwell Avenue NE for the nominal consideration of $1.00
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on March 11, 2025 for the Uptown Business Improvement District Plan
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on February 11, 2025 for a Second Amendment to the Act 381 Combined Brownfield Plan Amendment – RDG‑Walker, LLC for the Walkerview Development Project
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider resolutions to expand a social district, establish a rehabilitation district, and approve contracts for housing and golf center feasibility.
- Resolution to add three locations to Downtown Grand Rapids Social District
- Resolution establishing Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District for Godfrey Avenue SW
- Resolution approving $100,000 contract with Housing Kent
- Briefing on Proposed 2025 Legislative Priority Agenda
- Presentation on Feasibility Study for Proposed Golf Entertainment Center
Public Safety Committee Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will hear monthly crime statistics from the Grand Rapids Police Department and a presentation on a five-year update for the Office of Emergency Management Program Development. The committee will also receive an overview from the Grand Rapids Fire Department.
- Presentation on monthly crime statistics
- Overview from Grand Rapids Fire Department
- Presentation on 5-year update for Office of Emergency Management Program Development
City Commission Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider and vote on an amendment to Section 1 of the 2024-23 Budget Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2025. The meeting also includes approval of the consent agenda, several appointment resolutions, and acceptance of grants and easements. Public hearings on various development projects are scheduled for future dates.
- Ordinance amending Section 1 of the Budget Ordinance 2024-23 for FY 2025 (Amendment No. 6)
- Resolution approving a $50,000 grant from the Children & Nature Network for GR Outside
- Resolution approving PEG grant reimbursements of $187,651.28 for Grand Rapids Community Media Center
- Resolution approving a professional services agreement with Housing Kent up to $100,000
- Resolution accepting a public utilities easement at 5725 52nd Street SE
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider resolutions to approve a land bank agreement with the State Land Bank Authority, accept a $50,000 grant for GR Outside, and approve PEG grant reimbursements for the Grand Rapids Community Media Center. The body will also vote on an ordinance amending the 2025 budget and review financial reports.
- Resolution to convey properties to Grand Rapids Land Bank Authority
- Accepting $50,000 grant from Children & Nature Network for GR Outside
- Approving $187,651.28 PEG grant reimbursements for Grand Rapids Community Media Center
- Ordinance amending Section 1 of Budget Ordinance 2024-23 for Fiscal Year 2025
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for $28,953,106.87
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is meeting to review and confirm appointments to several city boards and commissions. The body will also review the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Appointment of Selma Tucker to the Local Officers Compensation Commission
- Appointment of Mara Gericke to the Vital Streets Oversight Commission
- Appointment of Izamar Contreras-Alvarado to the Grand Rapids Water System Advisory Council
- Appointment of Jason Preston to the Board of Zoning Appeals
- Review of the January 28, 2025 Board and Commission Vacancy List
City Commission Special Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will hold a retreat covering effective governance and administration, the City Manager's outlook for the remainder of FY2025, and focus areas for FY2026. These topics will be presented and discussed but no formal votes are listed. Public comment will be allowed after the official business.
- Effective Governance and Administration discussion
- City Manager's outlook for remainder of FY2025
- FY2026 focus areas presentation
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will vote on several resolutions, including a $149,000 emerging developer grant for the Treetops Collective project at 1002 Division Avenue S. Other items include officer elections, amendments to brownfield plans for the M‑Village and West Michigan Hispanic Chamber projects, and approvals of various grants and contracts.
- Resolution approving a $149,000 emerging developer grant for Treetops Collective (1002 Division Avenue S)
- Resolution approving a $39,000 emerging developer grant for a project at 1163 Giddings Avenue SE
- Resolution approving a First Amendment to the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund grant for Reyes Lofts (1506 Cesar E Chavez Avenue SW)
- Resolution authorizing a Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant Agreement for the 2017 Eastern Avenue SE Project
- Resolution approving an Act 381 Work Plan and Development Agreement for 975 Ottawa Redevelopment (975 Ottawa Avenue NW)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Board of Zoning Appeals will approve the minutes from the November 21, 2024 meeting. It will then hold a public hearing on a dimensional variance request submitted by Habitat for Humanity for the property at 539 New Ave SW. The variance seeks permission for front‑yard parking and to exceed 50% lot width for a parking lot.
- Approval of minutes from the November 21, 2024 meeting
- Public hearing on a dimensional variance request (Case P-BZA-2024-0025) for 539 New Ave SW, applicant Habitat for Humanity
- Discussion of ordinance sections 5.10.03.D.7 and 5.10.03.E.1.a related to the variance
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to consider action items regarding facade improvements. The body will vote on specific program projects and a letter of support for the MEDC RAP Facade Program.
- North Quarter Facade Improvement Program Projects
- MEDC RAP Facade Program Letter of Support
Uptown Business Improvement District - Special Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District will hold a special meeting to elect officers for 2025. The board will also consider a recommendation for the FY2026 to FY2030 Marketing & Development Plan and the renewal of the special assessment.
- Election of Officers for Calendar Year 2025
- Recommendation of the FY2026 to FY2030 Uptown Business Improvement District Marketing & Development Plan
- Special Assessment Renewal
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to discuss and potentially approve a project related to the Michigan Street Facade Improvement Program. The body will also review minutes from the December 18, 2024 meeting.
- Michigan Street Facade Improvement Program Project
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to discuss a request for a rear one-story addition at 540 Prospect SE in the Heritage Hill Historic District. The body will also review Certificates of Appropriateness issued by staff.
- Request for rear one-story addition at 540 Prospect SE
Committee on Appointments Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is meeting to approve or confirm five individuals appointed to city boards and commissions. The body will also review the current board and commission vacancy list.
- Appointment of Lisa McManus to the Historic Preservation Commission
- Appointment of Jennifer Williams to the Grand Rapids Water System Advisory Council
- Appointment of Hannah Mico to the Urban Forestry Committee
- Appointment of Paul Helm to the City Planning Commission
- Appointment of Kyle Van Strien to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Fiscal Committee Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee will consider several financial items. It will approve an amendment to a United States Geological Survey agreement for a river level gauge and water quality station at the North Park Street bridge, costing $72,300. It will also approve a no‑cost agreement with Autoagent Data Solutions for the EscrowCloud platform. The committee will review the bid list, the Comptroller's warrant report for Dec. 3‑30, 2024 ($63,177,655.62), and the Treasurer’s report for Nov. 21‑Dec. 26, 2024.
- Approve amendment to USGS agreement for river gauge at North Park St bridge, $72,300
- Approve agreement with Autoagent Data Solutions for EscrowCloud platform, one‑year term, no cost
- Bid List Resolution for Jan 14, 2025
- Comptroller's Warrant Report for Dec 3‑30 2024, $63,177,655.62
- Treasurer’s Report for Nov 21‑Dec 26 2024
Community Development Committee Meeting
The Community Development Committee will approve several fireworks discharge permits for events at the Van Andel Arena. It will also award multiple contracts for infrastructure projects, including water main installation, fire station demolition, and road resurfacing. The committee will authorize local funding for MDOT road work and approve a fiber‑optic connection contract for fire facilities. Finally, it will authorize the assessor to spread nuisance charges for outstanding accounts.
- Resolution approving fireworks discharge permits for Disney on Ice, Winter Jam, World of Winter Festival, and Kelsea Ballerini concerts at Van Andel Arena
- Resolution awarding a $1,415,339.50 contract (not‑to‑exceed $1,880,451) to Dykema Excavators for water main installation on Leonard and Crahen Streets
- Resolution awarding a $234,000 contract (not‑to‑exceed $273,280) to Pitsch Companies for Division Street Fire Station demolition
- Resolution approving MDOT agreement to resurface O'Brien Road with $867,002 local share
- Resolution awarding a $1,983,316.25 contract (not‑to‑exceed $2,631,000) to Kamminga & Roodvoets for reconstruction of Garfield Avenue from Butterworth Street to Fulton Street
Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will discuss a policy amendment regarding the Mayor's vehicle allowance and schedule a special City Commission meeting. The session also includes briefings on the Land Bank and the Water Master Plan.
- Resolution for a $700 per month Vehicle Allowance for the Mayor
- Resolution scheduling a special City Commission meeting for January 23, 2025
- Grand Rapids Land Bank start-up activities update
- Water Master Plan and Maintenance briefing
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will discuss the city’s economic development programs and tools. It will consider exercising an option to purchase additional property at 201 Market. It will also review a proposed sale of city-owned property at 427 Market Ave SW for affordable housing.
- Exercise option to purchase additional property at 201 Market
- Proposed sale of city-owned property at 427 Market Ave SW for affordable housing
- Overview of economic development programs and tools
- Approval of minutes from November 12, 2024
- Development Center report – December 2024
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will approve routine contracts, committee appointments, and policy amendments, including a vehicle allowance for the Mayor. The body will also hold public hearings on redevelopment projects and tax incentives.
- Resolution approving a $700 monthly vehicle allowance for Mayor LaGrand
- Resolution awarding $1,415,339.50 contract for Water Main installation on Leonard Street
- Resolution awarding $1,983,316.25 contract for Reconstruction of Garfield Avenue
- Public hearing on Brownfield Plan Amendment for Abode West Fulton redevelopment at 617 Fulton Street W
- Public hearing on establishing a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for Abode Fulton at 617 Fulton Street W
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will elect officers for 2025 and consider funding for a business association event and a Division Avenue facade improvement project. The board will also review a request for proposals for corridor management.
- Election of Board Officers for 2025
- Burton Heights Business Association Event Planning Funding Request
- 2040 Division Facade Improvement Application
- Corridor Management RFP Update
- Corridor Landscaping and Beautification Discussion
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The authority will consider a letter of support for the MEDC RAP Facade Program and a Facade Improvement Program application. The board is also scheduled to elect officers for the 2025 calendar year.
- MEDC RAP Facade Program Letter of Support
- Facade Improvement Program Application
- Election of Officers for Calendar Year 2025
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will consider a letter of support for the MEDC RAP Facade Program and review proposed Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects, both requiring motions to approve. The board will also discuss the Southtown CIA Tax Increment Financing and Development Plan. Additional items include approval of minutes from December 11, 2024, and reports from the corridor manager and committee.
- MEDC RAP Facade Program Letter of Support (motion required)
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects (motion required)
- Southtown CIA Tax Increment Financing & Development Plan discussion
- Approval of minutes from December 11, 2024
- Corridor Manager and Committee Updates (report)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from December 2024, review the 2024 audit, and elect officers for the 2025 calendar year. The meeting includes a public comment period on the annual report for Fiscal Year 2024.
- Approval of December 11, 2024 minutes
- Review of SmartZone FY2024 Audit
- Election of Officers for Calendar Year 2025
- Public Comment on FY2024 Annual Report