City Commission Voting Records
Welcome! On this page, you'll find concise summaries of the City of Grand Rapids City Commission voting records , along with direct links to the full meeting minutes sourced from grandrapidsmi.gov. Our goal with this project is to enhance accessibility and keep our community well-informed.January
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Roll Call:
Present: Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Mayor Bliss, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins
Absent: Third Ward Commissioner Moody, Second Ward Commissioner Knight
93131: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The Fiscal Committee approved several contracts and purchases on December 12, 2023, with the following details:
Utilities Instrumentation Service, Inc.:
One-year contract with two renewal options for substation equipment maintenance, testing, and repair.
Annual amount: $94,000.
Estimated three-year total: $282,000.
Parkview Electric & Communications, LLC:
Purchase and installation of audio-visual equipment for the Police Department.
Not-to-exceed amount: $37,650.
Airgas Great Lakes, Inc.:
One-year contract with two renewal options for compressed gases.
Annual amount: $25,000.
Estimated three-year total: $75,000.
US Digital Designs, Inc.:
Purchase and installation of a fire station alerting system.
Not-to-exceed amount: $1,200,000 (includes $169,535 contingency).
Skyline Fall Protection:
Purchase and installation of a safety platform for the Water Resource Recovery Facility.
Not-to-exceed amount: $83,297.56.
Additionally, the Purchasing Agent was authorized to proceed with contracts for ammunition purchases:
Vance Outdoors:
One-year contract with two renewal options through MiDEAL for various ammunition.
Annual amount: $50,000.
Estimated three-year total: $150,000.
Kiesler Police Supply:
One-year contract with two renewal options through MiDEAL for various ammunition.
Annual amount: $200,000.
Estimated three-year total: $600,000.
93131: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Ysasi
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: Utilities Instrumentation Service, Inc.
Contract: One-year with two, one-year renewal options
Purpose: Substation equipment maintenance, testing, and repair
Amount: $94,000 annually; estimated three-year total of $282,000.
Parkview Electric & Communications, LLC
Contract: Purchase and installation of audio-visual equipment
Purpose: Technology and Change Management Department - Cable TV Division (Police Department)
Amount: Not-to-exceed $37,650.
Airgas Great Lakes, Inc.
Contract: One-year with two, one-year renewal options
Purpose: Purchase and delivery of various compressed gases for multiple departments
Amount: $25,000 annually; estimated three-year total of $75,000.
US Digital Designs, Inc.
Contract: Purchase and installation of Phoenix G2 fire station alerting system
Purpose: Fire Department
Amount: Not-to-exceed $1,200,000, including a 15% contingency of approximately $169,535.
Skyline Fall Protection
Contract: Purchase and installation of catwalk safety platform chemical
Purpose: Biodigester for Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF)
Amount: Not-to-exceed $83,297.56.
Additional Resolutions:
Vance Outdoors
Contract: One-year with two, one-year renewal options
Purpose: Purchase and delivery of ammunition for Police Department through State of Michigan MiDEAL Program
Amount: $50,000 annually; estimated three-year total of $150,000.
Kiesler Police Supply
Contract: One-year with two, one-year renewal options
Purpose: Purchase and delivery of ammunition for Police Department through State of Michigan MiDEAL Program
Amount: $200,000 annually; estimated three-year total of $600,000.
93132: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The property at 3300 Burton Street SE is proposed to be rezoned from the NOS (Neighborhood Office Service) Zone to the SD-IC (Special District-Institutional Campus) Zone to facilitate student housing development. This rezoning request was unanimously approved by the Planning Commission on November 9, 2023. The City Commission will review and vote on the amendment at its January 9, 2024 meeting. The ordinance, numbered 2024 - ____, pertains to Parcel ID 41-18-11-100-065 and includes a detailed legal description of the property boundaries.
93134: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: A license agreement is required to provide access and establish maintenance terms for a development project at 708 Wealthy St. SE, which includes using the Henry Charles parking lot. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to sign a 3-year license agreement with Wild Bunch 708, LLC, pending review and approval by the City Attorney.
93135: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has decided to terminate and remove two amendments from the Brownfield Plan: one for Irish Twins Group, LLC at 801-803 Ionia Avenue NW (approved December 20, 2005) and one for Lofts on Wealthy, LLC at 733 Wealthy Street SE (approved December 13, 2016), due to the projects not starting within two years of approval. Developers were notified and given a chance to provide feedback, but none was received. Any conflicting resolutions are rescinded.
93136: Approved
Result: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Ysasi
Votes: Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City has approved an Option to Purchase Agreement for acquiring approximately 1.9 acres of property at 5160 60th Street SE, Caledonia Township, to support infrastructure development for serving Caledonia Township as a wholesale water customer. The agreement, which will be reviewed and approved by the City Attorney, allows the Mayor to sign it on behalf of the City. The property acquisition will proceed following due diligence and the approval of a wholesale utility contract with Caledonia Township. Costs, up to $600,000, will be covered by the Water System Operating Fund (account number 5910-536-1000-9710).
93137: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City will enter into an amended agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for the Turner Avenue improvements project (MDOT Contract No. 23-5163). The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to sign the amended agreement, contingent upon review and approval by the City Attorney.
93138:Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has approved the acceptance of two utility easements and authorized a total payment of $31,600 for water main and sanitary sewer improvements at the Towne & Country Shopping Center. Shawn Brown will receive $4,600 for the easement at 4377 Kalamazoo Ave SE, and G&H Company L.L.C. will receive $27,000 for the easement at 4385 Kalamazoo Ave SE. The City Comptroller is directed to make these payments as requested by the City Engineer or designee, and the City Clerk is tasked with recording the easements with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93139: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City Commission has approved entering into an agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for a TAP grant-funded project involving sidewalk improvements on Collindale Avenue and Burritt Street (MDOT Contract No. 23-5452). The low bid of $503,757 was submitted by Weick Bros., Inc., which is higher than the engineer’s estimate of $484,335. The City will proceed with the agreement and authorize expenditures up to $430,916 for the local share of costs, covering construction, design phase services by Fishbeck Thompson Carr and Huber Inc., inspection, right-of-way acquisition, public information, administration, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is directed to make payments as requested by the City Engineer or designee, with funds charged to the Vital Streets Fund.
93140: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City Commission has approved Clark Construction Company, Inc.'s proposal of $13,121,596 for the construction of City Facilities at 1500 Scribner Avenue NW. Total project expenditures are authorized up to $18,350,059, covering professional services, construction, inspection, testing, permits, and contingencies, with costs charged to the designated fund code. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute the agreement with Clark, and the City Comptroller will handle payments as requested by the City Engineer. Additionally, the City intends to reimburse these costs through the issuance of tax-exempt bonds, and a copy of this resolution will be available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office.
93141: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City Commission has approved the bid of $801,868 from Wyoming Excavators, Inc. for the water main replacement project on Omena Drive. Total project expenditures are authorized up to $1,097,722, which includes construction costs, services by Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc. and Materials Testing Consultants, Inc., public information, testing, engineering, inspection, administration, and contingencies. The costs will be allocated as follows: $868,118 from the Water System Fund, $26,929 from the Sewer System Fund, and $202,675 from the Vital Streets Fund. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to sign the contract, and the City Comptroller will make payments as requested by the City Engineer.
93142: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has approved the vacation of Lafayette Avenue Alley from 130 feet south of Hall Street to Hall Street, as requested by Mo Town Square Limited Dividend Housing Association Limited Partnership. The vacation involves accepting a utility easement for storm sewer utilities, providing necessary easements to Consumers Energy and AT&T, removing street lighting, constructing an outlet alley, and completing an amended plat. The costs for these activities are estimated at $57,429, which includes escrow for inspection, construction, and administrative fees. The petitioner must also provide a Warranty Deed for nominal consideration and deposit the specified amount into escrow. The City will manage the property as a public right-of-way, known as Hall Street Alley, and will update official maps accordingly. The City Manager and Director of Public Service will oversee the property, while the City Engineer will handle designation and delineation. The State Treasurer will be notified of the dedication, and the City Clerk will record the Warranty Deed and resolution with the Kent County Register of Deeds. The escrow funds will be used for required work and will be returned to the petitioner if there are no additional costs; otherwise, the petitioner is responsible for any excess expenses.
93143: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has approved the request from Stegenga Homes, LLC, doing business as BC Pizza, for a Tavern License at 2034 Lake Michigan Drive NW.
93144: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City Commission has approved the creation of the Cheshire Village Social District, which includes designated Commons Areas where people can consume alcoholic beverages from multiple qualified licensees. The Commons Areas will be marked with signage, and the City Manager is authorized to adjust their boundaries as needed for regulatory or safety reasons. Each Commons Area must be next to at least two qualified licensees and will follow the management and maintenance plan of the corresponding Social Zone. The Social Districts will not include premises with special licenses during their active periods.
93145: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
The City Commission has approved new water and sewer rates for both retail and wholesale customers, effective January 1, 2024. These rates are based on the completed 2023 Water/Sewer Rate Review, which follows the methodology used in previous studies. The Utility Financial Officer will notify all contractual water and sewer service customers, and the Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to take necessary actions to implement these rates.
93146: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has approved updated water and sewer rates, charges, and fees effective January 1, 2024. These include new front foot rates, connection fees, commodity rates, monthly service charges, and various additional fees for services and permits. The rates cover domestic, commercial, and industrial users, with specific charges for water and sewer connections, meter services, fire protection, and more. The adjustments reflect comprehensive reviews of water and sewer services from 1976 to 2022 and the 2023 review.
93147: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has approved extending the Water and Sanitary Sewer Service Agreements with Ada Township, Cascade Charter Township, Charter Township of Caledonia, Grand Rapids Charter Township, East Grand Rapids, Kentwood, Tallmadge Charter Township, Walker, and Wright Township for an additional five years, until December 31, 2053. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute the extension agreements upon approval by the City Attorney.
93148: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has authorized the Mayor to execute an agreement with Grand Action 2.0 for relocating City operations to interim facilities during the construction and renovation of the City's permanent facility. The agreement, which is subject to approval by the City Attorney, has a cap of $200,000. This step facilitates the sale of approximately 11.6 acres to the Kent County Convention/Arena Authority for the construction of an Amphitheater.
93149: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details: The City Commission has approved Addendum II to the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority Operating Agreement, which updates the agreement to include the Acrisure Amphitheater. The Mayor is authorized to sign this addendum on behalf of the City, with the form agreed upon by the City Attorney. All conflicting prior resolutions are repealed to the extent of the conflict.
93150: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kent County to establish a framework and contingencies for potentially amending the Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority (CAA) Operating Agreement. This MOU supports the efforts of the CAA and Grand Action 2.0 (GA2.0) in developing, funding, and constructing a public soccer stadium. The MOU outlines the necessary steps and conditions for any future amendments to the CAA Operating Agreement that would facilitate this project. The Mayor is authorized to sign the MOU on behalf of the City, pending approval by the City Attorney. Additionally, any prior resolutions that conflict with this resolution are repealed.
93151: Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Ysasi, O'Connor, Bliss, Perdue, Robbins
Details:The City Commission has officially recognized the Windy Willow Foundation as a local civic organization, as required by state law, to support its application for a Bingo/Raffle License with the Bureau of State Lottery. This recognition confirms that the Foundation is a non-profit organization conducting a major portion of its activities within Grand Rapids.
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Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi
Absent: None.
93176: Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Perdue
Details:The Grand Rapids City Commission has approved up to $209,085 in sponsorships for various local events in 2024. These events, which are held on public property and offer free community programming, will receive funds to support their activities. The money comes from federal recovery funds set aside for local events as part of economic recovery efforts. The approved sponsorships include amounts for festivals, neighborhood events, cultural celebrations, and more. Each event listed will receive a specific cash award, with total funding capped at the approved amount. (see full chart for break down)
93177: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Perdue
Details The City of Grand Rapids Environmental Services Department will receive a $19,410.00 grant from FEMA. The grant is for building resilient infrastructure and communities. The Mayor is authorized to sign the grant agreement on behalf of the City.
93178: Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Perdue
Details:The Kent County Drain Commissioner has informed the City of Grand Rapids that maintenance is needed for the Knapp’s Corner drain. The City has approved spending up to $400,000 annually for this maintenance project.The City Comptroller is authorized to make payments for this project from the specified account in the fiscal year 2024.
93179: Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Perdue.
Details:To promote the GR PayIt program on Rapid buses. The City will spend up to $30,000 for an advertising campaign with Mesmerize.The campaign will be funded by the Treasurer’s Office budget for FY 2024. The Mayor is authorized to sign the agreement with Mesmerize, pending approval by the City Attorney.
93180: Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Perdue
Details:The City of Grand Rapids approved contracts and expenditures for various services and supplies as follows:
Consumers Concrete & Core & Main: Contracts for concrete and related products with a maximum annual cost of $90,000 and $16,000, respectively.
Give’em A Brake Safety & Lightle Enterprises of Ohio: Contracts for renting and purchasing traffic control equipment with annual costs of $250,000 and $40,000, respectively.
Building Bridges Professional Services: Contract for flower planting services with an annual cost of $65,000.
National Flag & Display Company: Contract for U.S. stick flags with an annual cost of $22,000.
Dana M. Vining: Contract for green infrastructure maintenance with an annual cost of $475,000.
McDonald Plumbing, Brik Plumbing, & SPS Plumbing: Contracts for plumbing services with a total annual cost of $900,000.
Veoci, Inc.: Contract extension for emergency management software with an annual cost of $31,772.
Miller Consultations & Elections: Lease for voting system equipment with a maximum cost of $41,800.
Phoenix Safety Outfitters: Purchase and installation of fire department equipment with a maximum cost of $225,531.55.
Comcast: Contract for cable and backup internet services with an annual cost of $35,000.
3M Company: Contract for traffic sign materials with an annual cost of $15,000.
The Mayor is authorized to sign the contracts, and the Purchasing Agent can proceed with awards to Comcast and 3M Company.
93183: Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Perdue
Details:The City had previously approved agreements with Isaac V. Norris & Associates, P.C. (IVNA) for feasibility, preliminary design, and final design services for improvements to Martin Luther King Park Lodge. The City approved an amendment to increase the scope of work and spending for IVNA's final design services. The total expenditure for the project will be increased to $1,130,500, which includes all phases of design work and contingencies.The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to sign the amended agreement, and the City Comptroller will handle payments as requested by the City Engineer or their designee.
93184: Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Perdue
Details: The City is authorized to apply for a grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) under the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) for sidewalk improvements on Fulton Street from Plymouth Avenue to Worcester Drive. If the grant is approved, the City will provide a local match of approximately $317,160. Final approval for this amount will be sought later. The City will be responsible for maintaining the improved sidewalks and ensuring they remain operational for the long term.
93185:Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Robbins.
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: Amendment of Fire Prevention Code: The City of Grand Rapids has amended sections 9.331 and 9.333 of its Fire Prevention Code. This includes:
Adopting the 2021 International Fire Code and its appendices.
Updating local regulations to align with and modify certain provisions of the International Fire Code.
Establishing new rules for mobile food preparation vehicles, penalties for violations, and fire safety measures for various types of buildings and activities.
Key Changes:
The City Code now incorporates the latest international standards for fire safety.
Specific local amendments and additions address issues like mobile food vehicles, fire alarm systems in hotels, and requirements for existing high-rise buildings.
Adjustments have been made to clarify responsibilities and enforcement related to fire safety.
Purpose: To ensure local fire safety regulations are up-to-date and aligned with national standards, while addressing specific local needs and conditions.
93186 Approved
Mover: Robbins.
Supporter: Perdue.
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: The ordinance revises the membership structure of the Urban Forestry Committee.
New Structure:
Total Members: 11 voting members.
Mayor’s Appointments: 4 members with expertise in trees, including:
1 member from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.
1 certified arborist.
City Manager’s Appointments: 4 members with expertise in trees, including:
1 designated forestry official.
2 City employees.
Utility Representatives:
1 representative from the Electric Power Utility.
1 representative from the Natural Gas Utility.
Nonprofit Representative:
1 representative from a nonprofit organization focused on urban forestry, nominated by the Director of Parks and Recreation.
Confirmation and Terms:
All members must be confirmed by the City Commission.
The designated forestry official will be a permanent member.
Other members will serve 3-year terms.
Purpose: To update the composition of the Urban Forestry Committee to ensure it includes a broad range of expertise and representation from key stakeholders in urban forestry.
93187 Approved
Mover: Ysasi.
Supporter: Robbins.
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, YsasiDetails:
Details: To rezone the property at 3300 Burton Street SE to support future development of student housing. The City Commission approved changing the zoning designation for 3300 Burton Street SE from a neighborhood office service to a special district-institutional campus. This change is intended to facilitate the development of student housing on the property.
93188 Approved
Mover: Knight.
Supporter: Perdue.
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: The City Commission approved rezoning 2000 Lake Michigan Drive NW from a neighborhood office service zone to a mid-20th century neighborhood-commercial zone to facilitate its redevelopment for commercial purposes.
February
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Present:
Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi
Absent: None.
93253: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: LaughFest will partner with Mobile GR and the DASH bus for accessibility and volunteer support during LaughFest 2024. The City will provide a sponsorship of up to $15,000 to LaughFest. The Comptroller is authorized to make the payment.
93254: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: An agreement will be made with Grand Valley State University for an economic impact analysis of the arts and culture sector in Grand Rapids. The contract will not exceed $15,000. The Mayor can execute the agreement with legal approval from the City Attorney.
93255:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The City previously awarded a contract to Wyoming Excavators, Inc. for a water main replacement project on Omena Drive. An additional budget transfer of $26,929 is needed from the Sewer System Fund to support this project. The Budget Office is authorized to execute this transfer.
93256:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Contracts will be prepared with the following vendors, authorized for the Mayor to sign:
Ram-Pak Industries:
One-year contract for metal front-load dumpsters.
Annual limit of $60,000 (total estimated over three years: $180,000).
Ferguson Enterprises:
One-year contract for ductile iron fittings for the Water Department.
Annual limit of $160,000 (total estimated over three years: $480,000).
Various Vendors (for stump grinding, tree removal, and pruning services):
Total annual limit of $900,000 (total estimated over three years: $2,700,000).
Includes multiple vendors to ensure service coverage.
Kiesler Police Supply, Inc. & Vance Outdoors, Inc.:
Contracts for less-than-lethal public safety munitions.
Kiesler: $20,000 annual limit ($60,000 over three years).
Vance: $15,000 annual limit ($45,000 over three years).
Next Step of West Michigan:
Contract for general maintenance and cleaning services.
Annual limit of $400,000 (total estimated over three years: $1,200,000).
Lunghamer Ford of Owosso:
Purchase of ten Nissan LEAF SV Plus electric vehicles for the Fleet Management Department.
93257: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: A public hearing is scheduled for February 20, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. to discuss a grant application to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for improvements to the Bike Park. The City Clerk will publish notice of this hearing.
93258: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The City is considering rezoning properties from TN-TCC (Traditional Neighborhood - Transitional City Center) to TN-CC (Traditional Neighborhood - City Center) to support redevelopment and housing needs. The Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously recommended approval. The amendment to the zoning map will be published and considered for adoption at the February 20, 2024 meeting. Specific properties included in the rezoning are located between Leonard Street, 6th Street, US-131, and the Grand River, with various addresses listed for rezoning.
93259: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The City authorized the State Land Bank Authority (SLBA) to enter an option agreement with Westown Jubilee Housing, Inc. for the property at 1125 Alpine Avenue NW, allowing a 12-month option period for purchase at $5,000.
93260: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a proposal from Clark Construction Company for the construction of City facilities at 1500 Scribner Avenue NW at a cost of $8,928,853. Authorized total project expenditures of up to $27,959,737.
93261: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Extended the contract with Loadstar Construction for trench repairs and related work to February 28, 2025, with an increase of $650,000 in the scope, bringing total expenditures to $1,635,000.
93262: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a construction agreement with 3CPK Marywood Limited Dividend Housing Association and accepted public utility easements from two property owners, which the developer paid $1.00 each for.
93263: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a bid from Hoekstra Roofing for roof restoration at the East Building of the City Archives and Records Center at a cost of $1,054,250. Total project expenditures authorized up to $1,391,737.
93264: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Increased funding for asbestos and lead abatement services by $600,000, bringing the total not-to-exceed amount to $900,000 for the project.
93265: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Summary: Authorized an agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation for the reconstruction of Cesar E. Chavez Avenue. Local share expenditures not to exceed $6,173,023.
93266: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Established the City’s top five legislative priorities, which include:
River restoration.
Environmental health and climate resiliency initiatives.
Fiscal sustainability and economic investment.
Public safety policies and community trust.
Economic development aligned with community needs.
Additional focus on promoting equity, preserving local authority, and various health and infrastructure initiatives.
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Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi
Absent: None.
93291:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepted a grant of up to $6,000,000 for improvements to the lodge building at Martin Luther King Park, with a performance period through December 31, 2025. Authorized the Mayor to execute the grant agreement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
93292:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized a Professional Services Agreement with Michigan Urban Search and Rescue for five ten-hour training sessions, not to exceed $15,850. The training is scheduled for April 22-26, 2024. The Mayor is authorized to execute the agreement.
93293:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized the Environmental Services Department to enter into a management agreement with Reliable Energy, Inc. The Mayor is authorized to execute the agreement.
93294:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
details: Authorized the City Treasurer to procure a Bloomberg terminal and software for a cost not to exceed $30,000 from the FY 24 budget.
93295:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized the Kent County Treasurers Association to take necessary court action to remove uncollectible personal property taxes from the tax rolls for 2018. The City Clerk is authorized to execute the waiver for the hearing notice.
93296:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized the City to undertake an amphitheater project with a capacity of approximately 12,000 at 201 Market Avenue, SW, to be funded by issuing bonds up to $20,500,000. The resolution includes publishing a notice of intent to issue bonds and declaring the intent to reimburse costs related to the project.
93297:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized the City to undertake a series of public improvements, including:
Enhancements to parks and recreational facilities (e.g., new structures, trails, and renovations).
Improvements to the City’s electric, lighting, and communications systems.
Upgrades and new constructions for the Department of Public Works and related facilities.
Total funding through bond issuance is capped at $40,500,000. The City Clerk is tasked with publishing a notice of intent to issue bonds.
93298:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approved contracts with various vendors, including:
Michigan Pavement Markings, LLC and P.K. Contracting for pavement marking services at an annual total of $900,000.
MGT EH&A Investor, LLC for an employee classification and compensation study for $330,679.25.
Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Co. for healthcare and pension actuarial services, totaling up to $125,000 annually.
Cityzen Solutions, Inc. for communications software over three years, totaling $96,340.
Fire Pros, LLC for fire extinguisher services at an annual cost of $42,000.
Cintas for floor mat rental at an annual cost of $30,000.
Escape Velocity Holdings for Cisco server installation for $408,154.
93299:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approved the bid from Wyoming Excavators, Inc. for street lighting and telecommunications improvements on Division Avenue, totaling $3,644,605. Total project expenditures are authorized not to exceed $4,992,580, which covers various costs including construction and contingency fees. The City intends to reimburse costs through tax-exempt bonds up to $2,952,350.
93300:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
details: Accepted the bid from Dan’s Excavating Service, Inc. for the reconstruction of Crescent Street Alley at a cost of $173,405. Total project expenditures are authorized not to exceed $240,708, covering construction, permits, and contingencies.
93301:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepted a Utility Easement from Ngoc Pham for a total payment of $12,500 for water main and sanitary sewer installation. The City Clerk is authorized to record the easement.
93302:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approved the bid from Groundhawg Excavating & Landscaping LLC for systematic sidewalk repairs at $1,508,310. Total project expenditures are authorized not to exceed $1,600,000.
93303:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized the State Land Bank Authority to enter into option agreements with LINC Up Nonprofit Housing Corporation for two properties, each at a purchase price of $5,000. The agreements provide a 12-month option period for the buyer to finalize their project plans.
93304:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approved amendments to the lease agreement with Community Rebuilders for property at 1120 Monroe Avenue NW to reduce leased space and modify rental terms, with all other lease conditions remaining unchanged.
93305:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorized a 12-month lease agreement with Downtown Medical Properties, LLC, for temporary City operations at 245 State Street SE, with a base rate of $13 per square foot and additional costs. Extensions for the lease are included if needed.
93306:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Established an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District at 839 Butterworth Street SW, recognizing the property as obsolete under PA 146 of 2000.
93307:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approved an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for The Chaplow Collection, LLC for the property at 839 Butterworth Street SW. The exemption is for ten years, with an estimated improvement cost of $975,156 and a completion date set for December 31, 2024.
93308:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Established an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District for properties at 1941 and 1947 Eastern Avenue SE, deeming them as obsolete per PA 146 of 2000.
93309:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approved an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 1947 Eastern Avenue, LLC for the properties at 1941 and 1947 Eastern Avenue SE. The exemption is also for ten years, with an estimated improvement cost of $207,000 and a completion deadline of December 31, 2024.
93310:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Similar to Resolution 93309, this resolution reaffirms the approval of the Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 1947 Eastern Avenue, LLC, with specific conditions regarding taxable values and project completion.
93311:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Ysasi
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: This ordinance amends the Fiscal Year 2024 budget for the City of Grand Rapids, detailing changes to various funds:
General Operating Fund: Increased resources and appropriations to a total of $189,474,391.69.
Federal Forfeitures-Treasury Department Fund: Established resources and appropriations of $54,390.00.
Capital Improvement Fund: Increased resources and appropriations to $101,924,942.18.
Water Improvement Fund: Updated appropriations to $49,571,622.35.
Fire Grants Fund: Adjusted appropriations to $3,896,953.68.
Immediate Effect: A motion was made for this ordinance to take immediate effect.
March
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Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi
Absent: None.
93328: Approved
Movers: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: To reimburse Grand Rapids Public Schools for $22,843.22 spent on eligible capital equipment for Public, Educational, and Governmental (PEG) access channels.
Funding Source: The funds for this reimbursement have already been received by the City.The City Commission authorized the reimbursement based on the expenditures made by the schools for programming purposes.
93329:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: The City accepts a $50,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. An agreement with the Department of Natural Resources is approved, with the Mayor authorized to sign it after legal review. The grant period runs through September 1, 2025.
93330:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details:The City is authorized to enter a one-year agreement with Corewell Health for on-site nursing care, totaling up to $30,000. The Mayor is authorized to execute the agreement pending legal approval.
93331:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approval is sought for a Lease Agreement with Crown Castle for communication use of Covell Reservoir. The lease extends the existing agreement for an additional 30 years, starting with annual payments of $36,500, increasing by 10% every five years. The Mayor is authorized to execute the lease agreement following legal review.
93332:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: A budget supplement of $92,405 is needed for the installation of water mains on specific streets. Funds will be transferred from the Water System Fund Infrastructure Investment Project account. The Budget Office is authorized to execute the transfer.
93333:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Contracts will be prepared with several vendors, with the Mayor authorized to sign:
A-Line Corrosion Services: $30,000/year for corrosion services, totaling $90,000 over three years.
Michigan Wood Fibers, LLC: $50,000/year for wood debris removal, totaling $150,000 over three years.
Shawn Sremba (Natural Landscaping): Contract amendment for cemetery mowing, increasing total to $608,000 over two years.
Marlyn Group: $51,000 for a parking management system in the first year, totaling $139,000 over three years.
93337:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: The City Manager is authorized to apply for a $300,000 grant from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund for improvements to the Bike Park. The City will provide $305,000 in matching funds (50% of the project cost) from the Parks Millage, contingent on grant approval. Matching funds will be available in fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
93338:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: A public hearing will be held on April 9, 2024, to gather comments on activities affecting historic properties funded by HUD programs. Programmatic Agreements will be available for review from March 19 to April 18, 2024, on the City website. The City Clerk is directed to publish notice of the public hearing.
93339:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: A public hearing will be held on April 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. to discuss the draft FY 2025 Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan. The draft plan and funding recommendations will be available for review from March 19 to April 18, 2024, on the City website. The City Clerk is directed to publish notice of the public hearing.
93340:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: A Memorandum of Agreement is approved for compliance with 36 CFR Part 800 concerning the Leonard Apartments project. The Mayor is authorized to execute the Agreement and related documents after legal review.
93341:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: The contract with Universal Sign, Inc. for the Replacement of Wayfinding and Signage System will be amended to increase the scope of work by $50,000, bringing the total to $551,010. The Mayor is authorized to execute the necessary change order after legal review. The City Comptroller is authorized to make payments related to the project as requested by the City Engineer.
93342:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: An amendment to the professional services agreement with Owen-Ames-Kimball Co. (OAK) for Phase 1B of the Grand Rapids Public Museum expansion is approved.
Additional expenditures of $2,007,460 are authorized, bringing the total to a "not-to-exceed" amount of $10,179,243.
The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute the amendment after legal approval.
The City Comptroller is authorized to make payments related to Phase 1B as requested by the City Engineer.
93343:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: A Cost Sharing Agreement between the City and Kent County Road Commission is approved.
The City's share of costs for the project is set at a "not-to-exceed" amount of $421,000, charged to the Vital Streets Fund.
The City Comptroller is authorized to make payments as requested by the City Engineer.
93344: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: The proposal from Clark Construction Company for the construction of City Facilities at 1500 Scribner Avenue NW is accepted at a cost of $3,618,075.
Total expenditures for the project will increase by $3,893,950, bringing the new total to a "not-to-exceed" amount of $31,853,687, which includes contingencies and previous services. The Mayor and City Clerk are authorized to execute the amendment to the professional services agreement after legal review.
The City declares its intent to reimburse itself for the project costs through tax-exempt bonds, with an amount "not-to-exceed" $31,853,687. A copy of the resolution will be available for inspection at the City Clerk’s Office.
93345: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: The City of Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) seeks to expand Downtown Development Area No. 1 and amend the existing Development and Tax Increment Financing Plan. The City Commission will hold a meeting with taxing jurisdictions (Taxing Units) on April 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. to discuss the Amended Plan.
A public hearing will also take place on April 9, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. to consider the approval of the expanded area and amended plan.
Proper notifications for the meeting and public hearing will be sent to Taxing Units and the public as required by law, including:
Publication in The Grand Rapids Press.
Posting in public places within the expanded area.
Mail notifications to property taxpayers and Taxing Unit governing bodies. The City Clerk is responsible for ensuring all notifications are executed as specified in the resolution. Previous conflicting resolutions are rescinded.
Result: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, YsasiWHEREAS:
The City of Grand Rapids is facing a significant shortage of affordable housing and overall housing supply.
The proposed text amendments aim to increase housing supply, diversify housing types, and enhance housing affordability.
These amendments align with the City of Grand Rapids Community Master Plan, Strategic Plan, and the Grand Rapids/Kent County Housing Needs Assessment.
The Planning Commission recommended approval following a public hearing held on January 25, 2024, allowing all interested parties to provide input.
RESOLVED:
The City Commission will schedule a public hearing for public testimony regarding amendments to Chapter 61 of Title V of the Code of the City of Grand Rapids on March 19, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. or soon thereafter.
The City Clerk is directed to publish notice of the public hearing at Harrison Park Academy, 1440 Davis Ave. NW, Grand Rapids, MI, in a newspaper with general circulation.
In accordance with Title V, Section 10(b) of the Charter of the City of Grand Rapids, a Summary of the Ordinance will be published in the official City Commission Proceedings and in a newspaper of general circulation in lieu of the full text.
The amendments will be considered further during the scheduled public hearing.
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Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi
Absent: None.
93368:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The City Commission accepts a grant for cyber risk reduction activities, with a maximum amount of $24,732.25.
93369:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The City Commission accepts a grant from the Steelcase Foundation for the GRow1000 Employer Community of Practice, totaling $75,000. Agreement period: January 8, 2024 – December 15, 2026. Mayor authorized to execute the agreement after City Attorney review.
93370:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The City Commission accepts a $60,000 grant from the National Park Service for the Auburn Hills Neighborhood's National Register nomination. Agreement period: April 1, 2024 – March 30, 2026. Mayor authorized to execute the agreement after City Attorney review.
93371: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a contract with American Rivers for consulting services on the Stormwater Credit Trading Program, not exceeding $50,000. Agreement valid until June 30, 2026. Mayor authorized to execute the agreement upon City Attorney approval.
93372: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved an agreement with First Tee of West Michigan for space at Indian Trails Golf Course, with an annual payment of $2,500. Agreement duration: Three years. Mayor and City Clerk authorized to execute upon City Attorney approval.
93373: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized payment of $93,560 to Grand Valley State University for tuition, fees, and uniforms for the sponsored police academy, Recruit Class 24-02.
93374: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized expenditures for social media advertising on Facebook, Instagram, Google, and TikTok, not exceeding $100,000. Comptroller authorized to make payments.
93375: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a budget substitution of $12,622 for the Eastside Sewer Improvements Program, transferring funds from the Streets Capital Fund Infrastructure Investment Project.
93376: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Capital Improvements: The City plans to undertake two major capital improvement projects:
Amphitheater Improvements:
Construction of a 12,000-person capacity amphitheater at or near 201 Market Avenue, S.W. This includes necessary furnishings, fixtures, and site improvements.
DPW Improvements:
Various enhancements for the City’s Department of Public Works, including property acquisition, demolition, renovation, and construction of new facilities and site amenities.
Bond Issuance Authority:
The City is authorized to issue bonds under Section 517 of Act 34 of the Public Acts of Michigan (2001, amended), to finance these improvements.
Notices of Intent:
The City published notices of intent to issue bonds:
$60,000,000 for DPW Improvements.
$20,500,000 for Amphitheater Improvements.
City Commission Decision:
The City Commission has concluded that issuing these bonds is in the best interest of the City to fund the Public Improvements. This resolution facilitates the funding necessary for essential public infrastructure developments, benefiting both the amphitheater and public works facilities.
Section 1: Necessity of Improvements; Useful Life The City finds it necessary to undertake public improvements for health, safety, and welfare, issuing bonds to cover costs. The Amphitheater Improvements are expected to last at least 20 years, while DPW Improvements will last at least 30 years.
Section 2: Bonds Authorized; Security The City is authorized to issue "Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds" up to $80.5 million. These bonds will be secured by the City's full faith and credit, with required annual budget allocations for principal and interest, subject to legal taxing limitations.
Section 3: Continuance of Security for Bonds The security pledged for the bonds remains until the principal and interest are fully paid or until the bonds are defeased.
Section 4: Bond Details Bonds may be issued as fully registered serial or term bonds, with an interest rate not exceeding 6.00% per annum. The Chief Financial Officer has the authority to finalize details related to the issuance.
Section 5: Notice of Optional and Mandatory Redemption Procedures for redeeming bonds are outlined, including notice requirements and responsibilities of the Bond Registrar/Paying Agent. Redemption notices must be sent at least 30 days in advance.
Section 6: Payment of Bonds and Record Date Principal payments will be made at the Bond Registrar/Paying Agent's office. Interest will be paid to registered owners on designated dates, based on a specified record date.
Section 7: Denomination and Numbering Bonds will be issued in denominations of $5,000 or multiples thereof. Each bond will be numbered to identify its owner.
Section 8: Book-Entry System Bonds may initially be issued in a book-entry-only format through The Depository Trust Company (DTC). Procedures for transferring to physical certificates if necessary are outlined, including DTC’s role in payment processing.
Section 9: Bond Registrar and Paying Agent Huntington National Bank is appointed as the Bond Registrar/Paying Agent, with terms to be formalized in an agreement. The Chief Financial Officer may appoint a new agent if necessary.
Section 10: Execution, Authentication and Delivery of Bonds Bonds will be signed by the Mayor and Comptroller, attested by the City Clerk, and delivered to the Bond Registrar/Paying Agent for authentication before being sold. Additional documents related to the issuance may also be executed by designated City officials.
Section 11: Form and Transfer of Bonds Bonds will follow a specified form and can be transferred or exchanged upon surrender and proper assignment. New bonds will be issued to the transferee upon valid request, and any defaults in interest payments will be noted on new bonds.
Section 12: Debt Service Fund A dedicated "Debt Service Fund" will be created to manage payments of principal and interest. All related funds and accrued interest will be deposited here, ensuring timely payment obligations.
Section 13: Improvement Fund An "Improvement Fund" will be established for the project, including specific subaccounts. Proceeds from the bonds will be deposited here for designated public improvement purposes.
Section 14: Refunding Bonds The City may issue refunding bonds to manage existing debt as permitted by law.
Section 15: Defeasance If sufficient funds are deposited in trust to pay off the bonds, the obligations under this resolution will be considered satisfied.
Section 25: Approval of Michigan Department of Treasury The bond issuance is contingent on receiving approval from the Michigan Department of Treasury in line with Act 34. The City has previously filed a qualifying statement and has been granted qualified status.
Section 26: Bond Counsel Dickinson Wright PLLC is appointed as bond counsel for the bond issuance. The Chief Financial Officer is authorized to finalize an engagement letter, acknowledging that the firm may represent other financial institutions, including the Underwriter, without conflict.
Section 27: Municipal Advisor MFCI, LLC is appointed as the registered municipal advisor for the bond issuance.
Section 28: Severability If any part of this resolution is found to be invalid, the remaining sections will continue to be effective.
Section 29: Prior Resolutions Any prior resolutions conflicting with this one are repealed to the extent of the conflict.
Section 30: Headings Section headings are for convenience only and do not affect the interpretation of the resolution.
Section 31: Effective Date of Resolution This resolution takes effect immediately upon passage.
93377:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Vendors and Contracts
Ferguson Enterprises & Core and Main:
One-year contracts for valves with a total annual not-to-exceed amount of $112,000. Estimated three-year total: $334,000.
Rusche’s Trucking, Inc. & Yellow Rose Transport, Inc.:
One-year contracts for highway aggregates and topsoil with total annual not-to-exceed amount of $330,000. Estimated three-year total: $990,000.
Bazen Electric:
Contract extension for inspections and maintenance of lighting systems at $75,000 annually. Estimated three-year total: $225,000.
Vulcan, Inc., Rathco Safety, & MD Solutions:
Contracts for traffic signage with a total annual not-to-exceed amount of $210,000. Estimated three-year total: $630,000.
Webb Chemical:
Contract for liquid sodium hypochlorite for $1,000,000 annually. Estimated three-year total: $3,000,000.
Yunex Traffic, LLC & Carrier & Gable, Inc.:
Contracts for traffic signal components totaling $1,265,000 annually. Estimated three-year total: $3,795,000.
Carus Corporation:
Contract for bulk sodium phosphates at $850,000 annually. Estimated three-year total: $2,550,000.
Natural Landscapes:
Contract for lawn sprinkler maintenance at $16,000 annually. Estimated three-year total: $48,000.
Purchasing Authorizations:
Lunghamer Ford of Owosso:
Cooperative purchase for replacement vehicles totaling $761,550.
Truck & Trailer Specialties, Hoekstra Equipment, & Knapheide Truck Equipment:
Cooperative purchases for fleet vehicle upfitting totaling approximately $210,786.94.
Gillig, LLC:
Increased total for two new CNG DASH buses to $1,576,756.
These contracts support ongoing city operations, including infrastructure improvements and fleet management, with estimated costs outlined for planning and budget considerations. The contracts also provide for potential renewals, ensuring flexibility and efficiency in service delivery.
93378: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Anlaan Corporation's bid: $596,194 (engineer's estimate: $758,694).
Accept Anlaan's bid; authorize Mayor and City Clerk to sign contract documents. Rescind any conflicting resolutions. Authorize total expenditures not to exceed $880,200 for the project, covering all associated costs. Direct City Comptroller to make payments as requested for the project.
93379:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approve an Agreement to Purchase in Lieu of Condemnation with G&H Company, L.L.C. for $235,000.
Approve an Agreement in Lieu of Condemnation with 1956 Eastern, L.L.C. for $1.00.
Accept a Warranty Deed from G&H Company.
Approve a Quit Claim Deed to 1956 Eastern, L.L.C.
Authorize the Mayor to execute agreements and deeds, pending legal approval.
Authorize payments not to exceed $450,000 for the project.
Dedicate described property for street and highway purposes.
Direct management of the dedicated property to the Director of Public Service.
Update maps and records to reflect the new public right-of-way.
Notify the State Treasurer of the dedication.
Record the Warranty Deed and Quit Claim Deed with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93380: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Increase the scope of work and authorize additional expenditures of $27,550, with total expenditures not to exceed $5,389,550 for the project, including various funds:
Vital Streets Fund Codes: $535,300
Water System Fund Codes: $4,372,000
Capital Improvement Fund Codes: $441,250
Sewer System Fund Codes: $41,000
Authorize the City Engineer to execute necessary change orders for the contract with Diversco.
Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested for the project.
Declare intent to reimburse costs through tax-exempt bonds, not to exceed $4,372,000 (Water System Fund).
Make the resolution available for inspection at the City Clerk’s Office.
93381: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: From Progressive AE, Inc. on February 16, 2024.
Accept the proposal from Progressive AE, Inc. and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Professional Services Agreement for preliminary design services.
Authorize total expenditures not to exceed $157,900 for this phase, covering preliminary design and contingencies.
Approve the use of Downtown Development Authority funds for the project's costs.
Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested for the project.
93382: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Decertify the following streets from the City of Grand Rapids Street System for a total of 995 feet:
Bond Avenue: From 250 feet north of Trowbridge Street to 842 feet north of Trowbridge Street (592 feet total).
36th Street cut-off: From the centerline of Eastern Avenue to the centerline of 36th Street (403 feet total).
93383: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Correction of Construction Agreement for Marywood Main Renovation Rescind the previously approved Proceeding No. 93262 due to incorrect party information. Approve the corrected Construction Agreement with Academy Manor Developer, LLC, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute it. Accept two Public Utilities Easements for nominal amounts from:
Academy Manor Condominium Association: 38,617 square feet for $1.00.
Sisters of the Order of St. Dominic of Grand Rapids: 623 square feet for $1.00.
Authorize the City Clerk to record the easements with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93384: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approve the release of a portion of easement to Dave Visser Builder, LLC for $1.00. Authorize the Mayor to execute the Release of Easement contingent upon legal approval. Authorize the City Clerk to record the Release of Easement with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93385: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Bid Received From Universal Sign, Inc. on February 29, 2024, for $198,744 (engineer’s estimate: $287,490).
Accept Universal's bid and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the contract documents for the project.
Authorize total expenditures not to exceed $297,075 for construction costs, design services, administration, and contingencies.
Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested for the project.
93386: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: From Clark Construction Company, Inc. on February 29, 2024, for $170,848 for preconstruction services.
Accept the proposal from Clark and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the preconstruction services agreement.
Authorize total expenditures not to exceed $2,313,518, covering preconstruction services, administration, and contingencies.
Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested for the project.
93387: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Bid Received From Ellis McClain Construction, LLC on February 28, 2024, for $588,098 (engineer’s estimate: $610,680).
Accept the bid from Ellis and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the contract documents.
Authorize total expenditures not to exceed $660,000 for the project, including construction costs and contingencies.
Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested.
93388: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Increase the scope of work with Freedom Construction and Consulting, Inc. at an additional cost of $698,760, bringing total expenditures to $1,063,130. Authorize the City Engineer to execute necessary change orders. Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested.
93389: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorize SLBA to enter into option agreements with:
New Development Corporation for 854 First Street NW at $17,000.
Maurice Townsend for 1201 Cass Avenue SE at $5,000.
Authorize SLBA to convey properties upon evidence of readiness to undertake the projects. Deposit sale proceeds into the Property Management Fund.
93395: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Bid Received: From Katerberg-Verhage, Inc. for $748,130 (engineer's estimate: $748,130).Accept Katerberg's bid and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the contract documents. Authorize total expenditures not to exceed $1,050,000, covering the construction contract, design phase services, inspections, administration, and contingencies. Direct the City Comptroller to make payments as requested.
93396: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorize the City Engineer to submit grant applications to the Michigan Department of Transportation for:
Preventative maintenance of the Sixth Street Bridge over the Grand River.
Rehabilitation (removal) of the Oxford Street Bridge over C&O railroad (abandoned). Encourage favorable consideration for the grant applications. Direct the City Clerk to send a certified copy of this resolution to the Director of the Michigan Department of Transportation.
93397: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Schedule special meetings for the City Commission on:
April 30, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. for a Budget Workshop.
May 14, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. for a Budget Workshop (if needed). Direct the City Clerk to publish notices in accordance with the Open Meetings Act.
93398:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Authorization of Special Events
Authorize several special events and the use of fireworks as detailed below:
Justice For All Juneteenth Jam (June 19, 2024, at Calder Plaza) - consumer-grade fireworks.
Grand Rapids Family Fireworks (July 6, 2024, at Gillett Bridge) - commercial-grade fireworks.
Upheaval Music Festival (July 19-20, 2024, at Belknap Park) - consumer-grade fireworks.
Breakaway Music Festival (August 16-17, 2024, at Belknap Park) - consumer-grade fireworks.
Armed Forces Thanksgiving (May 17, 2024, at Ah-Nab-Awen Park) - landing of a UH 72 Lakota helicopter.
Confirm that these events comply with city regulations and that necessary approvals are in place from relevant departments. Suspend certain provisions of the City Code regarding the use of fireworks during these events.
93399: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Amendment to Retirement Benefit Multipliers for Police and Fire Retirement System The ordinance amending Section 1.246 “Life Allowance” of the Grand Rapids City Code regarding retirement benefit multipliers for firefighters will be published as part of the proceedings.
City Clerk's Responsibility: The City Clerk is directed to publish the full text of the ordinance in a local newspaper.
Adoption Consideration Date: The ordinance is scheduled for consideration for adoption on April 9, 2024.
Key Changes in the Ordinance:
Life Allowance Calculation: Upon retirement, members will receive a life allowance calculated as a percentage of their final average salary multiplied by their years of credited service, subject to a cap based on their hire date.
Benefit Multipliers and Caps: Different multipliers and caps are established based on the member's group and date of hire, with specific provisions for firefighters and police officers.
Options for New Members: New firefighters hired on or after January 1, 2024, must make a choice regarding their multiplier within six months of employment.
93400:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The ordinance amending Article 8 of the Grand Rapids City Code related to bicycles and micromobility devices will be published as part of the proceedings.
City Clerk's Responsibility: The City Clerk is directed to publish a summary of the ordinance in a local newspaper. The proposed ordinance is set for consideration for adoption on April 9, 2024.
Key Changes in the Ordinance:
Definitions:
Bicycle: A human-powered vehicle with at least two wheels, including electric assist.
Micro Mobility Device: Includes various small personal transportation devices like scooters and hoverboards.
Manner of Operation:
Users must follow motor vehicle regulations.
No more riders than designed; two-abreast riding allowed under certain conditions.
Must maintain control of the device at all times.
Sidewalks, Bike Lanes, and Trails:
Restrictions on where bicycles and micromobility devices can be operated, especially in high pedestrian areas.
Users must yield to pedestrians and give audible warnings before passing.
Equipment Requirements:
Bikes and devices must have front and rear lights when used at night.
Adequate brakes are required for safety.
Speed Regulations:
Users must operate devices at reasonable speeds; a maximum of 15 mph on sidewalks unless posted otherwise.
Accident Reporting:
Users must report any accidents involving injury or property damage within 24 hours.
93401:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: The ordinance amending Section 9.857.181 regarding municipal civil infractions will be published as part of the proceedings. The City Clerk will publish the full text of the ordinance in a local newspaper. The proposed ordinance is set for consideration on April 9, 2024.
Amendments to Civil Infractions Include:
Fines for operating bicycles or micromobility devices on sidewalks in the Downtown Improvement District:
Initial Offense: $50
First Repeat Offense: $100
Second Repeat and Subsequent Offense: $200
Similar fines apply for other infractions related to yielding, signaling, and obeying traffic control devices.
93403:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Perdue
Details:Budget Amendments for Fiscal Year 2024 Adjustments to various city funds, including the General Operating Fund, Other Grants Fund, and Capital Improvement Funds. Total amended resources across funds amount to over $191 million with specific allocations for departments and projects. A motion was made for the ordinance to take immediate effect, supported by Robbins and Perdue, and approved by the Commission.
April
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Present: Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: Mayor Bliss
93423:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has appropriated funds for lead education via Public Act 57 of 2019. The City is eligible to receive up to $23,331.00 for the procurement of lead awareness toolkits. The City Commission authorizes the City to enter into an agreement with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. The Mayor and City Clerk are empowered to execute the contract.
93424: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: The City Commission approved contracts with various vendors for services and purchases, including:
Quick & Careful Moving: $46,000/year for election equipment transport (3-year total: $138,000).
Hillard Electric, Inc.: $15,000/year for transformer services (3-year total: $45,000).
American Highway Products, Ltd. & Ferguson Enterprises: $10,000/year and $40,000/year for various water and traffic safety materials (3-year totals: $30,000 and $120,000, respectively).
Nye Uniform: $375,000/year for public safety uniforms (3-year total: $1,125,000).
Next Step of West Michigan: $185,000/year for code enforcement services (3-year total: $555,000).
Passport Parking: Contract extension for mobile payment solutions at $135,000/year (3-year total: $405,000).
Aquanuity, Inc.: $66,000/year for software licenses and support (estimated 3-year total: $114,000).
Miller Consultations & Elections: $104,600 for scanner equipment for upcoming elections.
Lunghamer Ford of Owosso: Purchase of replacement vehicles totaling $608,829.
Carleton Equipment: $10,063 for a Bobcat stump grinder.
Fredrickson Supply, LLC: $600,497.99 for a hydro-excavator.
Presidio Holdings, Inc.: $253,125 for security camera upgrades. The Mayor is authorized to sign the contracts on behalf of the City, and the Purchasing Agent is directed to proceed with the vendor awards.
93425: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: The City and State Land Bank Authority (SLBA) have a cooperative agreement for managing and disposing of real property. City Commission Policy 900-63 governs the process for preparing properties for sale. Applications for property purchases have been submitted and reviewed, meeting policy requirements.
Authorized Properties:
609 Lincoln Ave NW: New Development Corporation, Purchase Price: $17,000
749 Sherman St SE: Spitzley Group, LLC, Purchase Price: $5,000
1030 Helen St NE: Spitzley Group, LLC, Purchase Price: $5,000
546 Neland Ave SE: Austin Bekins, Purchase Price: $17,000 Sale proceeds, minus SLBA fees, will go to the Property Management Fund.
93429: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details:Approval for a construction agreement with Mel Trotter Ministries for public sanitary sewer and water main facilities in connection with improvements in Garden and Fair Streets. Acceptance of two public utility easements from:
Mel Trotter Ministries for 119 Garden St SE: 3,990 sq ft.
MTM Support Corporation for 101 Garden St SE: 5,386 sq ft. Both easements were accepted for a nominal fee of $1.00.The City Clerk is authorized to record these easements with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93430: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: Approval of an agreement between the City, Grand Rapids Charter Township, and Covenant Eight, LLC. Acceptance of a recorded easement from Marie Havenga (Estate of Lillian Marie Havenga) for $1.00, covering 47,772 sq ft at 4700 Knapp St NE. The City Clerk is directed to record the easement with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93431:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: Approval of an agreement between the City, City of Walker, and Tallman Woods Development, LLC. Acceptance of a recorded easement from Tallman Woods Development, LLC for $1.00, covering 22,355 sq ft at 83 Cummings Ave NW. The City Clerk is directed to record the easement with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
93432: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details:Kentwood Excavating, Inc. submitted a bid of $617,475 for the project, exceeding the engineer’s estimate of $580,816. An amount not to exceed $897,478 is authorized for construction, design services, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is directed to process payments as requested.
93433: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc. submitted a proposal of $1,448,500 for the project. An amount not to exceed $1,679,000 is approved for the project, covering design, administration, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is directed to process payments as needed.
93434:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: An increase in the scope of work for improvements to Sullivan Field at a cost of $73,897.30. An amount not to exceed $1,302,233 is authorized for the project. The City Engineer or designee is authorized to execute necessary change orders.
93435: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: EV Construction Co. submitted a proposal of $15,230 for preconstruction services. An amount not to exceed $546,930 is authorized for the project. The City Engineer or designee is authorized to execute necessary change orders.
93436: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: C&I Building Maintenance, Inc. submitted a bid of $203,746 for roof restoration, below the engineer’s estimate of $308,604. An amount not to exceed $304,855 is approved for the project, covering all associated costs. The City Comptroller is directed to process payments as needed.
93437: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details:Bazen Electric Co. submitted a bid of $38,521, below the engineer’s estimate of $53,971. An amount not to exceed $98,695 is authorized for the project, including construction costs, design services, administration, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is authorized to process payments as requested.
93438: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: CL Trucking & Excavating, LLC submitted a bid of $5,626,738.50, lower than the engineer’s estimate of $6,024,575. Approval of a cost-sharing agreement with Cascade Charter Township. An amount not to exceed $7,133,400 is approved for the project, including construction costs, design services, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is authorized to process payments as needed. The City declares intent to reimburse costs through tax-exempt bonds.
93439:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: Diversco Construction Company submitted a bid of $3,189,107.50, below the engineer’s estimate of $3,328,025. An amount not to exceed $4,237,159 is authorized, covering construction, design services, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is authorized to process payments as needed. The City intends to reimburse costs through tax-exempt bonds.
93440: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: Montgomery Excavating, LLC submitted a bid of $3,271,994.55, below the engineer’s estimate of $3,480,187. An amount not to exceed $4,264,335 is authorized for the project, including construction, design services, and contingencies. : The City Comptroller is authorized to process payments as needed. The City intends to reimburse costs through tax-exempt bonds.
93441: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: An agreement and lease with 450 Market Avenue, L.L.C. and Gelock Transfer Line Inc. are approved.Deeds accepted for properties totaling $2,606,400: 489 Market Ave. SW, 501 Market Ave. SW The Mayor is authorized to execute agreements and the City Comptroller can make payments up to $3,300,000. The City Clerk is tasked with recording the deeds. The City declares intent to reimburse costs through the issuance of tax-exempt bonds.
93442:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: Nagel Construction, Inc. submitted a bid of $3,971,648.95, close to the engineer’s estimate of $3,951,071.50. An amount not to exceed $5,223,360.00 is authorized for the project, covering construction, permits, and contingencies. The City Comptroller is authorized to process payments as needed.
93443: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Perdue
Details: The Alger Heights Social District is designated with designated Commons Areas for outdoor dining. Each Commons Area is required to be contiguous to at least two qualified licensees. Proper signage will define Commons Areas, which must be maintained to protect community health and safety. The City Manager can make reasonable adjustments to Commons Area limits as needed.
93447:Approved
Mover: Robbins.
Supporter: Knight.
Yeas: Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: This ordinance amends the section regarding life allowances for firefighters in the Grand Rapids Police and Fire Retirement System, specifically addressing retirement benefit multipliers.
Life Allowance Calculation:
Members receive a life allowance based on a percentage of their final average salary at retirement.
The allowance is calculated using a benefit multiplier multiplied by the member's years of credited service.
Benefit Multipliers and Allowance Caps:
Specific multipliers and caps are set based on the date of hire and position (e.g., Firefighters, Police Officers, Sergeants).
For example:
Firefighters hired before July 1, 1992:
Benefit Multiplier of 2.5% (cap at 100%)
If they retired before a certain date, a 2.7% multiplier applies (still capped at 100%).
Police Officers hired before March 9, 1995:
Benefit Multiplier of 2.7% (cap at 100%).
Special Provisions:
New firefighters hired on or after January 10, 2012, start with a 2.0% multiplier for the first five years but can elect to increase it after that period.
Adjustments for officers promoted from other units and provisions for members who deferred retirement are also included.
Election of Multiplier:
Members can irrevocably choose higher multipliers within certain timeframes, impacting their future benefits.
Cost adjustments for higher multipliers are to be calculated by an actuary and added to member contributions.
Limitations on Allowance:
Life allowances for deferred retirees who left before July 1, 2001, are subject to specific limitations outlined in the City Code.
This ordinance updates the retirement benefit structure for firefighters in Grand Rapids, ensuring clarity on multipliers and allowance caps while providing options for increased benefits based on individual choices. If you have any further questions or need more details, feel free to ask!
93448: Approved
Mover: Goei.
Supporter: Robbins.
Yeas: Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: This resolution authorizes the City Attorney to settle a court case involving Terrilyn Gross and the City of Grand Rapids.:
Case Title: Terrilyn Gross v. City of Grand Rapids
Circuit Court Case No.: 23-01307-NO
Settlement Agreement:
The City of Grand Rapids will settle the case for a total cash payment of $55,000.
Additionally, the City will cover mediation costs not exceeding $2,500.
Payment Structure:
Payments will be made to Terrilyn Gross and her legal representation, the Law Offices of Todd J. Stearn, P.C..
The payment will be processed through the City’s risk management authority, MMRMA.
Execution of Agreement:
The resolution mandates that upon the execution of the settlement agreement and release of claims, MMRMA is directed to issue the payments.
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Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None
93469: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves a 2-year subscription agreement with Bloomberg Finance LP, not to exceed $60,000. Rescinds previous conflicting resolutions.
93470: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepts a $1,050,000 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for restoring Sullivan Field, with performance through December 31, 2025.
93471: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves a $25,000 agreement for services supporting the West Michigan Welcome Plan from May 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026.
93472:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves a $130,000 funding agreement for the Domestic Violence Action Network, authorized to be executed by the 61st District Court.
93473:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes the City Treasurer to establish a credit card merchant account with Stripe, Inc., allowing payment processing for city services.
93474:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Ferguson Enterprises: One-year contract for O.E.M. Fernco couplings, not-to-exceed $20,000 annually (total estimated $60,000 over three years).
Ferguson Enterprises & Etna Supply: Contracts for O.E.M. fire hydrants and parts, not-to-exceed $150,000 (total estimated $450,000) and $10,000 (total estimated $30,000) annually.
Parkeon, Inc.: Contract extension for pay station equipment, not-to-exceed $1,100,000 annually (total estimated $3,300,000).
Havener Tech: Contract extension for SPF application services, not-to-exceed $250,000 annually (total estimated $750,000).
93477: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepts an easement from TTLC Investments, LLC, and authorizes a payment of $3,230.00.
93478:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes an agreement with MDOT for road improvements. Authorizes expenditures for the local share of costs, not-to-exceed $2,335,450.
93480: ApprovedMover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepts a Sidewalk and Utility Easement from Members First Credit Union for $67,648.00. Authorizes payments up to $10,000 for electric utility relocation. Authorizes payments up to $25,000 for appraisal and title services. Total authorized payments not-to-exceed $102,648.00.
93481: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves a Notice of Utility Easement at 1500 Scribner Avenue NW with no associated costs.
93482: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves an Encroachment Agreement with Grand Action Foundation 2.0 for a public soccer stadium, with costs covered by the Foundation.
93483:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves the issuance of a new Class C Development District liquor license for Short Game Projects LLC, supporting the investment in the Downtown Development Area.
93484: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Establishes an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District with no immediate financial implications specified.
93485: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 130 Packard Avenue SE. Estimated cost of real property improvement: $400,000. Certificate approved for 10 years based on projected increased commercial activity.
93488: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 662 Leonard Street NW. Estimated cost of real property improvement: $1,600,000. Certificate approved for 11 years based on projected increased commercial activity
93489:Approved
Mover: O'Connor.
Supporter: Goei.
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details:Amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget
Other Grants Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $27,926,249.24
Requested Changes: +$102,741.00
Total Amended Resources: $28,028,990.24
Refuse Collection Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $18,254,253.00
Requested Changes: +$61,782.60
Total Amended Resources: $18,316,035.60
Parks - Capital Projects Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $0
Requested Changes: +$2,100,000.00
Total Amended Resources: $2,100,000.00
Cemetery Operating Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $1,758,383.00
Requested Changes: +$1,050,000.00
Total Amended Resources: $2,808,383.00
Uptown Business Improvement District Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $122,840.00
Requested Changes: +$10,000.00
Total Amended Resources: $132,840.00
Capital Improvement Bond Series 2021 Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $9,993,829.00
Requested Changes: +$27,550.00
Total Amended Resources: $10,021,379.00
61st District Court Grants Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $2,832,765.86
Requested Changes: +$130,000.00
Total Amended Resources: $2,962,765.86
Capital Improvement Fund
Previously Approved Resources: $105,904,159.69
Requested Changes: +$750,000.00
Total Amended Resources: $106,654,159.69
A motion was made to give the budget ordinance immediate effect, which was also approved.The amendments result in adjustments across various funds, totaling an increase in available resources for the fiscal year. The adjustments aim to enhance funding for specific projects and operational needs within the city’s budget framework.
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Thid Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None.
93496: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Voting Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: A public hearing to discuss proposed fees is scheduled for May 14, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Commission Chambers, City Hall, 300 Monroe Avenue NW. Proposed fees will take effect on July 1, 2024. The City Clerk will provide notice of the public hearing as per City Commission Policy # 700-10.
93497: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: O'Connor
Voting Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: The FY2025 City operating tax levy will decrease by 0.0781 mills, resulting in a total operating tax levy of 8.9544. Public hearings on the proposed property tax millage rate and FY2025 budget are scheduled for May 14, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall. The City Clerk will post notices of the public hearings at City Hall and publish them in the Grand Rapids Press on May 5, 2024.
93498: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Voting Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: A public hearing to consider the transformational brownfield plan for the Grand Action 2.0 Redevelopment Project will be held on May 7, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at City Hall. The City Clerk will provide public notice of the hearing as per Act 381 and notify taxing jurisdictions regarding the plan. A copy of the plan will be available for public inspection in the Economic Development Office, City Hall.
May
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None.
93508 Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a $35 million grant for constructing two fire stations and a training center.
93509: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized a contract for $22,000 with Khamai Strategies for community engagement related to the Climate Action Plan.
93510:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved an agreement for $55,000 with Baxter Community Center for summer day camp services.
93511 Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized the Mayor to execute agreements for the GRow1000 Youth Employment Program.
93512: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a $7 million grant for Grand River Revitalization and designated the City Engineer as the Authorized Representative.
93513:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Requested a disaster relief grant due to $145,534.47 in expenses from a tornado and severe thunderstorms.
93514:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Declared intent to issue bonds up to $41.4 million for water supply system improvements.
93515: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details:
Davey Resource Group: Contract for a forestry operations master plan for $64,908.
Etna Supply: O.E.M. Sensus meters contract, $1,000,000 annually (total estimated $6,750,000 over three years).
Ferguson Waterworks: O.E.M. Neptune meters contract, $750,000 annually.
SLC Meter Service: O.E.M. Badger meters contract, $500,000 annually.
Parker Technology, LLC: VOIP services contract extension for $30,000 annually (total $90,000 over three years).
Rathco Safety: Contract increase by $60,000, total $90,000 annually.
Radco Apparel: Contract for athletic apparel for $25,000 annually (total $75,000 over three years).
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services: ASL interpreter services for $15,000 annually (total $45,000 over three years).
Cordes Trucking: Waste disposal services for $300,000 annually (total $900,000 over three years).
Security Incorporated: Armored car services for $45,000 annually (total $135,000 over three years).
Dell Marketing, LLC: O.E.M. Dell equipment for $750,000 annually (total $2,250,000 over three years).
LaFontaine DCJR of Lansing, Inc.: Two hybrid vehicles for $87,868.
Redzone Robotics, Inc.: Sanitary and sewer inspection services for $224,650.
Fredrickson Supply: Two pipeline camera systems for $182,646.
93516:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Public hearing scheduled to consider an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District for JV Enterprise, LLC.
93517: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Public hearing scheduled to consider a ten-year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for JV Enterprise, LLC.
93518: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Proposed zoning amendment for a development project including twenty duplex units and reuse of an existing building.
93519:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorizes the filing of an amended petition for improvements to the Knapp’s Corner Drain, including a detention pond and drainage outlet.
Financial Implication: City will be assessed a portion of the project costs.
93520: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted bid from Praise Sign Company, LLC for wayfinding signage for $78,875.47. Total expenditures authorized for the project up to $154,650. Funding Source: Charged to the Parking System Fund.
93521:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted proposals for mussel relocation services, including $132,080 from Dunn Ecological Services, LLC and $1,268,248.29 from BioSurvey Group, LLC. Total expenditures authorized up to $1,550,000. Funding Source: Charged to the Capital Improvement Fund.
93522:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted bid from Bazen Electric Co. for filter programmable logic controller improvements at the Lake Michigan Filtration Plant for $1,190,971. Total expenditures authorized up to $1,556,150.Funding Source: Specific codes defined in the resolution.
93523: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted proposal from Clark Construction Company, Inc. for construction of city facilities at $30,021,478. Total expenditures authorized up to $64,164,305, which includes contingencies and previous services. Intent to reimburse up to $60,000,000 through tax-exempt bonds. Funding Source: Charged to Capital Improvement Fund Codes.
93524: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted bid from Katerberg-Verhage, Inc. for restroom and parking lot improvements at Ottawa Hills Park for $718,410. Total expenditures authorized up to $1,044,874. Funding Sources: $300,000 from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant and $744,874 from Parks Millage Codes.
93525: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Fairbanks Street will be renamed to Corewell Drive, effective June 1, 2024. The City Manager will manage necessary updates, and the City Clerk will notify relevant agencies and property owners.
93526:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Recommended approval of a Social District Permit for Switchback Gear Exchange, LLC, to allow outdoor consumption of alcoholic beverages.
93527:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Recommended approval of a Social District Permit for Wealthy Street Bakery, LLC, to allow outdoor consumption of alcoholic beverages.
93528:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority in the amount of $26,904,150.
93529 Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority in the amount of $2,329,646.
93530Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Economic Development Corporation in the amount of $128,775.
93531:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the West Side Corridor Improvement Authority.
93532:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority in the amount of $793,591.
93533 Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority in the amount of $780,000.
93534: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority in the amount of $523,200.
93535:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority in the amount of $472,100.
93536:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority in the amount of $245,000.
93537 Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Uptown Business Improvement District in the amount of $144,520.
93538:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Downtown Development Authority in the amount of $15,137,789.
93539: Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Downtown Improvement District.
93540:Approved
Mover: O'Connor,
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for the Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority in the amount of $2,041,010.
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Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi
Absent: Third Ward Commissioner Goei
93558: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Contract with Healthy Homes Coalition for education and home water filter distribution, not to exceed $150,000, through December 31, 2026.
93559:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Agreement with Grand Rapids Pickleball, Inc. for improvements to pickleball courts at Belknap Park, not to exceed $170,000, for 2024.
93560: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Budget transfer of $582,980 for the reconstruction of Eleanor Street and Fremont Avenue.
93561:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Budget transfer of $415,023 for the reconstruction of Hall Street and water main abandonment.
93562: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Budget transfer of $108,000 for refrigeration system improvements at Belknap Park Griff's Icehouse.
93563: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Various contracts approved with spending involved:
Ferguson Enterprises & Etna Supply: Water meter fittings, $200,000 annually.
Advanced Hydrovac, Inc. & Plummer’s Environmental: Vacuum excavation services, $55,000 annually.
TruePani, Inc.: Water pitchers and filters, $366,000.
Stanley Steemer Great Lakes, Inc.: Duct cleaning services, $6,000 annually.
Building Bridges Professional Services: Mowing services, $21,000 annually.
Propio LS, LLC: Telephone interpreter services, $10,000 annually.
Presidio Holdings, Inc.: Video equipment services, $475,000 annually.
Granicus, Inc.: OneMeeting subscription fees, starting at $72,496.14 for Year 1.
93564:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Approval of a Subgrant Agreement providing up to $1,800,000 for the rehabilitation of 974 Front Avenue NW.
93565: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details:Authorization for the State Land Bank Authority to enter into option agreements for properties at:
817 Hancock Street SE: Purchase price $5,000
1447 Blaine Avenue SE: Purchase price $5,000
93566:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Authorization for Progressive AE, Inc. for final design and bidding services for Oxford Trail improvements, with total expenditures not to exceed $955,520.
93567: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Amendment to the Professional Services Agreement for construction management at 1500 Scribner Avenue NW, with an increase in expenditures of $6,092,965, totaling not to exceed $70,721,860.
93568:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Acceptance of Katerberg-Verhage, Inc.'s bid of $1,190,789 for Riverwalk Improvements, with total project expenditures not to exceed $1,700,000.
9356:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Ratification of Special Assessment Nuisance Roll Number 8784, totaling $413,845.47, to be billed on July 1, 2024. Payments due by July 31, 2024, with penalties for late payments.
93570: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Authorization for a public hearing on June 4, 2024, regarding an amendment to the Brownfield Plan for the Vandenburg Center Redevelopment Project. Public notice to be given as required by law.
93571: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: Authorization for a public hearing on June 4, 2024, to consider designating the Vandenburg Center as a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone at 111 Lyon Street NW.
93572: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details: A public hearing will be held on July 16, 2024, to review appeals on the Downtown Improvement District Special Assessment Roll #8788, which is the second year of a three-year assessment plan.
93573: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter:Robbins
Details:Approval of a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Seymour Condominiums project, confirming that it serves a public purpose and meets requirements of Act 381.
93574:Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:
Funding Awards: The resolution approves funding for various organizations under the Neighborhood Investment Plan Projects, with a total funding amount of $10,416,556. Below are highlights of the funding allocations:
AYA Youth Collective: $25,000
Catherine’s Health Center: $240,000
Cherry Health: $500,000
City of Grand Rapids Community Development:
Code Enforcement: $1,368,688
Housing Rehabilitation: $850,000
Homebuyer Assistance Fund: $50,000
Community Rebuilders: $500,000
Habitat for Humanity of Kent County: $350,000
The Salvation Army:
Eviction Prevention Program: $303,558
Long-term Rental Assistance: $312,000
Designated Authority:
The City Manager is designated as the Authorized Official for federal programs related to these funds.
Adoption of Annual Action Plan:
The City of Grand Rapids adopts the FY 2025 Annual Action Plan.
The City Manager or their designee is authorized to submit plans to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and execute necessary agreements.
Contractual Agreements:
Approval for contractual agreements with the funded organizations is granted, not to exceed the amounts specified.
The Mayor is authorized to execute these agreements and related documents, including amendments and mortgage-related documents, all in a form approved by the City Attorney.
This resolution reflects a significant investment in community development and support services across Grand Rapids, addressing various needs such as public safety, housing rehabilitation, and employment initiatives.
93576: Adopted
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Necessary for the City Treasurer to prepare tax bills for the 2025 fiscal year, which are to be mailed on July 1, 2024. Proposed Millage Tax Rates:
Approval to levy several property taxes for city operations:
General Operating Purposes: 5.6252 mills
Library System Support: 0.3460 mills
Advertising and Promotion: 0.0068 mills (not-to-exceed $50,000)
Refuse Abatement: 1.8000 mills
Parks Support: 1.1764 mills
Total tax levy will not exceed 8.9544 mills for the 2025 fiscal year.
93579: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Vote:Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: To amend the budget for the City of Grand Rapids for Fiscal Year 2024, updating various funds and appropriations.
Key Budget Amendments:
Other Grants Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $28,630,924.99
Increase: $619,754.00
General Retiree Health Care Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $6,075,145.00
Increase: $1,750,000.00
Police Officer Retiree Health Care Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $4,251,447.00
Increase: $500,000.00
Parks Millage Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $7,163,724.00
Increase: $1,695,903.00
Parks - Capital Projects Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $7,406,903.00
Increase: $5,306,903.00
Parks & Recreation Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $11,216,559.00
Increase: $1,019,000.00
Water Operations Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $59,040,626.72
Increase: $551,241.72
Water Replacement Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $44,964,641.76
Increase: $551,241.72
Water Improvement Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $56,882,311.36
Increase: $7,451,438.00
Capital Improvement Bond Series 2021 Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $10,183,779.00
Increase: $162,400.00
Golf Course Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $1,381,486.02
Increase: $106,000.00
Capital Improvement Fund:
Total Amended Resources: $109,925,058.55
Increase: $3,689,028.00
93580: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Ysasi
Vote:Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: To establish the budget for the City of Grand Rapids for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, including provisions for:
Property, income, and other taxes sufficient to cover city government expenses.
Contingent Fund requirements as per city charter.
City promotional and advertising tax needs as per state law.
Maintenance of Sinking Funds and payment obligations related to municipal debt.
Refuse collection requirements per state law.
2024-23: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Ysasi
Vote: Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi
Details: Establish the budget for the City of Grand Rapids for the Fiscal Year 2024-2025.Key Points:
Total Estimated Budget: $689,974,679.
Property Tax Millage: 8.9544 mills.
City Income Tax: To support city expenses.
Breakdown of Significant Allocations:
General Operating Fund:
Total Resources: $186,233,426
Major Appropriations:
Police: $65,564,523
Fire: $43,879,596
Community Services: $5,137,662
Special Revenue Funds:
Building Inspections Fund: $6,335,886
Community Development Program Fund: $4,909,150
Enterprise Funds:
Sewage Disposal System Fund: $73,325,394 (Operations & Maintenance: $62,167,394; Capital Improvement: $11,158,000)
Water Supply System Fund: $111,932,905 (Operations & Maintenance: $58,178,505; Capital Improvement: $53,754,400)
Capital Projects Funds:
Capital Improvement Fund: $12,226,568
Vital Streets Capital Fund: $13,808,639
Retiree Health Care Funds:
General Retiree Health Care Fund: $4,452,794
Police Officer Retiree Health Care Fund: $4,162,883
June
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None.
93597: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Recognized "Hope for Single Moms" as a local civic organization for Bingo/Raffle License application.
93598: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized a payment of $13,532.08 to the Neighbors of Belknap Lookout from Grand Valley State University’s voluntary payment.
93599: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized additional expenditures for maintenance at Knapp’s Corner drain, “not-to-exceed” $153,993.16.
93600: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Contracted with The Johnson Center for Philanthropy for program measurement, “not-to-exceed” $75,000.
93601: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Resolution: Contracted with Arbor Circle for a mental health initiative in the Second Ward for $350,000.
93602: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized a contract with Highstreet IT Solutions for IT services, “not-to-exceed” $2,400,000.
93604: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a grant from The Wege Foundation for $399,500 to hire two full-time sustainability staff, with no matching funds required.
93605: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized contracts with 3Degrees and Sol Systems to purchase renewable energy credits for a total amount “not-to-exceed” $250,000 for 2024 and 2025.
93606: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized the issuance of bonds for capital improvements (Hockey Arena and Fire Training Campus Projects) not to exceed $28,000,000.
93607: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Contracts prepared for:
Past Perfect, Inc. for historic district nomination: $60,000.
Beaumont Capital Management for health care trust fund management: $245,000.
Fairfax Software for remittance imaging: $382,650 + annual support of $35,913.
Universal Protection Service for mobile security patrol: $150,000.
Pure Air Filtration for activated carbon: $200,000.
Pure Air Filtration for additional media: $35,000.
Polydyne, Inc. for bulk polymer: $975,000.
93614: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized the City Manager to apply for a $200,000 grant from MDOT for the Leonard Street NE Pedestrian Hybrid Beacon Crossing project, with a local funding commitment of approximately $149,292.
93616: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the issuance of quit claim deeds for properties to the Grand Rapids Housing Commission for $1.00 to clarify ownership for future conveyance to low-income households.
93617: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized the State Land Bank Authority to enter into an option agreement with Spitzley Group, LLC for the property at 1301 Logan Street SE for a purchase price of $5,000.
93618: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Extended contracts for utility improvements with several contractors to June 30, 2027, with an increased total expenditure of $950,000 for various associated costs.
93619: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Awarded the contract for the Replacement of Lead Service Lines (Contract 2024-1) to SPS Pro Plumbing, LLC for $3,338,848, contingent on financing from the Michigan Finance Authority. Total project expenditures authorized at $4,054,900, including construction and administrative costs.
93620: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Awarded the contract for the Replacement of Lead Service Lines (Contract 2024-2) to Groundhawg Landscaping & Excavating, LLC for $3,850,300, contingent on financing from the Michigan Finance Authority. Total project expenditures authorized at $4,612,200.
93621: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted the bid from Diversco Construction Company for Improvements to the Water System at $1,475,624. Total expenditures authorized at $1,997,000, covering all associated costs.
93622: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Amended the Professional Services Agreement with Clark Construction Company for the Construction of City Facilities at 1500 Scribner Avenue NW. The total expenditure for the project is now $81,174,809, including a $9,311,779 increase for additional work.
93623: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a Cost-Sharing Agreement for $1,674,500 with Factory Yards Development, L.L.C. for the reconstruction of Godfrey Avenue and Chestnut Street.
93624: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized an agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation for the reconstruction of Valley Avenue. Local expenditures approved at $2,824,504, with funding from various sources, including the Water System Fund.
93625: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Resolution: Authorized the City Manager to file a grant application for active transportation infrastructure improvements. The project will enhance biking and walking facilities in various locations across the city.
93628: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved polling locations for upcoming elections and established compensation rates for election inspectors. Locations include Saints Peter and Paul School, GRPS University, and Ottawa Hills High School.
93631: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for JV Enterprise, LLC. The project is set to improve property value and create employment, with a rehabilitation cost estimated at $240,000.
93632: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved the FY2025 budget for the Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority in the total amount of $12,493,825.
93633: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Goei
Details: Approved an agreement between the City of Grand Rapids and Seeding Justice for an amount “not-to-exceed” $711,364.18. The agreement's performance period is from June 4, 2024, to June 4, 2025. Authorized the Mayor to execute the agreement upon approval by the City Attorney.
93636: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Goei
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: Title: Amending the Budget of the City of Grand Rapids for Fiscal Year 2024
Key Amendments:
General Operating Fund:
Previously Approved Resources: $191,424,391.69
Total Amended Resources: $192,798,304.48
Amended Appropriations:
Contingent: $(935,080.21)
Executive Office: $75,000.00
Fire Department: $1,883,993.00
Police Department: $350,000.00
Other Grants Fund:
Previously Approved Resources: $28,630,924.99
Total Amended Resources: $30,130,924.99
Total Amended Appropriations: $30,130,924.99
Police Grants Fund:
Previously Approved Resources: $2,190,661.30
Total Amended Resources: $2,382,045.52
Total Amended Appropriations: $2,382,045.52
Capital Improvement Fund:
Previously Approved Resources: $109,925,058.55
Total Amended Resources: $119,425,058.55
Total Amended Appropriations: $119,425,058.55
Capital Improvement Bonds Series 2024 Fund - Amphitheater:
Total Amended Resources: $20,999,825.45
Total Amended Appropriations: $20,999,825.45
Capital Improvement Bonds Series 2024 Fund - Scribner:
Total Amended Resources: $61,999,432.50
Total Amended Appropriations: $61,999,432.50
The ordinance adjusts the budget allocations across various funds, ensuring that the city’s financial resources align with its operational needs and project goals for the fiscal year 2024.
July
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: First Ward Commissioner Robbins
93669: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: City to contract with City of Rest for the GRACE criminal justice diversion program, not to exceed $150,000. Contract term: until December 31, 2026. Mayor authorized to execute related documents.
93670: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Acceptance of a $1 million grant from the State of Michigan for election activities. Mayor authorized to execute the grant agreement.
93671: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:Reimbursement of $87,986.56 to Grand Rapids Community College for eligible capital equipment for PEG access channels.
93672: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Professional Services Agreement with PayIt, LLC for payment processing services, not to exceed $1,500,000 per year. Contract duration: one year with two optional renewals.
93673: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorization for the Risk Manager to execute insurance agreements and pay premiums totaling $3,182,824.00 for the period of July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
93674: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Budget substitution of $52,760 for the Reconstruction of Cesar E. Chavez Avenue project.
93675: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approval of new Lease Agreements with New Cingular Wireless (AT&T) for communication use of Covell Dog Park and water tank sites, with payments of $24,000 and $28,000 annually, respectively.
93676: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Contract with Weaver and Tidewell L.L.P. for regulatory compliance support for RINs, not to exceed $150,000 annually.
93677: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Acceptance of a $6,129,256 grant from MEDC for the Revitalization and Placemaking program. Approval of sub-grant agreements for various projects totaling $4,250,610.
93678: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approval of Amendment Seven to a Land Banking Agreement allowing for expenditures beyond the previously established limit.
93679: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorization to undertake the Parking Deck Project with financing through capital improvement bonds, not to exceed $30,500,000. Publication of notice of intent to issue bonds. Declaration of intent to reimburse costs related to the project.
93680: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Hockey Arena Improvements: Upgrades to Griff’s Ice House, including refrigeration system and new rink features.
Park Improvements: New parks and facilities, renovation of existing ones, including trails and playgrounds.
ELC Improvements: Upgrades to city electric and communication systems, including infrastructure repairs.
Bond Issuance:
The City plans to issue bonds up to $68,500,000 to finance these Public Improvements.
Public Health and Safety: The City deems it necessary to undertake various public improvements, including upgrades to the Hockey Arena, parks, and electric and communication systems.
Useful Life: Each improvement is estimated to be useful for at least 30 years.
Bond Issuance:
Amount: The City is authorized to issue up to $24,000,000 in "Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds" to fund these improvements and cover issuance costs.
Security: The bonds will be secured by the City’s full faith and credit, and annual budget allocations will ensure payment of principal and interest.
Bond Details:
Interest Rate: The average net interest rate will not exceed 6.00% per year.
Payment Structure: Bonds will be repaid in up to 30 payments.
Redemption: Bonds may be subject to mandatory or optional redemption before maturity.
Administration:
The City’s Chief Financial Officer is authorized to manage various aspects of the bond issuance, including pricing, maturity dates, and other related procedures.
Payment and Record Keeping:
Principal and Interest Payments: Payments will be made to bondholders in lawful U.S. currency, with interest paid by mail.
Denomination: Bonds will be issued in denominations of $5,000 or multiples thereof.
Book-Entry System:
Initially, bonds will be issued in a book-entry format through The Depository Trust Company (DTC) for easier transfer and tracking.
Section 25: Approval from the Michigan Department of Treasury
The issuance and sale of the bonds requires approval from the State's Department of Treasury, as mandated by Act 34. The City has already filed a qualifying statement and received qualified status.
Section 26: Bond Counsel
The firm Dickinson Wright PLLC is appointed as bond counsel for the bond issuance. The Chief Financial Officer is authorized to sign an engagement letter with the firm, agreeing to fees as outlined in the financial report. The City acknowledges that Dickinson Wright PLLC represents various financial institutions unrelated to this bond issue and consents to any potential conflicts of interest arising from that representation.
Section 27: Municipal Advisor
MFCI, LLC is appointed as the registered municipal advisor for the bond issuance.
Section 28: Severability
If any part of the resolution is found invalid, it does not affect the validity of the remaining provisions.
Section 29: Prior Resolutions
Any previous resolutions conflicting with this one are repealed to the extent of that conflict.
Section 30: Headings
The headings in the resolution are for reference only and do not form part of the resolution itself.
Section 31: Effective Date
The resolution takes effect immediately upon passage.
These sections ensure compliance with state regulations, outline legal representation, and establish the resolution’s validity and effective date.
93681: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Grand Rapids Electric Motor Repair Service, LLC:
Contract for up to $30,000 annually (total estimated $90,000 for three years).
Various Vendors for O.E.M. Parts:
Total not-to-exceed amount of $585,000 annually (estimated $1,755,000 for three years).
Cable Installation/Repair Services:
Total not-to-exceed amount of $450,000 annually (estimated $1,350,000 for three years).
Exotic Automation & Supply:
Contract for up to $30,000 annually (total estimated $90,000 for three years).
Firefighting Gear:
Total not-to-exceed amount of $800,000 annually (estimated $2,400,000 for three years).
RWDI:
Contract for up to $24,200 annually (estimated $72,600 for three years).
All City Management Services:
Contract for up to $650,000 annually (estimated $1,950,000 for three years).
Trace Analytical Laboratories:
Contract for up to $100,000 annually (estimated $300,000 for three years).
Equipment Distributors:
Purchase and installation of a hydraulic vehicle lift for $451,556.51.
93682: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: A public hearing scheduled for July 30, 2024, to consider an amendment to the Brownfield Plan for the Pleasant Hills Redevelopment Project. Public notice to be given to all relevant parties.
93689: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Property Purchase: Authorizes an option agreement with New Development Corporation (NDC) for property at 1624 Lafayette Avenue SE.
Purchase Price: $17,000.
Proceeds from the sale to be deposited in the Property Management Fund.
93690: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Project: Construction of Caledonia Pump Station.
Bid Accepted: RK Davis, Inc. for $3,746,629.
Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $4,881,000 (includes construction, design, testing, and contingencies).
93691: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Project: Water Main Replacement.
Bid Accepted: Dykema Excavators, Inc. for $3,529,905.50.
Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $4,313,200 (includes construction, testing, and contingencies).
93692: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Project: Ventilation Improvements at Livingston Pump Station.
Bid Accepted: DHE Plumbing and Mechanical Inc. for $184,000.
Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $260,850 (includes construction, inspection, and contingencies).
93693: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Agreement: Construction and Water Main Oversizing Agreement with Edward Rose Development Company. Payment Authorized: $57,900.80 to the developer from the Water System Fund.
93694: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Project: Reconstruction of Wealthy Street. Bid Accepted: Diversco Construction Company for $755,549.75. Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $1,003,670 (includes construction, permits, and contingencies).
93696: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details: Construction and Financing Agreement for Walker Water Main Looping Project.
Amount: Up to $2,650,000 for construction.
93697: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Project: Private Water Service Installation and Well Abandonment (Burger-Goodwood Neighborhood, Phase 2).
Bid Accepted: McDonald Plumbing Co. for $1,733,081.
Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $1,995,600 (includes construction, administration, and contingencies).
93698: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Project: Rotomilling and Resurfacing of East Paris Avenue.
Cost Sharing Agreement: Between the City of Grand Rapids and the City of Kentwood.
Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $225,002.11 (City's share).
93701: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Vacation Request: From Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids for Division Avenue Alley.
Conditions: Includes utility easements, traffic flow requirements, and escrow of $7,500 for related costs.
93702: Approved
MMover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Easements: Accepted from County of Kent and Ferris State University for sidewalk and utility reconstruction.
Payments Authorized:
County of Kent: $1,380.00
Ferris State University: $1,600.00
93703: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Project: Replacement of Electrical Substation and Switch Gear at the City-County Complex.
Bid Accepted: McGraw Construction, Inc. for $3,364,777.
Total Authorized Expenditures: Up to $4,248,315 (includes construction, design services, inspection, administration, and contingencies).
93705: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Liquor License Request: 19th Holdings, LLC at 45 Ottawa Ave NW.
Approval Granted: Based on public and private investment exceeding $200,000 in the Downtown Development District.
93711 Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Ysasi, Goei
Details: Authorized a payment of $29,796.59 to settle a claim with Progressive Insurance for Risk Management Claim No. R240168.
93712:Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Ysasi, Goei
Details:Authorized a $75,000.00 payment for a workers’ compensation settlement for Lucas A. Souders. Approved an initial set aside of $15,000.00 for future Medicare expenses related to the claim.
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Thid Ward Commissioner Goei Absent: First Ward Commissioner Robbins
93744: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes payment of $96,367 to Grand Valley State University for police academy costs.
93745: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Action: Accepts a grant for $479,600 for Camelot Park improvements; total project cost $959,200 with a 50% reimbursement from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
93746t: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes a Professional Services Agreement with JACO Civil Process for $69,600 for civilian subpoena services.
93747: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepts a $110,154 grant for a full-time sustainability position (no matching funds required).
93748; Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes write-off of $423.72 in bad debt for water/sewer utility accounts.
93749: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details Authorizes contracts with several vendors, including:
$36,977 for a parking reservation solution.
$1,750,000 (Elwood Staffing), $2,000,000 (P.I.E. Management), and $750,000 (Management Business Solutions) for temporary employment services.
$52,000 for a 36-month lease of a John Deere greens mower.
$934,058.22 for Microsoft licensing.
93750: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Accepts bid from Wyoming Excavators for $4,111,991 for rotomilling/resurfacing; total project cost authorized at $5,425,045.
93751: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves a fireworks discharge permit for an event at Van Andel Arena.
93752: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves an agreement for traffic signal equipment installation at a cost of $53,720.80 with reimbursements from the Cities of Walker and Kentwood.
93753: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves an agreement for traffic signal communication in Walker, authorizing reimbursement of $16,568.10.
93754: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves an agreement with Kentwood for traffic signal communication equipment installation at 17 intersections; local cost share not-to-exceed $42,809.47.
93755 Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Accepts bid from Bazen Electric for electrical improvements at Lake Michigan Filtration Plant; contract bid is $1,818,015 with total project expenditures not-to-exceed $2,336,260.
93756: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves a construction management services agreement with McGraw Construction for accessibility improvements; total expenditures not-to-exceed $941,870.
93757: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves a Financing Agreement for public water main relocation in Walker; not-to-exceed amount is $600,000.
93758 Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Directs the City Assessor to prepare assessment roll for unpaid nuisance abatement costs; specifics to be detailed in the roll.
93759: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves commemorative designation of “Cliff’s Corner” at Henry Avenue and Logan Street in honor of Rev. Dr. Clifton Rhodes, Jr.
93760: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Extends agreements with multiple engineering firms for bridge inspection services; total expenditures not-to-exceed $65,900.
93761: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:: Approves the First Amendment to the Brownfield Plan for the Vandenburg Center Redevelopment; affirms public purpose and feasibility of financing under Act 381.
93762: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details::
Establishes the Vandenburg Center as a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ).
This designation aims to promote housing rehabilitation, investment, and economic development.
The area defined includes 111 Lyon Street NW.
A waiver of specific policy requirements supports the project by CWD 111 Lyon, LLC.
A certified copy will be sent to the Michigan State Tax Commission.
93763: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Approves a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Benjamin Flats project.
Confirms that the Amendment serves a public purpose and meets the necessary requirements of the Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act.
Establishes that the financing method for the project’s eligible activities is feasible and reasonable.
Rescinds any conflicting resolutions.
93764: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Ysasi
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Ysasi, Goei
Details:
Other Grants Fund:
Resources increased to $22,750,800.25
Police Grants Fund:
Resources increased to $1,288,175.56
Sewer Improvement Fund:
Resources increased to $47,071,266.48
Sewer Disposal Operations Fund:
Resources increased to $63,057,394.00
Water Improvement Fund:
Resources increased to $89,199,196.06
Vital Streets Capital Projects Fund:
Resources increased to $36,859,494.10
Immediate Effect: Motion passed.
9376:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Goei
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Ysasi, Goei
Details: Authorized a payment of $97,000 to settle the federal court case Kevin Koelzer v. Aaron Westrick, et al.
The Comptroller is directed to issue the payment.
August
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None
93778: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Approval of a grant for $10,000 from The Hartford for the Fire Department.
93779: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Acceptance of a $235,280 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy for energy audits, with no matching funds required.
93780: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Acceptance of a grant for $147,936 for an Endpoint Detection and Response System.
93781:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Amendment to accept a $6,477,220 grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) for the Revitalization and Placemaking program, including $2,059,364 for the Southtown Lofts project.
93782:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Authorization to fund $15,000 for collaboration with community organizations during ArtPrize (i.e., $5,000 each for three organizations).
93783: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Authorization of up to $400,000 for the City’s share of maintenance costs for the Knapp’s Corner drain.
93784: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Approval of amendments to an existing agreement regarding fees charged by Kent County for services related to arrestees.
93785: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Approval of amendments to an agreement regarding per diem fees for hosting individuals in custody, adjusting fees to align with the County’s fiscal year.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the recent resolutions, focusing on votes, spending, and tax exemptions:
93786: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Tax Exemption: Approval of a property tax exemption for Browning Claytor Town Homes for up to 12 years, extendable to 50 years under certain conditions.
Service Charges:
1% of annual shelter rental receipts for low-income units.
2% of annual shelter rent to the Affordable Housing Fund.
If not compliant, service charge increases to 4% of shelter rent.
93787: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:
Tax Exemption: Approval of a property tax exemption for Heron Courtyard for up to 45 years, extendable to 50 years under certain conditions.
Service Charges:
1% of annual shelter rental receipts for low-income units.
2% of annual shelter rent to the Affordable Housing Fund.
If occupied by higher-income residents, charges will equal full property taxes for that portion.
93788: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Spending and Grant Involved:
Grant Acceptance: $700,000 from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for lead hazard control.
Agreement Execution: Mayor authorized to execute related agreements.
93789: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Spending and Budget Involved:
Professional Services Agreement: $45,900 for the Fair Housing Equity Plan.
Performance Period: August 19, 2024, to May 31, 2025.
Agreement Execution: Mayor authorized to execute agreements.
93790: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Spending and Agreement Involved:
Donated Funds Agreement: Up to $77,000 for the Grand Rapids Eviction Prevention Program.
Agreement Period: October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Agreement Execution: Mayor authorized to execute agreements.
93791: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Spending and Agreement Involved:
Agreement with Mel Trotter Ministries: Up to $400,000 for a personal belongings storage program.
Agreement Period: October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2026.
Agreement Execution: Mayor authorized to execute agreements.
93792: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Spending and Grant Involved:
Grant Acceptance: Up to $3,334,860.84 from the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission for the FY25 Compliance Plan.
Performance Period: October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.
Agreement Execution: Mayor and City Manager authorized to execute agreements.
93793 Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Approved a Fireworks Discharge Permit for the Breakaway Music Festival, pending fire department inspection.
93794: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details: Public hearing scheduled for the Federal Fiscal Year 2023 Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report.
93795: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Spending and Contract Involved:
Project for Fire Station Improvements: Total expenditures not to exceed $529,570.
Bid Acceptance: Accepted from RAM Construction Services for $377,530.
Contract Execution: Mayor and City Clerk authorized to execute contract documents.
93796: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Contract Extension:
Project: As-Needed Asbestos and Lead Abatement.
Contractors: Abatement & Demolition Services LLC and Pro-Tech Environmental & Construction Services.
New End Date: June 30, 2025.
Cost: No increase to unit prices; not-to-exceed limit previously set at $900,000.
Authority Granted: City Engineer authorized to execute change orders.
93797: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Contract Extension:
Project: As-Needed Concrete and Façade Improvements.
Contractors: RAM Construction Services, BVR Restoration, and Mark-1 Restoration Services.
New End Date: June 30, 2025.
Cost: No increase to unit prices; total expenditures not to exceed $1,400,000.
Authority Granted: City Engineer authorized to execute change orders.
93798: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Contract Extension:
Project: As-Needed Surface Lot Services.
Contractor: Superior Asphalt, Inc.
New End Date: June 30, 2025.
Cost: No increase to unit prices; previously set not-to-exceed limit at $750,000.
Authority Granted: City Engineer authorized to execute change orders.
93799: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Contract Extension:
Project: As-Needed General Construction Services.
Contractors: Bultsma Construction, RAM Construction Services, EV Construction Co., and Clark Contracting Services.
New End Date: June 30, 2025.
Cost: No increase to unit prices.
Authority Granted: City Engineer authorized to execute change orders.
93800: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Contract Extension:
Project: As-Needed Roof Asset Management.
Contractors: Great Lakes Systems, Inc., Modern Roofing, Inc., and Proteus Innovative Technologies, LLC.
New End Date: June 30, 2025.
Cost: No increase to unit prices.
Authority Granted: City Engineer authorized to execute change orders.
93801: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Project Bid Acceptance:
Project: Installation of Low Voltage (Construction of City Facilities at 1500 Scribner).
Bidder: Hillard Electric, Inc.
Bid Amount: $480,426 (engineer’s estimate: $575,550).
Total Expenditures Authorized: Not to exceed $606,560 (includes construction costs, design services, and contingencies).
Authority Granted: Mayor and City Clerk authorized to execute contract documents.
93802: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Liquor License Approval:
Applicant: Pickle and Pin, LLC (662 Leonard St NW).
License Type: Development District Liquor License under Public Act 501 of 2006.
Justification: Supported by investment evidence exceeding $200,000 in the West Side Corridor Improvement District.
93803: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Establishment of Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District:
Applicant: JDCoop Properties, LLC.
Location: 1163 Giddings Avenue SE.
Status: Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District established based on a public hearing held on July 30, 2024.
93804: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Exemption Certificate Approval:
Applicant: JDCoop Properties, LLC for an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate.
Project Details: Estimated cost of improvements: $150,000; completion date set for December 31, 2025.
Exemption Duration: Approved for ten years under PA 146 of 2000.
Authority Granted: Mayor authorized to sign the Memorandum of Agreement upon approval by the City Attorney.
93805: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Brownfield Plan Amendment:
Project: The Emory redevelopment at 2040 Division Avenue S.
Public Hearing: Held on July 30, 2024.
Findings:
Amendment serves a public purpose under Act 381.
Proposed financing method is feasible.
Estimated captured taxable value is reasonable.
Action: Amendment approved; conflicting resolutions rescinded.
93806: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Establishment of Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District:
Applicant: The Diatribe at 2040 Division Avenue S.
Public Hearing: Held on July 30, 2024.
Action: Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District established; property deemed obsolete.
93807: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Exemption Certificate Application:
Applicant: The Diatribe for an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate.
Project Details: Estimated improvement cost of $5,000,000; completion by December 31, 2026.
Exemption Duration: Approved for twelve years under PA 146 of 2000.
Findings: Application meets all requirements; likely to increase commercial activity and benefit the community.
Action: Mayor authorized to sign the Memorandum of Agreement upon City Attorney's approval.
93808: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:Brownfield Plan Amendment:
Project: Pleasant Hills redevelopment at 425 & 444 Pleasant Street SW and 535 Church Place SW.
Public Hearing: Held on July 30, 2024.
Findings:
Amendment serves a public purpose under Act 381.
Financing method is feasible; costs are reasonable.
Estimated captured taxable value is reasonable.
Action: Amendment approved; conflicting resolutions rescinded.
93809: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Goei
Details:
Acknowledges receipt of NEZ Exemption Certificate applications from CWD 111 Lyon, LLC for 140 apartment units in the Vandenburg Center NEZ.
Confirms compliance with the Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Act.
Approves submission of applications to the State Tax Commission for fifteen years of NEZ benefits.
93812: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details:
Ordinance: Amends Section 3.2 of Salary Ordinance 2022-40.
Changes: Updates the positions and salary classifications for various executive roles in the City of Grand Rapids. Section 1: Lists specific positions and their associated salary grades (e.g., Wellness Coordinator, Assistant Employee Benefits Manager, etc.). Section 2: States that conflicting ordinances are repealed. Implications: The ordinance involves changes to salaries for executive-level positions, which could affect the city’s budget and financial planning.
93813: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Knight
Yeas: Bliss, Knight, O'Connor, Perdue, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
DetailsOrdinance: Amends Salary Ordinance 2022-32, specifically Section 4.5.
Changes: Updates salary classifications for various positions in the Building Trade, Parks Maintenance, Utility Maintenance, and Mechanics Group, including roles like Arborist, Water Plant Operators, and Electricians.
-
Present: Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Thid Ward Commissioner Goei Absent: Mayor Bliss, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue
93821: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Total project cost: $90,363 (fully reimbursed by the U.S. Green Building Council).
Expenditures authorized not to exceed $90,363 for salary and benefits.
93822: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Grant award for Canal Park improvements: up to $750,000.
93823: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Budget substitution approved: $1,212,996.52 from existing projects to the Infrastructure Improvement Program.
93824: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Contract approved for Thomson Reuters: annual amount not to exceed $61,140.
93825 Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Various contracts approved with specific financial limits, including:
CPS HR Consulting: $30,000 for recruitment services.
Engineering Supply & Imaging: $20,000 for printer maintenance.
J. Ranck Electric and others for a total not to exceed $816,000 for electric repair services.
Purchase of smoke alarms: annual amount not to exceed $505,000.
93828: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality grant: $536,000 (total project cost: $670,000).
Local match required: $134,000 from the Mobile GR Department budget for FY2025 and FY2026.
93830: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Project bid accepted from Wyoming Excavators, Inc.: $3,773,037.
Total authorized expenditures: not to exceed $4,988,465 for various project costs.
93831: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Construction Agreement approved with 901 Fulton, LLC: $25,000.
93832: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Construction management services agreement with EV Construction: $6,939,372.
Total not to exceed $8,193,530 for the project.
93833: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details:
Increase in construction management costs with McGraw Construction: $2,011,784.
Total not to exceed $3,195,070 for the project.
93837: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Financial Details: Accepted Utility Easements from William N. and Bernice H. Azkoul Generation-Skipping Trust for $55,379 related to water main replacement projects.
93839: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Details: Approved early voting locations and compensation for election inspectors for the upcoming general election.
Financial Details: Compensation rates set for Election Inspectors (ranging from $120 to $225 per day).
93840: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Ysasi
Details: Established rules and regulations for the ArtPrize event, allowing for the discharge of commercial-grade fireworks and various vendor activities.
Financial Implications: Authorizes the City Manager to modify fees related to the event.
93843: Approved
Mover: Knight
Supporter: Robbins
Yeas: Knight, O'Connor, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: Amended the budget for Fiscal Year 2025, updating line items for various funds.
Financial Details:
General Operating Fund: Increased from $186,233,426 to $188,725,613.
Other Grants Fund: Increased from $22,750,800.25 to $22,860,954.25.
Police Grants Fund: Increased from $1,288,175.56 to $1,536,053.56.
Information Technology-Capital Fund: Increased from $223,095 to $476,220.
Financial Management System Fund: New total of $6,163,673.22 created by adjusting retained earnings.
93844: Approved
Mover: Ysasi
Supporter: Knight
Yeas: Knight, O'Connor, Robbins, Ysasi, Goei
Details: The City Attorney is authorized to settle the federal court case Mohummed Atiyeh v. City of Grand Rapids Fire Department.
Financial Implication: The City will make a cash payment of $41,211.00 to Mohummed Atiyeh and Sterling Attorneys at Law, P.C.
Action: The Comptroller is directed to issue the check for this amount.
September
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Thid Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None.
93874: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepts a $100,000 grant from the Institute for Responsive Government to support election activities.
93875: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes reimbursement of $17,494.02 to Grand Rapids Public Schools for eligible capital equipment purchases for PEG access channels.
93876: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves an agreement with CEDAM for a project with a cost of not-to-exceed $14,175.
93877: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves an amendment for the Community Master Plan Development, increasing expenditures by $62,000, totaling not-to-exceed $1,062,000.
93878: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves an agreement with Axon Enterprises for $16,914 over three years for 15 Axon Pro License bundles.
93879: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Authorizes a contract with Seeds of Promise for $55,000 for a violence prevention initiative.
93880: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Approves participation in Consumers Energy's renewable energy program with a subscription of 40,000,000 kWh at a charge of $0.064 per kWh.
93882 Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Grants a property tax exemption for the Heartside and Bridge project, covering multiple parcels designated for low-income housing.
Exemption Duration: Not to exceed 45 years, or up to 50 years depending on the terms of federally-aided support.
Service Charges:
1% of annual shelter rental receipts for rent-restricted units.
2% of annual shelter rent to the City’s Affordable Housing Fund; if not paid, this increases to 4%.
Additional Tax Obligations: If units are occupied by non-low-income residents, they will pay taxes as if not exempt.
Annual Reporting: The project must submit audited financial statements annually.
93883: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Grant Acceptance: The City Commission accepted a $25,000 grant for GR Outside, a division of the Parks and Recreation Department.
Agreement Authorization: An agreement with the Outdoor Foundation was approved, with the Mayor authorized to execute the necessary documents.
Performance Period: The grant will be active until June 30, 2025.
93884: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details:
Governmentjobs.com: Contract extension for various HR software through April 2025 for $71,294.06.
Clarke Energy USA: OEM maintenance services for the Water Resource Recovery Facility for a three-year contract totaling $1,819,491.20.
Fleet Management Purchases:
Peterbilt of Michigan: Purchase of two cab & chassis for $366,900.80.
Fredrickson Supply, LLC: Purchase of two truck-mounted sewer cleaners for $906,402.94.
Compass Minerals: One-year contract for bulk road salt at $68.40 per ton, totaling $222,300.00.
93891:Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation for the reconstruction of Leonard Street. Total expenditure not to exceed $4,320,909 for various project costs.
93892: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepted proposal from Erhardt Construction for improvements to Martin Luther King Park Lodge. Total expenditures authorized not to exceed $19,000,000 for construction management and associated costs.
93893: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Amendment to the agreement with BioSurvey Group, LLC for improvements in the Grand River. Additional expenditures of $115,321 authorized.
93894: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Increased scope of work for the reconstruction of Robinson Road with additional expenditures of $10,000, bringing total costs to $3,874,636.
93895: Approved
Mover: Robbins
Supporter: Knight
Details: Accepted proposal from Progressive AE, Inc. for improvements to the Belknap Park Griff's Icehouse Refrigeration System. Total expenditures not to exceed $1,831,525, including previously authorized design and inspection costs.
-
Present: Mayor Bliss, Second Ward Commissioner Knight, First Ward Commissioner O'Connor, Third Ward Commissioner Perdue, First Ward Commissioner Robbins, Second Ward Commissioner Ysasi, Third Ward Commissioner Goei
Absent: None.
93917:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a $3,178,199.10 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for 10 firefighter positions.
9391: Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a $640,884.10 award from the Michigan Department of Labor to support economic opportunity.
93919:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized a purchase of a fire truck for $2,123,133.00 through a cooperative agreement.
93920:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Accepted a $663,377.40 grant for a motor vehicle theft prevention program, with a local match of $442,251.60.
93921:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized contracts of up to $10,000 each for five nonprofits for violence prevention, using a $100,000 budget allocation.
93922:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a two-year contract with Grand Rapids Public Schools for “not-to-exceed” $48,000.
93923:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a five-year maintenance contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation for “not-to-exceed” $250,000.
93924:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Accepted a $1,666 grant from the National Summer Learning Association for FAFSA completion.
93925:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a $10,000 grant from the Michigan College Access Network for FAFSA completion.
93926:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a Memorandum of Understanding for $177,293 in Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant funds.
93927:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Granted a conditional property tax exemption for low-income housing at 101 South Division Lofts, with specific financial obligations.
93928:Approved
Voted by: O'Connor (Mover), Robbins (Supporter)
Resolution: Approved an agreement with Kent County to allocate revenue from the Lodging Excise Tax Fund for principal and interest payments on a $27.5 million bond for the construction of the Acrisure Amphitheater.
93929:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Authorized the issuance of bonds for “not-to-exceed” $27,500,000 to finance the Amphitheater Project, including publishing a notice of intent to issue the bonds.
93930:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Authorized various contracts with vendors for maintenance and support services with specific financial implications:
Boss Solutions: $13,500.00 for utility damage prevention.
Fredrickson Supply: $200,000.00 for refuse truck rentals (estimated $600,000.00 over three years).
Bond Fluidaire & Ferguson Enterprises: $15,000.00 each for hoses and fittings (estimated $45,000.00 each over three years).
United Diagnostic Services: $51,600.00 for cancer screening services for the Fire Department.
Elan Financial Services: No fee, expected rebate of $15,000 (spend dependent).
Q-Mation, Inc.: $52,657.00 for software support.
Lunghamer Ford of Owosso: $809,720.00 for 26 Ford Maverick vehicles and $374,748.00 for 11 Ford Escape vehicles.
93933:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Increased the authorized expenditures for asbestos and lead abatement contracts to “not-to-exceed” $2,000,000, to cover construction, engineering, inspection, and administration costs.
93934:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a bid from BRiK Plumbing, LLC for replacing private lead service lines at $865,699.10, with total expenditures authorized at “not-to-exceed” $1,124,700.
93935:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:Accepted a bid from McDonald Plumbing Co. for a similar lead service line project at $407,865, with total expenditures authorized at “not-to-exceed” $567,750.
93936:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a Construction Agreement with Corewell Health for $47,250 and accepted a Sidewalk and Utilities Easement for public improvements related to a new ambulatory building.
93937:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a bid from C & D Hughes, Inc. for repairs to surface lots at $584,472.80, with total expenditures authorized at “not-to-exceed” $799,495.
93938:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved a $5,000 Construction Agreement with MoTown Square Limited Dividend Housing Association for public storm sewer improvements and accepted a Public Utilities Easement.
93939:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Accepted a bid from McGraw Construction Inc. for the replacement of elevators at Monroe Center Parking Ramp for $1,426,309. Total project expenditures authorized at “not-to-exceed” $1,837,630, which includes design, construction, inspection, and contingencies.
93940:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details: Approved an easement for Consumers Energy for $1.00 related to the installation of EV charging infrastructure at City lots.
93946:Approved
Mover: O'Connor
Supporter: Robbins
Details:
Ordinance No. 2024-36 amends the Fiscal Year 2025 budget for various funds.
General Operating Fund: Total amended resources and appropriations increased to $188,850,613.
Other Funds: Additional appropriations included for various departments:
Other Grants Fund: Increased to $23,426,597.46.
MI Indigent Defense Commission Fund: Increased to $4,508,841.81.
Community Development Program Fund: Increased to $9,006,698.66.
Lead Hazard Control/Reduction Fund: Increased to $7,549,863.04.
61st District Court Grants Fund: Increased to $1,041,012.08.
Parks - Capital Projects Fund: Increased to $9,602,297.56.
Capital Improvement Bonds Series 2024 Fund (Street Lighting & Chiller): Total of $12,870,162.55.
Capital Improvement Bonds Series 2024 Fund (Parks): Total of $11,402,219.40.
Vital Streets Capital Projects - Non-Bond Fund: Increased to $37,235,499.50.
Capital Improvement Fund: Increased to $97,437,134.61.
October
November
December
Kent County Voting Records
January
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Present: Commissioners Baker, Brieve, Bujak, Burrill, DeBoer, Diaz, Greene, Hennessy, Hildenbrand, Kallman, LaGrand, McCLoud, Merchant, Oliver-King, Pachla, Ponstein, Stek, Thiel, Wooden-19
Absent: Commissioners Anter, Sparks - 2
01-22-24-02: Add One Full-Time Clerk II Position for the Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Navigation Program
Vote Result: Motion carried with 20 yeas, 0 nays.
Details: Approved a new position funded by an additional $105,000 from MDHHS. Total cost of salary and benefits: $70,862; remaining funds for supplies and indirect costs.
01-11-24-03: FY 2024-2028 Land Transfer Navigators Program Grant
Vote Result: Motion carried with 20 yeas, 0 nays.
Details: Accepted $104,200 grant over four years from the American Farmland Trust for program deliverables. Requires an in-kind match of $52,000 from Ottawa County.
01-11-24-04: FY 2023 Supplemental General Fund Appropriation to Fund the Kent County Insurance Authority
Vote Result: Motion carried with 20 yeas, 0 nays.
Details: Appropriated up to $8.0 million from unplanned revenue for the Kent County Insurance Authority. Established a separate internal service fund for insurance coverage.
01-11-24-05: Appointment of Kent County Insurance Authority Board
Vote Result: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
Details: Established appointments to the Kent County Insurance Authority Board. No budget implications.
01-11-24-06: Jail Electrical Controls Capital Improvement Program Project
Vote Result: Motion carried with 20 yeas, 0 nays.
Details: Allocated $1.85 million from the Strategic Capital CIP project to replace obsolete jail electrical controls.
01-11-24-07: DGRI ARPA Funding for Parks Grand River Greenway and Knapp Street Pedestrian Bridge Capital Improvement Program Projects
Vote Result: Motion carried with 20 yeas, 0 nays.
Details: Accepted and appropriated $19.5 million from DGRI for the Parks Grand River Greenway Project ($16 million) and Knapp Street Pedestrian Bridge Project ($3.5 million).
01-11-24-08: Creation of Kent County Revolving Loan Fund Committee
Vote Result: Motion carried with 20 yeas, 0 nays.
Details: Established the Kent County Revolving Loan Fund Committee to oversee the Affordable Housing Loan Fund. No budget implications.
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Present: Commissioners Wooden, Thiel, Ponstein, Pachla, Oliver-King, Merchant, Mccloud, LaGrand, Kallman, Hildenbrand, Hennessy, Greene, Diaz, DeBoer, Burrill, Bujak, Brieve, Baker,
Antor, Stek - 20
Absent: Commissioners Sparks -1
01-25-24-09: Amendment to the 2015 John Ball Zoo Master Plan
Details: Updates the Zoo's Master Plan to improve parking and public space design. A new comprehensive Master Plan is expected before February 26, 2025.
Vote Result:
Yeas: 11
Nays: 6
Abstains: 2
01-25-24-10: Materials Management Plan Notice of Intent
Details: Approves submission of a Notice of Intent to prepare a Materials Management Plan focusing on sustainable waste management.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-11: Labor Agreement with Police Officers Labor Council
Details: Approves a four-year labor agreement with wage increases and new health plan benefits, totaling $736,116 in increased costs over the term.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-12: Labor Agreement with Kent County Deputy Sheriff's Association
Details: Approves a five-year labor agreement with wage increases and enhanced benefits, totaling $5,022,860 in increased costs over the first three years.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-13: Labor Agreement with United Auto Workers
Details: Approves a five-year labor agreement with wage increases and market adjustments, totaling $5,801,773 in increased costs over the first three years.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-14: 2024 Remonumentation Grant
Details: Accepts and appropriates $140,683 from the state for remonumentation efforts.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-15: Purchase of Marine Vessel
Details: Approves acceptance of a $170,000 donation and appropriates it to purchase a marine vessel costing $243,000.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-16: Appropriation of Donated Funds for Human Trafficking Task Force
Details: Accepts a $135,000 anonymous donation to support the Human Trafficking Task Force, specifically for hiring a full-time investigator ($125,000) and emergency response costs ($10,000).
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-17: Acceptance of State Grant for Human Trafficking Task Force
Details: Accepts a $20,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to assist human trafficking survivors, covering emergency shelter and transportation.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved by voice vote.
01-25-24-18: FY2024 Traffic Enforcement Grant
Details: Accepts a $28,186 grant from the Michigan State Police for overtime and benefits for officers focused on impaired driving and traffic safety.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved by voice vote.
01-25-24-19: Quitclaim Deed for Drain Commission Property
Details: Approves a quitclaim deed to convey property at 6975 Rix Street SE to the Road Commission for future maintenance.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved with 20 yeas.
01-25-24-20: Transfer of Fifth Third Foundation Funds for Welcome Plan
Details: Accepts a $50,000 contribution from the Fifth Third Foundation, held in trust by Samaritas, to support the West Michigan Welcome Plan.
Vote Result: Unanimously approved by voice vote.
February
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Present: Commissioners Greene, Antor, Merchant, DeBoer, Hildenbrand, Ponstein, Burrill, Brieve, Thiel, Sparks, Mccloud, Oliver-King, LaGrand, Baker, Wooden, Pachla, Bujak, Stek - 18
Absent: Commissioners Kallman, Hennessy, Diaz - 3
02-08-24-21: Grants and Contributions for Bradford Anderson Property
Details: The Board accepted and appropriated a total of $182,500 for the Bradford Anderson Property, which includes a $127,750 federal grant from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services and a $54,750 landowner donation. The funding is for the purchase of development rights.
Vote Result: Approved with 17 yeas and 2 nays (Commissioners Burrill and Kallman).
02-08-24-22: Grants and Contributions for Bettes & Kingsbury Property
Details: The Board accepted and appropriated $288,000 for the Bettes & Kingsbury Property, which includes a new USDA grant of $44,770, a Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development grant of $217,500, a landowner donation of $20,730, and $5,000 from the Grand Rapids Community Foundation for closing costs.
Vote Result: Approved with 17 yeas and 2 nays (Commissioners Burrill and Kallman).
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Present: Commissioners Bujak, Diaz, Pachla, Wooden, Baker, LaGrand, Hennessy, Mccloud, Sparks, Thiel, Brieve, Kallman, Ponstein, Hildenbrand, DeBoer, Merchant, Anter, Greene, Stek -19
Absent: Commissioners Oliver-King, Burrill - 2
2-22-24-23: Grant of Easement to Consumers Energy at Kent Trails North Trailhead
Description: Approves a public utility easement for Consumers Energy to relocate a power pole to facilitate the realignment of the entry drive at Kent Trails North Trailhead.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: 19
Nays: 0
2-22-24-24: Grant of Easement to Consumers Energy at Wahlfield Park
Description: Approves a public utility easement for Consumers Energy to provide electrical services for a new restroom being constructed at Wahlfield Park.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: 19
Nays: 0
2-22-24-25: Request for Early Childhood Millage
Description: Requests voter approval for a six-year dedicated millage (0.25 mills) to fund early childhood development services and improve access to quality childcare.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: 19
Nays: 2
Budget Involvement: Request for a six-year dedicated 0.45 mill levy to continue early childhood services.
2-22-24-26: Request to Accept Byrne Justice Assistance Grant
Description: Accepts a $125,000 grant to support initiatives aimed at reducing community violence among youth through conflict mediation and skill-building.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: 18
Nays: 0
Budget Involvement: Appropriates $125,000 to the FY 2024 Sheriff's Special Project Fund.
2-22-24-27: Labor Agreement with Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council
Description: Approves a four-year labor agreement with the Fraternal Order of Police, including wage increases and changes to benefits for patrol and emergency communications staff.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: 18
Nays: 0
Budget Involvement: Increases costs over four years totaling $6,957,565.
2-22-24-28: Amendment to Collective Bargaining Agreements
Description: Approves a 2% across-the-board wage increase for 2026 for Assistant Prosecuting Attorneys, Attorney Referees, and Teamsters - Parks to maintain consistency with other employee groups.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: 18
Nays: 0
Budget Involvement: Additional salary increases for 2026 costing $151,346.
2-22-24-29: 2024 Federal and State Legislative Priorities
Description: Approves a list of legislative priorities that will guide the county's advocacy efforts on issues with significant impact on operations and services.
Result: Approved
Vote:
Yeas: Unanimous by voice vote
Budget Involvement: None specified, but focuses on priority issues impacting County operations.
2-22-24-30: FOIA Policy
Description: Approves revisions to the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Policy, designating an Assistant Corporate Counsel as the FOIA Coordinator for the County and ensuring regular reviews of the policy every three years.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
2-22-24-31: Codification Policy
Description: Establishes a revised Codification Policy that allows the County Administrator to modify policies in emergencies and mandates a review every three years to ensure alignment with other county policies.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
2-22-24-32: Revisions to the Animal Shelter Fee Schedule
Description: Approves changes to the Animal Shelter’s fee schedule, adjusting several fees for the first time since 2013, with an estimated additional revenue generation of $10,700 annually starting March 1, 2024.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
Budget Involvement: Additional revenue not included in the 2024 budget.
2-22-24-33: Kent County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
Description: Establishes the Kent County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, which will provide financing tools for local governments to support affordable housing and brownfield redevelopment projects.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
Resignation and Election of New Minority Vice Chair
Description: Following Commissioner Wooden's resignation as Minority Vice Chair, Commissioner Michelle McCloud was nominated and unanimously elected to the position.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
March
-
Present: Commissioners Baker, Bujak, Burrill, DeBoer, Greene, Hennessy, Hildenbrand, Mccloud, Merchant, Oliver-King, Pachla, Ponstein, Sparks, Thiel, Wooden - 15
Absent: Commissioners Antor, Brieve, Diaz, Kallman, LaGrand, Stek - 6
03-14-24-34: Village of Sparta Annexation Petition
Description: Approves the Village of Sparta's petition to annex a specified parcel of land (1055 13 Mile Road NW) into its corporate limits, following a public hearing and confirmation of all required information.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
03-14-24-35: Village of Kent City Annexation Petition
Description: Approves the Village of Kent City’s petition to annex a designated area (14111 Ball Creek Rd NW) into its corporate limits, following a public hearing and verification of necessary documentation.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
03-14-24-36: Diaper Bank Program
Description: Accepts and appropriates $40,366 in federal funds for the Kent County Community Action’s Diaper Bank program, aimed at providing diapers and supplies to low-income households with children.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
03-14-24-37: Interurban Transit Partnership Grant for 2024
Description: Accepts an additional $16,061 in grant funding from the Michigan Department of Transportation for the Interurban Transit Partnership program, aimed at providing specialized transportation services for the elderly and disabled.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
03-14-24-38: KCC Weatherization Unrestricted Consumers and DTE Reimbursements
Description: Appropriates $20,079.50 in rebates from Consumers Energy and DTE for health and safety improvements in low-income homes, addressing issues that hinder participation in energy efficiency programs.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
03-14-24-39: Add 0.7 Outreach Worker Position for City of Grand Rapids HUD Grant
Description: Appropriates $37,446 for a 0.7 FTE Outreach Worker position funded by a HUD grant, focused on lead hazard remediation and community education in Grand Rapids.
Result: Approved
Vote: Unanimous by voice vote
03-14-24-40: Amendment to MDHHS Comprehensive Agreement for Sewer Network Program
Description: Approves an amendment to the Health Department's agreement with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, accepting $944,933 in carry-over funds for the Sewer Network project. The program tests wastewater for various viruses, aiding community health monitoring.
Result: Approved
Vote: 15 Yeas, 0 Nays, 2 Abstentions (Commissioners McCloud and Pachla)
03-14-24-41: Ready by Five Allocation
Description: Allocates $201,488 in Ready by Five Millage funds to the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids for a Child and Family Advocate program. This initiative provides support to parents and guardians within early education settings through assessments, resource referrals, and engagement opportunities.
Result: Approved
Vote: 17 Yeas, 0 Nays
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Present: Commissioners Thiel, Ponstein, Pachla, Oliver-King, Merchant, Mccloud, LaGrand, Kallman, Hildenbrand, Greene, Diaz, DeBoer, Bujak, Baker, Antor, Stek - 16
Absent: Commissioners Wooden, Sparks, Hennessy, Burrill, Brieve - 5
03-28-24-42: DELINQUENT 023 REAL PROPERTY TAXES/AUTHORIZE ISSUANCE OF "GENERAL OBLIGATION LIMITED TAX NOTES,SERIES 2 024
Authorization of Borrowing
Vote Result: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
Action: Authorizes the County to borrow up to $25 million to cover delinquent property taxes for 2023.
Financial Implication: Necessary due to approximately $25 million in unpaid delinquent taxes.
2. Release of Pledge of 2024 Collection Account
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: If the account is invested in direct non-callable U.S. obligations sufficient to cover principal and interest, remaining funds can be released for other tax payments.
Financial Implication: Allows for flexible use of funds to pay any due taxes to the County or other political units.
3. Sale of Notes
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Authorizes the County Treasurer to sell the notes publicly or privately.
Financial Implication: Ensures that the County can generate necessary funds through the sale of notes.
4. Payment of Principal and Interest
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Establishes how the principal and interest on the notes will be paid.
Financial Implication: Payments will be made from the Fund and potentially the County’s general funds if necessary.
5. Disposition of Note Proceeds
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Proceeds from the notes will be deposited into a separate account to continue the Fund.
Financial Implication: Ensures that the funds are used for delinquent taxes and related expenses.
6. Note Reserve Fund
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Authorizes a reserve fund for the notes if deemed necessary.
Financial Implication: Allows up to 10% of the notes' face value to be held as a reserve.
7. Continuing Disclosure
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Authorizes the County Treasurer to execute a continuing disclosure certificate to comply with SEC regulations.
Financial Implication: Ensures transparency and compliance with financial regulations.
8. Execution and Delivery of Notes
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Authorizes the County Treasurer to execute the notes and manage their delivery to purchasers.
Financial Implication: Ensures proper legal handling of the notes.
9. Replacement of Notes
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Establishes procedures for replacing lost, stolen, or mutilated notes.
Financial Implication: Provides security and continuity for investors.
10. Chargebacks
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Allows for chargebacks of delinquent taxes to ensure timely payment of notes.
Financial Implication: Provides a mechanism for maintaining cash flow to meet obligations.
11. Purchase of Notes by County
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Authorizes the County to purchase its own notes if beneficial.
Financial Implication: Allows flexibility in managing the County's financial obligations.
12. Issuance of Refunding Notes
Vote Result: Unanimous approval.
Action: Authorizes the County to issue refunding notes to manage existing obligations.
Financial Implication: Allows for potential cost savings and better financial management.
Key Financial Actions:
Borrowing: Up to $25 million for delinquent taxes.
Flexible Fund Use: Release of funds for other tax payments after securing necessary investments.
Sale of Notes: Public/private sale to generate funds.
Payment Security: Use of general funds if necessary.
Note Reserve Fund: Up to 10% of the notes' face value may be set aside.
Chargebacks: Mechanism for ensuring timely payment of notes.
03-28-24-43: Transfer of Ownership of Former Sheriff’s North Substation
Resolution: Transfer part of the property at 790 17 Mile Rd NW to Tyrone Township.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-44: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program Weatherization Funding
Resolution: Accept and appropriate an additional $226,788 in federal grant funds for the Weatherization Assistance Program, totaling $493,144.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-45: Local Water Utility Affordability Program FY 2024
Resolution: Accept and appropriate $1,693,802 for the Local Water Utility Affordability Program.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-46: Weatherization Deferral Reduction Program 2024
Resolution: Accept and appropriate $1,109,815 in federal grant funds for the Weatherization Deferral Reduction Program.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-47: 2024-2028 Parks, Recreation, and Natural Areas Master Plan
Resolution: Adopt the Parks Department's updated master plan.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-48: MNRTF Grant Application for Johnson Park
Resolution: Approve submission of a grant application for $400,000 for Johnson Park redevelopment, committing to an $800,000 local match.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-49: MNRTF Grant Application for Two Rivers Park
Resolution: Approve submission of a grant application for $400,000 for Two Rivers Park development, committing to a $1,750,000 local match.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
03-28-24-50: Appointment to Jury Commission
Resolution: Reappointment of Kenyatta Brame to the Jury Commission for a six-year term ending December 31, 2029, based on the recommendation of Chief Circuit Court Judge McNabb.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
April
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Present: Commissioners Greene, Antor, Merchant, DeBoer, Hildenbrand, Ponstein, Burrill, Kallman, Brieve, Thiel, McCloud, Hennessy, LaGrand, Baker, Wooden, Pachla, Bujak, Stek - 18
Absent: Commissioners Sparks, Oliver-King, Diaz - 3
4-18-24-51: Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority Revenue Bonds, Series 2024
Resolution: Approves the Plan of Financing for the issuance of Airport Terminal Bonds for improvements at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, necessary for tax-exempt status.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
04-18-24-52: 2024 Equalization Report
Resolution: Approves the 2024 Kent County Equalization Report, detailing the assessed value of properties in the county.
Vote: Unanimous approval (18 Yeas, 0 Nays).
Summary of Financial Resolutions:
Airport Terminal Bonds (04-18-24-51): Approves financing for airport improvements; potential issuance up to $300 million.
Equalization Report (04-18-24-52): Details property values but does not involve new spending.
May
-
Present: Commissioners Bujak, Diaz, Pachla, Baker, LaGrand, Hennessy, Mccloud, Sparks, Thiel, Brieve, Kallman, Burrill, Ponstein, Hildenbrand, DeBoer, Merchant, Antor, Greene, Stek - 19
Absent: Commissioners Wooden, Oliver-King - 2
05-02-24-52: Walker No. 4 Drain Drainage District Bonds
Resolution: Authorizes the issuance of bonds for the Walker No. 4 Drain Maintenance and Improvement Project, pledging the County's full faith and credit for repayment.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
05-02-24-53: Layered Amortization Approach for Pension and VEBA Plans
Resolution: Approves the adoption of a "layered amortization" approach for the Pension and VEBA plans to stabilize contribution rates.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
05-02-24-54: Appointments to Various Committees, Boards, and Commissions
Resolution: Approves the appointment of residents to various boards and commissions based on a review process.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
05-02-24-55: Indigent Defense Positions and Independence Policy
Resolution: Establishes a new Office of the Public Defender with 73 positions and adopts a policy ensuring the office's independence.
Discussion: A motion by Commissioner Ponstein to adopt the resolution was seconded by Commissioner Brieve.
Action: Commissioner DeBoer made a motion to postpone the resolution indefinitely, seconded by Commissioner Merchant. A roll call vote was requested on the DeBoer motion.
Vote on Postponement:
Yeas: Commissioners Diaz, Wooden, Baker, Hennessy, McCloud, Sparks, Thiel, Kallman, DeBoer, Merchant, Antor, Greene - 12
Nays: Commissioners Bujak, Pachla, LaGrand, Brieve, Burrill, Ponstein, Hildenbrand, Stek - 8
Commissioners Hennessy and Thiel left the meeting during this process.
05-02-24-56: Authorize Ballot Proposal to Increase the Lodging Excise Tax to 8%
Resolution: Approves placement of a proposition on the August 6, 2024, Primary Election Ballot to increase the Lodging Excise Tax from 5% to 8%, effective January 1, 2025.
Discussion:
Kent County is eligible to levy up to a 5% tax on accommodations under Public Act 263 of 1974.
The increase to 8% follows the signing of House Bill 5048, requiring public support for any increase beyond 5%.
Revenue from the tax can be used for various purposes, including improvements to convention and entertainment facilities.
Motion: Made by Commissioner Greene, seconded by Commissioner Brieve.
Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Bujak, Diaz, Pachla, Wooden, Baker, LaGrand, McCloud, Sparks, Brieve, Burrill, Ponstein, Hildenbrand, Merchant, Greene, Stek - 15
Nays: Commissioners Kallman, DeBoer, Antor - 3
-
Present: Commissioners Baker, Brieve, Bujak, Burri!, Diaz, Greene, Hennessy, LaGrand, Mccloud, Merchant, Oliver-King, Pachla, Ponstein, Sparks, Thiel, Stek - 16
Absent: Commissioners Antor, DeBoer, Hildenbrand, Kallman, Wooden - 5
Resolution 05-16-24-57: Grant of Easement to Airport
Summary: Approves a public utility easement to Consumers Energy Company for a three-phase power service installation at Gerald R. Ford International Airport, supporting the new Pro Star Hangar.
Background:
The easement is necessary for power services to the hangar located at 4224 Cassard Lane, Grand Rapids.
The easement duration exceeds 40 years, requiring approval from the County as per the Airport Lease and Asset Transfer Agreement.
The easement has been legally reviewed and approved by both GFIAA's legal counsel and the County's Assistant Corporate Counsel.
Motion: Made by Commissioner Oliver-King, seconded by Commissioner Wooden.
Vote:
Yeas: Commissioners Antor, Baker, Brieve, Bujak, Burrill, Diaz, Greene, Hennessy, LaGrand, McCloud, Oliver-King, Pachla, Ponstein, Sparks, Thiel, Wooden, Stek - 17
Nays: 0
05-16-24-58: Labor Agreement with TPOAM
Purpose: Approve a five-year labor agreement with the Technical, Professional, and Office Workers Association of Michigan, representing 349 employees.
Key Changes:
Wage increases of 4% retroactive to February 13, 2024; 3% in 2025; and 2% in 2026.
Introduction of a high deductible health plan with a 15% employee premium contribution.
Increase in retiree health care stipend and adjustments to vacation and disability benefits.
Addition of 80 hours of paid parental leave.
Vote: Unanimous approval (17 Yeas, 0 Nays).
05-16-24-59: Add Positions to Prosecutor's Office
Purpose: Approve two full-time positions to support the Domestic Violence Action Network (DVAN).
Funding: Allocate $450,000 of American Rescue Plan Act proceeds.
Vote: Unanimous approval (17 Yeas, 0 Nays).
05-16-24-60: Community Corrections Comprehensive Plan
Purpose: Approve the annual Community Corrections Comprehensive Plan and application for funding.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
05-16-24-61: Mental Health Court Grant
Purpose: Accept a no-cost extension of $133,700 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration for the 17th Circuit Mental Health Court.
Vote: Unanimous approval (17 Yeas, 0 Nays).
05-16-24-62: Development Rights Donation from Hope Church
Purpose: Accept a donation of development rights valued at $315,000 from Hope Church Brethren.
Vote: Approved with 16 Yeas and 1 Nay.
05-16-24-63: Rural Transit Assistance Program
Purpose: Accept $5,500 in grant funds for rural transit assistance.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
05-16-24-64: Safe Firearm Storage Education Grant
Purpose: Accept $14,000 for training healthcare providers on safe firearm storage.
Vote: Unanimous approval.
05-16-24-65: Summer 2024 General Operating Property Tax Levy
Purpose: Authorize the levy of a property tax for general operating purposes for the summer of 2024.
Details:
The tax levy rate is set at 4.0987 mills.
This levy will be applicable to the 2024 summer tax billing, with a levy date of July 1, 2024.
Funds raised from this tax will support the general operating budget of Kent County as adopted for the fiscal year 2024.
Vote: Unanimous approval by voice vote
June
-
Present: Commissioners Wooden, Thiel, Sparks, Ponstein, Pachla, Merchant, McCloud, Kallman, Hildenbrand, Hennessy, Greene, Diaz, DeBoer, Burrill, Bujak, Brieve, Baker, Antor, Stek - 19
Absent: Commissioners Oliver-l<ing, LaGrand - 2
06-13-24-66: Appointment to Materials Management Planning Committee
Purpose: To fill the Elected City or Village Representative seat on the Materials Management Planning Committee.
Details: Mayor Stephen Kepley appointed to serve a five-year term ending December 31, 2028. The appointment followed a review of applications by an interview team.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
06-13-24-67: Magistrate Appointment
Purpose: To appoint a magistrate for the 63rd District Court.
Details: Tricia Phinney appointed as a magistrate. She possesses the required qualifications and fills a role that has been supported by the District Court Administrator.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
06-13-24-68: Adoption of Kent County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Bylaws
Purpose: To approve the rules governing the Kent County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.
Details: Bylaws include provisions for the Board composition, term lengths, removal policies, conflict of interest requirements, and meeting regulations.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
06-13-24-69: Amendment to Comprehensive Agreement with MDHHS for Public Health Services Funding
Purpose: To secure additional funding for local public health services.
Details: Accepts $1,852,529 in additional funding for FY2024 to support mandated public health programs. Approved the addition of 7 full-time positions and conversion of 3 part-time positions to full-time.
Vote: Motion carried with 18 yeas, no nays.
06-13-24-70: Fire Commission Budget Amendment
Purpose: To adjust the Fire Commission Fund budget to account for increased costs.
Details: Approved an additional $143,832 for the Caledonia Township Fire Apparatus, raising the budget from $850,000 to $993,832.
Vote: Motion carried with 18 yeas, no nays.
06-13-24-71: Assignment of Fuller Campus Capital Improvement Project to Kent County Building Authority
Purpose: To assign project management responsibilities for the Fuller Campus CIP.
Details: Management assigned to the Kent County Building Authority for efficiency in handling multiple contracts. Further approvals will be required as the project progresses.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
06-13-24-72: Approve Kent County Community Action 6/30 Annual Operations Funding
Purpose: To secure funding for Kent County Community Action programs.
Details: Accepted and appropriated $584,076 from the City of Grand Rapids and Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for administrative and supportive expenses.
Vote: Motion carried with 18 yeas, no nays.
06-13-24-73: Approve Kent County Community Development Annual Action Plan and Appropriation
Purpose: To approve funding from HUD for community development projects.
Details: Accepted and appropriated $2,504,270 in funding, including $1,624,667 from CDBG and $829,603 from HOME programs for activities from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025.
Vote: Motion carried with 18 yeas, no nays.
06-13-24-74: Appropriate Funding for the Kent County Lead Evaluation and Reduction Program
Purpose: To transfer and appropriate ARPA funds for lead remediation efforts.
Details: Allocates $3,531,137.10 for lead evaluation, reduction, rehabilitation, property replacement, and associated administrative costs. The program will be administered by Kent County Community Action in collaboration with the Kent County Health Department.
Vote: Motion carried with 18 yeas, no nays.
06-13-24-75: Employee Business Expense Policy
Purpose: To revise the Employee Business Expense Policy.
Details: This policy supersedes previous policies and will be reviewed every three years by the County Administrator. It allows the Administrator to modify policies in emergencies after consulting the Board Chair. Corporate Counsel approved the policy as to form.
Vote: Approved unanimously.
06-13-24-76: Resolution from Closed Session
Purpose: To approve a payment from Wolverine Worldwide, Inc. related to costs incurred at the North Kent Landfill.
Details: Following negotiations, Wolverine will pay the County for extra costs resulting from their use of the landfill. The Board of Public Works recommended this payment, and the resolution allows the Board Chair or designee to sign necessary documents. Funds received will be appropriated to the Department of Public Works Fund budget.
Vote: Motion carried with 16 yeas, 1 nay (Commissioner Diaz).
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Present: Commissioners Greene, Antor, Merchant, DeBoer, Hildenbrand, Ponstein, Burrill, Kallman, Brieve, Thiel, Sparks, McCloud, Hennessy, Oliver-King, LaGrand, Baker, Wooden, Pachla, Diaz, Bujak, Stek - 21
Absent: None
06-27-24-80: Administrator/Controller Employment Agreement
Purpose: To approve the Employment Agreement for Alan G. Vanderberg as Administrator/Controller.
Details: The agreement is effective from August 30, 2024, to August 29, 2026, with a two-year renewal option. The Board Chair or designee is authorized to sign the agreement. A copy will be filed with the County Clerk but not included in the minutes.
Vote: Motion carried with 19 yeas, 2 nays.
06-27-24-77: Property Development Rights Grant and Contributions for the Norman Property
Purpose: To accept and appropriate funding for the purchase of development rights on the Norman Property.
Details: Funding includes $89,900 from NRCS, $120,800 from MDARD, and a $99,300 donation from the landowner, totaling $310,000. The grant terms vary, and the Chair or designee is authorized to execute agreements and approve amendments not exceeding 15% of original awards.
Vote: Motion carried with 18 yeas, 2 nays.
06-27-24-78: South Clinic Remodel Capital Improvement Program
Purpose: To approve the Bylaws of the Kent County Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.
Details: Bylaws set parameters for the Authority's governance, including the structure, terms, conflict of interest policies, and meeting requirements. The Bylaws must be approved by the Kent County Board of Commissioners to amend.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously with 20 yeas.
06-27-24-79: FY 2023 Homeland Security Grant and Budget Amendment
Purpose: To accept and appropriate funds from the FY 2023 State Homeland Security Grant.
Details: The grant, totaling $208,979, is for personnel costs related to the Homeland Security Planner and equipment purchases. The grant period is from September 1, 2023, to May 31, 2026. The Chair or designee is authorized to execute the agreement and approve amendments not exceeding 15% of the award.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously with 20 yeas.
July
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Present: Commissioners Bujak, Diaz, Pachla, Wooden, Baker, LaGrand, Hennessy, McCloud, Thiel, Brieve, Kallman, Burrill, Ponstein, Hildenbrand, DeBoer, Antor, Greene, Stek - 18
Absent: Commissioners Oliver-King, Sparks, Merchant - 3
07-18-24-81: Grant of Sidewalk and Utility Easement to City of Grand Rapids
Purpose: To approve a public utility easement to the City of Grand Rapids for a traffic signal project.
Details:
The City of Grand Rapids plans to reconstruct Division Avenue in 2025, including the replacement of the traffic signal at Division Avenue and Library Street, adjacent to the County's 82 Ionia Facility.
A walk/don't walk signal beacon is proposed for pedestrian safety; however, due to an underground vault within the City right-of-way, the signal cannot be placed there.
The City has requested a 5'x5' easement for the signal, which has been appraised at $1,380.
Upon execution of the easement, the City will compensate the County with the appraised value of $1,380.
The easement has been reviewed and approved by Assistant Corporate Counsel.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously with 19 yeas and 0 nays.
07-18-24-82: Indigent Defense Positions and Independence Policy and Council
Purpose: Transition to a county-based public defender office and establish new positions.
Details:
Recommendations from the National Association of Public Defense led to the decision to create a new Office of the Public Defender.
The office will be staffed with 73 full-time equivalents (FTEs), including various legal and support positions.
A new County policy will confirm the independence of the Office of the Public Defender.
An Independence Council will be established to handle complaints regarding the policy.
Total funding for these positions is approximately $11.2 million, with a portion coming from the County's General Fund.
Vote: Motion carried with 13 yeas, 6 nays.
07-18-24-83: City of Grand Rapids Contribution to Support the West Michigan Welcome Plan
Purpose: Appropriation of funds to support the Welcome Plan.
Details:
The City of Grand Rapids is contributing $25,000 to support the implementation of the West Michigan Welcome Plan, which aims to create an inclusive community for New Americans.
The funds will be used for various operational and engagement activities.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
07-18-24-84: Animal Shelter Fees Schedule Addition
Purpose: Introduce a spay/neuter good faith deposit for adoptions.
Details:
The Kent County Animal Shelter will add a $50 spay/neuter good faith deposit to its fee schedule, in line with Michigan law.
This measure incentivizes adopters to ensure their adopted animals are sterilized.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
07-18-24-85: Balk Family Park Capital Improvement Program
Purpose: Funding for park development.
Details:
Kent County acquired a 125-acre park from a donation and is developing a master plan for its use.
A $150,000 donation will be utilized for design and engineering work, with $75,000 specifically allocated for this purpose.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
07-18-24-86: Kent County Draft Opioid Settlement Spending Plan for Years 1 and 2
Purpose: Approval of a spending plan for opioid settlement funds.
Details:
Kent County expects to receive $11.9 million from opioid settlements, with an initial investment plan of $757,000 for Year 1 and $855,000 for Year 2 to address community needs related to opioid issues.
Vote: Motion carried with 16 yeas, 1 nay.
07-18-24-87: Capital Improvement Program Policy
Purpose: Approval of a revised Capital Improvement Program policy.
Details:
The policy outlines management and funding procedures for capital improvements, reviewed every three years.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
07-18-24-88: West Michigan Regional Planning Commission Membership
Purpose: Add Kent County as a member of the WMRPC.
Details:
Membership allows Kent County to participate in regional planning efforts and obtain EDA funding for economic development projects.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
07-18-24-89: Area Agency on Aging of West Michigan FY 2025 Annual Implementation Plan
Purpose: Approval of the annual implementation plan for the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) for fiscal year 2025.
Details:
AAAWM serves nine counties in Region 8: Allegan, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo, and Osceola.
The agency has operated under annual implementation plans since 1974, which outline funding and service components.
Approval from the Board of Commissioners is required before submission to the State Commission on Services to the Aging.
Vote: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
Summary of Childcare Task Force
Charge: The Childcare Task Force is established to assess child care challenges in Kent County, focusing on children aged 5 years and younger. The Task Force will:
Explore strategies and funding sources to improve access to and quality of childcare services.
Develop recommendations based on existing data and research on effective strategies.
Ensure no duplication of current childcare efforts and consolidate existing work.
Membership: The Task Force includes a diverse group of members:
County Commissioners: Katie DeBoer, Kris Pachla
Parents: Danny Alonso, Meagen Coburn
Childcare Experts: Jane Ann Benson (Founder of First Steps Kent), Kevin Clay (Senior Vice-President of Talent & Diversity), Chana Edmond-Verley (Director of Government Affairs), TaRita Johnson (Director of Program Services), Alejandra Meza (Program Officer), Trudy Ngo-Brown (Kent County Resident).
Engaged Organizations: W.K. Kellogg Foundation, Together West Michigan, Grand Rapids Community College, Kent ISD, and others.
Term:
The Task Force will meet regularly from September 2024 through August 2025.
A formal report will be presented by August 2025, after which the Board Chair will decide on the continuation of the Task Force.
Support Team:
Jennifer James, Kent County Administrator's Office
Sandra Ghoston Jones, Kent County Administrator's Office
Jennifer Headley-Nordman, First Steps Kent
Motion: Commissioner Greene moved to suspend Standing Rule 6.1 regarding the duration of Task Forces, allowing the Childcare Task Force to continue until October 1, 2024, and to confirm the Chair's appointments through October 1, 2025. The motion carried unanimously.
August
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Present: Commissioners Baker, Burrill, DeBoer, Diaz, Hildenbrand, Kallman, LaGrand, Mccloud, Merchant, Oliver-King, Pachla, Thiel, Stek - 13
Absent: Commissioners Antor, Brieve, Bujak, Greene, Hennessy, Ponstein, Sparks, Wooden - 8
08-08-24-90: EQUALIZATION DATA REQUEST FEE SCHEDULE
Context: The County is required to review fees and charges annually, as per County Fiscal Policy. Under Public Act 442 of 1996, a reasonable fee can be established for enhanced access to public records, which are not covered by FOIA or TARA.
Current Status: The existing fee schedule for the Bureau of Equalization has not been formally approved by the Board of Commissioners. The proposed fee schedule is consistent with those charged by other counties and has not seen an increase from prior years.
Resolution: The Board of Commissioners approved the updated Equalization Department fee schedule for data export requests, effective May 1, 2024.
Motion: Motion was made by Commissioner Kallman and seconded by Commissioner LaGrand. The motion was carried unanimously by voice vote.
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Meeting has not been posted
September
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Meeting has not been posted
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Meeting has not been posted
October
November
December
Board of Education Voting Records
January
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Minutes :https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, and Mrs. Williams – 9.
Purchasing Agenda
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis, to approve the Purchasing Agenda.
General Fund, Support Materials and Services: Permission to increase the dollar amount on t-shirts for the Turkey Trot for the Athletics Department that was approved by the Board on 9/5/2023 for $33,885.00. Amount of increase $8,778.00. New total $42,663.00 VENDORS: 1 MSRads
Bond Project: 1. Architectural and engineering services contract to complete the design and documentation of the renovation work at Sibley Elementary School at a total cost $182,480.00. VENDORS: 1 Mathison|Mathison Architects LLC
2. Architectural and engineering services contract to complete the design and documentation of the renovation work at Coit Academy of Arts and Science at a total cost of $438,000.00. VENDORS: 1 C2AE
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, and President Williams – 9.
Nays: 0.
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Minutes :https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Excused: Ms. Lewis – 1.
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Wade, to approve the Purchasing Agenda with the amendment.
Virtual social worker services for Special Education for the 2023-2024 school year at a total cost of $336,000.00. VENDORS: 1 Maxim Healthcare Staffing Services Inc.
Board is asking Dr. Roby to engage with SWers, directors, and principals to gain more information esp regarding IEP needs
Kym- Maxim Healthcare provides in person SWers if they are available
Sara- can we consider Feb 20
Finance meets again Feb 27, so March 4 is the first time after that
Jordoun- we were told at Finance today that it had to pass finance to discuss tonight. Why would we do the same thing next time?
Could we have a special finance meeting if we really needed one before the full board? Ultimately stuck with March 4Carried: Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 7.
Nays: Mr. Rodriguez – 1.
AMENDMENT TO GENERAL APPROPRIATIONS - General Operating FundMotion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis, to accept Budget Amendment 1 – General Fund for adoption. General Fund here
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Adoption of Budget Amendment One – Special Revenue Fund
Motion by Mr. Rodriguez, Supported by Mr. Eatman, to accept Budget Amendment 1 – Special Revenue Fund for adoption. Special Revenue Fund here
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Adoption of Budget Amendment One – Debt Retirement Fund
Motion by Mr. Eatman, Supported by Ms. Davis, to accept Budget Amendment 1 – Debt Retirement Fund for adoption. Debt Retirement Fund here
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8. Nays: 0.
February
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Minutes https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Excused: Ms. Lewis – 1.
Policy #8465 – Confidentiality and Privacy, Presentation of First Reading
Policy #8465 – Confidentiality and Privacy, Presentation of First Reading was accepted as written in regard to student rights. The district was mandated to create this policy to continue its work with Cherry Health.
Motion by Ms. Davis, Supported by Mr. Eatman, to approve Policy #8465 – Confidentiality and Privacy, Presentation of First Reading as written.
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
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Minutes :https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, and President Williams – 8.
Excused: Ms. Melton– 1.
Kent Intermediate School District Schools of Choice ResolutionMr. Mel Atkins walked the board through the three sections of the resolution. Board members voted on each section separately.
Kent Intermediate School District
SCHOOLS of CHOICE RESOLUTION TO OPT OUT OF SECTION 105
Motion made by Board member __________, Supported by __________, moves that the Board of Education of the Grand Rapids Public Schools District, exercising the option permitted by Section 105 of the State School Aid Act of 1979, as amended by Public Act 300 of 1996, will not accept Section 105 applications of non-resident students from outside our district, for purposes of operating an intermediate school district-wide schools of choice program in accordance with Section 105 for the 2024-2025 school year.
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis to Opt Out of Section 105.
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, and President Williams – 8.
RESOLUTION TO OPT IN TO SECTION 105c
(State Schools of Choice Program)
Motion made by Board member __________, Supported by __________, moves that the Board of Education of the Grand Rapids Public Schools District, exercising the option permitted by Section 105c of the State School Aid Act, Public Act 119 of 1999, as amended by Public Act 297 of 2000, will accept applications for enrollment from residents of contiguous intermediate school districts for the 2024-2025 school year.
Motion by Mr. Eatman, Supported by Mr. Ross, to Opt in to Section 105c.
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, and President Williams – 8.
RESOLUTION TO PARTICIPATE IN THE KENT ISD COLLABORATIVE SCHOOLS OF CHOICE PROGRAM
Motion made by Board member ___________, Supported by __________, moves that the Board of Education of the Grand Rapids Public Schools District will participate in the Kent Intermediate School District Collaborative Schools of Choice Program for the 2024-2025 school year.
Motion by Ms. Davis, Supported by Mr. Eatman, to participate in the Kent ISD Collaborative \ Schools of Choice Program.
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, and President Williams – 8.
March
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Minutes: https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, and President Williams – 9
Excused: 0.
Purchasing Agenda
Motion by Ms. Wade, Supported by Mr. Eatman, to accept the Purchasing Agenda.
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: Ms. Melton – 1.
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Minutes : https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, and President Williams – 7.
Excused: Mr. Eatman and Ms. Wade – 2.
Resolution to Approve the New Northeast Quadrant Elementary Schools
Motion by Ms. Lewis, Supported by Ms. Schottke, to accept the Resolution to Approve the new Northeast Quadrant Elementary Schools.
Carried: Yeas: Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, and President Williams – 7.
Nays: 0.
April
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Minutes: https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
-Ms. Lewis and Ms. Melton absentPurchasing Agenda (doc) and Addendum- notes from finance committee New blanket order for payroll expenses for food service staff at EGR, NorthPointe, and San Juan Diego Contract for custodial services for the Facilities and Operations Department due to the recent merger of Custodial Housekeeping to CSM Newco LLC at a total cost of $620,868.00. ($182,608.00 for the 2023-2024 school year and $438,259.56 for the 2024-2025 school year) VENDORS 1: CSM Newco LLC
Purchase of sixteen (16) additional OPENGATE units, a revolutionary new weapon detection system that can quickly and automatically screen without the need to divest purses, backpacks, and luggage at a total cost of $272,104.00. (Funded: Section 97 Security Grant) VENDORS: 1 Communications Technologies Inc.
Addendum: Childcare workers and paraprofessional services for the remainder of the 2023-2024 school year at total cost of $469,280.00. VENDORS: 2 Maxim Healthcare Staffing Services Inc. ($182,000.00) and Sunbelt Staffing ($287,280.00)
Jose- emailed board comments, but for the public, I understand the need for detection systems, but don’t believe it’s the most proactive use of funds, especially that grants can be used to educate community, students, and families about safe gun storage and gun safety in general. Won’t support, and would motion to remove items, but would like to support everything else.Carried: Yeas: Ms. Davis,, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade and President Williams - 5
Nays: Mr. Rodriguez and Mr. Eatman - 2
May
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Minutes:https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Wade and President Williams – 8.
Excused: Ms. Lewis – 1.
Purchasing Agenda: - doc + 4.23 finance committee notes
Jose- comments about Retention and recruitment services to include school-based marketing kits, development of website, customized professional learning plans and professional development for staff at a total cost of $185,000.00. (Funded ESSER III Funding) VENDORS: 1 SchoolMint
Sara: District leadership development (coaching, consulting, and professional development) and policy work to improve scholar outcomes for the 2024-2025 school year at a cost of $175,000.00 VENDORS: 1 Scholar First
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis, to approve the Purchasing Agenda.
Carried:
Yeas:Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, and President Williams – 5.
Nays: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, and Mr. Eatman – 3.
Resolution (Support for) Kent Intermediate School District Operating Budget 2024-25
Motion by Ms. Davis, Supported by Mr. Eatman to accept the Resolution (Support for) Kent Intermediate School District Operating Budget 2024-25
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Nays:0.
Kent Intermediate Association of School Boards – Board of Directors
Kent Intermediate Association of School Boards Board of Directors has 3 open seats with 3 candidates running for 3-year terms which will expire on June 30, 2027.
The following individuals are seeking consideration to serve in the role of a KIASB Board of Director:
Christie Ramsey (Rockford - Region 1)
Teresa Ramirez (Northview - Region 1)
Ken Hornecker - (Godwin Heights - Region 3)
Motion by Mr. Eatrman, Supported by Mr. Rodriguez, to approve Christine Ramsey, Teresa Ramirez, and Ken Hornecker to serve as a KIASB Board of Director.
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Policy #7420 - Inspection by Parent(s)/Guardian(s) of Instructional Material, Presentation of First Reading
Ms. Melton provided that the district has to have updates in order for Cherry Health to be able to instruct our scholars in their programs.
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis to accept Policy #7420 - Inspection by Parent(s) / Guardian(s) of Instructional Material, Presentation of First Reading
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Policy 7880 - Flag Displays, Presentation of First Reading
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis to accept Policy 7880 - Flag Displays, Presentation of First Reading
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Wade, Ms. Davis, Mr. Eatman, and President Williams – 8.
Nays:0.
June
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Minutes: https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, and President Williams – 8.
Excused: Ms. Wade – 1.
Resolution to Amend Policy #1300 – Meetings
Motion by Mr. Rodriguez Supported by Mr. Eatman, to approve the Resolution to Amend Policy #1300 – Meetings.
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
2024-2025 Michigan High School Athletic Association Membership ResolutionThe 2024-2025 Michigan High School Athletic Association Membership Resolution was presented. Motion by Ms. Schottke, Support by Ms. Davis, to approve the 2024-2025 Michigan High School Athletic Association Membership Resolution.
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Purchasing Agenda
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis, to approve the Purchasing Agenda. Renewal of Elevate K-12 for the 2024-2025 school year for 131 class periods and 40 periods of classroom and elevate teacher collaboration meetings at a total cost of $2,407,730.00. VENDORS: 1 Elevate K-12
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 5.
Nays: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Melton, and Mr. Rodriguez – 3.
2024-25 Blanket Purchase Orders
The 2024-2025 Blanket Purchasing List was presented.
Motion by Mr. Rodriguez, Supported by Ms. Davis, to approve the 2024-2025 Blanket Purchase Orders.
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Resolution - Adoption of Budget Amendment II - General Fund
Motion by Mr. Ross, Supported by Ms. Davis, to approve Budget Amendment II General Fund Resolution.
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
Resolution - Adoption of Budget Amendment II – Special Revenue Fund
Motion by Ms. Davis, Supported by Mr. Ross, to approve Budget Amendment II Special Revenue Fund Resolution.
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 8.
Nays:0.
Resolution - Adoption of Budget Amendment II – Debt Retirement Fund
Motion by Mr. Rodriguez, Supported by Ms. Davis, to approve Budget Amendment II Debt Retirement Fund Resolution.
Carried:
Yeas: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 8.
Nays: 0.
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Minutes:https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, and President Williams – 7.
Excused: Ms. Wade and Mr. Eatman - 2
Resolution of The GRPS Board of Education to Appoint a Hearing Officer
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 7.
Nays: 0
Resolution - Adoption of General Operating Budget 2024-25- Document
Resolution - Adoption of Special Revenue Budget 2024-25- Document
Resolution - Adoption of Debt Retirement Fund 2024-25- Document
All three passed unanimously
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 7.
Nays: 0
July
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Minutes: https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Ms. Davis, Ms. Wade and President Williams – 6.
Excused: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Schottke and Mr. Ross - 3
Purchasing Agenda- doc
Purchase and installation of upgraded video surveillance cameras and components at City High/Middle School at a total cost of $133,100.00. (Funded: Section 97 Security Grant)
Doesn’t carry:
Yeas: Ms. Lewis, Ms. Davis and President Williams - 3
Nays: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez and Ms. Wade - 3
August
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Minutes:https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Ms. Davis, Ms. Wade, Ms. Schottke and President Williams – 6.
Excused: Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis and Mr. Ross - 3
Purchasing Agenda- doc
Childcare workers and paraprofessional services for the 2024-2025 school year at total cost of $1,587,600.00. VENDORS: 2 Maxim Healthcare Staffing Services Inc. ($957,600.00), Sunbelt Staffing ($630,000.00) Purchase and installation of upgraded video surveillance cameras and components for Campus Elementary ($63,600.00) and Dickinson Elementary ($78,900.00) at a total cost of $142,500.00. (Funded: Section 97 Security Grant) VENDORS: 1 Moss Telecommunications
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, and President Williams – 4.
Nays: Ms. Melton and Mr. Rodriguez - 2
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August 26th GRPS School Board Meeting
Minutes:https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
All Present
No votes
September
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Minutes:https://go.boarddocs.com/mi/grand/Board.nsf/Public
Present: Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Ms. Davis, Ms. Wade, Ms. Schottke, Mr. Eatman, Ms. Lewis and Mr. Ross - 8
Excused: President Williams - 1
Peace Education Week- Resolution
Holding a Vigil Sept 21 at noon at La Casa de la CobijaCarried:
Yeas: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Wade and Mr. Eatman - 8
Purchasing Agenda- doc
For the purchase of a 2024 Ford Transit 250 cargo van for Facilities and Operations ($50,689.00) and a 2024 Ford Transit 150 cargo van for Management Information Systems ($54,026.00) at a total cost of $104,715.00. VENDORS: 1 Gorno Ford
Consulting services to support the district in development, design and implementation of systemic strategies to reduce chronic absenteeism for the 2024-2025 school year ata total cost of $99,000.00. (Funded: 31A At Risk Grant) VENDORS: 1 Attendance Works
Through partnership, professional development on research based instructional
practices for all staff, including Newcomer teachers, and Instructional coaching atUnion High School for the 2024-2025 school year at a total cost of $74,030.00.(Funded: Section 41 Bilingual Grant) VENDORS: 1 Internationals Network for Public Schools Inc.Jose- Permission to add a blanket order for temporary employee services, primarily for administrative employees for the 2024-2025 school year at a total cost of $550,000.00. VENDORS: 1 OtterBase Inc.
Carried:
Yeas: Ms. Schottke, Ms. Davis, Ms. Lewis, Ms. Melton, Mr. Rodriguez, Mr. Ross, Ms. Wade and Mr. Eatman - 8