The Kent County Board of Commissioners has selected Lindsey Thiel as county commissioner for District 11. Thiel will fill the vacancy created by the March 15, 2020 resignation of former Commissioner Jim Saalfeld whose term is set to expire on December 31, 2020.
Thiel works as the planning administrative assistant for Grand Rapids Charter Township and previously served as a lead legislative aid in the Michigan House of Representatives. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in communication arts and sciences from Michigan State University.
“We had a great group of applicants interested in this position,” said Kent County Board Chair Mandy Bolter. “After careful deliberation by the board, we determined Lindsey was the best qualified for the position. She comes to us with a strong background in government operations and we’re confident Lindsey’s skills will prove to be an asset to our entire community,”
As District 11 county commissioner, Thiel will represent residents living in Grand Rapids Township, Ada Township and the City of East Grand Rapids through December 31, 2020. She is eligible to run for election to a two-year term in the August 4, 2020 primary election.
Theil was endorsed by Grand Rapids Township Supervisor Michael DeVries, Clerk Edward Robinette, Treasurer David Van Dyke, and Trustees Vas Christopoulos, David Pierangeli, Lee VanPopering and Phillip Yeiter; Ada Township Supervisor George Haga; former State Representative Chris Afendoulis; and former Commissioner Saalfeld.
“Lindsey received overwhelming support from local leaders who we trust to make important decisions affecting the quality of life in our county,” concluded Chair Bolter. “Her strong relationships with these local officials will serve her well as she starts this new role.”
Thiel’s first day was March 26, 2020.
