Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra delivers an important message to the community on the eve of national, state and local elections.
Read Hoekstra’s letter to the community below:
Wyoming Public Schools Superintendent Craig Hoekstra (Supplied)
Dear Wyoming Public Schools Families and Community,
As we approach the upcoming national, state, and local elections, I want to highlight two important messages for our school community.
First and foremost, I encourage everyone to exercise their right to vote. This fundamental right is one of the most impactful ways we can shape our community, our state, and our nation. Voting not only allows us to have a voice in the decisions that affect us, but it also demonstrates to our children the value of civic engagement.
Secondly, as the election draws near and results unfold, it is vital that we, as a community, stay focused on our role as positive role models for our students. Regardless of the election’s outcome, our ongoing commitment must be to remain civil, respectful, and supportive of one another. Our actions and words will serve as powerful examples to our children on how to engage thoughtfully and constructively, even during challenging times.
Wyoming Public Schools is built on the strength of a supportive partnership between home and school. I am grateful for each of you and your dedication to fostering a positive environment for our students. Together, we can model the importance of kindness, empathy, and healthy discourse in all that we do.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support in helping us create a positive and respectful atmosphere within our schools and community.
Sincerely,
Craig Hoekstra
Superintendent
Wyoming Public Schools
WPS Superintendent Craig Hoekstra’s letter to the community (Courtesy, WPS)
Dr. Scott Kaufman will give insight into President Ford’s long-lasting impacts (Courtesy, Ford Library & Museum)
President Ford’s relationship with President Carter demonstrates how leaders can transcend political divides for the greater good of a nation.
Esteemed author and professor Dr. Scott Kaufman will visit the Gerald R. Ford Library in Ann Arbor, and the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids, to discuss President Ford’s legacy and relationship with President Carter.
Attendees will have the opportunity to hear about the fascinating relationship between Ford and Carter – two presidents from opposite political parties who found common ground in public service and bipartisanship. Their relationship evolved into a friendship that is cited as a model of post-presidency cooperation.
“We are fortunate to be able to bring Dr. Scott Kaufman to both of our locations as a guest speaker,” said Brooke Clement, director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “It’s an honor to have the opportunity to hear his insights on President Ford’s long-lasting impacts, especially during this 50th anniversary year.”
Event details
Scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Oct. 30 at the Library and Oct. 31 at the Museum, these programs are free and open to the public. Registration is encouraged, and a Zoom option on Oct. 30 will be available for those who cannot attend in-person.
Both programs will conclude with a book sale and signing.
About Dr. Kaufman
(Courtesy photo)
Dr. Kaufman is professor of History and a Board of Trustees Research Scholar at Francis Marion University in South Carolina where he has taught since 2001.
He is the author, co-author, or editor of twelve books, including A Companion to Gerald R. Ford and Jimmy Carter (2015) and Ambition, Pragmatism, and Party: A Political Biography of Gerald R. Ford (2017).
Dr. Kaufman is currently working on two books: a history of impeachment in the United States, and a comparative history of the Panama and Suez Canals.
Register today!
For more information and to register for the events, click here.
The American Presidency on Screen, a new 80-minute documentary, will make its debut screening at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The American Presidency on Screen, a new 80-minute documentary, will make its debut screening on Oct. 9 at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum in Grand Rapids. A panel discussion with subject matter experts will follow.
Five centuries of American history
What connects us as Americans is far stronger than what divides us (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The Washington Political Film Foundation is set to premiere its latest documentary, The American Presidency on Screen, at events cosponsored by two of the National Archives Libraries & Museums this fall. This initiative highlights how Hollywood has interpreted history to captivate, inspire and entertain audiences through movie, television and streaming platform depictions that explore pivotal moments in American history.
The primary focus of the initiative is to explore the role of American Presidents. From portrayals of real-life Presidents to fictional Chief Executives in films and television series, the documentary roars along to cover key moments in the timeline of American history.
This timely documentary spans five centuries of American history, from the colonial era to present day. In exploring historical portrayals of the U.S. Presidency, the film serves as a reminder of the shared history and democratic ideals that unite all Americans.
Released during the lead-up to the presidential election, The American Presidency on Screen carries a critical message of unity, emphasizing that what connects us as Americans is far stronger than what divides us—an especially important message in today’s polarized political climate.
Documentary contributors and sponsors
The documentary highlights the power of film and common bonds of American citizens (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
The film benefited from important contributions made by veteran LA-based producer Kirk Saduski, known for his high-profile work with CNN, HBO, and Apple TV+. Saduski was an advisor to the Washington Political Film Foundation, which developed the idea and produced the film.
“This project underscores the unifying power of film in a divided political landscape and a violent world,” said Lee Johnson, Chairman and CEO of The Foundation. “For over a century, Americans have been inspired, educated, and entertained by some of the greatest creative talent ever assembled in film and television.
“With The American Presidency on Screen, our hope is that audiences will be reminded of our common history and the ties that bind us together.”
The American Presidency on Screen is made possible through the generous support of the Goldman Sachs Foundation.
Additional screening and film information
The second screening will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library on the University of Michigan campus in Ann Arbor on Oct. 17.
The third event will take place Oct. 18 at The Carter Center in Atlanta, sponsored by the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library & Museum in Atlanta, also featuring a post-screening discussion.
For more information about the film and upcoming screenings, click here.
Below are the unofficial Aug. 6 Primary results for the Kentwood and Wyoming area. For the Aug. 6 Primary and Nov. 5 General Election, WKTV’s We The People program extended an invitation to all local Kentwood and Wyoming candidates. Participating candidate results are listed here.
Kent County Sports and Entertainment Facilities Proposal
YES (65,909 votes, 53.63%) NO (56,976 votes, 46.37%)
Shall Kent County increase the rate at which the excise tax is levied on all persons engaged in the business of providing rooms for lodging purposes to guests staying less than 30 consecutive days under Public Act 263 of 1974 as amended from 5% to 8% of the total charge for accommodations to be used for allowable uses including financing of the acquisition, construction, improvement, enlargement, repair, or maintenance of stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and aquariums starting January 1, 2025 and terminating on the same day as the county ordinance enacted under Public Act 263 of 1974 as amended.
(Courtesy, Grand Action 2.0)
Kent County Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage
YES (70,313 votes, 59.04%) NO (48,787 votes, 40.96%)
Shall Kent County levy 0.25 of one mill, which equals 25 cents per $1,000 of the taxable value on all real and personal property subject to taxation, for the period January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2030, inclusive, for the purpose of planning, evaluating, and providing services to persons through age 5 and their parents for early childhood development, and services to improve quality of childcare and to increase public information regarding available childcare? The amount raised by the levy in the first calendar year is estimated at $8,794,547.
In Kent County there are 31 local authorities that capture and use, for authorized purposes, tax increment revenues from property taxes levied by the County. Such capture could include a portion of this millage levy. The 31 tax increment authorities in Kent County, capturing a portion of this tax levy, include but are not limited to the following:
Ada Township – Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Bowne Township – Downtown Development Authority Byron Township – Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Cascade Charter Township – Downtown Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Cedar Springs, City of – Downtown Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Grand Rapids, City of – Downtown Development Authority, Monroe North-Tax Increment Finance Authority, Smart Zone Local Development Finance Authority, Corridor Improvement Finance Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Grand Rapids Township – Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Grandville, City of – Downtown Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Kent City, Village of – Downtown Development Authority Kentwood, City of – Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Lowell, City of – Downtown Development Authority Rockford, City of – Downtown Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Sparta, Village of – Downtown Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Walker, City of – Downtown Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Wyoming, City of – Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
(Courtesy, First Steps Kent)
State Representative, House District 83 Seat
The Michigan House of Representatives is the lower chamber of the Michigan State Legislature. Alongside the Michigan State Senate, it forms the legislative branch of the Michigan state government and works alongside the governor of Michigan to create laws and establish a state budget. Legislative authority and responsibilities of the Michigan House of Representatives include passing bills on public policy matters, setting levels for state spending, raising and lowering taxes, and voting to uphold or override gubernatorial vetoes.
John Fitzgerald – Incumbent Candidate, State Representative, House District 83 (4,915 votes, no opposition)
Tommy Brann – Candidate, State Representative, House District 83 (4,835 votes, no opposition)
*Will face each other in the General Election Nov. 5.
Wyoming Council Member At-Large Seat
The Wyoming Mayor and City Council are an active, elected body of government responsible for legislation and policy-making for the City. The Mayor and three at-large Council Members are elected by all voters; three ward Council Members represent and are elected by voters in specific geographical districts. Together, they adopt City ordinances, appoint members to boards and commissions, and approve an annual City budget.
Sheldon DeKryger (3,455 votes, 46.92%), Robert Kilgo (2,665 votes, 36.19%), Rick Pilieci (1,159 votes, 15.74%).
*DeKryger advances to the General Election Nov. 5.
Kent County Board of Commissioners Seat
The Kent County Board of Commissioners is the chief legislative and policy-making body of Kent County Government. Commissioners are elected to 2-year terms from districts that are roughly equal in population. A chair and vice-chair are elected at the first meeting of each new year by the Commissioners. The chair appoints each Commissioner to one of two standing committees: the Finance and Physical Resources Committee or the Legislative and Human Resources Committee.
Sonia Riley (D) – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 7 (2,226 votes, no opposition, Advances to General Election Nov. 5)
Chris Herweyer (D) – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 8 (2,233 votes, no opposition, Advances to General Election Nov. 5)
Michelle McCloud (D) – Incumbent Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 13 (2,710 votes, no opposition, Advances to General Election Nov. 5)
Nancy L. Morales (D) – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 20 (927 votes, no opposition, Advances to General Election Nov. 5)
Derek Anderson (R) – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 20 9 (404 votes, 69.90%), David Lee Boelkes (R) (168 votes, 29.07%). (Anderson advances to the General Election vs. Nancy L. Morales on Nov. 5)
Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds Seat
The Kent County Clerk’s Office has three major functions: to manage County elections; to manage vital County records; and to process and maintain all Circuit Court files. In Kent County, the Clerk is also the Register of Deeds. The Clerk is also the Clerk of the Board of Commissioners, and statutorily serves on numerous County boards and commissions.
Lisa Posthumus Lyons (R) – Incumbent Candidate, Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds (56,374 votes, no opposition, Advances to General Election Nov. 5)
Scott Urbanowski (D) – Candidate, Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds (54,512 votes, no opposition, Advances to General Election Nov. 5 vs. Posthumus Lyons)
Kent County residents will have the opportunity to vote on several party nominations and millages in the Aug. 6 primary election.
On the ballot will be the renewal of the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage, which is funded by a 0.25 mill property tax increase. For example, the owner of a home valued at $300,000 will pay approximately $37.50 annually, or $3.13 per month.
If passed, the millage will run through 2030.
(Courtesy, FSK)
Think long-term investment
The Ready by Five millage is facilitated by First Steps Kent (FSK), an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to giving children access to the necessary policies, programs, and support systems to thrive and be developmentally on track when they start kindergarten, according to their website.
The economic impact of an early childhood millage can yield some results in the short-term, but long-term results are the true goal of the millage, according to Jennifer Headley-Nordman, President of First Steps Kent.
“Some of the research that we share is from economist James Heckman looking at longitudinal data,” said Headley-Nordman.
Results of the James Hekman study (Courtesy, FSK)
“If you make investments in early childhood later on when they are 18 and beyond, you begin to see improved graduation rates, lower incarceration, seeing individuals having better attainment in continued education or in the workforce.”
Ready by Five funds a wide range of early childhood programs, including services for expectant parents, play-and-learn groups, and intensive therapy for children grappling with behavioral health issues.
“For individual programs, returns can be anywhere from $3 to $7 for every $1 spent. You are getting more than double in return. If a child has additional needs and layers, services can return $12-$15,” said Headley-Nordman.
Pennies today can save thousands in the future
A child who receives help for early childhood delays at a young age can often overcome those delays more effectively than if they are addressed later in the school system.
“If you can remediate speech and language delays and improve fine motor skills when kids are young and eager to learn, they are less likely to need robust special education services that can be extremely expensive,” said Headley-Nordman.
Receiving help at an early age can save money in the future (Courtesy, FSK)
How the millage works
In order to receive funding through the Ready by Five millage, community programs are required to first submit data and receipts to FSK for review and approval.
“Our process is a reimbursement model,” Headley-Nordman said. “When organizations request funds, they spend their own money first, and then provide us receipts and evidence that they have spent money in accordance with how they said they would as part of the contract.”
2018 millage produces change
The Ready by Five millage was approved by Kent County voters in 2018, and its first class of kindergarteners have excelled due to that funding.
“We finally had a group of kids reach kindergarten, so we had a group of kids that received Ready by Five funds, and we are able to see there is positive momentum with the kids that did benefit from funding,” Headley-Nordman said.
Supporting the community
Some in Kent County may be hesitant to add more to their taxes, but Headley-Nordman urges them to think about the long-term benefits to the community when it comes to the Ready by Five millage.
Working together helps the entire community (Courtesy, FSK)
“Being able to share the cost of supporting programs and services that individuals in the community need for their children makes a lot of sense,” said Headley-Nordman. “If you look at this from an economic standpoint it allows those services to be low cost or free to everyone, not just for particular individuals that are benefiting from it.
“We all need help at one time or another. It’s who we are in Kent County. Kent County has a history that we all help each other out.”
First Steps Kent resources
FSK offers various resources and initiatives, and provides funding opportunities for early childhood programs and initiatives. FSK also seeks parent leaders to serve on its Resident Proposal Review Board.
Community members are encouraged to learn more about First Steps Kent, and sign up for updates, at firststepskent.org.
Learn more about the Ready by Five millage in this short WKTV Journal interview with Jennifer Headley-Nordman.
For the Michigan Aug. 6 primary and Nov. 5 general election, WKTV’s We The People program extended an invitation to all local Kentwood, Wyoming and Kent County candidates. Participating candidate videos and profiles are linked here.
All videos are 5-minutes or less, devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
Alongside the Michigan State Senate, it forms the legislative branch of the Michigan state government and works alongside the governor of Michigan to create laws and establish a state budget.
Legislative authority and responsibilities of the Michigan House of Representatives include passing bills on public policy matters, setting levels for state spending, raising and lowering taxes, and voting to uphold or override gubernatorial vetoes.
John Fitzgerald – Incumbent Candidate, State Representative, House District 83
Occupation:
State Representative, House District 83
Why are you running for office?
I am running for re-election to continue the great work the legislature has been able to accomplish this session for the people of Michigan and to support the priorities of my constituents. We have made significant strides in improving public policy, and I look forward to continuing my work to support local residents, robustly fund public education, and develop a local economy that provides the foundation for high-paying jobs and affordable housing.
Two issues you are focused on:
1)Support Working Families:
Supporting working families depends upon ensuring that safe and secure housing is addressed, making certain that access to food and services is not strained, and that economic and job development supports the workforce and careers of residents. Working families thrive when there is no scarcity of quality goods, housing, public services, and jobs. To support West Michigan, we must invest in our communities and people.
2) Economic Growth and Prosperity:
Local economic development is crucial for creating a more vibrant and sustainable community in West Michigan. Fostering economic growth will bring high-quality jobs that provide stable incomes, benefits, and growth opportunities for residents, improving their standard of living. Additionally, economic development supports local businesses, encourages investments, and enhances the overall quality of life, making our community a more attractive place for newcomers to plant roots.
Tommy Brann – Candidate, State Representative, House District 83
Occupation:
Current Wyoming City Council Member-At-Large
*Wyoming City Council Member-At-Large Seat
The Wyoming Mayor and City Council are an active, elected body of government responsible for legislation and policy-making for the City.
The Mayor and three at-large Council Members are elected by all voters; three ward Council Members represent and are elected by voters in specific geographical districts. Together, they adopt City ordinances, appoint members to boards and commissions, and approve an annual City budget.
Robert Kilgo – Candidate, Wyoming Council Member-At-Large
Occupation:
University Employee
Why are you running for office?
I am running for Wyoming City Council because I believe in the potential of our community and am committed to serving our citizens with integrity and dedication. I love Wyoming and want the best for the people who live here. This city has a lot to aspire towards, and I am passionate about contributing to Wyoming’s growth and prosperity long-term, win or lose.
Two issues you are focused on:
– Maintaining fiscal responsibility with our tax dollars
– Fostering community engagement and sustaining our natural areas
Commissioners are elected to 2-year terms from districts that are roughly equal in population. A chair and vice-chair are elected at the first meeting of each new year by the Commissioners. The chair appoints each Commissioner to one of two standing committees: the Finance and Physical Resources Committee or the Legislative and Human Resources Committee.
Sonia Riley – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 7
Occupation:
Office Manager / Doula / Business Owner
Why are you running for office?
I am running for office to help bring more awareness to addressing the needs of our changing community. Kent County although saturated in resources and nonprofits. We continue to have high health disparities that affect mostly black and brown people. Some things can be done at the county level to make Kent County Safe to Thrive for everyone.
Two issues you are focused on:
Bring more awareness of the trickle effect of climate change, and focus on all the goals for the county’s proposed 2025 budget.
Chris Herweyer – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 8
Occupation:
Regional Coordinator for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters
Why are you running for office?
I am running to help protect our environment, improve residents’ quality of life and economic opportunities, and support education and services in the county.
Two issues you are focused on:
I am focused on making our county more environmentally sustainable and improving early childhood and educational outcomes for our kids.
Michelle McCloud (Courtesy photo)
Michelle McCloud – Incumbent Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 13
Occupation:
Kent County Commissioner District 13
Why are you running for office?
I’m running for reelection because I believe that I still have work to do for Kent County. I have been working diligently for the last 3.5 years and trying to do the best for my constituents that I can to ensure an acceptable quality of life for all. I’m not someone who enjoys the spotlight so much of what I do is behind the scenes. I rarely miss county meetings or committee assignment meetings. I participate, ask questions and ensure that I’m informed. I’m a caregiver, a full time employee and a mom and grandma. There’s only so much time in the day and I feel that I use it for the betterment of all.
Two issues you are focused on:
Access to affordable childcare and affordable housing. I believe that these two issues are the biggest issues impacting the Kent county community right now. Young people can’t plant their roots when they can’t afford to buy a home or pay the market rates for rent. They can’t afford to start a family when childcare is nonexistent or too expensive to consider. We have to address these core issues if we want to continue to grow as a community. I’ve done my best to support policies that positively impact affordable housing options and affordable childcare for county residents.
Nancy L. Morales – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 20
Occupation:
Art Instructor / Climate Justice Organizer
Why are you running for office?
I would like to be a voice for my neighbors in and around District 20, and support the City of Wyoming’s efforts to make this a thriving and rich community in all aspects!
Two issues you are focused on:
Economic Growth & Environmental Sustainability
Derek Anderson – Candidate, Kent County Commissioner District 20
Occupation:
Carpenter / Small Business Owner
Why are you running for office?
To promote justice and to protect the vulnerable in our community from being subject to the sexually explicit material being targeted at them in the schools and in the Kent District Library.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. Eliminating Marxist and Communist ideologies that are being infused into our community at the county level.
2. Protect children from the sexually explicit material that is targeted at them and available to them in the Kent District Library.
*Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds Seat
The Kent County Clerk’s Office has three major functions: to manage County elections; to manage vital County records; and to process and maintain all Circuit Court files.
In Kent County, the Clerk is also the Register of Deeds. The Clerk is also the Clerk of the Board of Commissioners, and statutorily serves on numerous County boards and commissions.
Lisa Posthumus Lyons – Incumbent Candidate, Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds
Occupation:
Kent County Clerk / Register of Deeds
Why are you running for office?
I’m proud to call Kent County my home and am so grateful for the opportunity to serve my community. As a lifelong resident of Kent County, I have a deep appreciation for the values that make Kent County a wonderful place to live, work and serve. I am running for re-election to continue providing a strong voice for West Michigan, and to build upon my experience of providing efficient, effective and transparent leadership to Kent County residents.
Two issues you are focused on:
I am focused on ensuring that the Clerk/Registers office continues to operate efficiently and transparently.
My office is diverse: Clerk (vital records, elections), Register of Deeds (property records), and Clerk of the Circuit Court (court records). Rapidly advancing technology continues to change the way we serve the public and aids us in doing so more efficiently. During my first two terms we modernized our operations and technology systems that serve our customers needing their vital, property, and election records. With few exceptions where we’re required by law to conduct an in-person transaction, those records and services are now all available more-conveniently online. We’re now working collaboratively with the court administration to implement many of those service-minded upgrades at the Clerk of the Court office.
As far as transparency – the aftermath of the 2020 election cycle highlighted the fact that many voters had a lot of questions about how Michigan elections are administered and audited to ensure they are secure, transparent, fair and accurate. Since that time, I have viewed my role as Kent County’s Chief Elections Official to be an Ambassador for Elections. My team has rolled out the red carpet for any voter, candidate, member of the media, who has questions about our elections. Everything we do to prepare for, conduct, and verify our elections is open to the public and we genuinely encourage citizens to take the time to learn and see the process for themselves. I will continue to encourage that in the remainder of this term, and into my next.
Scott Urbanowski – Candidate, Kent County Clerk/Register of Deeds
Occupation:
Freelance Communications / Marketing Professional
Why are you running for office?
It’s said that when a woman asked Benjamin Franklin whether the U.S. was going to have a republic or a monarchy, Franklin replied, “A republic – if you can keep it.” I’m running because I want to do my part to “keep it,” as Franklin said. We need elected officials who are committed to improving our government and making sure that it truly serves all residents.
Two issues you are focused on:
Of the five issues in my platform, the two that I’d most like to highlight are voter education and supporting election workers (such as local clerks and their staff as well as poll workers).
McQuade’s book focuses on breaks down the ways disinformation has become a tool to drive voters to extremes, disempower our legal structures, and consolidate power in the hands of the few (Courtesy photo)
During the event, McQuade will focus on identifying ways disinformation is seeping into facets of society and how to fight against it.
“After a thought-provoking program with Barbara McQuade in Ann Arbor in April, we are very excited to welcome her to our West Michigan audience at the Ford Museum,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “We hope our guests will enjoy hearing her describe her research and practical solutions to combat disinformation.”
Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with McQuade in an inclusive setting, posing questions and delving deeper into this timely topic. A book signing will follow the event.
“We are delighted to partner with the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation to host Barbara McQuade as she shares her insights about the dangers of misinformation,” said Megan Rydecki, Director of the Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies.
“As we seek to grow a community of ethical, effective leaders for the 21st century, it is imperative that we advocate for truth and fact-based information.”
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Author details and event links
McQuade is a professor at the University of Michigan Law School, where she teaches criminal law and national security law. She is also a legal analyst for NBC News and MSNBC.
From 2010 to 2017, McQuade served as the U.S Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan.
She was appointed by President Barack Obama, and was the first woman to serve in her position.
McQuade also served as vice chair of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee and co-chaired its Terrorism and National Security Subcommittee.
For more information and to register for the event, click here.
Kentwood Commissioner Maurice Groce. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org
After an eight-year tenure on the Kentwood City Commission, Commissioner Maurice Groce has announced his plans to resign for family reasons.
A Kentwood resident for more than 32 years, Groce has brought more than three decades of operational business and management experience to his role as commissioner. Since 2007, he has been heavily involved with the City of Kentwood, fulfilling previous appointments to the Local Officers Compensation Committee, Housing Commission and Planning Commission.
Groce and his wife, Donna, have made the difficult decision to move out of Kentwood so they can be closer to their son and daughter on the east side of the state. They also want to be able to support and spend more time with their daughter, son-in-law and three grandchildren.
“I am incredibly honored to have served as a city commissioner for the past eight years and collaborate with my fellow commissioners, City staff and community members to ensure a safe, diverse and fiscally responsible city with economic, educational and cultural opportunities,” Groce said. “The decision to step down is not an easy one or something I expected to do before the end of my term. However, my wife and I feel very strongly about being closer to family and being active grandparents in the lives our of grandchildren.”
Groce first began serving on the City Commission in 2012, when he was appointed to fill the remaining two years of a Ward 2 commission seat. In 2018, Groce was again appointed to fill a vacant commission seat. He then was elected to the commission in 2019 and again in 2023.
Groce will continue to serve as a city commissioner until late spring or early summer. The City Commission will appoint someone to serve the remainder of his term, which ends in November 2027. Details about this appointment process and how interested residents can apply will be announced once finalized.
The New York Times Chief White House Correspondent and MSNBC political analyst Peter Baker recently visited Grand Rapids to talk about an element of our constitutional leadership that often goes unnoticed – the vice presidency.
Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum is celebrating its 50th anniversary (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Renowned for his incisive journalism and extensive first-hand knowledge of presidential administrations, Baker presented his journalistic view on the evolving role of the vice presidency at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on April 23. “Covering the Vice Presidency: Lessons Learned on the Road” brought insight to a role deemed by one historian as the resting place for mediocrity.
The first vice president, John Adams, defined his role as “…the most insignificant office that ever the invention of man contrived or his imagination conceived.”
But while those who hold the office of vice president may feel their job lacks significance, Baker believes understanding the often underrated role is more important than many people realize.
“It definitely is more important than people recognize,” said Baker. “We collectively ought to know more about our vice presidents because, in fact, a large number of them ultimately become president. Either because of the vacancy in the office or because they run for the office later.”
Baker continued, ”Aside from being next in line to the presidency, the office of the vice presidency has evolved a lot in modern times. It’s evolved a lot in the last few decades into a much more substantive and significant role.”
A useless appendage
Since our country was founded, vice presidents have struggled to find a foothold in the political realm.
With the office of vice president more of an afterthought to the Constitution rather than a priority, it is no wonder the person stepping into the role is left floundering to find purpose.
Nearly every vice president has struggled to feel seen and heard while in office (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Benjamin Franklin went so far as to suggest that the vice president should be addressed as “Your Superfluous Excellency.”
“They didn’t have an office in the White House,” said Baker. “No president actually gave them an office in the White House until Lyndon Johnson came along as the first one to argue he should have an office in the White House. And even then he didn’t get it in the White House itself – he only got it in the Executive Office Building across the street.”
Breeding insecurity
While reporting on the last five vice presidents, Baker said he learned the vice president’s job is far from easy.
“A vice president’s power is entirely derivative of the president that he or she works for,” said Baker. “You have as much as they’re willing to give you, and nothing more. You’re wholly dependent on the president.
“The vice presidents are always waiting for a president to tell them what they can do, what they shouldn’t do, and so forth. It just breeds insecurity.”
Even though the vice president is the second highest official in the land and the next in line for the presidency, the person holding that role can feel enormously uncertain about their place in the White House.
Refusing to be marginalized
“Walter Mondale called it,” said Baker. “He said the vice president, over American history, has always been standby equipment.”
President Ford was the first vice president to be chosen under the terms of the 25th Amendment (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Mondale took notice of his predecessors’ marginalized capacity – and refused to follow in their footsteps.
“When [Mondale] became Jimmy Carter’s vice president, he got Carter to agree to give him an office in the West Wing, just down the hall and around the corner from the Oval Office,” said Baker. “He got to be the first vice president ever to live in an official government residence.”
Most importantly, Mondale drafted a memo with an expansive interpretation of how he saw the job, and how he could be useful to the administration. That memo has been used by several vice presidents to make their own arguments to the presidents they serve.
Richard (Dick) Cheney, serving as vice president to President George W. Bush, was also a key player in expanding the role of vice presidents.
Cheney has been described as the most powerful vice president in history.
“He knew Washington, he knew his players,” said Baker.
But the most important factor lay in Cheney’s ability to build a relationship with President Bush, who empowered him to be an influential vice president.
“Bush gave Cheney access to every meeting, every decision,” said Baker. “He involved Cheney in every aspect of the presidency. It’s such a contrast to his predecessors.”
Through Mondale and Cheney, the role of vice president experienced extensive and unprecedented growth.
(Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
From standby to partner
In the last several administrations, vice presidents have taken on more of a role as mentor and guide to the presidents they serve.
“[The vice president] has become more of a partner riding shotgun for the president heading into a political administration, given much more responsibility, and sometimes even more visibility, than in the past,” said Baker.
More from Peter Baker
The full “Covering the Vice Presidency: Lessons Learned on the Road” presentation at the Ford Museum will soon be available on the Museum website. Click here for updates.
To view Peter Baker’s interview with WKTV Journal Managing Editor Deborah Reed about the importance of journalism and its core values, and the evolution of our country’s presidential administrations, click on the video below.
A free conference commemorating the enduring influence of first ladies in American history will be held at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum on Friday, April 26 at 2:15 p.m. Titled “In Celebration of Betty Ford’s 50th Anniversary as First Lady,” the conference will feature a special focus on the remarkable contributions of Betty Ford.
The half-day event is FLARE’s first national conference. It will feature two panels and focus on Betty Ford’s leadership as first lady.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum (Supplied)
National experts on First Ladies will include Susan Ford Bales, daughter of President and Betty Ford; Anita McBride, second term chief of staff for Laura Bush; and other celebrated women who have published books on first ladies.
Attendees can expect enlightening conversations about the pivotal roles Betty Ford and other first ladies play in our nation’s history.
A pioneer of First Ladies
“We remember Betty Ford as the pioneer who started the systematic academic study of First Ladies,” said Gleaves Whitney, executive director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation. “We are proud to host the 40-year commemoration of a great event that took place right here on the Ford stage in Grand Rapids, Michigan.”
This conference builds upon the legacy of the historic 1984 conference, convened and moderated by Mrs. Ford herself, which explored the multifaceted responsibilities and impacts of first ladies.
“Hosting the FLARE conference underscores our commitment to fostering collaboration, empowering women’s voices and honoring the lasting legacy of the indomitable Betty Ford,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.
FLARE serves as the primary association to encourage interdisciplinary collaboration and outreach among scholars, institutions, first ladies’ staff, biographers, archivists, journalists, and public historians interested in research and education about the lasting legacies of U.S. First Ladies.
“FLARE is honored to host its first national conference with our esteemed partners, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum, the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Foundation, and American University’s School of Public Affairs,” said FLARE President Nancy Kegan Smith.
“This landmark event brings together an accomplished group of first ladies’ scholars, family, staff and the public to commemorate Betty Ford’s leadership, her groundbreaking conference on first ladies in 1984 and the important contributions of First Ladies.”
A celebration of groundbreaking leadership
The conference will feature national experts, including:
Susan Ford Bales, Author and daughter of President Gerald R. and Betty Ford.
Diana Carlin, Professor Emerita of St. Louis University. She is co-author of U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies and Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women.
Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum.
Dr. Stacy Cordery, Professor of History, Iowa State University, Author, and Bibliographer.
Myra Gutin, Professor Emerita of Communication at Rider University. She is the author of The President’s Partner: The First Lady in the Twentieth Century and Barbara Bush: Presidential Matriarch.
Lisa McCubbin Hill, Journalist and author of Betty Ford: First Lady, Women’s Advocate, Survivor, Trailblazer, and co-author of Mrs. Kennedy and Me; Five Presidents: My Extraordinary Journey with Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, and Ford; and My Travels with Mrs. Kennedy.
Alison Jacknowitz, Interim Dean of the School of Public Affairs at American University and Professor in the Department of Public Administration and Policy.
Anita McBride, Executive in Residence at American University, School of Public Affairs and Director of the First Ladies Initiative, and second term Chief of Staff to Laura Bush. She is co-author of U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies and Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women.
Nancy Kegan Smith, Former Director of the Presidential Materials Division at the National Archives and Records Administration. She is co-author of U.S. First Ladies: Making History and Leaving Legacies and Remember the First Ladies: The Legacies of America’s History-Making Women.
Sheila Rabb Weidenfeld, Mrs. Ford’s Press Secretary, an Emmy-award-winning television producer, diplomat, and Chair of the C&O Canal Commission. She is the author of the book, First Lady’s Lady.
*Seating is limited. Registration is open to the public until April 23 or until the event is filled.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum will host Peter Baker, Chief White House Correspondent for The New York Times and a political analyst for MSNBC, on Tuesday, April 23.
Having reported on the last five presidencies for The Times and The Washington Post, Baker will present “Covering the Vice Presidency: Lessons Learned on the Road,” his journalistic view on the evolving role of the vice presidency.
This public lecture will begin at 6:30 p.m. at the Ford Museum, and is free to attend. There will be a Zoom alternative for those unable to attend in-person.
Admission to this Ford Museum event is free (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Knowledge & Insight
“We are honored to host the esteemed Peter Baker, renowned for his incisive journalism, at the museum,” said Brooke Clement, Director of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum. “The audience will be treated to Baker’s extensive first-hand knowledge of the last five presidential administrations and his keen insight into American politics.”
At The Post, Baker served as Moscow Co-Bureau Chief and covered the opening months of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. He is author of seven books written with his wife Susan Glasser of The New Yorker. The Divider: Trump in the White House, 2017-2021 and The Man Who Ran Washington: The Life and Times of James A. Baker III are two of Baker’s best-selling works. Baker is also a frequent panelist on Washington Week on PBS.
The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum allows visitors to experience highlights from the lives of President Gerald Ford, the 38th president of the United States (1974–1977), and his wife Betty Ford.
Museum exhibits teach democratic citizenship and allow for quiet reflection. In addition, changing temporary exhibits draw artifacts from partner museums nationwide.
Part of the presidential library system of the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), the Ford Museum is located in downtown Grand Rapids. The Ford Library is located on the north campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor.
The National Archives and Records Administration is the nation’s record keeper. It safeguards and manages the official records of the U.S. Government, ensuring the documentation of our nation’s history.
Kent District Library (KDL) is inviting the community to share in a week-long celebration honoring MLK and the Civil Rights Movement.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.: A Weeklong Celebration will take place Jan. 15-19 at local KDL branches. Programs for all ages will feature powerful reflections and action that supported the legacy of MLK.
“We chose to do the week-long celebration because [we] wanted it to be a variety of programs that patrons could enjoy,” said KDL Volunteer Event Coordinator Debra Schultz. “We didn’t want to just tie it into one day.”
Selma: heart-wrenching and eye-opening
As part of the celebration, the Wyoming Branch will host a special viewing of the movie Selma on Wednesday, Jan. 17 from 5:30-7:45 p.m.
(Courtesy, KDL)
“We wanted something that would touch a whole family and be an educational piece – but also an entertaining piece – and so we chose the movieSelma,” said Schultz. “It’s a great movie about representation of the need to understand each other, and to find equality in what we do.”
Taking place in Selma, AL, the movie speaks to the fight that Martin Luther King and his followers went through while striving to be treated equally.
“[King] was really looking for voting rights back in the 60s when this took place,” said Schultz. “African American people just wanted the right to vote…and they did it in a peaceful march.
(Courtesy, KDL)
“But even though their intentions were peaceful, there was still violence because the governor of the town did not want them to come to his town.”
Many people who supported the rights of African Americans to vote traveled to Selma from across the United States to march with MLK.
“They wanted to be there to say, ‘We stand with you.’” said Schultz. “It’s powerful because I don’t think we realize [that] the ordinary person didn’t know what was going on. A lot of them did not realize that African Americans didn’t have the right to vote, so this was an eye-opener for them.
“It was also dangerous for them because the people they were fighting against were also fighting against anyone who agreed with [MLK]. Some white people that went down for the march did end up getting harassed and violated.”
Schultz continued, “This movie is very moving and dramatic, heart-wrenching, and an eye-opener.”
Original artwork available for viewing
“Road Towards Equality” painting by Paul Collins (Courtesy, KDL)
KDL has also procured the loan of an original piece of art from a local Grand Rapids artist for the MLK celebration.
Artist Paul Collins has agreed to have his original painting titled “Road Towards Equality” hanging at several of the branches to honor MLK. It will remain on exhibit through February in honor of Black History Month.
“The reason that [Collins] chose to have it displayed in the library is because he thinks the library atmosphere is the right type of place to have this picture,” said Schultz. “Everyone has the ability to go in and see it because we are open to all, and it’s free to walk into a library.
“He likes the idea that anyone who walks in will have that opportunity to see it – and hopefully ask questions and learn from it. Learn what our heritage is, learn what our freedom is, learn about the men and the women that made changes to help our freedom.”
(Courtesy, KDL)
“Road Towards Equality” can be seen at the Kentwood branch for the first two in January. Alongside the painting will be a postcard with a description of the artwork that patrons will be able to take home with them.
From Kentwood, the painting will be on exhibit at the KDL Caledonia Branch from Jan. 29 – Feb. 2. The Walker location will display the piece the following week, followed by a week at the Sand Lake location, and then at the Rockford branch for the last week in February.
MLK celebration events
Though usually closed on Martin Luther King Day, KDL decided to stay open on Jan. 15 in order to provide a wider impact with carefully curated events.
“We wanted to make sure that there were eventful and educational programs going on that would tie into Martin Luther King and his legacy,” said Schultz. “We worked with Darius Quinn from Quinn Consulting to come up with a good schedule of events that would touch on the heart of what Martin Luther King stood for, and why it’s important that we still carry that on today.”
Other MLK events include a presentation by Randal Jelks, author of Letters to Martin, Jan. 15; a presentation by author, podcaster and retired Calvin professor Dr. Michelle Lloyd-Paige, Jan. 16; “Fear Must Not Be Our Future” presentation by Pastor Joe Jones, Jan. 18; and a Letters to Martin book discussion Jan. 19.
Each KDL branch will have a display of passive craft projects for children and families. The crafts include a silhouette of MLK that can be decorated with paint, markers, crayons. Various MLK quotes that had an impact on society will be available to cut out and adhere to the silhouette.
A small booklet will also be available for children at certain KDL locations. The booklet focuses on who MLK was, why his speech of “I have a dream” is important, and how children can live that out today.
A selection of books that represent Martin Luther King, his beliefs and what he was fighting for at that time, as well as books with similar messages relevant to current times will be available at all KDL branches for visitors to read and enjoy.
Our mission
“Our mission is Ideas, Information, and Excitement,” said Schultz about KDL, “and I feel like we have the ability to help people become more aware of our history and what we can do to become more united as a nation.”
*KDL thanks Darius Quinn for his extensive work and help on the MLK celebration, as well as Kendra McNeil, owner of bookstore We Are Lit, who provided copies of Letters to Martin for the library locations.
On Tuesday, Nov. 7, local voters will get a chance to fill the open seats of the Kentwood City Commission. WKTV’s We The People program invited all Kentwood City Commission candidates to film a video. If they participated, their videos are linked here. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
Kentwood City Commission is made up of seven officials, including the Mayor, elected by the residents. It is the City Commission’s responsibility to set policy and provide financial oversight for the City. All Kentwood elected officials serve a term of four years. The City Commission generally meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall unless otherwise posted.
Kentwood City Commission At-Large Seat
The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, one of two seats, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. The non-partisan candidates listed in the Nov. 7 general election are incumbent Commissioner Maurice H. Groce and candidate Lily Cheng-Schulting. Betsy Artz is in the middle of her term.
Maurice H. Groce — Incumbent Candidate, Kentwood Commissioner At-Large
Why are you running for office?:
I am running for re-election to retain my seat as Commissioner At-Large. I have been involved with the City of Kentwood since 2007 serving on the Local Officer Compensation Committee, Housing Commission, Planning Commissioner, and three times as a City Commissioner.
My drive and commitment to serving the City of Kentwood are centered around championing public safety, safeguarding the city budget, promoting better communication, and planning for the future generations of our city.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is paramount. I am dedicated to working closely with our department leaders to implement effective strategies to prevent crime and enhance public safety. Responsible fiscal management is crucial for the prosperity of our city. I will work to safeguard taxpayer dollars by diligently examining the city budget, identifying areas of potential savings, and prioritizing essential services and infrastructure development. By promoting better communication channels, we can forge stronger partnerships, address community needs, and work collaboratively to make our city an even better place to live. I will work to plan for the long-term future, ensuring a balanced and inclusive growth that preserves our city’s unique identity and legacy.
I am devoted to upholding these values as your City Commissioner. I humbly ask for your support and trust as we work together to build a safer, prosperous and united City for ourselves and for the generations to come.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. Championing Public Safety
·Prioritizing funding for police and fire services to meet the needs of the community.
·Advocating for safe and healthy neighborhoods by supporting community policing efforts and building positive relationships between law enforcement and residents.
·Supporting initiatives such as crime prevention programs and neighborhood watch initiatives.
2. Safeguarding the City Budget
·Continue to be a driving force to keep Kentwood a city with a continually balanced and fiscally responsible budget.
·Committed to ensuring the city budget is allocated and spent efficiently without wasteful expenditures.
·Forecast budgeting assessments for future projects, challenges and liabilities to ensure the city’s financial stability.
I am running to represent all Kentwood residents as your servant leader. I will always remember that I work for you, regardless of your status, income, gender, age, race, skin color, cultural background, educational background, or abilities.
As your Kentwood City Commissioner, I will listen to your concerns, advocate fiercely for you, and work together with you for positive changes and real solutions.
If you have any local concerns, please call me. I will be your fiercest advocate, since I have been a successful, proven advocate for almost a decade. Many people already know about my leadership and advocacy in benefitting many thousands of students with disabilities, teachers, and staff at the KISD center-based (special education) schools, through systemic change, which led to better funding, resources, and accountability.
Therefore, my mission is to dedicate my skills, experience, and energy to improve the quality of life for all Kentwood residents and to ensure a better, more accountable, inclusive, and responsive Kentwood City government.
Two issues you are focused on:
Many residents have expressed to me their strong concerns, if not disappointment, that they were not actively informed nor did they have a strong voice regarding recent major proposed changes and projects. You deserve better. I will, therefore, increase community engagement and uplift your voice, including by creating town halls and monthly office hours.
I will champion public safety for all residents, including for people with disabilities and mental health challenges. I will listen to your concerns and work with you and your neighborhood associations to create real solutions, including ensuring the resources for effective public safety and exploring options, such as neighborhood watch and joint programs with social workers.
I will also strengthen the economic development and resources for small businesses and start-ups. Small businesses and minority-owned businesses have been an integral part of the growth of Kentwood. I will aid and explore options with small business owners, including minority-owned small business owners, to ensure their success and that they have a strong voice.
Most importantly, as a proven leader, I will listen to all concerns and advocate fiercely for all Kentwood residents. I love and respect each and every resident in Kentwood. I will work for all Kentwood residents, and I will be an active servant leader for you.
The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9 and 17, roughly the southwest areas of the city. Incumbent 1st Ward Commissioner Robert Coughlin is running unopposed in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, and Clarkston Morgan is in the middle of his term.
Kentwood City Commission Ward 2
The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-16 and 18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. David Moore II will run against incumbent candidate Ron Draayer in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, while Jessica Ann Tyson is in the middle of her term.
Ron Draayer — Incumbent Candidate Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2
Occupation: Kentwood City Commissioner (since 2019); Computer Science and Cyber-Security Professor — Davenport University (Emeritus)
Why are you running for office?:
I am running for office to ensure that our residents continue to receive top-quality service from our City workers and that our tax dollars are safe and well-utilized.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. My top priority will continue to be the safety of our residents with strong support for our police officers, fire fighters and first responders.
2. Another priority will be to continue Kentwood’s strong financial position so that we can support and maintain our wonderful parks and trails along with city streets and other city facilities.
David Moore II — Candidate Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2
Occupation: Self-employed Writer
Why are you running for office?:
Kentwood needs commissioners who will listen to its residents and invest in making their city feel like home.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. Overseeing that the voter-approved Parks and Recreation millage is spent as was promised.
2. Working closely with Mayor Stephen Kepley and other Kentwood commissioners to ensure Kentwood empowers and rewards its residents with clean and safe streets and responsible spending of city revenue and tax dollars.
New care seat safety legislation developed by State Representatives John Fitzgerald (District 83) and Carrie Rheingans (District 47) works to increase child safety and educate caregivers.
On Sept. 27, bills titled HB 4511 and HB 4512 passed through the Michigan House of Representatives.
In a recent interview with WKTV Journal, Rep. Fitzgerald said these companion bills are “intended to work together to make sure that we not only have the law, but also the enforcement mechanism by which we can hold drivers, and parents, and guardians, and caregivers accountable to make sure children are traveling safely here in the state of Michigan.”
Constructed by Rep. Rheingans, HB 4511 builds a framework ensuring children are in properly fitting car seats. Enforcement guidelines and educational components are introduced by Fitzgerald in HB 4512.
Education vs. Punishment
Rep. John Fitzgerald is focused on saving children’s lives and educating caregivers. (Courtesy, Supplied)
“There is a lot that goes into safe travel, and now what we see is that there will be an educational component to this bill,” said Fitzgerald.
Previous Michigan law did not match federal law or manufacturer standards, creating confusion among parents and caregivers. This new legislation will provide one consistent message, eliminating that uncertainty.
A common area of confusion revolves around the age of a child versus height and weight. The most important factor in an accident is height and weight, not age.
“That’s where physics comes into play,” said Fitzgerald. “We want to make sure children are in the right position, meaning forward-facing or rear-facing, and that they are using the correct belts.”
Primary vs. Secondary enforcement mechanisms
An enforcement structure has been put into place with this new legislation. The legislation only allows police officers to check a child safety seat in a vehicle already pulled over for primary traffic violations such as speeding or broken taillights.
Fitzgerald tells Deborah Reed, WKTV Managing Editor, and our viewers that “The goal is to save lives, not punish caregivers.”(WKTV)
If a child is not in a proper car seat or position upon inspection, the caregiver can then be assigned a civil infraction fee. However, that fee can now be waived if the caregiver acquires the right seat and education provided by a car seat safety professional.
“We are not trying to punish someone for having the wrong information or the wrong seat,” said Fitzgerald. “We want to help you. We want to help guide you along this journey as your child ages.
“The most important part of that is getting educated on why the right seat was needed, and how that is going to help your child travel safely now.”
Strong bipartisan support
Rep. John Fitzgerald has seen strong bipartisan support for these bills. (WKTV)
Many voices were taken into consideration during the process of the new legislation. Firefighters, police officers, professionals versed in medicine, and community members were all consulted while developing bills 4511 and 4512.
“When you craft this legislation, you are taking into consideration expert testimony, expert input on the bill, and also those of your community,” said Fitzgerald.
“We saw strong bipartisan support on both of these bills in the House of Representatives,” Fitzgerald continued. “That was a great first test of the bills and whether or not we thought that this was something that could be deployed throughout the state and made law.”
As the bills move into the Senate, Fitzgerald is confident they will continue to see bipartisan support.
A theme of safety
Driver, public and traffic safety are of high importance to the legislature in Lansing.
Fitzgerald noted that recent legislation “has really pushed Michigan forward to consider good traffic safety laws that, I think, are responding to the twenty-first century nature of technology and driver safety.”
Michigan legislature is looking to increase traffic safety in all areas (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Among that legislation is the new Michigan hands-free law that took effect on June 30, 2023.
“This isn’t really new,” said Fitzgerald, stating that other states have had a hands-free law in effect for some time. “But it is something to cut down on distracted driver accidents.”
Michigan legislators are also looking to use traffic enforcement cameras throughout the state for the first time.
The House recently passed a law allowing for use of traffic enforcement cameras in work safety zones.
That law, however, includes specific qualifiers. Barriers between traffic and workers and a speed of 10 miles per hour over the posted limit are required in order to cite a violation.
Fitzgerald is currently developing another bill allowing for that same enforcement in school zones.
Contact your representative
Rep. Fitzgerald has standing drop-in hours at City Hall in Wyoming for those wishing to speak with him in person. Those hours are 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month.
For the Michigan Nov. 7 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited all Kentwood City Commission candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
Kentwood City Commission is made up of seven officials, including the Mayor, elected by the residents. It is the City Commission’s responsibility to set policy and provide financial oversight for the City. All Kentwood elected officials serve a term of four years. The City Commission generally meets on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall unless otherwise posted.
The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, one of two seats, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. The non-partisan candidates listed in the Nov. 7 general election are incumbent Commissioner Maurice H. Groce and candidate Lily Cheng-Schulting. Betsy Artz is in the middle of her term.
Maurice H. Groce — Incumbent Candidate, Kentwood Commissioner At-Large
Why are you running for office?:
I am running for re-election to retain my seat as Commissioner At-Large. I have been involved with the City of Kentwood since 2007 serving on the Local Officer Compensation Committee, Housing Commission, Planning Commissioner, and three times as a City Commissioner.
My drive and commitment to serving the City of Kentwood are centered around championing public safety, safeguarding the city budget, promoting better communication, and planning for the future generations of our city.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents is paramount. I am dedicated to working closely with our department leaders to implement effective strategies to prevent crime and enhance public safety. Responsible fiscal management is crucial for the prosperity of our city. I will work to safeguard taxpayer dollars by diligently examining the city budget, identifying areas of potential savings, and prioritizing essential services and infrastructure development. By promoting better communication channels, we can forge stronger partnerships, address community needs, and work collaboratively to make our city an even better place to live. I will work to plan for the long-term future, ensuring a balanced and inclusive growth that preserves our city’s unique identity and legacy.
I am devoted to upholding these values as your City Commissioner. I humbly ask for your support and trust on August 8 as we work together to build a safer, prosperous and united City for ourselves and for the generations to come.
Two issues you are focused on:
Championing Public Safety
·Prioritizing funding for police and fire services to meet the needs of the community.
·Advocating for safe and healthy neighborhoods by supporting community policing efforts and building positive relationships between law enforcement and residents.
·Supporting initiatives such as crime prevention programs and neighborhood watch initiatives.
Safeguarding the City Budget
·Continue to be a driving force to keep Kentwood a city with a continually balanced and fiscally responsible budget.
·Committed to ensuring the city budget is allocated and spent efficiently without wasteful expenditures.
·Forecast budgeting assessments for future projects, challenges and liabilities to ensure the city’s financial stability.
I am running to represent all Kentwood residents as your servant leader. I will always remember that I work for you, regardless of your status, income, gender, age, race, skin color, cultural background, educational background, or abilities.
As your Kentwood City Commissioner, I will listen to your concerns, advocate fiercely for you, and work together with you for positive changes and real solutions.
If you have any local concerns, please call me. I will be your fiercest advocate, since I have been a successful, proven advocate for almost a decade. Many people already know about my leadership and advocacy in benefitting many thousands of students with disabilities, teachers, and staff at the KISD center-based (special education) schools, through systemic change, which led to better funding, resources, and accountability.
Therefore, my mission is to dedicate my skills, experience, and energy to improve the quality of life for all Kentwood residents and to ensure a better, more accountable, inclusive, and responsive Kentwood City government.
Two issues you are focused on:
Many residents have expressed to me their strong concerns, if not disappointment, that they were not actively informed nor did they have a strong voice regarding recent major proposed changes and projects. You deserve better. I will, therefore, increase community engagement and uplift your voice, including by creating town halls and monthly office hours.
I will champion public safety for all residents, including for people with disabilities and mental health challenges. I will listen to your concerns and work with you and your neighborhood associations to create real solutions, including ensuring the resources for effective public safety and exploring options, such as neighborhood watch and joint programs with social workers.
I will also strengthen the economic development and resources for small businesses and start-ups. Small businesses and minority-owned businesses have been an integral part of the growth of Kentwood. I will aid and explore options with small business owners, including minority-owned small business owners, to ensure their success and that they have a strong voice.
Most importantly, as a proven leader, I will listen to all concerns and advocate fiercely for all Kentwood residents. I love and respect each and every resident in Kentwood. I will work for all Kentwood residents, and I will be an active servant leader for you.
The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9 and 17, roughly the southwest areas of the city. Incumbent 1st Ward Commissioner Robert Coughlin is running unopposed in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, and Clarkston Morgan is in the middle of his term.
Kentwood City Commission Ward 2
The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-16 and 18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. David Moore II will run against incumbent candidate Ron Draayer in the Nov. 7 general election in this non-partisan race, while Jessica Ann Tyson is in the middle of her term.
Ron Draayer — Incumbent Candidate Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2
Occupation: Kentwood City Commissioner (since 2019); Computer Science and Cyber-Security Professor — Davenport University (Emeritus)
Why are you running for office?:
I am running for office to ensure that our residents continue to receive top-quality service from our City workers and that our tax dollars are safe and well-utilized.
Two issues you are focused on:
My top priority will continue to be the safety of our residents with strong support for our police officers, fire fighters and first responders.
Another priority will be to continue Kentwood’s strong financial position so that we can support and maintain our wonderful parks and trails along with city streets and other city facilities.
David Moore II — Candidate Kentwood Commissioner Ward 2
Occupation: Self-employed Writer
Why are you running for office?:
Kentwood needs commissioners who will listen to its residents and invest in making their city feel like home.
Two issues you are focused on:
1. Overseeing that the voter-approved Parks and Recreation millage is spent as was promised.
2. Working closely with Mayor Stephen Kepley and other Kentwood commissioners to ensure Kentwood empowers and rewards its residents with clean and safe streets and responsible spending of city revenue and tax dollars.
WKTV will air Fadiman’s 42-minute insightful documentary on WKTV 25 Monday, Oct. 9 at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Oct.11 at 2:30 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 12 at 7 p.m.
“A moving work of art…”
Fadiman’s film has been described as both “heartbreaking” and “eyeopening” by Nancy Stapp of KVOT, New Mexico. “A ‘must see’ to understand how fragile our democracy is and how important it is that we stay awake and be informed,” said Stapp.
Personal stories demonstrate how minority communities are using their voting rights as they participate more fully in elections. These stories capture the growing awareness and activism taking root across the United States.
Each segment of the film depicts challenges faced by Native communities, actions taken to protect their rights, and outcomes of their efforts.
What viewers can expect
The Indian Citizenship Act of 1924 stipulated that Native Americans born in the United States were automatically citizens by birth (Courtesy, Concentric Media)
Along with the historical chronicling of the Native American suffrage movement, the documentary follows the Laguna Pueblo’s groundbreaking project that led to significant positive changes in New Mexico state election law.
RECLAIMING Their VOICE also documents The Pueblo Revolt (1680), Wounded Knee (1890), The Sacred Alliance for Grassroots Equality’s (SAGE) fight to protect the sacred art of the Petroglyph National Monument, the passage of legislation to ensure greater election security for Native Americans, and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.
Fadiman’s work has been hailed as a model for how other minority populations can work together to gain political justice, and won the Best New Mexico Film Award at the Duke City Doc Festival in 2010.
Do you have an interest in helping seniors or a passion for preserving farms?
The Kent County Board of Commissioners is seeking residents interested in serving the community through appointment to its boards, commissions and committees.
Interested residents may view all current vacancies and apply online for appointment by Sept. 30/ Applicants should include a cover letter and professional resume in a pdf format. For more information, please contact the Board of Commissioners’ office at 616-632-7580.
The following boards and committees are accepting applications, click to learn more about each group is responsible for:
Gerald R. Ford International Airport to receive nearly $8.7 million for terminal improvements. (Courtesy)
The Federal Aviation Administration funding, announced by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Signed into Law Last Year
“This funding will support eight new passenger boarding bridges in 2023 to further enhance the guest experience and provide growth opportunities for airline service in West Michigan for years to come,” said Torrance Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. ”We are thankful for the investment in community infrastructure by Senator Stabenow and Senator Peters, which allows the Gerald R. Ford International Airport to compete nationally for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) funding to invest in our passenger terminal.”
This funding is from the Airport Terminal Program. Senators Stabenow and Peters helped secure these funds in the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
“Having reliable and safe air service is crucial for tourism, commerce, and economic development,” Senator Stabenow said. “This funding is another critical piece of the infrastructure investments coming to our state and will improve customer experiences at our airports.”
Gerald R. Ford International Airport. (Courtesy)
The Airport Terminal Program is one of three aviation programs created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The law provides $1 billion annually for five years for Airport Terminal grants.
“Airports play a critical role in boosting Michigan’s economy by connecting communities and businesses to important destinations and resources,” Senator Peters said.
“I was proud to help secure this federal support through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help Gerald Ford International Airport make necessary upgrades to critical infrastructure, ensuring it can continue to welcome and transport travelers safely and efficiently for years to come.”
The Airport also will receive a $3.6 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation for infrastructure improvements. The funding will go toward expanding the airport’s snow removal equipment building, as well as reconstructing existing airport service roads, runway lighting systems and the aircraft rescue and firefighting building.
As the outgoing chair of the Kent County Board of Commissioners looked back on a list of the county’s 2021 accomplishments — not the least of which was being a key partner in the West Michigan’s efforts to battle the pandemic — the board selected new leaders to begin 2022.
The Board of Commissioners unanimously selected Stan Stek (District 6) as chair and Emily Brieve (District 10) as vice-chair during a Monday, Jan. 3, organizational meeting. Stek, who had served as vice-chair, takes over as chair from Mandy Bolter.
As incoming vice-chair, Brieve will lead the Legislative and Human Services Committee. Commissioner Diane Jones (District 4) will continue to serve in her role as chair of the Finance and Physical Resources Committee.
Kent County Board of Commissioner Chair Stan Stek. (Supplied)
“It is truly an honor to be chosen to lead this Board,” Stek said in supply material. “I look forward to working together to maintain our strong fiscal position, improve residents’ quality of life, enhance the overall delivery of services, and ensure continued economic growth for the region.”
And, in a statement from the county detailing some of the board’s 2021 accomplishments, the wide-ranging duties and efforts of the county board were detailed.
Financially, the board late last year approved a balanced 2022 budget of $527 million, including $454.8 million for operating expenditures, of which $16.7 million will be capital improvements. It also maintained maintained its dual AAA bond rating from S&P Global and Moody’s Investors Service — for the 23rd consecutive year.
The county also was a key player in the local effort to combat the COVID-19 pandemic and to distribute federal funds meant to do the same.
The West Michigan Vaccine Clinic, created in response to the need to vaccinate as many people as possible, saw Kent County, Mercy Health Saint Mary’s, and Spectrum Health develop one of the largest vaccination clinics in the country at DeVos Place — with more than 231,000 COVID-19 vaccinations administered between January and May 2021.
In addition, the county Health Department added three new mobile health units in 2021. These self- contained mobile health facilities have been used extensively to target vulnerable populations in the administration of COVID-19 and other vaccinations, HIV testing, and community outreach. To date, more than 1,000 county residents have received COVID-19 vaccinations at clinics supported by these units, according to supplied material.
Kent County Commissioner Mandy Bolter. (Supplied)
“Despite the various pressures placed on public services this past year, our Board and staff were dedicated to continuing to provide excellent service to our community,” Bolter said in supplied material. “While we continued to meet the challenges of the pandemic, we also maintained a strong focus on meeting the needs of continued economic growth.”
Other stated accomplishments, according to the county statement, included expansion and bonding of The Gerald R. Ford International Airport; the hiring of the county’s first Chief Inclusion Officer “to underscore our commitment to fully embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion in our strategic priorities and service delivery”; and establishing three new “issue-focused” subcommittees (Broadband, Judicial Resources and Veterans Millage Review).
The county also funded county Sheriff’s Office cruiser and deputy body cameras, and secured an expansion of the Chief Hazy Cloud Park into a 395-acre natural preserve along the Grand River and allow for future trail expansion to connect multiple communities.
Incoming leadership has long local history
Stek, whose District 6 includes the city of Walker and part of the city of Grand Rapids, was first elected to the commission in 2014. He is an attorney at Miller Canfield and, according to supplied material, has a long history of serving his community on various boards and committees.
Among his current and past work is serving on the Crisis Center Task Force, Dedicated Millage Committee, Kent County Community Action Board, Kent County Workforce Development Board, Lakeshore Regional Entity, Millennium Park Advisory Board, Michigan Works!, Network 180, Senior Millage Allocation Board, Substance Use Disorder Oversight Board, and Walker Citizens Advisory Committee.
Kent County Board of Commissioners vice-chair Emily Brieve. (Supplied)
Brieve, whose District 10 includes Gaines Township and part of Caledonia Township, has served in the board since 2014. She works for her family’s small business, FastoolNow.com.
She currently chairs the Board of Public Works and Community Health Advisory committees and is a member of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, Grand Rapids Public Museum, and West Michigan Sports Commission.
The cities of Kentwood and Wyoming are represented on the county board by Stan Ponstein (District 7), Dan Burrill (District 8), Matt Kallman (District 9), Monica Sparks (District 12), and Michelle McCloud (District 13). For complete information on the members of the board, and the areas they represent, visit here.
“We have a strong Board and an incredible community, and we are committed to supporting the prosperity of our businesses and residents,” Stek said. “We look forward to tackling the challenges ahead with fiscal responsibility, innovation, and collaboration.”
After a swearing-in ceremony this week, the City of Kentwood has two new commissioners on the City Commission, and welcomed back re-elected Mayor Stephen Kepley, Commissioner At-Large Betsy Artz, City Clerk Dan Kasunic and City Treasurer Laurie Sheldon.
Clarkston Morgan and Jessica Ann Tyson were sworn in as first-time city commissioners at the City Commission meeting Monday, Nov. 8, following their election Nov. 2. They were joined by the reelected officials, who also took the oath of office for their respective positions.
Morgan is now Ward 1 commissioner representing the western half of Kentwood and Tyson is Ward 2 commissioner representing the eastern half of the city. Each seat is a four-year term.
“We are pleased to welcome Clarkston and Jessica Ann to the City Commission,” Mayor Kepley said in supplied material. “Both are highly engaged, longtime residents who bring excellent leadership skills, business experience and community connections that will be invaluable as the City of Kentwood continues its mission of providing high-quality services to foster a thriving community for all.”
Mayor Kepley and Commissioner Artz each were re-elected for a third four-year term. They were first elected in 2013. Kasunic and Sheldon each were re-elected for a four-year term. Kasunic has served as clerk since 2000 and Sheldon has served as treasurer since 2013.
Meet the new commissioners
Morgan, a city resident since 2007, previously served the City of Kentwood as a planning commissioner, member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and member of the Arts Commission.
Commissioner Clarkston Morgan (City of Kentwood)
As the founder and CEO of Ambassador Consultants LLC, he has established strategic relationships between organizations and corporations that have resulted in mutually beneficial increases in market share and funds to benefit the quality of life for families in the community, according to a city announcement. He has also launched the nonprofit Career Proactiv to empower K-12 and college students to start their own entrepreneurial platform.
In addition, Morgan serves as vice president of the Michigan Chapter of the US Minority Contractors Association and chief operating officer of W4 Construction Group. He also is chairman of the African American Leadership Council for the Christian Alliance For Orphans, working alongside national adoption and foster agencies to empower African American families to adopt children.
Commissioner Jessica Ann Tyson (City of Kentwood)
A two-time governor appointee, Tyson actively serves the community as a member of several boards, including the City of Kentwood Economic Development Corporation, Kentwood Community Foundation and Better Business Bureau of West Michigan, according to the city announcement. She is a past board member of the Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce.
Tyson brings operational business and management experience to her city commissioner role. A multi-business owner, she serves as president and CEO of JA PR Group, Pink Lounge: Dry Salt Therapy, The Beastro (a company offering fresh cuisine for canines) and The Candied Yam, an area restaurant featuring Southern cuisine.
Over the years, Tyson has received many prestigious awards, including being recognized as one of the 50 Most Influential Women of West Michigan.
The City of Kentwood, in a city-wide vote, returned incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley to the city’s “strong mayor” leadership position in voting Nov. 2 as he defeated challenger and current Ward 1 city commissioner Emily Bridson.
With 100 percent of City of Kentwood precincts counted, Kepley defeated Bridson, 4,321 to 2,992, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. The vote total of 7,366 was 18.7 percent of the 39,460 registered voters in the city.
“Thank you to all the Kentwood residents and friends who came together to vote for unity in our community with experienced servant leadership. I am honored and humbled by your support,” Mayor Kepley said in a statement to WKTV. “Our work continues as we unify our incredibly diverse community so that all residents know they belong. I look forward to serving with the new city commission to continue to ensure a high quality of service is provided for all of our residents and business community.”
City of Kentwood mayoral candidate Emily Bridson, left, talks to a supporter at an election night event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
Bridson, said she wishes the mayor the best and “hope he continues to move our city in a positive direction,” she said in a statement to WKTV.
“It has been an honor to serve as one of Kentwood City Commissioners and run for Mayor,” Bridson said. “Thank you to the residents that took the time to open their doors and share their vision for our city with me. Although my team and I hoped for a different outcome, we are proud of the work we have done and the goals for Kentwood that we have put forward.”
All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms. The mayor, along with returning and new commissioners, will be sworn in on Monday, Nov. 8, at the regular City Commission meeting.
The City of Kentwood will have two new faces on the City Commission after voting Nov. 2, as Clarkston Morgan won the Ward 1 seat and Jessica Ann Tyson won the Ward 2 seat. But incumbent At-Large commissioner Betsy Artz was returned to the commission in city-wide voting — gaining the most voter support of any candidate running opposed for city positions.
All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms. The returning and new commissioners will be sworn in on Monday, Nov. 8, at the regular City Commission meeting.
With 100 percent of City of Kentwood precincts counted, Artz defeated Leonica Riley Erwin, 4,505 to 2,511, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. Artz was the top voter-getter in the entire city in contested elections, as Mayor Stephen Kepley gained 4,321 votes as he was re-elected to the position.
The city-wide vote total of 7,366 was 18.7 percent of the 39,460 registered voters in the city.
Newly elected City of Kentwood City Commissioner Clarkston Morgan, center, who won the Ward 1 election Nov. 2, talks to supporters at an election-night event. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
With 100 percent of their respective ward precincts counted, Morgan defeated Meochia Nochi Thompson in Ward 1, 1,989 to 1,365, in a seat currently held by commissioner Emily Bridson. And Tyson defeated Dan VanderMolen in Ward 2, 2,120 to 1,360, in a seat currently held by commissioner Tom McKelvey.
Running uncontested in City of Kentwood elections were incumbent Treasurer Laurie Sheldon, and incumbent City Clerk Dan Kasunic. Sheldon gained 6,148 votes and Kasunic gained 6,177 in citywide voting.
At-Large Commissioner
Commissioner Artz thanked the Kentwood voters in a statement to WKTV, “I appreciate your support throughout this campaign, and at the polls.
“Our City now has a Commission that will work together to get things done,” she said. “It’s time to continue our work on improving and maintaining our Parks and Trails, providing the best in Public Safety to our community, and budgeting for the future. I am thrilled to be able to serve the City of Kentwood for another four years.”
Riley Erwin, in a statement to WKTV, said “The Kentwood voters have spoken. Congratulations to Betsy Artz and all of those elected last night.
“My campaign had two goals,” she continued. “The first was to increase voter turnout. The second was to increase awareness about issues important to residents that don’t feel empowered. Those goals were accomplished. I look forward to working with our city commissioners and other Kentwood leaders to ensure every resident can reach their full potential. I encourage my supporters to stay involved and continue to communicate their desires for affordable housing, supports for small businesses, and creating a more inclusive community. I would love to see more of you run for office or volunteer on a campaign committee. Participate in community forums and surveys. Make your voice heard.
“Last, I would like to thank my family for all of the love and support they have given me. I couldn’t have made it to the ballot without their encouragement and willingness to make sacrifices with me.”
Ward 1 Commissioner
Morgan addressed all “Kentwood families, business and community leaders,” in a statement to WKTV. “Thank you! I am more than honored to receive your vote of confidence as your City Servant Leader.
“I stand here on the shoulders of great past and present city leaders, but even more, YOU, our Kentwood community,” he said. “It’s our families, businesses, households of faith and community organizations that make our city great. I look forward to seeing Kentwood reach it’s greatest potential by serving WITH our community to provide all residents a better quality of life. God bless.”
Thompson, in a statement to WKTV, said “I am so blessed to have an opportunity to run this race for Commissioner. I thank God for the journey; all the wonderful neighbors I connected with.
“This became more than Community business, it became Kingdom business for me. I was able to teach, preach and encourage along the way. I even had the opportunity to lead someone to salvation. For me, it gets no better than that. I experienced people actually rejoicing because for the first time in a long time, they felt they mattered and were being seen and heard.
“I hope we continue striving toward a more connected Kentwood, where our neighborhood feels more like family and everyone is thriving, healthy and safe! Thank you Kentwood residents for even considering me to represent you. The journey was well worth it.”
Ward 2 Commissioner
Tyson, in a statement t o WKTV, said “The residents of Kentwood have spoken. I am honored and humbled that they took the time to vote for me.
“I look forward to representing Kentwood residents in Ward 2 for the next four years. To others who supported our campaign, I am thankful that you understand how passionate I am about my community. Your contributions proved to be invaluable. I am excited to spend more time listening to and helping our residents and city remain united and strong.”
VanderMolen, in a statement to WKTV, said “I want to express a heartfelt thanks to my family, friends, and supporters for helping make this campaign a reality. It’s truly amazing what people can accomplish when they come together. I also want to congratulate Jessica Ann Tyson on her impressive victory tonight.
“Like I’ve said before, we need to stop looking at politics as a zero sum game and instead realize that while we might have different ideas or priorities, we can all still work towards the same common good. I look forward to partnering with Jessica, and the rest of the city commission, to support the residents of Kentwood in any way I can going forward.”
Increasing more affordable housing would reduce the need for shelters, according to Family Promise of Grand Rapids officials.(pxhere.com)
By Emerson Wigand Capital News Service
As winter approaches, local officials worry that a reported drop in homelessness is misleading or temporary based on short-term pandemic relief.
Michigan’s Campaign to End Homelessness recently reported a 19% decrease in those seeking emergency shelter since 2019.
“Those numbers don’t tell you that homelessness is down,” said Cheryl Schuch, the chief executive officer for Family Promise of Grand Rapids. “What they tell you is that the number of people being served by our shelter system is down.”
Family Promise operates the only family shelter in Kent County. There’s been an increase in families facing homelessness here, Schuch said. Collecting data on the issue can be challenging, especially in the case of families.
Despite the reported decrease in homelessness, Family Promise is at capacity, she said.
Full shelters aren’t limited to West Michigan.
“I don’t see that the homeless population is going down,” said Michelle Munn, the case manager at New Hope Center, in Cadillac. “The numbers look good, but it’s only because there’s extra funds right now for COVID.”
New Hope Center is the only shelter provider in Wexford and Missaukee counties. Its shelters are generally full, with vacancies filled quickly by walk-ins or those on a waiting list, Munn said.
While Munn said she thinks this drop is positive, she worries about what will happen when pandemic relief programs end.
COVID impacts were a large part of the statewide decrease, said Eric Hufnagel, the executive director of the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness.
The biggest help was the eviction moratorium, which ended in August, Hufnagel said. Another factor was the Covid Emergency Rental Assistance funds that are still available.
“That was the No. 1 reason we saw our numbers decline,” Hufnagel said. “We believe that’s slowing down what could be a flood of evictions.”
Imagine a front door and back door, Hufnagel said: The front door is how people come into homelessness, the back door is how people are rehoused.
“Our hope is that we can put a dent in the flow through the front door,” he said. “The challenge we are seeing now is that back door.”
Michigan’s affordable housing stock is the weakest it’s been in decades, Hufnagel said. That means higher prices and rental rates for the housing that is available.
It’s even harder for people to move to new housing because there are fewer options, and existing options cost more.
“The majority of our families can’t afford housing even though they’re working,” Schuch said. “That has really been magnified in West Michigan.”
Family Hope of Grand Rapids has been working with Eastbrook Homes which is developing more affordable homes for the area. Also, Holland Home sold its former Fulton Manor to Hope Network, which plans to turn the former nursing home into a 120 affordable home. The nonprofit housing corporation ICCF is currently working on several affordable housing projects.
The pandemic has decreased shelter space in part due to fewer volunteers to staff facilities, Hufnagel said. Additionally, distancing recommendations have reduced available space in some shelters.
Rising COVID-19 cases adds to these concerns, said Susan Cancro, the executive director of Lansing-based Advent House Ministries. Increasing positive cases could halt new admittances for areas with limited shelters.
“That’s a problem for those on the street who are homeless,” Cancro said. “Especially as the weather becomes more cold and wet, and there’s nowhere to go.”
Schuch said it’s important to increase access to temporary housing to keep people safe for now.
“We have families staying in cars and other places,” Schuch said. “We have to make sure there’s adequate shelter available.”
Without more affordable housing, those problems will only get worse, Schuch said.
“Only investing in shelter doesn’t make sense. They won’t need our shelter if there’s enough housing.”
Police and other Michigan government employees could be sued and held liable if they hurt or kill someone while on the job, under proposed legislation working through the state legislature.
Current, qualified immunity shields government workers from lawsuits for gross misconduct or negligence while on duty.
A police reform package pushed by the state House of Representatives’ Democrats would reduce the blanket protections. They say it would allow police departments and other government agencies to more easily weed out bad apples.
“If you go over, above and beyond, outside the scope of your duties that are spelled out, there has to be some accountability,” said co-sponsor Rep. Tyrone Carter, D-Detroit, a 24-year veteran of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office. “And the general public is tired of paying for lawsuits for officers for their outrageous, egregious conduct.”
Locally, Kent County’s top law enforcement official is quick to define that qualified immunity is much more than simply a policing issue, and says changes are unnecessary.
Qualified immunity “is a very complex term, but simplistically put, it is something that protects an individual from the government, an individual who is a representative of the government — it may be a police officer but it may be the sewer guy or it may be someone from the health department,” Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young said in a recent interview with WKTV. “It protects them from being held liable for a decision they make if that decision is in compliance with local laws, policies and procedures of the department, and doesn’t act in a way that is irresponsible, outside of their direction.
“The consequences for taking qualified immunity away really has to do with the civil liability of the government unit. … None of that is to say the a person should not be personally responsible for a decision that is outside of their training and direction and procedures. … There is already a way to sue a government (or government individual) that is not compliant.”
Support and opposition to change is a national issue
A national survey by the Cato Institute found that 63 percent of Americans support eliminating governmental immunity.
Nationwide criticism of qualified immunity catapulted into the public eye after the murder of George Floyd who was killed by a Minneapolis policeman on May 25, 2020. Since Floyd’s death, Colorado, Connecticut, New York and New Mexico either ended or limited the protective scope of qualified immunity.
“Although qualified immunity has prevented victims of police misconduct from holding officers accountable for decades, until recently it had been a relatively obscure doctrine that was not on the radar of many non-lawyers,” said Michael Steinberg in a faculty Q&A. Steinberg, who advocates for ending qualified immunity, is a professor and director of the Civil Rights Litigation Initiative at the University of Michigan Law School.
But strong resistance to any change in the law remains.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently upheld such protection by overturning lower court decisions to remove qualified immunity in cases in California and Oklahoma.
Bipartisan police reform negotiations in the U.S. Congress ended without resolution in September, even after Democrats removed controversial changes suggested for qualified immunity.
The Michigan bills are co-sponsored by Detroit representatives and House Democrats across the state. If they are signed into law, when police officers or government officials are sued and found liable, they will have to personally write the check.
Law enforcement officials say that’s a deal breaker.
“When a municipality gets faced with a lawsuit, more times than not they look at it as a business decision on whether or not to settle,” Livingston County Sheriff Michael Murphy said.
And the insurance company or municipality writes the check, he said. “I’m a cop. I’m just essentially a blue collar worker. I don’t have a million dollar check to write.”
Qualified immunity does not mean that law officers have complete immunity for their actions, Murphy said. It has to be granted by a judge.
“This is not something that the cop or the municipality can just hold up and say, ‘Oh, hey, I work for the government or I’m a cop, I get qualified immunity.’”
Removing qualified immunity protection is currently a case-by-case decision, Steinberg said.
Under the qualified immunity defense, people injured by police or family members of those killed must prove the violation of their rights with examples from “nearly-identical” court cases, the American Civil Liberties of Michigan said in a prepared statement.
Still, police say removing any part of the qualified immunity statute is a bad idea.
“Ending qualified immunity puts police officers always at risk of having their actions judged, not by what they knew, and not judged on what the rules were today but judged upon hindsight being 20-20,” said Bob Stevenson of the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police.
Murphy and Kenneth Grabowski, the legislative director of the Police Officers Association of Michigan, say they believe the current law is working fine.
“Most of this stuff is just to placate people complaining,” said Grabowski. “But it works.”
Murphy said that if people understood how difficult it is to get qualified immunity, this discussion wouldn’t even be taking place.
“I really, truly believe in my heart, that most men and women put on that uniform every day to do the right thing,” he said.
The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. Among them were the City of Kentwood City Commission At-large, Ward 1 and Ward 2 candidate forums. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.
The At-large commission seat, one of two at-large seats, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. Kentwood’s Ward 1, which also has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9, roughly the southwest areas of the city. Ward 2, which also has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.
The non-partisan candidates for the At-large seat are incumbent Commissioner Betsy Artz and candidate Leonica Riley Erwin; candidates for the Ward 1 seat are Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson (this is the seat currently held by Commissioner Emily Bridson, who is running for mayor); and candidates for Ward 2 are Jessica Ann Tyson and Dan VanderMolen (this is the seat currently held by Commissioner Tom McKelvey).
Note: Commissioner Artz and Mr. VanderMolen were not able to attend their respective forums.
To view the on-demand video replays of the forums, visit the following links:
The City of Kentwood City Commissioner candidate forums will air on WKTV cable television, Government 26. See the initial schedule of days and times below. Visit here for a WKTV Weekly Schedule of all programs.
They are also available on-demand at WKTVLive.org.
The Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. Among them were the City of Kentwood Mayor Forum. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.
The city’s mayoral seat is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. For a precinct and ward map, click here.
The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley and current Ward 1 Commissioner Emily Bridson.
The City of Kentwood Mayor Forum is on-demand on WKTVLive.org. It will also be televised on local cable television on WKTV Government 26, beginning Thursday, Oct. 14 at 8:30 p.m., and continuing Oct. 15 at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 16 at noon, and other dates. (Visit here for the WKTV cable channel schedule.)
For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
The office of the Mayor of Kentwood is voted upon by all of the City of Kentwood.
The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley and current Ward 1 Commissioner Emily Bridson.
Stephen Kepley – Incumbent
Occupation: Kentwood Mayor
Why did you decide to run for this position?
I’m called to serve my community. I am also the experienced candidate with 8 years as Mayor and 10 years as the Director of Engineering and Inspections. I know the intrinsic details of how the city operates and can continue to lead Kentwood to a bright future.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
Public Safety is job 1 — The city’s main function is to protect people and property and thus I am not for defunding police. Kentwood is in need to increase our police and fire staff to serve a growing population.
Business and employment will always be high on my initiative list. I will continue to support businesses and local job creation. Kentwood will remain open for business under my administration.
A unified community having a high quality of life is very important to me and our community. I have spent many of my days building relationships and uniting people together. I will continue to use this office to improve the quality of life for our residents and build bridges through bonds of love and understanding to keep Kentwood a unified and strong community.
Emily Bridson — Candidate
Occupation: I resigned from my full-time job as an Operations Manager for Republic Services in December to best run for mayor. My current job is campaigning for Kentwood Mayor, and my part-time job is for Spectrum Health as a Patient Services Representative.
Why did you decide to run for this position?
My concern for my community drove me to attend my first Kentwood City Commission meeting in 2014. I stood up during the general comments as a resident to inquire about the level of crime occurring in my neighborhood. My attendance became regular, and I became a vocal and engaged participant. This led to my appointment on Parks and Recreation and the Planning commissions. After further educating myself on how local government works and accumulating a “to-do” list of the changes I wanted to see, I decided to put my knowledge and passion to work for the people of Kentwood by running to become a City Commissioner. I realized that I needed to be part of the change that I wanted to see in our community. Now, after serving as a City Commissioner, I am ready to continue my passion and work for the people of Kentwood as your next mayor. I would be honored to earn your vote for Mayor of Kentwood to ensure we have safe neighborhoods, recycling, trails, and the support small businesses need to build a thriving, vibrant community for all.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
Public safety: Crime rates have been soaring over the last five years, and our community members deserve to feel safe in their homes. I am committed to working with public safety officials to reverse violent crimes and car break-ins. My relationship with our public safety officials is strong, which is why I am proudly endorsed by Kentwood Professional Firefighter’s L3174, and I look forward to continuing to grow such relations within our community between safety officials and residents to ensure a strong and safe Kentwood.
Sustainability: Kentwood residents have shared with me that they would like to see recycling services, trails, and green spaces. Ensuring access to clean drinking water and preserving our natural resources for our children and generations to come will also be central to my work as your mayor. I value the voices and needs within our community, and I will work to ensure that your needs are met by Kentwood becoming an environmental and sustainability leader.
Supporting small businesses and growing our local economy: Small businesses and entrepreneurs play crucial roles in Kentwood’s economy and culture. It is up to us to ensure they have the needed resources to survive the current climate and bounce back as the economy continues to recover from the pandemic. As your mayor, I will support local businesses throughout this time and beyond to allow Kentwood to be a place that entrepreneurs and employers seek out and strengthen our economy.
“Talk is cheap, voting is free; take it to the polls.”
Nanette L. Avery
City Commission At-large seat
The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, which is one of two commissioners at-large, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood. The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Commissioner Betsy Artz and candidate Leonica Riley Erwin. Go here for the story.
City Commission Ward 1
The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9, roughly the southwest areas of the city. The non-partisan candidates for the open Ward 1 seat are Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Emily Bridson, who is running for mayor. Go here for the story.
City Commission Ward 2
The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. The non-partisan candidates, the top two vote-getters in an August primary for the position, are Jessica Ann Tyson andDan VanderMolen. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Tom McKelvey. Go here for the story.
(Not-so) Fun fact:
12.5 percent
In the November 2020 election, 70.9 percent of white voters cast ballots compared with only 58.4 percent of nonwhite voters. Source.
For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
The City of Kentwood Ward 2, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.
The non-partisan candidates, the top two vote-getters in an August primary for the position, are Jessica Ann Tyson andDan VanderMolen. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Tom McKelvey.
Note: Candidate VanderMolen chose not to record a new general election We The People video but instead use his video from the primary election.
Jessica Ann Tyson — Candidate
Occupation: Business owner of The Candied Yam — Delightful Southern Cuisine; JA PR Group, LLC; Pink Lounge Dry Salt Therapy
Why did you decide to run for this position?
As a long time Kentwood resident and business owner, I want to continue and expand my volunteer service to the community I love, work and live in. There are many opportunities for continued growth. This is why it is of the utmost importance that we elect qualified, caring servant leadership. I am active in our community. With the full support of my family, I know that I am the right person to represent for such a time as this.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
Involved leadership — If you serve the community you must be genuinely and authenticity involved. You only know what the community needs if you show up. Lack of involved leadership will only cause further disconnect. Our community is changing and deserves elected leadership involvement.
The community of Kentwood is facing space deficits. From crisis with housing to available land for zoning uses, the right leadership can support with expertise and knowledge. The city needs elected servants that are good listeners and appreciate input from constituents. The elected official need to serve by being active and forward thinkers in utilization and creation of spaces available that will make sense for our community and generations to come.
Kentwood has been granted several millions of dollars. It has to be used judiciously. However the funds are spent, those elected need to make sure that there is no legacy cost and minimum taxation to the residence. Vote Tyson to work for YOU November 2.
Dan VanderMolen — Candidate
Occupation: Project Coordinator at First Steps Kent
Why did you decide to run for this position?
I’m running for this position because I believe that the residents of Kentwood want a solutions-focused government that works for them, with them, to tackle the important issues facing the city. Kentwood has an incredible opportunity right now to establish a future of long term growth and development, and for that to happen we need to leverage all of our available resources and create intentional, strategic partnerships with the amazing people and organizations in our area. I have made community collaboration the focus of my career over the past ten years and know for a fact that If we work cooperatively we can create a thriving city that works for everyone. However, we’ll only be able to accomplish that if we pledge to focus on what brings us together, not what tears us apart.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
Affordable Housing: It’s no secret that Kent County currently suffers from an affordable housing crisis which extends to the community of Kentwood. Far too often our residents are faced with the difficult decision of whether to pay their rent or mortgage, or spend money on basic needs. As housing costs continue to climb, pricing many people out of the market, it is imperative that we provide effective measures to help people find safe, attainable housing no matter what the budget.
High quality, affordable child care: The Covid-19 pandemic illuminated a number of things about our world, one of which is just how important access to child care is to the health of our families, our community, and our economy. To address this crisis, we need to tackle it on two fronts: Lower costs for families and higher wages for providers. The only way to accomplish that is through targeted financial investment at the local, state, and federal levels.
Broadband internet: Another issue that became abundantly clear over the past year and a half is that not everyone in our community has equal access to the broadband internet services absolutely necessary to support remote learning and work. By working with local tech companies and internet providers we can develop the much needed infrastructure required to assure that nobody in Kentwood is ever left behind again.
For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
The City of Kentwood Ward 1, which has two commissioners, includes voting Precincts 1-9, roughly the southwest areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.
The non-partisan candidates for the open Ward 1 seat are Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson. This is the seat currently held by Commissioner Emily Bridson, who is running for mayor.
Clarkston Morgan – Candidate
Occupation: CEO of Ambassador Consultants LLC, COO of W4 Construction Group
Why did you decide to run for this position?
As a 13-year Kentwood resident, assistant pastor in a local church, small business owner and a Kentwood Planning Commissioner, I’ve found great joy empowering our Kentwood families and community to reach its greatest potential. Having strategically helped broken families grow out of poverty, and small businesses expand profit margins when policy and/or broken systems limited them, I understand this system must become a standard in our city.
As a nonpartisan leader, I’m running to make sure politics do not limit the voice and benefits all residents can receive. To make sure the heart and voice of the community is valued in our city master plans and budget. Coming into office with my past experience means I do not need to use residents as test subjects to confirm the validity of policies. On day one, I’m equipped and ready to serve.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
Affordable Housing and Homelessness: In Kentwood, we have a major silent issue of families and teens experiencing homelessness. Research shows that the three main reasons are due to job loss, addiction and mental health. I find that numerous families are struggling to afford the cost of housing. This, stacked with the three previous issues, have caused families to become homeless. Utilizing the Community Block Grants, and in partnership with the county and existing nonprofit organizations, we can create housing programs to help families afford housing, but even more, build their credit, eliminate debt and transition to homeowners.
Expanding opportunities for small businesses: Kentwood has been successful because of the support of large corporations, but even more our diverse and multi-ethnic small businesses. These companies want to compete on a larger scale but are not being afforded the same opportunities. A solution I have started to work and will launch on a city level is training small businesses to become market ready for larger contracts. And as city projects are position with major developers, I would like to incentivize the use of these contractors for projects. This will allow the corporation, developers, contractors, and small businesses to benefit from the development of the project.
Community Involvement: With residents from 80 nations, speaking about 90 languages, outside Kentwood Public Schools, our community is still operating in silos. We do not lack diversity, but more harmony. When we are in harmony, systems are refined to make sure there’s inclusivity based on cultural intelligence. This means actively engaging multi-ethnic businesses, houses of worship, nonprofits and community leaders to be cultural intelligence advocates to the city, but even more, back to their community.
Meochia Thompson — Candidate
Occupation: Self-Employed. Publisher at Blessed Pen Ink Publishing
Why did you decide to run for this position?
I decided to run because of all the negativity and division ripping throughout our country. I want to help create stronger connections within my community by sharing information, resources, and celebrating each other. It’s important that everyone feels heard and counted. I’m looking forward to growing better relationships in Kentwood!
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
I’ve heard from so many voters and most would agree that they need connection. This means listening to the needs of ALL the people that make up our beautiful community and responding effectively when it comes to implementing leadership that reflects the diversity in our neighborhood including our local government, police, and fire departments. We also need programs that help new citizens and immigrants get acclimated to our city and state laws, statutes, programs, and resources. Families need more stop- and speed-limit signs, and sidewalks throughout our neighborhoods, so they can feel safe, and playgrounds with accessible equipment so all children can play together. Businesses need dedicated workers and workers need pathways to leadership and professional development.
For the Michigan Nov. 2 general election, WKTV’s We The People program invited participation from all candidates. If they participated, their videos are linked here. For those who did not participate, either a candidate-provided biography/issues statement, or simply their name is listed. All videos are 5-minutes or less devoted to the candidate, and were not edited in any way by WKTV.
The City of Kentwood Commissioner At-Large, which is one of two commissioners at-large, is voted upon by the entire City of Kentwood.
The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Commissioner Betsy Artz and candidate Leonica Riley Erwin.
Note: Commissioner Artz chose not to record a We The People video.
Betsy Artz – Incumbent
Occupation: General Manager, Celebration Cinema, 27 years
Why did you decide to run for this position?
After serving this city for the last 8 years as a city commissioner, and more than 10 years in other volunteer positions before that, I feel that there is still so much to do. Serving on the Pension Board for the last 8 years, we now have a fully funded employee pension, something that only one other city in Michigan can claim. I want to make sure that our city continues on this fiscally responsible path.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
When I am meeting residents while going door-to-door in our city, these are the three most talked about concerns:
Speeding in the neighborhoods — Our commission has been working on different ways to combat speeding, including the purchase of new devices, and the addition of patrol officers.
Car break-ins — Kentwood, and all neighboring cities, have had a rash of auto break-ins. The Kentwood Police Department has stated that in these break-ins, over 90 percent of the cars are unlocked, and some even have the keys in them. I will continue to push a public service campaign to make residents aware.
Growing homeless population — about two years ago, Mayor (Stephen) Kepley and I began working with local agencies to help identify where our homeless population is, and what we can do to help. Since then, I have formed a Kentwood Coalition to End Homelessness. We are working with school administrators, City of Kentwood staff, the Kentwood Police Department, Kent County commissioners, Community Rebuilders, and private residents to find lasting solutions.
Leonica Riley Erwin — Candidate
Occupation: Social worker, Wellspring Lutheran Services
Why did you decide to run for this position?
I genuinely enjoy helping people and want to ensure that all of my Kentwood neighbors can achieve their full potential in life. I’ve spent my career helping Kentwood families resolve personal crises. That has given me a unique understanding of the issues that prevent families from achieving their goals. I want to help us come together as a community to solve some of the problems our neighbors are facing. Running for office is my way of being a part of the solution and taking responsibility for what happens around me.
Please list two to three issues you feel your voters are facing:
The greatest challenge in Kentwood is creating a sense of community. The pandemic, language barriers, and other issues prevent residents from getting to know their neighbors. I’d like our city to organize more neighborhood associations and social groups with a focus on community empowerment. We can provide residents with more cultural events, neighborhood picnics, wellness activities, volunteer projects, and community celebrations near our homes. We can celebrate each other’s successes and provide support when needed too.
Economic stability is another issue voters are facing. My neighbors are concerned about affordable housing, especially renters. Most landlords require a tenant’s wages to be three times the amount of rent. Rent prices are high. Food security is a related concern because there are only two grocery stores in Kentwood. That’s essentially a food desert for residents without transportation. The best-paying jobs in the city are not on the bus line so we need to expand public transportation. More residents need education about the resources available for entrepreneurship.
Environmental safety is a major concern in Kentwood. Voters want a sustainable recycling program. They want to ensure that there is clean water in EVERY Kentwood home. They want our city to be pedestrian-friendly with continuous improvements to our parks and trails. Voters want ALL Kentwood residents to feel safe in our neighborhoods. Discussions about community policing and mental health services for our community need to be held. Finally, voters want Kentwood to be an environment where everyone has access to high-speed internet.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, center, was among the “ribbon cutting” team at the grand opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, (Michigan Veteran Homes)
There was a long list of dignitaries, led by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, on hand at the official ribbon-cutting opening of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids, once known as the Grand Rapids Veterans Home, last week.
But maybe the most important person when it comes to the operation of the facility and the care of its veteran residents did not handle one of the scissors cutting the ribbon.
Carly MacDonald, who has been hired to serve as the new administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes GR, was present at the Sept. 2 event but did not officially take the position until this week. MacDonald took over from Tracey Nelson, the previous administrator, who successfully led the facility for more than three years through a significant transition in anticipation of the new building opening and its COVID-19 response efforts.
Michigan Veteran Homes (MVH) provides day-to-day operational oversight of the state’s veteran homes on behalf of the Michigan Veterans Facility Authority (MVFA) and is a branch of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA). The MVH operates the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids (MVHGR), along with homes in Marquette and Chesterfield Township. For more information, visit michigan.gov/mvh.
“As a granddaughter and daughter of veterans, I learned at an early age the importance of serving others and our country,” MacDonald said in supplied material. “It’s an exciting time for our team at Grand Rapids as we transition to our new Home and I look forward to meeting and getting to know our veteran members, volunteers and staff.”
The importance of MacDonald’s job and the work she will lead at the new “Home” was echoed by many of the dignitaries at the Sept. 2 grand opening.
U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, addressed the crowd at the grand opening of the Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)
“The state has been serving veterans right here on this campus since the conclusion of the Civil War,” U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, said at the opening and provided in supplied material. “As we embark on this new chapter, we can confidently say that our legacy of serving those who have served will continue for many years to come.”
In addition to remarks by Gov. Whitmer and Maj. Gen. Rogers, others addressing the gathered crowd included Anne Zerbe, executive director of MVH; Dave Henry, chairman of the board for the MVFA; and Robert Troost, a veteran and resident member at the Home.
“I have been anxiously awaiting the completion of the new Home,” Troost, a veteran and resident member at the Home, said in supplied material. “I am very excited to join my friends for a fresh start in a place that truly feels like a home instead of an institution.”
The ceremony included a posting of the colors led by the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids Member Color Guard and music by the Belmont Armory 126th Army Band.
At a total project cost of $62.9 million, with $40.9 million provided through a federal grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs Construction Grant Program, construction of the Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids began in April 2019 and occupies 20 acres and totals 152,784 square feet.
Military members and veterans were in the crowd at the grand opening of the Michigan Veterans Homes at Grand Rapids. (Michigan Veterans Homes)
“This new home is the result of a years-long, bipartisan effort to uphold our commitment to our veterans and their families in Michigan,” Gov. Whitmer said in supplied material. “The new Grand Rapids Home was designed to provide comfort and well-deserved peace of mind for the men and women who put their lives on the line for all of us.”
The “Home” consists of four “neighborhood” buildings and a community center. The neighborhood buildings collectively house 128 private resident rooms with ensuite baths and feature shared living and dining spaces, according to supplied material.
The adjacent community center is the centerpiece of the Home and features therapeutic facilities for behavioral, occupational, physical and group therapy, an exam room, chapel, barbershop and salon, café bistro and gift shop. Residents will also have access to an adjacent outdoor courtyard and memorial garden to observe the natural surroundings the campus has to offer.
New administrator’s background
MacDonald has worked in long-term care for over 20 years, according to supplied material. She joined HCR Manorcare, now known as ProMedica Senior Care, in 2001 as human resources director. Shortly thereafter she “had a desire to expand her professional capabilities” and became licensed as a nursing home administrator.
Carly MacDonald, administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes at Grand Rapids. (Supplied)
This then allowed her to have a greater impact on clinical and administrative affairs, expansion of specialized care and member safety. She most recently has served as the administrator at Ascension Living Borgess Place in Kalamazoo for the past four years.
Throughout the pandemic, MacDonald “has been essential in leading her team in understanding and implementing all CDC, CMS and State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services COVID-19 infection control requirements,” according to a MVH statement. While serving as administrator of Ascension Living Borgess Place, the home had less than ten cases of COVID-19 and no deaths attributed to the virus.
“We are elated for Carly to join our growing team at MVHGR and are confident she will continue to support our culture of providing exceptional care to those that deserve it most — our veterans and their eligible dependents,” Steve Rolston, MVH chief operations officer, said in supplied material.
Born and raised in Flint, MacDonald received a bachelor’s degree in human resources from Michigan State University and is “an avid alumnus who is devoted to watching every season of football and basketball,” according to the MVH statement.
She is married to Ryan, a Navy veteran, and they currently reside in Kalamazoo. They celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in June and have two children, Jora, 17, and Logan 21. Carly is also a mom to Maybel, a 4-month-old English Bulldog; Cali, a 4-year-old golden retriever; and a couple rescue cats.
She is active in a women’s golf league and enjoys spending time at the family cottage at Lake George which was passed down to her family from her grandfather. Her grandfather served in World War II in the U.S. Army Air Corps and her father is a Vietnam veteran.
City of Kentwood incumbent Ward 2 commissioner Tom McKelvey finished third in a three-candidate primary election Tuesday, Aug. 3, with Jessica Ann Tyson leading the vote — but not enough to avoid a runoff — and Dan VanderMolen coming in second.
With 100 percent of City of Kentwood’s seven Ward 2 precincts counted, Tyson gained 986 votes, VanderMolen 711 and McKelvey 576, according to final unofficial results supplied by the Kent County Elections Office. Tyson’s total was not 50 percent plus 1 of the votes, which would have given her the Ward 2 seat outright.
Of the 19,867 registered voters in Ward 2, only 2,301 voters cast a ballot, or 11.58 percent, according to the county elections office.
“I am honored and humbled that Kentwood residents took the time to vote for me. To others who supported our campaign, I am thankful that you understand how passionate I am about my community,” Tyson, an owner of three local businesses, said to WKTV.
“Everyone is talking about ‘diversity’. Sad it has become a buzz word made popular to tingle ears to sound more WOKE. With more than 51,000 residents and over 80 different languages spoken, Kentwood is a beautiful melting pot. The people who live, work and play in Kentwood need an authenticity diverse representative who is already involved in the community.”
VanderMolen, who is a project coordinator for First Steps Kent, praised both McKelvey and Tyson as he looked forward to November.
“I want to thank everyone who turned out tonight in support of my unique vision for Kentwood,” VanderMolen said to WKTV. “I also want to thank Tom McKelvey for his dedication and service to the city these past four years, and Jessica Ann Tyson for the experience she’s brought to the campaign.
“The three of us might not agree on everything from a policy standpoint, but we all share a love for our community and desire to help Kentwood thrive. I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to continue having a productive, issues-focused conversation with the people of Kentwood over the next three months as we build towards the future together.”
Tyson also commented on the low voter turn out.
“With low voter turn out, it is apparent the community has voter fatigue and is tired of politics,” Tyson said to WKTV. “This is a nonpartisan race. It is directly about the residents of Kentwood. There is way too much at stake for our future, so we must not be weary now.”
Mayoral race tops ballot at November field is set
Mayor Stephen Kepley was out and about on Tuesday, primary election night — at Kentwood National Night Out events. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
In addition to the City of Kentwood Ward 2 runoff election set for the Nov. 2 non-partisan Kentwood ballot, city voters will also pick a mayor, two other council members, as well as vote on the city clerk and city treasurer positions.
Incumbent Mayor Stephen Kepley is being challenged by current City Commissioner Emily Bridson, incumbent Commissioner-At Large Betsy Artz is challenged by Leonica Riley Erwin, and two candidates will look to fill the Ward 4 seat vacated by Bridson, Clarkston Morgan and Meochia Thompson.
Running uncontested in the City of Kentwood elections is incumbent Treasurer Laurie Sheldon, and, now, incumbent City Clerk Dan Kasunic, will be unopposed as previous challenger Taylor VanderLaan is no longer on the ballot.
Mayoral candidate, and current Kentwood Commissioner, Emily Bridson was also out and about on National Night Out. (WKTV/K.D. Norris)
All City of Kentwood seats are for 4-year terms.
WKTV’s We The People available to candidates
As always, WKTV Community Media’s election season candidate coverage will include our We The People candidate videos. We The People gives all candidates the opportunity to record up-to-5-minute videos using their own scripts and unedited by WKTV.
For the November election all candidates (including unopposed candidates) will be invited to record videos in September for run and posting in early October.
“Democracy is about voting and it’s about a majority vote. And it’s time that we started exercising the Democratic process.”
Michigan Sen. Debbie Stabenow
Voters at the voting booth. (Photo by Jeff Miller/UW-Madison)
Voting in Kentwood and Wyoming
There will be contested primary elections happening in both Kentwood and Wyoming, with a Kentwood City Commission race possibly settled, and local Democrats and Republicans set to decide who from their part will be on the ballot for a State Senate seat up for final vote in the fall. Go here for the story.
National Night Out is all about getting people out and mixing with local public service employees including police and firefighters. (NATA.org)
Night out in Kentwood
The City of Kentwood will be bustling with block parties, neighborhood events and other activities as part of the city-and-community celebration of National Night Out, a nationwide annual event that “promotes community-police partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make communities safer.” Go here for the story.
Night out in Wyoming
A change for this year’s Wyoming National Night Out event will be that the city will host two main sites — Grand Rapids First, 2100 44th St. SW, and Grace Christian University, 1011 Alden St. SW. Both locations will be open from 5 to 7 p.m. Go here for the story.
Fun fact:
71
Number of cities in Michigan which have registered to be involved in National Night Out. Source.
The Wyoming Kentwood Area Chamber of Commerce hosted candidate forums for elections in the Wyoming and Kentwood area. One of them was the City of Kentwood City Commission Ward 2 candidate forum. The forums were produced through the facilities of WKTV Community Media.
Kentwood’s Ward 2 includes voting Precincts 10-18, roughly the east and northeast areas of the city. For a precinct and ward map, click here.
The non-partisan candidates are incumbent Tom McKelvey and challengers Jessica Ann Tyson and Dan VanderMolen. The top two vote-getters will move on to the November general election (unless one of the primary candidates get 50 percent plus 1 vote in the primary, in which case they will win the seat).
Note: Commissioner McKelvey and Ms. Tyson were able to attend the forum via Zoom; Mr. VanderMolen was not able to attend.
Kentwood City Commissioner candidate forum will air on WKTV Government 26, Friday, July 23, at 8:50 p.m. (immediately following the rebroadcast of this week’s Kentwood Commission Meeting), on Wednesday, July 28, at 8 p.m.; Friday, July 30, at 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, July 31, at 1 p.m. It is also available on demand at WKTVvideos on YouTube.
