By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org

The City of Kentwood has named longtime Economic Development Planner Lisa Golder as its new Community Development Director.

Golder was unanimously appointed to the director role by the City Commission during its March 24 meeting. She succeeds Terry Schweitzer, who is retiring in early April.

As community development director, Golder will be responsible for overseeing the City of Kentwood’s planning and zoning services and managing a team that provides technical support to six city boards that develop and implement the city’s vision for the future.

“The leadership and dedication Lisa has shown during her more than 38 years of experience in our Planning Department make her the right person for this position,” Kentwood Mayor Stephen Kepley said. “She has proven to be a valuable asset to the department, and I have absolute confidence she will continue to demonstrate great leadership and service in her new role.”

Golder joined the Planning Department in 1987 as an economic development planner. In this role, she developed, implemented and coordinated economic development initiatives for the City, including the Revolving Loan Fund, a low-interest loan program designed for small businesses.

Golder collaborated with The Right Place, Inc. and Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) on business retention and expansion, supporting businesses and industry to thrive and expand locally. Golder led the effort to achieve and maintain its status as a Redevelopment Ready Community, a certification from the MEDC that recognizes a city’s commitment to attracting new investors, businesses and residents. 

She also helped create the City’s form-based code ordinance which promotes a diverse mix of residential, business and leisure space within walking distance of public transportation. It was adopted to encourage the development and redevelopment of Division Avenue from Maplelawn Street to 60th Street.

She has been certified through the American Institute of Certified Planners since 1990.

“I am honored to be appointed community development director for the City of Kentwood,” Golder said. “I am eager to lead our talented team and help shape and grow the city through implementing sustainable development and fostering business opportunities.”

Learn more about the City of Kentwood’s Planning Department and its efforts at Kentwood.us/planning.