Grand Rapids public meetings in 2023
281 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Board of Zoning Appeals Regular Meeting
The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding lot splitting and residential use at 321 and 317 Marion Ave SW. The meeting also includes the election of officers.
- Variance for lot splitting and residential use at 321 & 317 Marion Ave SW
- Election of Board officers
- Approval of October 19, 2023 minutes
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will elect new board officers for the 2024 calendar year. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding requests for quotes for bio-retention islands maintenance.
- Election of 2024 Board Officers
- Discussion on Bio-Retention Islands Maintenance Request for Quotes
- Review of interim financial statements as of November 30, 2023
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Stormwater Oversight Commission Regular Meeting
The commission will receive a City of Grand Rapids Parks update and review capital and maintenance budgets. The agenda also includes reports on asset management and public education initiatives.
- Budget Review - Capital and Maintenance
- City of Grand Rapids Parks Update
- Vital Street Goal Updates
- Salt Billboard Campaign
South Division-Grandville CIA Regular Meeting
The meeting includes an informational session on the 2023 year overview followed by a regular meeting. Board members will elect officers for 2024 and review interim financial statements. The agenda also features a presentation from MDOT regarding a Planning and Environmental Lakes study.
- Election of 2024 Board Officers
- South Division-Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project
- Business Associations Banner Permit Renewal
- MDOT Planning and Environmental Lakes (PEL) Study Presentation
- Approval of November 9, 2023 minutes
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission City Planning Commission Meeting
The City Planning Commission will consider rezoning several properties on Front Avenue NW, Leonard Street NW, and Scribner Avenue NW. A public hearing is also scheduled regarding a residential rehabilitation and social service facility at 805 & 825 Leonard St. NE. The application for a multi-family development at 916 Benjamin Ave. NE was withdrawn from the agenda.
- Rezoning of properties on Front, Leonard, and Scribner Avenues (Case PC-ZON-2023-0106)
- Public hearing for a residential rehabilitation facility at 805 & 825 Leonard St. NE
- Withdrawal of the multi-family development request for 916 Benjamin Ave. NE
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority Regular Meeting
The authority will hold an informational meeting to review 2023 Contractor Report Updates. During the regular meeting, members will vote on a Lambert retainer contract extension and the 2024 meeting schedule. A discussion regarding SmartZone strategy is also scheduled.
- Approval of 2024 Meeting Schedule
- Approval and authorization of Lambert Retainer Contract Extension
- Review of 2023 Contractor Report Updates
- SmartZone Strategy Discussion
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The provided agenda contains only procedural information and meeting location details. No discussion items or decisions are documented in this text.
Public Safety Committee
The Public Safety Committee will receive updates from the Police Department regarding monthly crime statistics and the Records Unit. The agenda also includes the graduation of the first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class.
- Police Department monthly crime statistics and Records Unit updates
- Graduation of the first Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) class
City Commission Meeting
The City Commission will review updates to water and sewer rates and several infrastructure projects. The agenda also includes rezoning requests, new board appointments, and various street improvements.
- Professional Services Agreement with Clark Construction for City Facilities ($13,121,596)
- Water Main Replacement in Omena Drive contract up to $1,097,722
- MDOT Sidewalk Improvements in Collindale Avenue and Burritt Street ($430,916 local share)
- Option to Purchase 5160 60th Street SE for a water pumping station ($550,000)
- Rezoning requests for 3300 Burton Street SE and 2000 Lake Michigan Drive
City Commission - Regular Session
The provided agenda contains only procedural information regarding the meeting time and access to meeting records. No specific legislative or administrative items are listed in this document.
Committee on Appointments
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to confirm Scott Holzwarth to the Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority and remove Maurice Townsend from the Affordable Housing Fund Board. The committee will also review year-end appointments and current vacancies.
- Confirmation of Scott Holzwarth to the Monroe North Tax Increment Finance Authority
- Removal of Maurice Townsend from the Affordable Housing Fund Board
- Approval of year-end appointments to various boards and commissions
- Review of the current board/commission vacancy list
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The provided text is a procedural announcement for a regular meeting of the Grand Rapids Committee on Appointments. No specific discussion or decision items are included in this document.
Fiscal Committee
The Fiscal Committee will review an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Ordinance. The meeting also includes reviews of a bid list resolution, a warrant report, and a treasurer's report.
- Amendment No. 6 to the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Ordinance
- Bid List Resolution for December 12, 2023
- Report of Warrant for November 22 through November 28, 2023
- Treasurer’s Report for November 21 through November 28, 2023
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The provided agenda contains only procedural information and a link to meeting schedules. There are no specific discussion or decision items listed in this document.
Community Development
The Community Development Committee is reviewing resolutions for city infrastructure projects and land use changes. This includes approving contracts for facility construction, water main replacements, and sidewalk improvements. The committee will also consider rezoning requests for Burton Street SE and Lake Michigan Drive.
- $13,121,596 contract with Clark Construction Company for 1500 Scriber facilities
- Property acquisition at 5160 60th Street SE for a new water pumping station
- $430,916 local share for sidewalk improvements on Collindale Avenue and Burritt Street
- Rezoning requests for 3300 Burton Street SE and 2000 Lake Michigan Drive
- $801,868 contract for water main replacement on Omena Drive
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The provided text contains only procedural information and meeting location details. No specific proposals, contracts, or ordinances are documented in this document.
Committee of the Whole
The Committee of the Whole will consider resolutions regarding water and sewer rate adjustments for the City and its partner communities. The agenda also includes discussions on a future soccer stadium and the interim relocation of City operations. Updates are scheduled for lead-based paint code implementation and the parks millage.
- Tavern license request for BC Pizza at 2034 Lake Michigan Dr NW
- Resolution designating a Social District
- Water and sewer rate adjustments for City and Partner Communities
- MOU with Grand Action 2.0 regarding interim relocation of City operations
- Memorandum regarding a future soccer stadium
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The Mobile GR Commission will meet to elect its Chair and Vice Chair and adopt the 2024 meeting schedule. The commission will also consider bicycle and micromobility ordinance updates and a license agreement for 708 Wealthy St SE. Discussion is also scheduled regarding staff and commission departures.
- License Agreement with Wild Bunch 708, LLC for 708 Wealthy St SE
- Bicycle and Micromobility Ordinance Updates
- Parking Market Competitiveness Framework
- Election of Chair and Vice Chair
- Adoption of the 2024 meeting schedule
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider multiple requests for exterior changes to properties within the Heritage Hill, Heartside, and Fairmount Square historic districts. The meeting also includes discussion regarding the 2024 meeting schedule and officer selection.
- Request to retain exterior line sets at 212 Union Ave SE
- Window replacement request for 25 South Division
- Rear opening change and ramp addition at 340 State SE
- Addition request for 330 Eastern SE
- Conversion of two storefronts to overhead doors at 70 Ionia SW
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The meeting includes an informational session regarding the 2023 calendar year overview. The regular session will address interim financial statements and the election of board officers for 2024.
- Review of 2023 calendar year overview
- Approval of October 31, 2023 interim financial statements
- Election of 2024 board officers
- Approval of 2024 meeting schedule
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District will meet to elect board officers for the 2024 calendar year. The agenda also includes appointing a BID representative to the UGRI Board and approving the 2024 meeting schedule.
- Election of 2024 Board Officers
- Appointment of BID Representative to UGRI Board
- Approval of 2024 Meeting Schedule
- Review of interim financial statements as of October 31, 2023
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is considering development and reimbursement agreements for two projects. These include the DeVries Jewelers Redevelopment Project at 433 Leonard Street and the Factory Yards Redevelopment Project. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding HOME Investment Partnership funding.
- Development and Reimbursement Agreement for DeVries Jewelers Redevelopment Project at 433 Leonard Street
- Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Factory Yards Redevelopment Project
- Termination of Plan Amendments from the Brownfield Plan
- Discussion of HOME Investment Partnership Funding Opportunity
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will consider a $40,000 investment for strategic plan implementation. The agenda also includes reviewing interim financial statements and approving the 2024 meeting schedule. Additionally, the body will elect officers for the 2024 calendar year.
- $40,000 Strategic Plan Implementation Investment
- Review of October 31, 2023 interim financial statements
- Election of 2024 officers
- Approval of the 2024 meeting schedule
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is reviewing resolutions for two board appointments. The committee will also discuss the current list of vacancies for city boards and commissions.
- Appointment of Marta Johnson to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
- Confirmation of Nate DeHaan to the Vital Streets Oversight Commission
- Discussion of the current board/commission vacancy list
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee is meeting to consider several financial items, including a major contract for police technology, funding for affordable daycare, and payments for housing and water assistance programs. The agenda includes resolutions for contracts, agreements, and fee payments, as well as routine reports.
- Contract with Axon Enterprises for police tech, up to $3,920,896.42, with renewal options
- Agreement with Vibrant Futures for $300,000 for daycare for second and third shift workers
- Payment of $114,273.30 to Grand Rapids Community Foundation for Affordable Housing Fund
- Sublease renewal with African American Museum and Archives at $2,196.14 per month
- Ordinance amending classifications and pay ranges for several city positions
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The committee will consider resolutions regarding land easements and a fireworks permit for Van Andel Arena. It will also review the commemorative designation of part of Auburn Avenue.
- Fireworks Discharge Permit for Image SFX at Van Andel Arena
- Sidewalk and Utility Easement at 3325 Plainfield Avenue NE for $1.00
- Seven easement assignments to Lamberton Creek Drainage District
- Three drainage easements to Lamberton Creek Drainage District for a total of $4.00
- Commemorative designation of Auburn Avenue as Sekou Smith Way
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider resolutions regarding liquor licenses and property tax exemptions. The agenda also includes briefings on city art and culture and a new agenda management system.
- Social District Permit application for Nonla Burger, LLC at 449 Bridge Street NW
- Development District Liquor License request for Good Good Good, LLC at 1590 Plainfield Ave NE
- Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Exemption Certificate for 1340 Monroe Avenue NW
- Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District establishment for 851 Fulton Street West
- Briefings on city art and culture and a new agenda management system
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The team will discuss updates regarding the Development With Us program and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Policy. The agenda also includes a review of adding a Financial Analyst II position to the Comptroller's Department. Additionally, the group will receive Development Center reports for October and November 2023.
- Update on the Development With Us program
- Update on Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Policy
- Proposed Financial Analyst II position in the Comptroller's Department
- Development Center Reports for October and November 2023
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review several resolutions regarding city contracts and appointments. Key items include a large-scale technology contract for the police department and funding for affordable daycare services. The agenda also includes community development updates and local business permit applications.
- Axon Enterprises, Inc. contract up to $3,920,896.42 for police technology solutions
- Vibrant Futures agreement up to $300,000 for affordable daycare services
- Payment of $114,273.30 to Grand Rapids Community Foundation for the Affordable Housing Fund
- Dragon Rescue Management, Inc. contract up to $17,950 for fire department elevator training
- Designation of Auburn Avenue from Wealthy Street to Lake Drive as Sekou Smith Way
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will elect board officers for the 2024 calendar year. The meeting also includes reviewing Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects and approving the 2024 meeting schedule.
- Election of 2024 Board Officers
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Approval of the 2024 Meeting Schedule
- Approval of September 27 and November 6, 2023 meeting minutes
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will review interim financial statements from October 2023 and approve meeting minutes from August. Board members will vote on banner maintenance, process business improvement grant applications, set the 2024 calendar, and elect officers for next year.
- Banner Maintenance Approval
- Business Improvement Grant Program Application
- Approval of the 2024 Meeting Schedule
- Election of Board Officers for Calendar Year 2024
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of October 31, 2023
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The meeting includes an informational session regarding the 2023 calendar year overview. The regular meeting portion involves reviewing minutes from September and considering a recommendation for a development area liquor license.
- Recommendation for a Development Area Liquor License for Good Good Good LLC at 1590 Plainfield Ave. NE
- Approval of the 2024 Meeting Schedule
- Review of September 21, 2023 meeting minutes
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
This is an informational meeting regarding the 2023 calendar year overview. The authority will also consider approving the meeting schedule for 2024.
- Review of Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority 2023 Calendar Year Overview
- Approval of the 2024 Meeting Schedule
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is reviewing several mayoral and City Manager appointments to various boards. The committee will also discuss updating the Urban Forestry Committee membership and review current board vacancies.
- Confirmation of Aaron Sedine to the Construction Code Board of Appeals
- Confirmation of Michael Keefe to the Construction Code Board of Appeals
- Confirmation of Elizabeth Williams to the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Confirmation of Marshall Kilgore to the Housing Appeals Board
- Discussion regarding amendments to the City Code 'Trees' chapter
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city expenditures and contracts. Items include funding for police academy training and a multi-year contract for public television management.
- $90,000 for Grand Rapids Police Department Recruit Class 24-01 training
- $35,431.25 OHSP grant award continuation
- $1.5 million three-year contract with Grand Rapids Community Media Center
- $332,889.60 vehicle leasing pilot program with Enterprise Fleet Management
- Tax exemption and PILOT approval for Union Suites on Coit II
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions for indoor fireworks discharge permits at local venues. The committee will also consider construction agreements, utility easements, and various service contracts for city projects.
- Fireworks discharge permits for Van Andel Arena and DeVos Performance Hall
- Construction Agreement and Public Utilities Easement for Meadowood Townhomes
- $570,520 preliminary design services for Oxford Trail (not-to-exceed $679,180)
- $241,490 contract with Bazen Electric Company for Market Avenue Pump Station (not-to-exceed $305,535)
- Grand River Revitalization agreement (not-to-exceed $82,650)
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing resolutions for 2024 election voting sites and inspector pay. The meeting also includes discussions on brownfield redevelopment plans and a water/sewer rate study.
- Approval of early voting sites and polling locations for the 2024 Election Cycle
- Brownfield Plan for DeVries Jewelers Redevelopment at 433 Leonard Street NW
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for RiverNorth redevelopment at 1340 Monroe Avenue NW
- $2 million Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate for Ascent Fine Cabinetry Inc.
- Introduction of the 20-day comment period for the 2023 Water/Sewer Rate Study
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive updates on the implementation of public health and safety measures. The Police Department is also scheduled to provide presentations regarding monthly crime statistics and the Crisis Negotiation Team.
- Update on implementation of Public Health & Safety Measures
- Police Department presentation on monthly crime statistics
- Police Department update on the Crisis Negotiation Team
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The Board will review several revised job classifications for financial, auditing, and maintenance roles. The meeting also includes the introduction of new Human Resources Director Lisa Sonego.
- Revised Financial Analyst I, II, and III classifications
- Revised Internal Auditor I and II classifications
- Revised Forensic Services Manager classification
- Revised Equipment Maintenance Superintendent classification
- Introduction of new Human Resources Director Lisa Sonego
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review several resolutions regarding city appointments, infrastructure projects, and financial contracts. The meeting also includes public hearings for property rehabilitation and a commemorative street designation.
- Three-year contract up to $1.5 million for Grand Rapids Community Media Center
- Contract not to exceed $332,889.60 with Enterprise Fleet Management for vehicle leasing
- Preliminary design services for Oxford Trail between $570,520 and $679,180
- Bazen Electric Company contract up to $305,535 for Market Avenue Pump Station
- $2 million industrial facilities exemption certificate for Ascent Fine Cabinetry Inc.
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will consider action items regarding the Facade Improvement Program Project and a funding request for holiday decorations. The committee will also receive an update on a new meeting location.
- South Division- Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project
- Holiday Decorations Funding Request
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will hold public hearings on multiple development requests, including residential rezonings and commercial land use changes. The commission will also continue discussions regarding housing policy zoning ordinance text amendments for infill housing, parking, and group living.
- Rezoning 959 Bristol Ave NW for a 16 single-family home and 76 townhome development
- Zone change for 2000 Lake Michigan Dr. NW from Neighborhood Office Services to Mid-Century Neighborhood–Commercial
- Special land use request for a dental office at 1555/1551 Wealthy St SE
- Rezoning 3300 Burton St. SE from Neighborhood Office Services to Special District-Institutional Campus
- Approval for outdoor storage of fencing and portable toilets at 125 Cottage Grove St. SE
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will meet to approve minutes from the September 13, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes updates on the Gateway Grand Rapids Business Accelerator Fund and a report on Tech Week GR 2023 activities.
- Gateway Grand Rapids Business Accelerator Fund Update
- SmartZone Operators Quarterly Report
- Report on activities and outcomes of Tech Week GR 2023
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The authority will hold an informational meeting regarding the 2023 calendar year overview before proceeding to its regular meeting. Action items include reviewing updates for Project 49507, holiday decoration funding, and facade improvement program projects.
- Project 49507 updates and funding request
- Holiday decorations funding request
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Business Associations Memorandum of Understanding
- Corridor Manager recommendation
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will vote on a sublease renewal for the Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives at 89 Monroe Center. The meeting also includes discussions regarding bicycle and micromobility ordinance updates and a parking market competitiveness framework.
- Sublease renewal for 89 Monroe Center with Grand Rapids African American Museum and Archives
- Bicycle and Micromobility Ordinance Updates discussion
- Parking Market Competitiveness Framework discussion
- Selection of 2024 Chair and Vice Chair
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will review and discuss several requests related to modifying properties within designated historic districts, including raising window sills, retaining metal doors, and repairing siding.
- 59 Commerce SW - Request to raise two window sills in Heartside Historic District
- 736 Cherry SE - Withdrawn request to retain two metal doors in Cherry Hill Historic District
- 212 Union SE - Request to retain exterior line sets in Heritage Hill Historic District
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review interim financial statements as of September 30, 2023. The meeting includes action items regarding funding requests for street light garlands and bike repair stands.
- Street Light Garland Funding Request
- Bike Repair Stands Funding Request
- Public Art Application Program Guidelines Update
- Approval of October 4, 2023 minutes
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of September 30, 2023
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Special Meeting
This special meeting consists of a City Commission workshop and opportunities for public comment. The agenda does not list specific legislative items or decisions for vote.
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three special land use requests: expanding a vehicle repair facility on E Fulton St, constructing parking lots and greenspace for Corewell Health, and building a two-family dwelling on Jefferson Ave SE. The commission will also discuss potential text amendments to the zoning ordinance related to housing policy, including infill housing, parking, and group living. The meeting includes standard procedural items like approval of minutes and the planning director's report.
- Special land use request to expand vehicle repair facility at 834-846 E Fulton St (PC-SLU-2023-0083)
- Special land use requests for parking lots at 648 Bond Ave NW and 637/647 Ottawa Ave NW, and greenspace at 700 Ottawa and 711 Ionia Ave NW (PC-SLU-2023-0084 to -0087)
- Special land use request for new two-family dwelling at 563 Jefferson Ave SE (PC-SLU-2023-0092)
- Discussion of potential text amendments on infill housing, parking, and group living
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review invoices for eligible expenses related to the 111 Lyon Street NW redevelopment project. The meeting also includes an activity report for the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant/Loan Program and proposed policy amendments.
- Approval of expenses for 111 Lyon Street NW / 200 Monroe Avenue NW redevelopment
- Review of Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Grant/Loan Program activity report
- Proposed amendments to Administration and LBRF policies
- Acceptance of applications under the Housing Tax Increment Finance Program
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will meet to approve the September minutes and conduct other business. The agenda includes public comment.
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to discuss the current list of vacancies within city boards and commissions. No specific appointments or new actions were recorded in this agenda item.
- Discussion of Current Board/Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions including a $2,500,000 Blight Elimination Program grant from the Michigan State Land Bank Authority. The committee will also consider a $200,000 sponsorship recommendation for ArtPrize 2024 and a lease agreement for the Veterans Memorial Park building.
- $2,500,000 Blight Elimination Program grant from Michigan State Land Bank Authority
- $200,000 sponsorship recommendation for ArtPrize 2024
- Lease agreement with Fashion Has Heart for Veterans Memorial Park building
- Recognition of Grand Rapids Gold Foundation and Heart For Dance as local civic organizations
- Amendment to the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Ordinance
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee will discuss and vote on a Development District Liquor License request from Chateau Grand Rapids LLC.
- Resolution approving Development District Liquor License for Chateau Grand Rapids LLC at 955 Cherry St SE
Public Safety Committee- Regular Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive updates from the Police Department on monthly crime statistics, traffic unit activities, use of UAS, and address nuisance issues caused by wildlife.
- Presentation on monthly crime statistics
- Update on Traffic Unit operations
- Discussion on use of UAS in public safety
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several financial and development items, including a $2.5 million Blight Elimination Program grant. The meeting also includes discussions on professional service agreements for fire department facilities and various property license agreements.
- $2,500,000 Blight Elimination Program grant from the Michigan State Land Bank Authority
- $1,746,000 Professional Services Agreement with Williams Architects for Fire Department training facility
- $302,662 demolition contract for Martin Luther King Park Lodge improvements
- $600,933 contract with SPS Pro Plumbing, LLC for lead service line replacements
- Proposed $200,000 sponsorship for ArtPrize 2024
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city property, infrastructure improvements, and professional service agreements. The agenda includes decisions on demolition, architectural design, and lead service line replacements.
- Demolition contract for Martin Luther King Park Lodge: $302,662 (not-to-exceed $339,000)
- Design services for new Fire Department Training Facility: $1,746,000 (not-to-exceed $2,045,120)
- Lead service line replacement contract: $600,933 (not-to-exceed $717,800)
- Public hearing for 'Sekou Smith Way' commemorative designation on Auburn Avenue
- Fireworks Discharge Permit for JDL FX, LLC at Van Andel Arena
Board of Election Commissioners - Regular Meeting
The Board of Election Commissioners will meet to conduct business regarding the upcoming November 7, 2023, Special Election. The agenda includes a discussion on the Public Accuracy Test for that election.
- November 7, 2023 Special Election Public Accuracy Test
Stormwater Oversight Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will review reports on asset management and public education initiatives, including a Water Career Camp. The meeting includes discussions regarding grant opportunities from the Council of the Great Lakes and EGLE 319, as well as updates on the Community Master Plan for sustainability.
- EGLE 319 Grant opportunities
- Council of the Great Lakes grant opportunities (Meijer and Dart)
- Water Career Camp report
- Vital Street Stormwater Goals update
- Community Master Plan Update - Sustainability
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board will hold a public hearing regarding an appeal for a driveway width variance. The board will also discuss adopting the 2024 meeting schedule and electing officers.
- Appeal for 913 Covell Ave NW to allow driveways to extend past garage width
- Adoption of 2024 BZA Meeting Schedule
- Election of Officers
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will meet to consider a public relations and re-branding proposal. The board will also discuss the 2024 Michigan Street After Dark Artist Market.
- Public Relations and Re-branding Proposal
- Michigan Street After Dark Artist Market - 2024
- Approval of September 20, 2023 minutes
- Review of interim financial statements as of September 30, 2023
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will review interim financial statements as of September 30, 2023. The meeting includes action items regarding a facade improvement program and the launch of a promotions and marketing committee.
- South Division- Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project
- Promotions and Marketing Committee Launch
- Approval of September 14, 2023 minutes
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of September 30, 2023
- Discussion regarding a new meeting location
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Board of Election Commissioners - Regular Meeting
The Board of Election Commissioners will meet to deliberate on resolutions regarding personnel for upcoming elections. This includes appointing Election Inspectors and designating members for the Receiving Board and Absentee Voter Processing Board.
- Resolution to appoint Election Inspectors for the November 7, 2023 Special Election
- Resolution to designate Receiving Board Team Members
- Resolution to designate Absentee Voter Processing Board Team Members
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several financial resolutions, including a $10.5 million authorization for Capital Improvement Bonds. The agenda also includes discussions on construction agreements, professional service contracts, and updates to city ordinances.
- Authorization of Capital Improvement Bonds up to $10.5M
- Construction Management agreement with Owen Ames Kimball Company up to $8,003,702
- Agreement with AYA Youth Collective not to exceed $290,000
- Contract with Strain Electric Company LLC for traffic signals up to $809,250
- Design services for new Kendall Street and Division Ave Fire Stations
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee will consider a resolution to amend the Transformational Brownfield Plan for several properties on Godfrey Avenue, Martin Luther King Jr. Street, and Chestnut Street. The item also includes authorizing an Affordable Housing Agreement with 655 Godfrey, LLC.
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for Factory Yards Transformational Brownfield Project
- Affordable Housing Agreement between the City and 655 Godfrey, LLC
- Establishment of an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District at 655 Godfrey Avenue SW
- Twelve-year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate for 655 Godfrey, LLC
- Introduction of City Water Career Program graduates and interns
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city infrastructure, professional service agreements, and development projects. Items include approvals for fire station designs, traffic signal replacements, and various construction agreements.
- Construction management services for Grand Rapids Public Museum up to $8,003,702
- Traffic signal and pedestrian crossing enhancements contract up to $809,250
- Design phase services for new Kendall Street Fire Station up to $529,870
- Design phase services for new Division Ave Fire Station up to $828,580
- Construction agreement for The Current Apartments in the amount of $52,490
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding grant awards, service agreements, and funding for litigation. The meeting also includes updates on the treasurer's report and recent warrants.
- $10.5M authorization for Capital Improvement Bonds
- $290,000 agreement with AYA Youth Collective
- $100,000 agreement with Puertas Abiertas
- $500,000 ETNA Supply reimbursement for Street Lighting Control Modules
- $16,880 DOJ grant award for Forensic Science Improvement
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to review resolutions for various municipal appointments. The agenda included confirming specific appointments to the City Planning Commission and the Local Officer's Compensation Commission, as well as authorizing appointments to the Mayor's Youth Council.
- Appointments to the 2023-2024 Mayor's Youth Council
- Confirmation of Brian Swem to the City Planning Commission
- Confirmation of Ashley Huey to the Local Officer's Compensation Commission
- Discussion of current Board/Commission vacancy list
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will vote on license agreements for properties at 220 Quimby St NE and 724 Wealthy St SE. The meeting also includes discussions regarding social media impact, micromobility ridership, and the Transit Master Plan update.
- License Agreement with Talbot Quimby, LLC for 220 Quimby St NE
- License Agreement with 724 Wealthy, LLC for 724 Wealthy St SE
- Discussion on Micromobility Ridership Summary
- The Rapid update on the Transit Master Plan
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review several action items including mural applications and a liquor license recommendation. The meeting also includes the approval of previous minutes and review of interim financial statements.
- Liquor license recommendation for Chateau GR at 955 Cherry St. SE
- Public art mural application for 967 E. Fulton Street
- Public art mural application for Wealthy Street
- Affordable Limousine funding request
- Review of interim financial statements as of August 31, 2023
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will review several requests for certificates of appropriateness regarding exterior changes to properties in historic districts. The meeting also includes a discussion on draft modifications to deck guidelines.
- 946 Cherry SE: request for siding retention and addition
- 100 Sheldon SE: request for extension of temporary bracing
- 532 Paris SE: request to alter rear window opening
- 59 Commerce SW: request for new storefront
- Draft modification of deck guidelines
🗳️ How they voted (11 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will discuss potential changes to housing policy, specifically regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and unrelated occupants. The meeting also includes review of correspondence related to development near Huff Park.
- Discussion of text amendments for ADUs and unrelated occupants
- Review of correspondence regarding potential development near Huff Park
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority has scheduled a special meeting for a strategic session. The agenda also includes reports from the Corridor Manager and committees.
- Southtown CIA Strategic Session
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider a grant agreement for the Four Star Theater Redevelopment Project. The board will also discuss a plan amendment for DeVries Jewelers and review FY2024 tax increment reimbursements.
- Grant agreement for Four Star Theater Redevelopment at 1944 Division Avenue S
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for DeVries Jewelers Redevelopment at 433 Leonard Street NW
- FY2024 Brownfield Tax Increment Reimbursements
- Adoption of Board Governance Summary
- Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program activity report
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board will hold a public hearing regarding a request by Jeramy and Rachel Fox to build an accessory structure. The request seeks a dimensional variance to allow a pool house to extend approximately eight feet into the front yard.
- Dimensional Variance (P-BZA-2023-0005) for 946 Knapp St NE
- Election of Officers
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review the North Quarter Facade Improvement Program Project and a sponsorship request for Lights on Creston. The meeting also includes reports from the Design Committee and approval of previous minutes.
- North Quarter Facade Improvement Program Project action item
- Sponsorship Request for Lights on Creston action item
- Design Committee report
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street CIA will meet to approve minutes from the August 16, 2023 meeting and review a Request for Proposals regarding public relations and re-branding. The meeting also includes a report from the Corridor Manager and Committee.
- Public Relations and Re-branding Request for Proposals
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to discuss the current list of vacancies for city boards and commissions. No specific appointments or decisions were recorded in this agenda item.
- Discussion of Current Board/Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city contracts, grant acceptances, and budget substitutions. Key items include a new DASH bus service contract and federal funding for lead-based paint hazard reduction.
- New DASH bus service contract with Interurban Transit Partnership up to $9,300,000
- $6.6 million HUD grant for Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program
- $986,364 grant award continuation from Auto Theft Prevention Authority
- $3,880,279 for health, prescription, vision, and dental insurance administration
- Feasibility assessment for Indian Trails Golf Course up to $79,800
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee will discuss and vote on several infrastructure projects including a construction agreement, professional services contract, and transportation improvements.
- Resolution approving Construction Agreement for Braeburn Plat
- Resolution awarding Professional Services Agreement to Rockford Construction Co. for Lyon Square ($10,321,660 not-to-exceed $12,462,996)
- Resolution authorizing $678,265 local share for Covell Avenue and Ken-O-Sha Industrial Park Drive improvements
- Resolution accepting Transportation Asset Management Plan
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will consider a proclamation for National Hispanic Heritage Month. The meeting also includes a resolution to schedule a special City Commission meeting for October 31, 2023, and a briefing on the FY2023 Annual Performance Report.
- National Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation 2023
- Resolution scheduling a special City Commission meeting for October 31, 2023
- FY2023 Annual Performance Report briefing
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive presentations regarding monthly crime statistics and CALEA accreditation from the Police Department. The Grand Rapids Fire Department will also provide an update on the Fire Cadet program.
- Police Department monthly crime statistics presentation
- Police Department CALEA accreditation update
- Fire Department Fire Cadet program update
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The Board will review personnel transactions including reports on entering, leaving, and disciplinary actions. The Chief Examiner will also present updates on executive recruitments for Community Development and Human Resources Directors.
- New Battalion Fire Chief classification and memorandum
- Revised Planning Supervisor classification and memorandum
- Executive recruitment updates for Community Development Director and Human Resources Director
- Class/Comp. Study Update
- Approval of July 25, 2023 meeting minutes
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several financial resolutions, including a new transit contract and health insurance administration. The meeting also includes public hearings for various city ordinance amendments and the Factory Yards redevelopment project.
- New DASH bus service contract with Interurban Transit Partnership not to exceed $9,300,000
- $6.6 million HUD grant for Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program
- Health insurance administration contract awards totaling $3,880,279
- Public hearing for the $147 million Factory Yards redevelopment project
- Conditional rezoning for an urgent care clinic at 1935 Breton Road SE
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will consider a rescindment for the 1944 Division Ave. S facade improvement application and discuss a facade improvement program project. The meeting also includes a funding request from the Southwest Business Association for the Experience Roosevelt Park Neighborhood event.
- Rescindment of 1944 Division Ave. S Facade Improvement Application
- South Division-Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project
- Southwest Business Association Event Funding Request - Experience Roosevelt Park Neighborhood
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several special land use applications, including a wine shop and social service agency.
- 1590 Plainfield Avenue NE - Wine Shop (Good Good Good LLC)
- 1410 Plainfield Avenue NE - Social Service Agency (Catholic Charities West Michigan)
- 59 Commerce Ave SW - Restaurant and Bar (59 Commerce, LLC)
- 900 Cesar E Chavez Ave SW - Grocery Store with Wine and Beer (Spalding DeDecker)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will review interim financial statements from June and August 2023. The board will also consider a resolution to authorize a third amendment to a Restated Grant Agreement with the Michigan Strategic Fund.
- Third Amendment to Restated Grant Agreement with Michigan Strategic Fund
- Review of Preliminary Interim Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of August 31, 2023
- SmartZone Operators Quarterly Report
- Gateway Grand Rapids Update
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The authority will review preliminary and interim financial statements from June and August 2023. The meeting includes an action item regarding updates and a funding request for Project 49507.
- Project 49507 updates and funding request
- Approval of August 7, 2023 minutes
- Review of financial statements as of June 30, 2023
- Review of financial statements as of August 31, 2023
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will review a contract with ITP for DASH 2023-2026 and receive an update on new DASH route and service changes. The agenda also includes discussions regarding changes to the commission's meeting location.
- DASH 2023-2026 contract with ITP
- New DASH route/service changes update
- Mobile GR Commission meeting location changes
- September 2023 project updates
The commission unanimously accepted the minutes from the August 3, 2023, meeting. Other items, including a DASH contract and service changes, were presented for summary or discussion, but no further formal actions were recorded.
- Approved August 3, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will review requests for building alterations and window replacements in the Cherry Hill and Heritage Hill historic districts. The meeting also includes an advisory discussion regarding a proposed addition at 330 Eastern SE.
- Alterations to rear building at 710 Wealthy SE
- Request for a rear dormer at 553 Fulton E
- Window replacement request at 450 Lafayette SE
- Advisory discussion regarding an addition at 330 Eastern SE
The Commission approved a request to retain unauthorized alterations to a non-contributing building at 710 Wealthy SE. Additionally, staff-issued certificates of appropriateness for 15 properties were unanimously approved.
- Approved retention of alterations at 710 Wealthy SE (6-1)
- Approved 15 staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness (Unanimous)
- Approved August 2, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority is meeting to review several funding requests for beautification, street furniture, and marketing. The board will also consider renewing an accounting services contract with Hungerford Nichols.
- Beautification Plaques Funding Request
- Street Furniture Funding Request
- Accounting Services Contract Renewal - Hungerford Nichols
- Shop Hop Marketing Request-Lydia Writes Good
- CIA Representative Appointment to UGRI Board
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority approved several funding requests for corridor beautification, marketing, and operations. The board also renewed an accounting services contract and appointed a representative to the UGRI Board.
- Approved up to $2,100 for beautification plaques (Unanimous)
- Approved up to $43,000 for new trash cans and benches (Unanimous)
- Approved $5,000 contribution for Uptown truck purchase (Unanimous)
- Approved Hungerford Nichols accounting contract renewal up to $12,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved up to $3,000 for volunteer celebrations (Unanimous)
- Approved up to $2,000 for Shop Hop marketing (Unanimous)
- Appointed Mark Stoddard as CIA Representative to the UGRI Board (Unanimous)
- Approved August 2, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will meet to review committee notes and approve minutes from the June 7, 2023 meeting. The primary action item involves a funding request for the Block by Block Uptown program.
- Additional funding request for Block by Block Uptown
- Approval of June 7, 2023 minutes
The board approved the minutes from the June 7, 2023 meeting. A request for additional funding for Block by Block was tabled pending a review of the FY2023 contract and two invoices.
- Approved June 7, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Tabled Block by Block Uptown additional funding request (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to consider a resolution for a new member of the Stormwater Oversight Commission. The committee also held a discussion regarding the current list of vacant boards and commissions.
- Resolution to appoint Michelle Storey to the Stormwater Oversight Commission
- Discussion of the current Board/Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider resolutions regarding funding for the SAFE Task Force and a $100,000 grant award. The meeting also includes reviews of contract extensions for low-income programs and recent treasurer reports.
- $50,000 resolution for SAFE Task Force recommendations
- $45,021 contract extension with Home Repair Services of Kent County
- $100,000 grant award from The Recycling Partnership and EGLE
- Agreement extension for the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program
- September 5, 2023 Bid List Resolution
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is considering multiple resolutions regarding infrastructure funding, street improvements, and land use. Items include approving MDOT grants for traffic management and cost-sharing for water main reconstruction on Leffingwell Avenue.
- $660,000 MDOT grant for Traffic Management Operations Center
- $300,000 expenditure for Metropolitan Traffic Signal Optimization project
- Leffingwell Ave and Bradford St reconstruction cost-sharing up to $450,000 local share
- Conditional rezoning for an urgent care clinic at 193SD Breton Road SE
- $100,000 increase for South Elevator at the Government Center Ramp
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will meet to review the minutes from August 8, 2023. The agenda includes strategy discussions regarding major development project updates and a report from the Development Center for August 2023.
- Approval of August 8, 2023, meeting minutes
- Major Development Project Updates discussion
- August 2023 Development Center Report
The team approved the minutes from the August 8, 2023 meeting. Members received updates on river projects, park improvements, and the Development Center's August 2023 report.
- Approved minutes from August 8, 2023 (Unanimous)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several resolutions regarding street improvements, utility agreements, and fund allocations. The agenda includes discussions on grant acceptances, contract extensions, and scheduling public hearings for various property amendments.
- $3,850,000 cost-sharing agreement with Corewell Health for Leffingwell Ave and Bradford St improvements
- $660,000 MDOT grant for the Traffic Management Operations Center
- $300,000 expenditure for the Metropolitan Traffic Signal Optimization project
- $100,000 grant award from The Recycling Partnership and EGLE
- Rezoning requests for 2984 Bradford Street NE, 1935 Breton Road SE, and 1058 Butterworth Street SW
The City Commission approved the purchase of two CNG transit buses and several service contracts for painting, snow removal, and waste disposal. The board also authorized grant acceptances for recycling and water assistance, and approved a cost-sharing agreement with Corewell Health for street improvements.
- Approved purchase of two CNG DASH transit buses for $1,525,668.00
- Approved $100,000 grant for multi-family recycling education
- Authorized five contracts of up to $10,000 each for SAFE Task Force recommendations
- Approved $45,021 contract extension for Low-Income Refuse Collection Program
- Approved 6-month extension for Low-Income Homeowner Water Assistance Program
- Approved $240,000 annual total for general painting and coating services
- Approved sidewalk snow removal contracts for JND Snowplowing ($198,000) and Lavelle’s Lawncare ($77,000)
- Approved cost-sharing agreement with Corewell Health for Leffingwell Avenue and Bradford Street improvements
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority is considering several development and reimbursement agreements. The board will also review a plan amendment for the RiverNorth Redevelopment Project and an activity report for environmental grant programs.
- Second amendment to Steelcase Campus Project at 115 1 44th Street SE
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for RiverNorth Redevelopment Project at 1340 Monroe Avenue NW
- Transformational Brownfield Plan and Affordable Housing Agreement for Factory Yards Redevelopment Project
- Activity Report for the Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved several redevelopment agreements and plan amendments. Key actions included authorizing a reimbursement agreement for the Steelcase Campus and recommending plans for the Factory Yards and RiverNorth projects.
- Approved Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Steelcase Campus Project at 1151 44th Street SE (Unanimous)
- Approved and recommended Brownfield Plan Amendment for RiverNorth Redevelopment Project at 1340 Monroe Avenue NW (7-0)
- Approved and recommended Transformational Brownfield Plan and Affordable Housing Agreement for Factory Yards Redevelopment Project (7-0)
- Approved ESA Grant Program activity report (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from August 2, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation meeting consists of procedural items including the approval of minutes from the August 2, 2023, meeting. No other specific business or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Approval of minutes from August 2, 2023
The Economic Development Corporation met on August 23, 2023, and approved the minutes from the August 2, 2023 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made during the session.
- Excused absences of Kristine Bersche, Commissioner Nathaniel Moody, and John VanFossen (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from August 2, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will review polling locations and election inspector pay for the November 7, 2023 Special Election. The meeting also includes presentations on small unmanned vehicle technology and proposed amendments to animal ordinances.
- Resolution approving polling locations and election inspector pay for the November 7, 2023 Special Election
- Presentation regarding procurement and use of small Unmanned Vehicle System technology
- Presentation on amendments to Animal Control, Beekeeping, and Backyard Chicken regulations
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing resolutions for a fireworks permit, a real estate acquisition for a fire station, and a water main financing amendment. The meeting also addresses funding for bridge replacement work.
- Fireworks Discharge Permit for ArtPrize opening on September 14, 2023
- Acquisition of 4024 Kalamazoo Avenue SE for $125,000 (total costs up to $130,000) for a fire station
- $445,000 Water Main Financing Agreement Amendment for Bristol Avenue bridge replacement
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The committee will review a presentation on adjusting Fire Department staffing to manage overtime usage. The Police Department will also provide updates on monthly crime statistics, CLEAR, and the Police Volunteer Program.
- Presentation on Fire Department staffing adjustments for overtime usage
- Police Department updates on monthly crime statistics
- Updates regarding CLEAR and the Police Volunteer Program
- Discussion of safety concerns regarding city deer population levels
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review several ordinances, including a rezoning request for Fairbanks Street and Coit Avenue to allow for an affordable apartment complex. The meeting also includes resolutions for various city contracts, grants, and property acquisitions.
- Rezoning of 210 Fairbanks St NE and multiple Coit Ave NE properties for a 52-unit affordable apartment building
- $99,264.16 agreement with Unmanned Vehicle Technologies for small unmanned vehicle technology
- $84,204 for Grand Rapids Police Department Recruit Class 23-04 training at GVSU
- Acquisition of 4024 Kalamazoo Avenue SE for $125,000 to develop a fire station
- $329,369 agreement with Grand Rapids Urban League for Cure Violence Grand Rapids expansion
The City Commission approved property tax exemptions for the 1309 Madison and 415 Adams Apartments and the Carrier Crest Apartments. The board also authorized several funding agreements for public safety, violence prevention, and police training.
- Approved property tax exemptions for 1309 Madison and 415 Adams Apartments
- Approved property tax exemptions for Carrier Crest Apartments (205 Carrier Street NE)
- Authorized $99,246.16 for Unmanned Aerial System technology from Unmanned Vehicle Technologies
- Authorized $84,204 to Grand Valley State University for police academy Recruit Class 23-04
- Approved $25,000 agreement with Family Outreach Center for SAFE Task Force
- Approved $329,369 agreement with Grand Rapids Urban League and $125,000 with Cure Violence Global
- Authorized $2,000 grant from JARS Cannabis for 2024 Project Clean Slate Expungement Program
- Confirmed appointments of Brooke Oosterman and Noah Schneider to city boards
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
⚠️ EPA compliance flag nearby: AUTODIE INTERNATIONAL (Violation Identified)
🏢 Building at this address: 6 m tall
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to review resolutions confirming mayoral appointments to the Economic Development Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and West Michigan Regional Planning Commission. The committee also held a discussion regarding the current list of vacancies on various boards and commissions.
- Confirmation of Brooke Oosterman to the Economic Development Authority and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
- Confirmation of Noah Schneider to the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission
- Discussion of current Board/Commission vacancy list
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city expenditures and agreements. Items include funding for police academy training, technology procurement, and various community program grants.
- $99,264.16 agreement with Unmanned Vehicle Technologies for small unmanned vehicle systems
- $84,204 for Grand Rapids Police Department Recruit Class 23-04 academy training
- $15,000 in funding for ArtPrize 2023 event promotion and cultural inclusivity
- Conditional approval of tax exemptions (PILOT) for 1309 Madison, 415 Adams, and Carrier Crest Apartments
- Agreements with Grand Rapids Urban League up to $329,369 for Cure Violence program expansion
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review preliminary interim financial statements as of June 30, 2023. The agenda includes action items regarding a Squarespace expense reimbursement and a funding request from the Creston Neighborhood Association Art Bash.
- Approval of June 15, 2023 minutes
- Squarespace expense reimbursement for Kelsey Liebenow
- Creston Neighborhood Association Art Bash funding request
- Discussion regarding Downtown Development Authority boundary expansion
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority approved a funding request for the CNA Art Bash and authorized a website hosting reimbursement. The board also approved the June 15, 2023 minutes and interim financial statements. It was noted that the DDA is not moving forward with the northern boundary expansion.
- Approved CNA Art Bash funding request not to exceed $1,000 (5-0)
- Approved Squarespace website hosting expense reimbursement (5-0)
- Approved Preliminary Interim Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 (5-0)
- Approved minutes from June 15, 2023 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority is meeting to adopt the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The board will also review a funding request for the Midtown Grooves event and discuss agency branding.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 budget
- Midtown Grooves Event Funding Request
- Michigan Street CIA Branding Discussion
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The board also approved a sponsorship for the Midtown Grooves event. Minutes from the July 19, 2023 meeting were accepted.
- Approved FY2024 Budget adoption (Unanimous)
- Approved Midtown Grooves Event Sponsorship not to exceed $5,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from July 19, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority is meeting to consider a Memorandum of Understanding regarding business associations. The board will also review a funding request from the Burton Heights Business Association.
- Memorandum of Understanding for Business Associations
- Burton Heights Business Association funding request
The South Division-Grandville CIA approved a funding request for the Burton Heights Business Association and adopted a Memorandum of Understanding. The board also approved the minutes from the July 13, 2023 meeting.
- Approved Business Association Funding Request for $8,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved South Division-Grandville CIA Memorandum of Understanding (Unanimous)
- Approved July 13, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission is considering several zoning changes and special land use applications. These include requests for an urgent care facility, residential rezonings, and new permits for alcohol sales and senior living.
- Conditional rezoning for an urgent care facility at 1935 Breton Rd SE
- Zone change from industrial to low-density residential at 1058 Butterworth St. SW
- Special land use for a banquet facility and restaurant with alcohol at 330 Covell Ave SW
- Approval for off-site alcohol sales at 747 Leonard St. NW convenience store
- Construction of 18 duplexes for senior living at 2480-2520 Lake Michigan Dr. NW
The Planning Commission approved a conditional rezoning agreement for 1935 Breton Road SE to allow the construction of a WellNow Urgent Care facility. The site is located in the Neighborhood Office Service (NOS) Zone District, where urgent care is not a permitted use. The agreement limits the site to the proposed medical clinic use and other permitted NOS uses.
- Approved conditional rezoning agreement for urgent care facility at 1935 Breton Rd SE
- Approved July 13, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The team will review the July 2023 Development Center Report and a presentation from Urban League Black Business Voice. The meeting includes a discussion on Act 381 Amendments and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority policy updates.
- Approval of July 11, 2023 minutes
- Development Center Report - July 2023
- Urban League Black Business Voice presentation
- Presentation on Act 381 Amendments and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Policy Update
The team approved the minutes from the July 11, 2023 meeting. Members received reports on the Development Center and a presentation on the Black Business Engagement and Advisory Initiative. The team also discussed legislative updates regarding the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority.
- Approved minutes from July 11, 2023 (Unanimous)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several large-scale financial resolutions, including significant construction contracts and state grant acceptances. The agenda also includes discussions on street reconstructions, zoning amendments, and budget substitutions for local road projects.
- Contract award to HIS Constructors, Inc. for WRRF Ash Lagoon Closure up to $17,404,280
- Agreement with MDOT for State Street reconstruction with a $1,551,3arg local share
- Acceptance of a $2.62 million grant from the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission
- Budget substitution of $453,279.00 for Jackson St improvements
- Notice of intent to issue bonds for Lyon Square improvements up to $12 million
The City Commission adopted several items via consent agenda, including health and housing grants and property tax exemptions for low-income residential units. The board also approved budget substitutions for road reconstruction projects on Jackson and Milton Streets.
- Approved $700,000 MDHHS grant for Lead Hazard Control Community Development
- Approved $75,000 MDHHS agreement for Grand Rapids Eviction Prevention Program
- Approved $25,000 grant award for GR Outside in
- Approved property tax exemption for GRACE Homes at 1219 Euclid Avenue SE
- Approved property tax exemption for Carmody Apartments at 730-736 Madison Avenue SE
- Approved $453,279 budget substitution for Jackson Street reconstruction
- Approved $104,392 budget substitution for Milton Street reconstruction
- Authorized $8,091.21 write-off for water and sewer utility bad debt
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will meet to conduct a discussion regarding the current list of vacancies for city boards and commissions.
- Discussion of Current Board/Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding grant acceptances, budget substitutions for street projects, and tax exemption approvals. The agenda also includes authorizations for various city contracts and ordinances related to staff classifications.
- $2.62 million grant from Michigan Indigent Defense Commission
- Notice of intent to issue bonds up to $12 million for Lyon Square improvements
- $700,000 Medicaid CHIP Lead Hazard Control grant from MDHHS
- Budget substitution of $453,279.00 for Jackson St
- Budget substitution of $104,392 for Milton St reconstruction
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding street reconstruction, pedestrian safety, and large-scale construction contracts. The agenda also includes decisions on rezoning for affordable housing and grant agreements for downtown and greenway projects.
- $832,210 for pedestrian safety improvements at Eastern Avenue and Plaster Creek
- Rezoning 210 Fairbanks St NE and Coit Ave NE for a 52-unit affordable apartment building
- $1,551,385 local share for State Street reconstruction from Lafayette Ave. to Madison Ave.
- $24.442 million Grand River Greenway Grant Agreement with Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc.
- $12,989,024 contract for WRRF Ash Lagoon Closure and Stormwater Pump Station improvements
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several resolutions, including a Brownfield Plan amendment for the Steelcase Campus Project. The meeting also includes discussions on social district permit applications and potential changes to the Zoning Ordinance regarding billboards.
- Second Amendment to a Brownfield Plan for the Steelcase Campus Project at 1151 44th Street SE
- Social District Permit application for Chicago Beef Joint at 822 Ottawa Ave NW
- Social District Permit application for General Wood Shop at 507 Bridge St NW
- Amendments to City Commission Policy 600-06 regarding City Employee Home Ownership Incentives
- Briefing on Zoning Ordinance amendments for the Billboard Exchange Program
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will consider action items regarding the Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects and a sponsorship request for Liberation Saturdays at MLK Park. The meeting also includes discussions on the Economic Development Department's fiduciary role and business association engagement.
- Sponsorship Request for Liberation Saturdays - MLK Park
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- Economic Development Department Fiduciary Role Discussion
- Business Associations Memorandum of Understanding and Committee Engagement Discussion
The Authority approved a facade improvement grant for a property on Kalamazoo Ave and a sponsorship for Liberation Saturdays at MLK Park. The board also discussed the fiduciary role of the Economic Development Department and tabled a discussion on Business Associations.
- Approved minutes from June 5, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved sponsorship for Liberation Saturdays at MLK Park not to exceed $5,000 (3-1)
- Approved facade application for 1553 Kalamazoo Ave not to exceed $8,675 (Unanimous)
- Tabled Business Associations Memorandum of Understanding and Committee Engagement Discussion (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget and approved multiple façade grant applications. The board also authorized funding for preliminary design work on the Leonard Street Underpass beautification project.
- Approved FY2024 budget (Unanimous)
- Approved façade grants for 540 Leonard Ste A, 540 Leonard Ste B, and 705 Bridge St for $17,175 (Unanimous)
- Approved façade grant for 841 Leonard not to exceed $5,060 (Unanimous)
- Approved budget for Leonard Street Underpass preliminary design work not to exceed $2,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from April 21, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Accepted Financial Statement C as of June 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The Mobile GR Commission will hold a regular meeting to receive updates on several transit programs. Discussions include the status of EV carshare, electric vehicle infrastructure, and the Bus Stop Improvement Program.
- EV Carshare and EV Infrastructure Update
- Bus Stop Improvement Program Update
- Lime Pass/Mobility Pass Program Update
- August 2023 Project Updates
The commission approved the minutes from the June 1, 2023 meeting. Other business consisted of staff updates regarding EV infrastructure, bus stop improvements, and the Lime Pass/Mobility Pass program.
- Approved June 1, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review the July 2023 activity report for the Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program. The meeting includes presentations on Act 381 amendments, BRA policy updates, and the outcomes of the Inclusion Plan for Economic Development Incentives.
- Activity Report for the Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program
- Presentation on Act 381 Amendments and BRA Policy Update
- Report on Outcomes of the Inclusion Plan for Economic Development Incentives
- Approval of June 28, 2023 minutes
The Authority approved the Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) Grant Program Activity Report as of July 2023. The board also accepted the June 30, 2023, interim financial statements. Members received presentations on Senate Act 381 amendments and the Inclusion Plan for Economic Development Incentives.
- Approved ESA Grant Program Activity Report (Unanimous)
- Approved Financial Statement C as of June 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Accepted June 28, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved excused absences of Kristine Bersche and Nathaniel Moody (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will meet to approve the June 28th minutes and review preliminary financial statements as of June 30th.
- Approval of Minutes from June 28, 2023
- Preliminary Interim Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023
The Economic Development Corporation approved the meeting minutes from June 28, 2023. The board also accepted the preliminary interim financial statements as of June 30, 2023.
- Approved excused absences of Kristine Bersche and Commissioner Nathaniel Moody (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from June 28, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Financial Statement C as of June 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will review financial statements and consider design assistance applications for facade improvements on Placard Avenue and E. Fulton Street.
- Approval of minutes from June 7, 2023
- Preliminary interim financial statements as of June 30, 2023
- Facade Improvement Program Design Assistance Applications for 130 Placard Avenue and 926 E. Fulton Street
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority approved design service applications for two properties. The board also accepted the interim financial statements for the period ending June 30, 2023.
- Approved design service applications for 130 Placard Ave. and 926 East Fulton for $10,000 (Unanimous)
- Accepted Statement C expense list from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from June 7, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider several property modifications, including a mural request for 38 Commerce SW and additions for properties on Fulton E and Wealthy SE. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding National Register nominations for properties on Front NW.
- Mural request for 38 Commerce SW in Heartside Historic District
- Rear dormer addition request for 553 Fulton E in Heritage Hill Historic District
- Addition request for 700 Wealthy SE in Cherry Hill Historic District
- National Register Nomination discussion for 974-1010 Front NW
The Historic Preservation Commission approved a request to paint a mural on a building at 38 Commerce SW. The commission also approved several staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness for various properties.
- Approved mural at 38 Commerce SW (Unanimous)
- Approved staff-issued COA permits for 259 Charles SE, 263 Charles SE, 313 Hollister SE, 34 Visser SE, and 445 Pleasant SE (Unanimous)
- Approved July 19, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review several items including rezoning requests, contract awards for street and utility improvements, and grant acceptances. The meeting also includes discussions on liquor licenses and amendments to the city's nuisance and disorderly conduct ordinances.
- Contract for Milton Street reconstruction from Carlton Avenue to Norwood Avenue up to $883,922
- FEMA/DHS grant award of $77,116.3im for firefighter equipment and health screening
- Construction contract increase of $387,816.30 for Turner Avenue improvements
- Rezoning of 412 Lafayette Ave SE and 415 Prospect Ave SE to Traditional Neighborhood zones
- Professional services agreement with Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth for $84,000
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will meet to consider resolutions regarding intergovernmental agreements, service contracts, and lease agreements. The agenda also includes a $100,000 budget substitution for railway bridge replacements.
- $100,000 budget substitution for Coopersville and Marne Railway Bridge Replacement
- Payment of $10,603.97 to Kent County Treasurer for Oblique Aerial Imagery
- Recording secretary services contract for Carol Gornowich not to exceed $25,000
- Lease agreements with T-Mobile for Cambridge, Knapp, and Leonard Street Water Tanks
- Intergovernmental Agreement with West Michigan Regional Medical Consortium for DHS Grant Program
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is considering resolutions regarding board membership changes. This includes rescinding one appointment and appointing ten members to the Seeding Justice Grand Rapids board.
- Resolution rescinding Marcus Hargrave from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
- Resolution to appoint 10 members to the Seeding Justice Grand Rapids board
- Discussion of Current Board/Commission Vacancy List
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review multiple proposed ordinances regarding the city budget, zoning for billboards, and nuisance laws. The meeting also includes resolutions for various contracts, appointments, and financial allocations.
- Budget substitution of $100,000 for Coopersville and Marne Railway Bridge Replacement
- Contract with Allied Mechanical Services for Market Avenue Pump Station meter replacement up to $464,320
- Payment to Kent County Treasurer for Oblique Aerial Imagery in the amount of $10,603.97
- Personal services contract for recording secretary services not to exceed $25,000
- Nuisance charge spreading for certain accounts totaling $361,099.22
The City Commission adopted a consent agenda including new 30-year lease agreements with T-Mobile for three water tanks. The board also approved several equipment purchases for the Police and Fleet Management departments and appointed 10 members to the Seeding Justice Grand Rapids non-profit board.
- Approved 30-year lease agreements with T-Mobile for Cambridge, Knapp, and Leonard water tanks
- Approved $932,603.19 purchase of three Elgin Pelican street sweepers from MacQueen Equipment, LLC
- Approved $170,168.00 purchase of Monroe v-box salter spreader units from Truck & Trailer Specialties
- Approved $131,431.70 purchase of five BMW R1250-RT-P motorcycles for the Police Department
- Approved $74,801.00 first-year contract with ESRI, Inc. for ArcGIS licensing
- Approved $35,000 annual contract with POWER Engineers for Cityworks software services
- Appointed 10 members to the Seeding Justice Grand Rapids non-profit board
- Rescinded the appointment of Marcus Hargrave to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The Civil Service Board will review several new and revised job classifications presented by the Chief Examiner. The meeting also includes updates on executive recruitments, police recruitment, and the retirement of Chief Examiner Desireé Frugé.
- New Strategic Marketing Communications Specialist classification
- Revised Wastewater Plant Operator III classification
- Updates on Community Development Director, Environmental Services Manager, and Human Resources Director recruitments
- Police recruitment update
- Approval of personnel transactions including reports on disciplines and service changes
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The committee will review an annual report regarding Cure Violence Grand Rapids from the Office of Oversight and Public Accountability and the Grand Rapids Urban League. The meeting also includes a crime statistics update from the Grand Rapids Police Department and introductions for new Fire Department command staff.
- Annual Report on Cure Violence Grand Rapids
- Monthly crime statistics update
- Bomb Squad educational presentation
- Introduction of new Fire Department command staff
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The committee will hold a presentation to recognize staff in the Water and Environmental Services departments. The agenda also includes a proclamation celebrating 150 years of the Grand Rapids Water System and briefings on public health, safety, and state budget decisions.
- Recognition awards for Water Resource Recovery and Environmental Services staff
- Proclamation: 150 Years of the Grand Rapids Water System
- Staff update on public health and safety efforts
- Briefing on recent legislation and state budget decisions
Stormwater Oversight Commission - Regular Meeting
The Stormwater Oversight Commission reviewed a report detailing how the Lower Grand River Watershed (LGROW) partnership is forecasted to save $2.5 million over 10 years. The commission also approved amendments to the Annual Report to correct cleaning statistics and project details.
- Forecasted LGROW savings of $130,000 to $300,000 per year
- LGROW annual membership cost of $35,000 per year
- Approval of amendments to the Annual Report regarding storm main cleaning percentages
- Update on catch basin/manhole lining budget using $199,848 from a 2018 transfer
- New goal for catch basin cleaning set at 3,670
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider two requests for property modifications within the Fairmount Square Historic District. The items include a request for an egress window at 916 Fairmount SE and the removal of a lean-to at 240 Wellington SE.
- 916 Fairmount SE: Requesting an egress window and well
- 240 Wellington SE: Requesting to remove a lean-to
The Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for properties in the Fairmount Square Historic District. One approval allows for a basement egress window with specific height restrictions, while the other permits the removal of a non-significant lean-to addition.
- Approved Certificates of Appropriateness issued by staff for 23 properties (Unanimous)
- Approved egress window and corrugated steel well at 916 Fairmount SE with max 4-inch height above grade (Unanimous)
- Denied proposed window cover at 916 Fairmount SE (Unanimous)
- Approved removal of lean-to addition at 240 Wellington SE (Unanimous)
- Approved June 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The authority will review financial statements as of June 30, 2023, and approve minutes from the May 17, 2023, meeting. The agenda also includes a recommendation from the Corridor Manager.
- Approval of May 17, 2023, meeting minutes
- Review of preliminary interim financial statements as of June 30, 2023
- Corridor Manager Recommendation
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority approved funding for a Corridor Manager and the Market on Michigan event. The board also accepted the preliminary interim financial statements as of June 30, 2023.
- Approved minutes from May 17, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Preliminary Interim Financial Statements as of June 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Manager Recommendation not to exceed $18,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved sponsorship of Market on Michigan Event not to exceed $17,000 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Special Meeting
The City Commission will meet to conclude the review of previously discussed agenda items, including a presentation on redevelopment certification and facilitated discussion.
- Presentation on Redevelopment Ready Communities recertification
- Facilitated discussion of key issues
The City Commission held a special meeting for a joint session with the Planning Commission. The session included a staff presentation and discussion regarding Redevelopment Ready Communities recertification.
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will hold a joint meeting with the City Commission regarding Redevelopment Ready Communities recertification. The commission will also consider amendments for existing planned redevelopment districts and a rezoning request for a new apartment building.
- Amendments to PRD boundaries at 670 Burton Street SE and 2080 Union Avenue SE
- Rezoning of 210 Fairbanks St NE and multiple Coit Ave NE properties to a Planned Redevelopment District for a 52-unit apartment building
- Second extension request for 1216 & 1228 Leonard St NE
- Staff presentation on Redevelopment Ready Communities Recertification
The Planning Commission approved a second extension request for a car wash project. The commission also held a joint meeting with the City Commission to discuss housing policy, zoning reform, and the city's need for 14,000 new residential units over the next five years.
- Approved second extension request for car wash at 1216 & 1228 Leonard St NE (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from June 22, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA is meeting to consider several action items regarding local business associations. The agenda includes reviewing service agreements for the Southwest and Burton Heights Business Associations and a memorandum of understanding for business associations.
- South Division-Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project
- Service Agreement Approval for Southwest Business Association Business Manager
- Service Agreement Approval for Burton Heights Business Association Business Manager
- Business Association Memorandum of Understanding
- Funding Request from Southwest Business Association
The South Division-Grandville CIA approved a $10,000 facade improvement grant for a local bakery and authorized funding for business association managers. The board also approved a funding request and MOU for the Southwest Business Association while tabling a similar MOU for the Burton Heights Business Association.
- Approved $10,000 Façade Improvement grant for 2046 Division Ave S (Unanimous)
- Approved Southwest Business Association Business Manager Service Agreement not to exceed $16,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Burton Heights Business Association Business Manager Service Agreement not to exceed $16,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Southwest Business Association MOU (Unanimous)
- Tabled Burton Heights Business Association MOU to the next meeting (Unanimous)
- Approved $8,000 funding request for Southwest Business Association (Unanimous)
- Approved June 8, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved preliminary interim financial statements as of June 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several resolutions regarding street improvements, contract extensions, and grant acceptances. The agenda also includes public hearings on city code amendments and decisions on multiple rezoning ordinances.
- Resolution to increase Turner Avenue construction contract by $387,816.30
- Contract award for Milton Street reconstruction up to $883,922
- Acceptance of a $77,116.36 FEMA and DHS grant for firefighter equipment
- Rezoning of 412 Lafayette Ave SE and 415 Prospect Ave SE to Traditional Neighborhood zones
- Approval of a $198,304 grant from Grand Rapids Community Foundation for T2C Studio
The City Commission adopted a consent agenda including several professional service contracts and grant acceptances. The board also approved a series of General Fund sponsorships for local special events and confirmed two board appointments.
- Confirmed Richard Winn to the Downtown Improvement District Board
- Approved Jordan Cross to the Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeals Board
- Accepted FEMA AFG Fire Grant of $77,116.36
- Accepted $2,098.99 grant for MSP active shooting incident police overtime
- Approved $84,000 contract for Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids Youth Commonwealth
- Approved $60,000 contract for the Children’s Advocacy Center
- Approved $400,000 MOU for DASH services in the North Monroe area
- Approved General Fund sponsorships for 35 local special events
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will review staff briefings regarding the Micro Local Business Enterprise program and the River for All Equity Framework. The meeting also includes reports on development center progress and business corridor infrastructure projects.
- Micro Local Business Enterprise (MLBE) program presentation
- Report on Outcomes of the Inclusion Plan for Economic Development Incentives
- River for All - Equity Framework Presentation
- Infrastructure Projects and Business Corridors report
- Development Center Report
The team unanimously accepted the minutes from the April 11, 2023 meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of staff briefings on business programs, equity frameworks, and infrastructure projects, all of which were received and filed.
- Approved minutes from April 11, 2023 (Unanimous)
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several liquor license requests and scheduling a joint meeting with the City Planning Commission. The agenda also includes discussions regarding housing policy and potential zoning changes.
- Small Distiller liquor license request for The Brass Ring Brewing Company, LLC at 2404 Eastern Ave SE
- Social District Permit application for Speak EZ Lounge at 600 Monroe Ave NW
- Amendment to the Articles of Incorporation for Grand Valley Metro Council
- Scheduled consideration of Billboard Exchange Program zoning amendments
- Ordinance amendment regarding Nuisances Chapter 151 and the Convention/Arena Authority Amphitheater
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding infrastructure contracts, property sales, and permit approvals. The agenda includes funding adjustments for road improvements, museum upgrades, and utility services.
- Contract with Lodestar Construction Inc. for Milton Street reconstruction up to $883,922
- Construction contract increase of $387,816.30 for Turner Avenue improvements
- Agreement with Progressive AE, Inc. for traffic signal optimization totaling $300,000
- Approval of option agreements and eventual sale of 854 First Street NW and other properties
- Funding increase of $777,404 for the Grand Rapids Public Museum
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding grant acceptances and professional service contracts. Items include funding for DASH services and various community program agreements.
- $77,116.36 FEMA/DHS grant for firefighter equipment and health screening
- $400,000 in funding for DASH services via DDA and Monroe North TIF
- $84,000 professional services agreement with Boys & Girls Clubs of Grand Rapids
- $198,304 grant from Grand Rapids Community Foundation for T2C Studio
- $60,000 agreement with Children’s Assessment Center
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will review several action items including a work plan and loan agreement for the Next Step Redevelopment Project. The meeting also includes the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget and an overview of the Factory Yards Transformational Brownfield Project.
- Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Next Step Redevelopment Project at 101, 119, and 135 Garden Street SE and 1417 and 1427 Jefferson Avenue SE
- Second Amendment to the Brownfield Plan for the Steelcase Campus Project at 1151 44th Street SE
- Adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024 Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Budget
- Activity Report for the Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program
- Presentation on Factory Yards Transformational Brownfield Project
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a work plan and loan agreements for the Next Step Redevelopment Project and a plan amendment for the Steelcase Campus Project. The board also adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget.
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and loan agreements for Next Step Redevelopment Project (Unanimous)
- Approved Second Amendment to Brownfield Plan for Steelcase Campus Project at 1151 44th Street SE (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2024 Budget (Unanimous)
- Accepted Interim Financial Statements as of May 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Struck Action Item #4 from the agenda (Unanimous)
- Approved May 3, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will meet to review interim financial statements as of May 31, 2023. The primary action item is the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 Economic Development Corporation Budget
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of May 31, 2023
- Approval of minutes from May 3, 2023
The Economic Development Corporation unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2024 budget as presented. The board also accepted the May 3, 2023 meeting minutes and approved the interim financial statements as of May 31, 2023.
- Approved FY2024 Budget Adoption [UNANIMOUS]
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of May 31, 2023 [UNANIMOUS]
- Approved minutes from May 3, 2023 [UNANIMOUS]
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a new outdoor amphitheater on Market Ave SE and a density requirement modification for 1340 Monroe Ave NW. The commission will also review a planned sign program amendment for Celebration Village.
- Public hearing for a +/-12,000-seat outdoor amphitheater with alcohol service at 201, 225, 233 & 301 Market Ave SE
- Optional Plan Review for density requirement modification at 1340 Monroe Ave NW
- Site Plan Review for a planned sign program amendment at 2135 E Beltline Ave NE
The commission held a public hearing regarding an Optional Plan Review for a two-building mixed-use development. The request seeks a modification of density requirements for a second phase of the project to facilitate financing. The minutes end before a final vote or decision is recorded.
- Approved minutes from June 8, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will review multiple requests for changes to properties within the Heartside, Wealthy Street, Heritage Hill, and Cherry Hill historic districts. Items include requests for signage, structural additions, and new construction.
- Alteration to outside bar at 1 Ionia SW
- Mural request for 35 Division S
- Security gate installation at 38 Commerce SW
- Canopy sign request for 1017 Wealthy SE
- New garage request for 540 Wealthy SE
The Commission approved a mural for a non-contributing building at 35 Division S and unanimously approved 26 staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness. A request to paint a temporary barn wood bar at 1 Ionia SW was denied for failing to comply with historic district guidelines.
- Approved 26 staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness (Unanimous)
- Denied alteration to outside bar at 1 Ionia SW (Unanimous)
- Approved mural at 35 Division S (Unanimous)
- Approved May 3, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board will hold public hearings regarding requests for dimensional variances at 701 Knapp St NE and 525 Century Ave SW. The board will also conduct an election of officers.
- Variance request for 701 Knapp St NE to convert a structure into a two-family dwelling with reduced lot width and area
- Variance request for 525 Century Ave SW to construct an 11,056 sq. ft. building with a 91 ft. setback and front parking
- Election of Board officers
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority is meeting to adopt the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The board will also consider renewing a memorandum of understanding for Plainfield Avenue bio-retention islands and a maintenance agreement with Hum Natives Plantscapes.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 North Quarter CIA Budget
- Renewal of Plainfield Avenue Bio-Retention Islands Memorandum of Understanding
- FY2024 Maintenance Agreement with Hum Natives Plantscapes
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority adopted its Fiscal Year 2024 budget and approved a maintenance agreement for bio-retention islands. The board also authorized a sponsorship for the Creston After Dark event and renewed a memorandum of understanding with the City regarding island maintenance.
- Approved FY2024 Budget Adoption [UNANIMOUS]
- Approved Plainfield Avenue Bio-Retention Islands MOU Renewal [UNANIMOUS]
- Approved FY2024 Maintenance Agreement with Hum Natives Plantscapes not to exceed $5,000 [UNANIMOUS]
- Approved sponsorship of Creston After Dark event not to exceed $15,000 [UNANIMOUS]
- Approved May 18, 2023 meeting minutes [UNANIMOUS]
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will meet to adopt the FY2024 budget. The board will also vote on resolutions supporting several local programs, including Spartan Innovations and Grand Rapids Tech Week.
- Adoption of FY2024 SmartZone Budget
- Resolution approving support for Spartan Innovations Conquer Accelerator and CADE Program
- First Amendment to Grant Agreement with Midwest House
- Resolution approving support for The Tech Hub at Grand Rapids Tech Week 2023
- Discussion regarding Lambert Marketing Strategy
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority adopted the FY2024 budget and approved three funding resolutions for local innovation and tech programs. The board also approved the May 10, 2023 meeting minutes.
- Approved May 10, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved adoption of FY2024 Budget (Unanimous)
- Approved MOU with MSU Foundation for Spartan Innovations Conquer Accelerator and CADE Program not-to-exceed $160,000 (4-0)
- Approved amended grant agreement with Middle West, LLC dba Midwest House not-to-exceed $50,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Grant Agreement with The Right Place, Inc. for The Tech Hub at Grand Rapids Tech Week 2023 not-to-exceed $12,500 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several financial resolutions, including $2.9 million for FY2024 insurance renewals and multiple budget substitutions for infrastructure projects. The agenda also includes discussions on police drone support, zoning amendments, and new professional service agreements.
- Resolution authorizing FY2024 insurance renewals totaling $2,919,227.00
- Budget substitution of $474,700 for Plainfield Avenue reconstruction
- $500,000 agreement with Community Rebuilders for Geo Targeted Housing Outreach Program
- Agreement with Flite Golf, LLC for Indian Trials Golf Course assessment not to exceed $50,000
- Contract award to Montgomery Excavating LLC for Breton-Burton Drain up to $1,134,719
The City Commission adopted a consent agenda including the approval of insurance premiums not to exceed $2,919,271.00. The board also approved several budget substitutions for road and sewer projects and authorized agreements for community services and climate assessments.
- Approved insurance premiums for July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, not to exceed $2,919,271.00
- Approved $160,000 budget substitution for Eastern Ave Safety Projects
- Approved agreement with Flite Golf, LLC for Indian Trials Golf Course feasibility assessment not to exceed $50,000
- Approved $50,000 agreement with Safe Haven Ministries for First Ward community reading services
- Approved $80,000 agreement with Dwelling Place NPHC for First Ward democracy skills services
- Approved contract with ICLEI Local Government for climate risk assessment (City cost not to exceed $15,000)
- Approved $305,885 budget substitution for North Primary Control Building Motor Control Center replacement
- Approved $206,739 budget substitution for Burton Street Alley reconstruction
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive updates on monthly crime statistics and a partnership between the Grand Rapids Police Department and the U.S. Attorney's Office. The Parks Department will also provide updates regarding summer youth programming, employment opportunities, and park safety.
- Grand Rapids Police Department monthly crime statistics update
- Police partnership with the U.S. Attorney's Office
- Parks Department summer youth programming update
- Parks Department employment opportunities and park safety update
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several resolutions regarding liquor licenses, police labor agreements, and city code amendments. The meeting also includes a presentation for a scholarship award and briefings on property maintenance.
- Collective bargaining agreement with Grand Rapids Police Command Officers Association
- $500,000 agreement with Community Rebuilders for Geo Targeted Housing Outreach Program
- Zoning Ordinance amendments regarding building height in TN-TCC and TN-CC districts
- Off-Premises Tasting Room license request for 710 Wealthy St SE
- Public hearing for amendments to Disorderly Conduct and Nuisance city codes
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee will review several rezoning requests for July 11, 2023, and approve various permits and agreements. The meeting also includes a decision on a drainage excavation contract and the rejection of bids for plant facade improvements.
- Contract with Montgomery Excavating LLC for Breton-Burton Drain up to $1,134,719
- Rezoning 700 Martin Luther King Jr St SW to TN-TCC Zone District
- Rezoning 412 Lafayette Ave SE and portions of Prospect Ave SE
- Fireworks Discharge Permits for Grand Rapids Fireworks and Upheaval Music Festival
- Rejection of bids for Lake Michigan Filtration Plant Facade Improvements
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is considering several resolutions regarding budget substitutions for infrastructure projects and professional service agreements. The agenda also includes the authorization of FY2024 insurance renewals and various grant reimbursements.
- $2,919,271.00 for FY2024 insurance renewals
- $160,000 budget substitution for Eastern Ave Safety Improvement Projects
- $474,700 budget substitution for Plainfield Avenue reconstruction
- Feasibility assessment for Indian Trials Golf Course up to $50,000
- $196,453.10 grant reimbursement from Michigan EGLE
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is reviewing resolutions for several municipal appointments. The committee will also discuss the current list of vacancies across various boards and commissions.
- Appointment of Marshall Kilgore to the Urban Agriculture Committee
- Appointment of Muriel Lutes to the Urban Agriculture Committee
- Appointment of Jim Davis to the Public Safety Committee
- Confirmation of Jannan Cotto to the Community Relations Commission
- Discussion of current board/commission vacancy list
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission is considering text amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding billboards. The proposal seeks to incentivize removing billboards from redevelopment sites by allowing digital billboards along expressways and repositioning signs in specific city districts.
- Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments for Sections 5.15.03 and 5.15.17
- Billboard Exchange Program (Case PC-TXT-2023-0042)
- Permitting digital billboards along expressways
- Repositioning billboards in TN-CC, TN-TCC, and TN-TBA zone districts
The Commission held a public hearing to discuss proposed zoning amendments for a Billboard Exchange Program. The proposal seeks to incentivize billboard removal for redevelopment by allowing digital upgrades along expressways and repositioning signs within specific zone districts. No final decision was recorded in the provided text.
- Approved minutes from May 25, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA will meet to vote on the Fiscal Year 2024 budget adoption and a public art funding request. The agenda also includes discussions regarding a support letter for Lake Michigan Credit Union and the Promotions and Marketing Committee.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 South Division-Grandville CIA Budget
- Public Art Funding Request
- Discussion of Lake Michigan Credit Union support letter
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority approved its Fiscal Year 2024 budget and a funding request for public art. The board also discussed the potential for a Lake Michigan Credit Union branch in the corridor and a draft template for a Promotions and Marketing Committee.
- Approved May 11, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved FY 2024 budget (Unanimous)
- Approved Public Art Funding Request not to exceed $10,000 (6-0)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Uptown Business Improvement District Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District meeting includes votes on the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget adoption. The board will also consider renewing the Block by Block Uptown Ambassador contract for FY2024.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 Budget
- Renewal of Block by Block Uptown Ambassador Contract for FY2024
- Review of interim financial statements as of May 31, 2023
- Approval of April 12, 2023 minutes
The board unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. Additionally, a contract renewal for Block by Block Uptown Ambassadors was approved for an amount not to exceed $65,000.
- Approved minutes from April 12, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statement C as of May 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2024 budget (Unanimous)
- Approved Block by Block Uptown Ambassador Contract Renewal not to exceed $65,000 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will meet to consider the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget. The agenda also includes decisions regarding a Memorandum of Understanding for the Business Association and various sponsorship requests.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 Budget
- Business Association Memorandum of Understanding and Annual Financial Support
- Neighborhood and Business Association Sponsorship Requests
- Approval of May 3, 2023, meeting minutes
The Authority unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2024 budget and financial support for the Business Association. Additionally, the board allocated $10,000 for neighborhood and business association sponsorships for FY2024.
- Approved May 3, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of May 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2024 Budget (Unanimous)
- Approved Business Association MOU and annual financial support (Unanimous)
- Approved $10,000 allocation for FY2024 sponsorships (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will meet to consider the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2024 budget. The agenda also includes action items regarding Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects.
- Adoption of Fiscal Year 2024 Budget
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
The Authority adopted the Fiscal Year 2024 budget and approved several facade improvement grants for properties on Eastern Ave. Additionally, the board extended the current Corridor Manager contract for 90 days.
- Approved FY2024 budget (Unanimous)
- Approved facade grant for 640 Eastern Ave. up to $10,000 (4-0)
- Approved facade grants for 1439, 1941 & 1947 Eastern Ave. up to $30,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved 90-day extension of Corridor Manager contract for Kelsey Liebenow (Unanimous)
- Approved May 1, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The Mobile GR Commission will meet to discuss the Fiscal Year 24 budget and a framework for evaluating parking market competitiveness. The agenda also includes a debrief on a focus group and updates regarding Mobility Wallet and shared micro-mobility pass programs.
- Fiscal Year 24 Budget and Beyond discussion
- Parking Market Competitiveness Evaluation Framework discussion
- Update on Mobility Wallet and Shared Micro Mobility Pass Programs
- Focus Group Debrief
The commission approved the minutes from the May 4, 2023 meeting. Other agenda items consisted of discussions regarding focus group results, the FY24 budget, parking market competitiveness, and mobility programs, but no formal actions were taken on these topics.
- Approved May 4, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding building height amendments in the TN-TCC, TN-CC, and Grand River Overlay Districts. The commission will also discuss proposed text amendments to the Billboard Exchange Program.
- Public hearing for building height amendments in TN-TCC, TN-CC, and Grand River Overlay Districts
- Discussion of proposed billboard text amendments regarding digital billboards and repositioning
- Review of Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments (Case PC-TXT-2023-0026)
The Commission held a public hearing to discuss Zoning Ordinance Text Amendments (PC-TXT-2023-0026) to increase building height limits in the Transitional City Center and Grand River Overlay Districts. The proposal aims to address housing shortages and incentivize public river access. No final decision was recorded in the provided text.
- Approved minutes from May 11, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city contracts, community benefit allocations, and budget substitutions. The agenda includes funding for traffic signal modernization and various park maintenance and summer camp programs.
- $680,000 budget substitution for Traffic Signal Modernization at Division Ave, Lyon St, and Monroe Center St
- $380,196.62 budget substitution for the Wedge Lot Redesign project
- $60,000 agreement with Baxter Community Center for summer camp services at Joe Taylor Park
- $15,000 agreement with Reyes & Kelly Innovations, LLC for maintenance at Martin Luther King Park
- $14,620.24 allocation from GVSU Belknap property funds to Neighbors of Belknap Lookout
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to review resolutions regarding board appointments. The agenda included confirming a mayoral appointment and approving a City Commission appointment.
- Confirmation of Jeff Edwards to the Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
- Approval of Evvia Marshall to the Urban Agriculture Committee
- Discussion of current board/commission vacancy list
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is meeting to adopt the FY2024 City Budget and several ordinances. The agenda also includes reviewing funding awards totaling $4,965,081 for affordable housing and services.
- Adoption of the FY2024 City Budget ordinance
- $4,965,081 in funding awards for affordable housing and services
- $1,552,430 local share for Turner Avenue improvements from Fourth St. to Ann St.
- $680,000 budget substitution for traffic signal modernization at Division Ave/Lyon St and Monroe Center St
- $60,000 agreement with Baxter Community Center for summer camp services at Joe Taylor Park
The City Commission adopted a consent agenda including several parking management renewals and budget transfers for street modernization. The board also confirmed two committee appointments and recognized two local civic organizations.
- Confirmed Jeff Edwards to Economic Development Corporation and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
- Approved appointment of Evvia Marshall to Urban Agriculture Committee
- Approved amendment to interlocal agreement with Grand Valley State University for emergency communication services (July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2026)
- Recognized Taylor Made Re-Entry and Grand Rapids Trans Foundation as local civic organizations
- Authorized $14,620.24 payment to Neighbors of Belknap Lookout (NOBL)
- Approved $15,000 agreement with Reyes & Kelly Innovations, LLC for Martin Luther King Park maintenance
- Approved $60,000 agreement with Baxter Community Center for summer day camp at Joe Taylor Park
- Approved $680,000 budget substitution for Division Street Signal Modernization
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The Civil Service Board will review personnel transactions, including reports on eligible lists, entering service, and disciplinary actions. The Chief Examiner will also provide updates on new job classifications and executive recruitments.
- New Stormwater Manager classification
- Revised Tree Trimmer Aide classification
- Executive recruitment updates for Community Development Director, Environmental Services Manager, and Human Resources Director
- Approval of March 28th, 2023 meeting minutes
- Personnel change, entering service, and leaving service reports
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The committee will review a report regarding public health and safety and discuss subsequent steps. The agenda item is limited to this single report and its follow-up actions.
- Public Health and Safety Report and Next Steps
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several resolutions including the FY2024 City Budget and property tax millage. The agenda also includes funding for affordable housing and updates to service provision fees.
- $4,965,081 in funding awards for affordable housing and services
- Adoption of the FY2024 City Budget ordinance
- Establishment of 2023 Property Tax Millage
- Authorization of FY2024 Service Provision Fees effective July 1, 2023
- Social District Permit applications for Michigan Liquor Control Commission approval
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding infrastructure, land use, and permits. Items include funding for road improvements, rezoning requests for charity expansion, and various special effect permits.
- $1,552,430 for local share of Turner Avenue improvements from Fourth St. to Ann St.
- Rezoning 1323 Cedar Street NE to SD-PRD for Ronald McDonald House Charities expansion
- Agreement with MDOT for a new mural at the I-196 and Division Avenue underpass
- $250,000 professional services agreement with Dixon Engineering, Inc.
- $15,000 payment for Eastern Avenue reconstruction from Burton Street to Ardmore Street
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review minutes from the April 20, 2023, meeting. Action items include a trash maintenance agreement and a funding request for Hum Native Plantscapes. Discussion topics involve the After Dark Artist Market at Creston and a Plainfield construction announcement.
- Trash Maintenance Agreement with 61st District Court
- Additional Funding Request for Hum Native Plantscapes
- After Dark Artist Market - Creston discussion
- Plainfield Construction Announcement discussion
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority approved a trash maintenance agreement with the 61st District Court and a contract increase for Hum Native Plantscapes. A proposal for the After Dark Artist Market was sent back for more logistical details.
- Approved minutes from April 20, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Trash Maintenance Agreement with 61st District Court (5-0)
- Approved $500 contract increase for Hum Native Plantscapes for FY2023 (Unanimous)
- Returned After Dark Artist Market proposal to Best in Creston committee for more information
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority approved a facade improvement grant for a specific property. The board also approved the minutes from the April 19, 2023 meeting and discussed a potential arts festival for August.
- Approved $10,000 facade grant for 455 Michigan Street NE (Unanimous)
- Approved April 19, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Voted unanimously to move After Dark Artist Market funding to a future action item
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will hold public hearings regarding the proposed FY2024 budget and property taxes. The commission will also consider FY2024 service provision fees effective July 1, 2023.
- Public hearing for establishing property taxes and the proposed FY2024 budget
- Public hearing considering FY2024 Service Provision Fees effective July 1, 2023
The Commission closed the public hearing for the proposed FY2024 Budget and property taxes. A public hearing regarding FY2024 Service Provision Fees was referred to the Committee of the Whole.
- Closed public hearing for Establishing Property Taxes and the Proposed FY2024 Budget
- Referred public hearing for FY2024 Service Provision Fees to Committee of the Whole
- Received and filed document from Tom Burke regarding parking costs
- Received and filed document from Annette Vandenberg regarding police drones
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The Civil Service Board will meet to discuss an update regarding the Evidence Based Selection Process. The meeting includes a report and discussion from the Chief Examiner.
- Evidence Based Selection Process Update
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The Commission will discuss multiple development proposals, including a mixed-use food hall and self-storage facility on Godfrey Avenue. Other items include requests for sign approvals, wetland setback reductions for affordable housing, and various zone changes.
- Proposed food hall, bar, and self-storage facility at 655, 835 & 943 Godfrey Ave SW
- Request to reduce 75’ wetland setback to 25’ for affordable housing at 2400 43rd St. SE
- Approval of a +/-59 sq. ft. multi-media sign at 34 N. Division Ave.
- Conditional rezoning for a parts warehouse/office at 2525 28_th St. SE
- Zone changes for development at 412 Lafayette Ave SE and 409 & 415 Prospect Ave SE
The Planning Commission approved a request for a 59 sq. ft. multi-media sign at 34 N. Division Ave. The approval includes a condition that the sign must not operate between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. The commission also began reviewing a mixed-use redevelopment proposal called Factory Yards.
- Approved +/-59 sq. ft. multi-media sign for Grand Rapids Civic Theater (Unanimous)
- Approved April 27, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Found potential conflict of interest for Mr. Jonker regarding Godfrey agenda item (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Community Improvement Area is meeting to approve the April 13, 2023, meeting minutes. The agenda also includes an action item regarding a funding request from the Burton Heights Business Association for the Ole to Mole event.
- Approval of April 13, 2023, minutes
- Burton Heights Business Association Ole to Mole Event Funding Request
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority approved a funding request for the Ole to Mole event. The board also approved the minutes from the April 13, 2023 meeting.
- Approved Ole to Mole Event Funding Request not to exceed $2,500 (Unanimous)
- Approved April 13, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will hold a regular meeting to review interim financial statements as of April 30, 2023. The agenda includes quarterly reports from operators and a marketing update from Lambert. Members will also engage in a strategic planning discussion.
- Approval of April 12, 2023 minutes
- Review of interim financial statements as of April 30, 2023
- SmartZone Operators Quarterly Report
- Lambert Marketing Update
- Strategic Planning Discussion
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority approved the minutes from April 12, 2023, and accepted the interim financial statements as of April 30, 2023. The board received reports from SmartZone operators and Lambert marketing. Members discussed strategic planning and intend to schedule a future work session.
- Approved minutes from April 12, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of April 30, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review multiple standing committee recommendations including appointments, financial awards, and public works projects. The meeting includes the consideration of several FY2024 agency budgets and various city service agreements.
- MDOT road resurfacing agreement for Ball Avenue and Olson Street ($1,223,900)
- Contract for replacement of private lead service lines ($757,836)
- Contract for motor control center replacement at Water Resource Recovery Facility ($306,400)
- Service agreement with Wilderness Inquiry for Riverside Park ($12,400)
- FY2024 Budget for Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority ($22,829,602)
The City Commission approved supplemental funding for three local arts events and granted property tax exemptions for two low-income housing projects. The commission also confirmed several appointments to city boards and commissions.
- Approved $17,000 for Festival of the Arts 2023, $10,000 for Cultivate, and $10,000 for Awake
- Approved property tax exemption for Verne Barry Place low-income residential units
- Approved property tax exemption for Building Community, Scaling to Sustainability project (512 Highland St SE and 32 Pleasant St SE)
- Approved agreement with Wilderness Inquiry for Canoemobile event not to exceed $12,400
- Confirmed appointments of Wardell Frazier and Paula Collier to Community Relations Commission
- Confirmed appointment of Dean Pacific to Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeals Board
- Approved appointment of Marcus Hargrave to Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
- Confirmed appointments of Joseph Malone-Reyes, Matthew Channing, Nathan Henschel, and Josh Coulter to various boards
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing various fiscal year 2024 budgets for several local development and improvement authorities. The meeting also includes a budget review workshop for the FY2024 budget.
- Adoption of Grand Valley Regional Biosolids Authority FY2024 budget of $12,332,446
- Approval of FY24 Downtown Improvement District Budget of $1,374,689
- Approval of Brownfield Redevelopment Authority FY2024 Budget of $22,829,602
- Approval of Downtown Development Authority FY2024 Budget of $15,382,500
- Review of Economic Development Department appropriation requests totaling $45,375,682
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee will review several resolutions regarding infrastructure, including MDOT roadwork and water utility projects. The meeting also includes decisions on various construction agreements, easements, and contract awards.
- $1,223,900 for Ball Avenue and Olson Street resurfacing
- McDonald Plumbing Co. contract up to $1,288,565 for lead service line replacement
- Lakeland Electrical Services contract up to $435,885 for water facility motor control replacement
- Nagel Construction, Inc. contract up to $294,300.00 for Wedge Lot reconfiguration
- Major Amendment consideration for childcare center at 526 Maynard Avenue
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing resolutions for special event sponsorships and tax exemption approvals for Verne Barry Place and the Building Community, Scaling to Sustainability Project. The committee will also consider a $12,400 service agreement with Wilderness Inquiry.
- Tax exemption and PILOT approval for Verne Barry Place
- Tax exemption and PILOT approval for Building Community, Scaling to Sustainability Project
- $12,400 service agreement with Wilderness Inquiry for Canoemobile at Riverside Park
- Special Event Program Sponsorship Awards for FY23
- Review of Warrant Report and Treasurer’s Report
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is reviewing resolutions to confirm or approve various mayoral and commission appointments. The committee will also discuss the current list of vacancies for city boards and commissions.
- Confirming Wardell Frazier to the Community Relations Commission
- Confirming Paula Collier to the Community Relations Commission
- Confirming Dean Pacific to the Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeals Board
- Approving Marcus Hargrave to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
- Discussion of current board/commission vacancy list
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The Mobile GR Commission is reviewing a resolution to provide $400,000 in funding for DASH services via the DDA and Monroe North TIF. The meeting also includes renewals for several parking operations agreements.
- $400,000 funding recommendation for DASH services
- Kent County 601 Ottawa Lot Parking Operations Agreement three-year renewal
- Devos Place Parking Operations Agreement three-year renewal
- Grand Rapids Public Museum Parking Operations Agreement three-year renewal
The Mobile GR Commission unanimously approved a $400,000 funding agreement for DASH services from the DDA and MNTIFA, and renewed three parking operations agreements for the 601 Ottawa Lot, DeVos Place, and the Grand Rapids Public Museum. No items were denied or tabled.
- Approved $400,000 DASH funding MOU with DDA and MNTIFA (unanimous)
- Approved 601 Ottawa Lot parking operations agreement 3-year renewal (unanimous)
- Approved DeVos Place parking operations agreement 3-year renewal (unanimous)
- Approved Grand Rapids Public Museum parking operations agreement 3-year renewal (unanimous)
Economic Development Corporation - Special Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation is holding a special meeting to consider the Fiscal Year 2024-2028 Priority Plan for the City of Grand Rapids. The agenda also includes the approval of February 22, 2023, minutes and review of interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023.
- Fiscal Year 2024-2028 Priority Plan for the City of Grand Rapids Economic Development Corporation
- Approval of February 22, 2023, meeting minutes
- Review of interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023
The Economic Development Corporation unanimously approved the FY2024-2028 Priority Plan and recommended the FY2024 budget to the City Commission. They also approved interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023, excused absences for two members, and the minutes from February 22, 2023. No public comment or other business was discussed.
- Approved excused absences for Dan Barcheski and John VanFossen (8-0)
- Accepted minutes from February 22, 2023 (8-0)
- Approved Statement C interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023 (8-0)
- Approved and recommended FY2024-2028 Priority Plan and FY2024 budget to City Commission (8-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Special Meeting
The Authority will review a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Next Step Redevelopment Project at 101 Garden Street SE. The meeting also includes discussions on an Act 381 Work Plan and agreement for the Talbot Quimby, LLC Redevelopment Project.
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for Next Step Redevelopment Project at 101 Garden Street SE
- Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Talbot Quimby, LLC Redevelopment Project at 220 Quimby Street NE
- Approval of Fiscal Year 2024-2028 Priority Plans
- Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program activity report as of April 2023
The Grand Rapids Brownfield Redevelopment Authority unanimously approved a brownfield plan amendment for the Next Step Redevelopment Project at 101 Garden Street SE, an Act 381 work plan and budget for the Talbot Quimby project at 220 Quimby Street NE, and FY2024-2028 priority plans. The board also accepted the environmental site assessment activity report and approved minutes and excused absences. All votes were unanimous with 8 members present.
- Approved brownfield plan amendment for Next Step Redevelopment Project at 101 Garden Street SE (unanimous)
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and Development/Reimbursement Agreement for Talbot Quimby project at 220 Quimby Street NE (unanimous)
- Approved and recommended FY2024-2028 priority plans to City Commission (unanimous)
- Accepted Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program activity report as of April 2023 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from February 22, 2023 (unanimous)
- Approved excused absences for Dan Barcheski and John VanFossen (unanimous)
- Accepted interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The authority is reviewing several applications for public art murals, including a project at 967 Cherry Street and work on electrical boxes. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the April 12, 2023, meeting.
- Uptown Public Art Mural Application - 967 Cherry Street
- Uptown Public Art Mural Application - Electrical Boxes Murals
- Uptown Public Art Mural Application - Electrical Box Murals Touch Ups
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority unanimously approved three public art mural applications: $5,000 for a mural at 967 Cherry Street, $4,000 for electrical box murals, and $1,500 for touch-ups of electrical box murals. The meeting also approved minutes from April 12, 2023, and noted that the mapping project is nearly complete.
- Approved $5,000 public art mural at 967 Cherry Street (unanimous)
- Approved $4,000 for electrical box murals (unanimous)
- Approved $1,500 for electrical box mural touch-ups (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from April 12, 2023 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will consider local landmark requests and National Register nominations for properties on Hermitage SE, Logan SW, and the Sligh Furniture Complex. The meeting also includes a review of a new development project within the Heritage Hill Historic District.
- Local landmark request for 1009 Hermitage SE regarding an ADA ramp
- Window opening change review for 300 Eastern SE in Fairmount Square Historic District
- National Register nomination for 211 Logan SW (Sligh Furniture Complex)
- New development project review for properties at 406 & 412 Lafayette SE, 409-415 Prospect SE, and 300-316 Wealthy SE
The Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for an ADA-compliant permanent ramp at 1009 Hermitage SE, a local landmark. The ramp will replace a temporary ramp and is designed to be removable with a soft touch to the historic structure. The vote was 4-0, with one abstention and one recusal. The Commission also approved staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness for nine properties and accepted prior meeting minutes.
- Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for ADA ramp at 1009 Hermitage SE (4-0)
- Approved staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness for 9 properties (unanimous)
- Accepted minutes from April 19, 2023 (unanimous)
- Recused Commissioner Kindt due to conflict of interest at 1009 Hermitage SE (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review a presentation of the proposed FY2024 budget. The commission will also consider resolutions to schedule public hearings for property taxes and service provision fees.
- Presentation of proposed FY2024 budget
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on proposed property taxes and FY2024 City Budget
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on proposed FY2024 Service Provision Fees
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority is meeting to review contract renewals for landscaping and court maintenance. The board will also discuss amendments to the Tax Increment Financing and Development Plan.
- Corridor Management RFP
- Building Bridges Landscaping Maintenance Contract Renewal
- 61st District Court Maintenance Contract Renewal
- One Peace Event Sponsorship Request
- Eastern Avenue (Burton to Ardmore) Road Construction Project Updates
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority approved several maintenance contracts and a sponsorship request. The board also approved a request for proposals for corridor management and a revised meeting schedule.
- Approved March 15, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved Revised 2023 Meeting Schedule (Unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Management RFP (Unanimous)
- Approved Building Bridges Landscaping Maintenance Contract not to exceed $54,415.00 (Unanimous)
- Approved 61st District Court Maintenance Contract Agreement not to exceed $14,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved One Peace Event Sponsorship request not to exceed $3,000 (4-1)
- Tabled Southtown CIA Tax Increment Financing & Development Plan Amendment discussion
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
City Planning Commission - Regular meeting
The commission will consider several special land use requests and a planned redevelopment district. Items include a self-storage conversion on Broadway Ave NW and alcohol sales at Leonard Street NE. The meeting also includes a request for the Ronald McDonald House expansion on Cedar Street NE.
- Self-storage facility conversion at 1615 Broadway Ave NW and 1636 Hamilton Ave NW
- Package alcohol sales for a proposed convenience store at 1621 Leonard St. NE
- Ronald McDonald House expansion via Planned Redevelopment District at 1323 (aka 1301) Cedar Street NE
- Sign program amendment for Lululemon at 1830 Breton Rd SE
The Commission approved the conversion of a manufacturing facility into a 24-hour climate-controlled self-storage facility. The approval included waivers for parking requirements and minimum site area.
- Approved conversion of manufacturing facility to self-storage at 1615 Broadway Ave NW
- Approved parking reduction from 69 required spaces to 37 proposed spaces
- Waived minimum site area requirement of 3 acres for the 2.1-acre site
- Accepted minutes from April 13, 2023 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will review several committee recommendations regarding public works, police training, and municipal bonds. The meeting also includes public hearings on drone technology acquisition and a downtown special assessment.
- Authorization of $93,560 for Grand Rapids Police Department recruit classes at GVSU
- Notice of intent to issue $60,000,000 in bonds for the Scribner property
- Contract award to SPS Pro Plumbing, LLC for lead service line replacement up to $1,146,600
- Budget substitution of $200,000 for emergency storm sewer repairs
- Funding awards totaling $9,627,788 for CDBG, HOME, HOME-ARP, ESG, and JAG programs
The City Commission approved the intent to issue capital improvement bonds not to exceed $60 million for various city facilities and property. The board also awarded several service contracts and approved a $1.1M project to replace private lead service lines. Additionally, four appointments to city boards and committees were confirmed.
- Authorized issuance of capital improvement bonds not to exceed $60,000,000
- Approved $1,146,600 for Replacement of Private Lead Service Lines Contract 2023-2
- Awarded auditing services contract to Plante & Moran, PLLC up to $616,550
- Approved $200,000 budget substitution for emergency stormwater system repairs
- Approved up to $93,560 for sponsored police academy tuition and fees at GVSU
- Confirmed appointment of Matthew Chaffee to Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority
- Confirmed appointment of Matthew Smith to Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeals Board
- Approved appointment of Sara Lachman to Board of Zoning Appeals
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The committee will review the Public Health and Safety Report and discuss subsequent steps. The agenda is limited to this single reporting item.
- Public Health and Safety Report and Next Steps
Committee of the Whole -Regular meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a resolution for $9,627,788 in program funding and the FY 2024 Annual Action Plan. The meeting also includes an introduction to the preliminary fiscal plan and a presentation on affordable housing fund recommendations.
- $9,627,788 in funding awards for CDBG, HOME, HOME-ARP, ESG, and JAG programs
- Submission of the FY 2024 Annual Action Plan
- Introduction of the Fiscal Year 2024 Preliminary Fiscal Plan
- $4,965,081 in recommendations from the Grand Rapids Affordable Housing Fund Board
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is considering several resolutions regarding city service relocations, infrastructure improvements, and facility planning. These items include contract awards for lead service line replacements and Highland Park improvements.
- SPS Pro Plumbing, LLC: Replacement of Private Lead Service Lines ($760,346; not-to-exceed $1,146,600)
- Release of Easements at 516 and 544 Monroe Ave. NW for $1.00
- Clark Construction Company, Inc.: Relocation of City Services at 201 Market Ave ($143,670; not-to-exceed $3,060,864)
- Montgomery Excavating LLC: Improvements to Highland Park ($810,940.55; not-to-exceed $1,123,000)
- Fishbeck, Thompson, Carr & Huber, Inc.: Citywide Facilities Master Plan design services ($1,125,443; not-to-exceed $1,350,188)
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding city expenditures and financial authorizations. Items include funding for police academy training, a notice of intent to issue bonds for the Scribner property, and an audit services agreement.
- $93,560 for Grand Rapids Police Department recruit classes at GVSU Police Academy
- Notice of intent to issue $60,000,000 in bonds for the Scribner property
- $616,550 professional services agreement with Plante & Moran, PLLC for auditing
- $200,000 budget substitution for emergency storm sewer system repairs
- Amendment to the 2022-13 Budget Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2023
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is reviewing several resolutions to confirm or approve new members for city boards. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Confirmation of Matthew Chaffee to the Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority
- Confirmation of Matthew Smith to the Grand Rapids Police Civilian Appeals Board
- Appointment of Sara Lachman to the Board of Zoning Appeals
- Appointment of Kimberly Moore to the Urban Agriculture Committee
- Discussion of Current Board/Commission Vacancy List
Stormwater Oversight Commission - Regular Meeting
The Commission elected Kristine Bersche as Chair and Jack Barr as Vice Chair. Members also reviewed the final $1.7 million Operations and Maintenance budget and discussed proposed changes to storm sewer maintenance goals.
- Election of Kristine Bersche as Commission Chair
- Election of Jack Barr as Commission Vice Chair
- Approval of $1.7 million total O&M budget
- Proposed increase in storm sewer televising goal to 168,520 feet per year
- Proposed change to catch basin cleaning goal to 3,676 basins per year
The commission approved amendments to the annual report to correct cleaning percentages and project data. Members also reviewed asset management goals and a report on cost savings achieved through the Lower Grand River Watershed Organization (LGROW).
- Approved agenda for April 24, 2023
- Approved minutes from January 23, 2024
- Approved amendments to the annual report
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Special Meeting
The Authority will consider the FY2024 budget recommendation for the West Side Corridor Improvement Authority. The meeting also includes a presentation on Leonard Street road construction updates and a discussion regarding the Gateway Project.
- FY2024 Budget Recommendation for the West Side Corridor Improvement Authority
- Leonard Street Road Construction Updates
- Gateway Project Discussion
- Approval of February 3, 2023 minutes
The Authority unanimously approved the FY2024 Budget Recommendation after removing the Corridor Management line item. The board also approved the minutes from the February 3, 2023 meeting.
- Approved FY2024 Budget Recommendation as amended (Unanimous)
- Approved February 3, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will review the FY2024 budget recommendation. The meeting also includes discussion of a facade improvement program and a sponsorship request for the Creston Neighborhood Pancake Breakfast.
- FY2024 Budget Recommendation
- North Quarter Facade Improvement Program Project
- Sponsorship Request for Creston Neighborhood Pancake Breakfast
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority approved its FY2024 budget recommendation and a $5,000 facade improvement grant for 1590 Plainfield Ave. The board also approved a sponsorship for a neighborhood pancake breakfast and accepted March 2023 financial statements.
- Approved March 16, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2024 Budget Recommendation (Unanimous)
- Approved $5,000 facade application for 1590 Plainfield Ave (4-0)
- Approved Creston Neighborhood Pancake Breakfast sponsorship up to $1,000 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Board will conduct public hearings regarding two variance requests. One request involves a dimensional variance for a building addition at 800 Fairview Ave NW, and the other is a use variance for a tattoo shop at 701 Knapp St NE.
- Dimensional variance for a 2-story addition at 800 Fairview Ave NW
- Use variance to operate a tattoo shop with a residential dwelling at 701 Knapp St NE
The Board of Zoning Appeals granted a dimensional variance to allow a two-story addition to extend into the front yard. The project will add two bedrooms, a bathroom, and a laundry room to the existing structure.
- Approved dimensional variance for 2-story addition at 800 Fairview Ave NW (6-2)
🗳️ How they voted — 2 divided votes
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review the FY2024 budget recommendation and a marketing allocation for 7 Monks Social Zone/District. The meeting also includes a request for proposals regarding corridor management.
- FY2024 Budget Recommendation
- 7 Monks Social Zone/District Marketing Allocation
- Corridor Management Request for Proposals
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority approved the FY2024 budget recommendation and allocated $10,000 for social district marketing. The board also approved a request for proposals for a corridor manager with a $5,000 compensation increase.
- Approved minutes from March 15, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statement C as of March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2024 Budget Recommendation (Unanimous)
- Approved $10,000 expenditure for Social District Marketing (Unanimous)
- Approved Corridor Management RFP with $5,000 compensation increase (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will consider sign requests for properties in the Heartside Historic District. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding a National Register nomination for 2350 Leonard NW.
- Sign request for 70 Ionia SW (Heartside Historic District)
- Sign request for 144 Division S (Heartside Historic District)
- National Register nomination for 2350 Leonard NW
- Advisory discussion regarding potential development at 241 State SE
- Discussion of relocation guideline amendments
The Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for an internally illuminated sign at 70 Ionia SW. Staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness for 20 different properties were also approved. A request for a new sign location at 144 Division S was discussed but not decided in the provided text.
- Approved Certificates of Appropriateness for 20 staff-issued permits (Unanimous)
- Approved internally illuminated upper level sign for 70 Ionia SW (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Local Officers Compensation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Local Officers Compensation Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the compensation of elected officials. The commission is also scheduled to discuss salaries for these officials and prepare recommendations.
- Public Hearing on Compensation of Elected Officials
- Discussion of Salaries of Elected Officials
- Development of Recommendations
City Planning Commission Meeting - Regular meeting
The City Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several land use amendments. The agenda also includes updates on the Community Master Plan engagement and the Housing Needs & Opportunities Report.
- Major amendment for a childcare center at 526 Maynard Ave NW
- Expansion of an auto repair garage at 16 Griggs St SW
- Establishment of a distillery tasting room at 710 Wealthy St SE
- Community Master Plan First Round Engagement Update
- Overview of Updated Housing Needs & Opportunities Report
The Commission held a public hearing regarding a major amendment to incorporate a 7,800 sq. ft. commercial childcare center into a multi-family housing development. The proposal involves replacing 10 residential units with a facility licensed for up to 120 children. The provided text ends before a final vote or decision was recorded.
- Approved minutes from March 23, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Determined Board Member Kyle Van Strien had a potential conflict of interest regarding the 526 Maynard Ave NW request (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville CIA is meeting to review the FY2024 budget recommendation. The board will also consider a funding request for the Southwest Business Association Farmers Market Kickoff Event and discuss the South Division Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project.
- FY2024 Budget Recommendation for the South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority
- Southwest Business Association Farmers Market Kickoff Event Funding Request
- South Division-Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of March 31, 2023
The South Division-Grandville CIA approved the FY2024 Budget Recommendation and funded two facade improvement projects. The board also approved funding for a farmers market kickoff event. Financial statements as of March 31, 2023, were accepted.
- Approved FY2024 Budget Recommendation (Unanimous)
- Approved $31,362 for facade applications at 1523 Cesar Chavez Ave. and 1303 Division Ave (Unanimous)
- Approved up to $2,000 for Southwest Business Association Farmers Market Kickoff Event (Unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved February 9, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will consider the FY2024 Budget Recommendation and the FY2024-2028 Priority Plan. The meeting also includes a request for an FY2023 Budget Amendment.
- FY2024 Budget Recommendation and FY2024-2028 Priority Plan
- FY2023 Budget Amendment Request
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of March 31, 2023
- Midwest House 2023 Presentation
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority approved the FY2024 Budget Recommendation and the FY2025-2028 Priority Plan. The board also approved a budget amendment request for FY2023 and accepted the interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023.
- Approved FY2024 Budget Recommendation and Priority Plan (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2023 Budget Amendment Request (Unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from March 8, 2023 (Unanimous)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District is meeting to review interim financial statements as of March 31, 2023. The board will also consider a recommendation for the Fiscal Year 2024 budget and a new short-term truck rental proposal.
- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Recommendation
- New Short-term Truck Rental Proposal
- Review of Interim Financial Statements as of March 31, 2023
The Uptown Business Improvement District approved the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Recommendation. The board also authorized a short-term truck rental not to exceed $1,790.
- Approved March 1, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Recommendation (Unanimous)
- Approved short-term truck rental proposal not to exceed $1,790 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will review the Fiscal Year 2024 budget recommendation. Discussion includes items regarding the Uptown Planter BID, a design service grant rescission, and an amendment to the Uptown Facade Improvement Program.
- Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Recommendation
- Uptown Planter BID - Simply Gardens
- Rescind 1321 Fulton St Design Service Grant
- Uptown Facade Improvement Program Design Service Agreement Amendment
The Authority approved the Fiscal Year 2024 budget recommendation and a planter proposal for Simply Gardens. Members also amended the Facade Improvement Program Design Service Agreement and rescinded a design application for 1321 East Fulton Street E.
- Approved Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Recommendation (Unanimous)
- Approved Simply Gardens Planter proposal not to exceed $18,000 (Unanimous)
- Rescinded approval of Design Service application for 1321 Fulton Street E (Unanimous)
- Approved language in the Design Assistance agreement amendment (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from March 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of March 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments met to consider resolutions regarding two commission appointments. The committee also held a discussion concerning the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Appointment of Jonathan Benedict to the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Appointment of Brandon Simon to the Stormwater Oversight Commission
- Discussion of Current Board/Commission Vacancy List
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing a resolution for enterprise resource planning and IT service contracts totaling up to $10,300,000. The committee will also review the recent warrant report, treasurer's report, and an ordinance regarding city staff titles.
- $10,300,000 in contracts for Oracle Cloud, Highstreet IT Solutions LLC, and Emphasys Compute Solutions Inc
- Ordinance amendment for Special Events Manager and Deputy City Treasurer titles
- Review of March 15 through March 28 warrant report
- Review of February 2023 fund and travel reports
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing resolutions for several infrastructure and property acquisitions. Key items include an option to purchase 850 Pannell Street NW and funding for MDOT road projects.
- Option to Purchase Agreement for 850 Pannell Street NW for $1,925,000
- $3,076,830 local share for Robinson Road reconstruction and resurfacing
- $1,912,935 local share for Fuller Avenue resurfacing
- Setting dates for Special Assessment Nuisance Roll 8776 and Uptown BID Roll 8778 appeals
- Two-year extension for engineering services with Williams and Works, Inc. and Wightman & Associates, Inc.
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing a social district permit application for 10 Ionia Ave NW and a revised brownfield plan for a community land trust project. The meeting also includes updates on the Community Master Plan engagement and the 2022 housing needs assessment.
- Social District Permit application for WB Grand Rapids, LLC at 10 Ionia Ave NW
- $14.3 million Dwelling Place Regional Community Land Trust project amendment at 637 Winchell Street SE
- Public hearing scheduled for April 25, 2023, regarding Unmanned Aerial System technology acquisition
- Community Master Plan First Round Engagement Update briefing
- 2022 Grand Rapids/Kent County Housing Needs Assessment briefing
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The team will discuss strategy regarding the Factory Yards Redevelopment Project and the United Methodist Community House Redevelopment Project at 900 Division Avenue S. The meeting also includes a partnership update on organizing African American business voices in Grand Rapids.
- Factory Yards Redevelopment Project overview
- United Methodist Community House Redevelopment Project update (900 Division Avenue S.)
- Partnership update: Urban League of West Michigan, Grand Rapids African American Task Force, and Michigan Black Expo, Inc.
- Development Center Report
The team approved the minutes from the March 14, 2023, meeting. Other agenda items consisted of project updates and reports which were received and filed without formal action.
- Approved minutes from March 14, 2023 (Unanimous)
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission is reviewing several high-value resolutions, including road reconstruction projects and enterprise software contracts. The agenda also includes property acquisitions for fire department training and updates to city ordinances.
- IT contracts with Oracle Cloud, Highstreet IT Solutions, and Emsysys totaling up to $10,300,000
- Option to purchase 850 Pannell Street NW for $1,925,000 for a fire department facility
- Road reconstruction on Robinson Road with a local cost share of $3,076,830
- Fuller Avenue resurfacing with a local cost share of $1,912,935
- Revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for the $14.3 million Dwelling Place Regional Community Land Trust project
The City Commission approved several infrastructure contracts, including road reconstruction and a property purchase for a fire department training facility. The board also updated the city salary ordinance and scheduled a public hearing regarding the use of police drones.
- Approved purchase of 850 Pannell Street NW for fire department training facility (up to $1.925M)
- Approved Robinson Road reconstruction and resurfacing local cost share not to exceed $3,076,830
- Approved Fuller Avenue rotomill/resurfacing local cost share not to exceed $1,912,935
- Approved Oracle Cloud ERP system contract not to exceed $4,000,000
- Approved Highstreet IT Solutions agreement not to exceed $6,000,000
- Scheduled public hearing for April 25, 2023, regarding police acquisition of drone technology
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2023-12 amending the Salary Ordinance (7-0)
- Approved $47,058 settlement for Risk Management Claim No. 23-R0091 (7-0)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is considering resolutions to confirm or recognize three appointments to city boards and commissions, including the Vital Streets Oversight Commission, the Grand Rapids Housing Commission, and the Urban Forestry Committee. They will also discuss the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Resolution recognizing Marshall Kilgore's appointment to the Vital Streets Oversight Commission
- Resolution confirming City Manager's appointment of Michael Bernier to the Grand Rapids Housing Commission
- Resolution approving City Commission's appointment of Rebecca Pobst to the Urban Forestry Committee
- Discussion of current board/commission vacancy list
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several financial resolutions including tax exemptions for Eastpointe Commons I and II. The meeting also includes a proposed $704,500 budget substitution for water filtration plant improvements.
- Conditional approval of tax exemption and PILOT for Eastpointe Commons I
- Conditional approval of tax exemption and PILOT for Eastpointe Commons II
- $113,365.19 payment to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation for the Affordable Housing Fund
- $704,500 budget substitution for Lagoon Improvements at the Lake Michigan Filtration Plant
- Amendment No. 12 to the Budget Ordinance 2022-13 for Fiscal Year 2023
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is deciding on several property acquisitions, permits, grants, and contracts. Key items include purchasing properties on Kalamazoo Avenue SE for fire safety expansion and on Bristol Avenue NW for green space, plus a fireworks permit for a concert. The committee will also review grant applications for bridge maintenance and approve a contract for design services.
- Fireworks permit for Morgan Wallen concert at Van Andel Arena on April 27, 2023
- Option to purchase 4040 and 4044 Kalamazoo Avenue SE for $500,000 (total costs up to $575,000) for fire safety services
- Option to purchase 960 Bristol Avenue NW for $315,000 (total costs up to $340,000) for green space
- Grant application to MDOT for $2,184,000 with $440,000 city match for bridge maintenance
- Increase of $2,152,900 for design services for relocation of city services at 201 Market Ave
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several resolutions regarding liquor licenses at GRR International Airport and Bridge Street. The committee will also discuss expanding the Downtown Grand Rapids Social District and a potential update to the International Fire Code.
- New Class C liquor license request for Ink by Hudson at 5500 44th St. SE
- Social District Permit recommendation for Drip Drop Cocktail Room at 445 Bridge St NW
- Amendment to Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate #2021-029 for Blackmer
- Expansion of the Downtown Grand Rapids Social District to include four locations
- Briefing on adopting the 2021 International Fire Code
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The committee will receive updates on several public safety initiatives. These include the potential use of small unmanned aircraft systems by the police department and a review of the fire department's 2022 annual report.
- Update on potential use of sUAS (Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems) by Grand Rapids Police Department
- Grand Rapids Fire Department 2022 annual report update
- 61st District Court Eviction Diversion Initiative update
- City staff update on recent public health and safety community engagement sessions
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The Civil Service Board will review standard business items including personnel transactions and reports. The meeting also includes discussions regarding revised job classifications for Special Events Supervisor and Deputy City Treasurer.
- Approval of personnel reports including eligible lists, entering service, and disciplines
- Review of revised Special Events Supervisor classification
- Review of revised Deputy City Treasurer classification
- Discussion regarding classification/compensation vendor
- Discussion regarding executive recruitments and active shooter training
City Commission - Regular Session
The City Commission is reviewing several resolutions regarding property purchases, tax exemptions, and budget substitutions. The meeting also includes public hearings on neighborhood investment funding and brownfield plan amendments.
- Option to Purchase Agreement for 4040 and 4044 Kalamazoo Avenue SE up to $575,000
- Option to Purchase Agreement for 960 Bristol Avenue NW up to $340,000
- $113,365.19 payment to the Grand Rapids Community Foundation for the Affordable Housing Fund
- $704,500 budget substitution for Lagoon Improvements at the Lake Michigan Filtration Plant
- Public hearing on $8,494,574 in funding recommendations for the FY 2024 Neighborhood Investment Plan
The City Commission authorized participation in national opioid settlements with Teva, Allergan, CVS, and Walmart. It also approved several zoning amendments, including a project for affordable senior housing and the expansion of the Downtown Grand Rapids Social District.
- Authorized participation in opioid settlements with Teva, Allergan, CVS, and Walmart
- Approved affordable senior housing development (up to 55 units) at 851 Leonard St NW and 850/860 Courtney St NW
- Rezoned 620, 640, 644 Chestnut St SW and 835, 943 Godfrey Ave to Traditional Neighborhood-Transitional City Center
- Approved $575,000 for the acquisition of 4040 and 4044 Kalamazoo Avenue SE for a new fire station
- Approved $340,000 for the acquisition of 960 Bristol Avenue NW
- Expanded Downtown Grand Rapids Social District to include Summer Avenue, Ah-Nab-Awen Park, and Calder Plaza
- Approved $1.2M purchase of two electric street sweepers from The Safety 1, LLC
- Approved $2.1M increase in scope for City Services relocation at 201 Market
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding multiple special land use requests. These items include office expansions, building demolitions, bar capacity increases, and parking waivers or excess requirements.
- 4 E Fulton St: Ground floor office expansion request
- 435 28th St SE: Demolition of a self-service car wash without redevelopment
- 400 (aka 404) Ionia Avenue SW: Bar capacity expansion request
- 942 Front Avenue NW: Parking waiver for a new hotel with alcohol sales
- 433 Leonard St NW: Request to exceed required parking space maximums
The Commission approved a hotel development with a parking waiver, a bar expansion, and a retail project with excess parking. It also granted a request to demolish a car wash and a six-month extension for a project at 555 Leonard St NW.
- Approved 6-month extension for 555 Leonard St NW (6-0-1)
- Approved ground floor office expansion at 4 E Fulton St (Unanimous)
- Approved demolition of car wash at 435 28th St SE without replacement use (Unanimous)
- Approved capacity expansion and parking waiver for House Rules bar at 400 Ionia Ave SW (Unanimous)
- Approved parking waiver and alcohol sales for new 111-room hotel at 942 Front Ave NW (Unanimous)
- Approved request to exceed parking requirements by more than 20% at 433 Leonard St NW (Unanimous)
- Approved February 23, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Board will elect officers for the 2023 calendar year and discuss the FY2024 budget. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding the Bio-Retention Island MOU renewal.
- Election of Board Officers for Calendar Year 2023
- Discussion of FY2024 Budget
- Discussion of Bio-Retention Island MOU Renewal
The Authority elected Nathaniel Phillips as Chair and Andrea Hendrick as Vice-Chair for 2023. The board also approved an updated contract for the Corridor Manager. Discussions were held regarding the FY2024 budget and a Bio-Retention Island MOU renewal.
- Approved minutes from February 16, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Elected Nathaniel Phillips as Chair and Andrea Hendrick as Vice-Chair (Unanimous)
- Approved adding Corridor Manager Contract to the agenda (Unanimous)
- Approved extension of Corridor Manager Contract to end June 30, 2024 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will consider the FY2024 budget recommendation. Members will also review Southtown Facade Improvement Program projects and a letter of support for F&E Placemaking Design Funds.
- FY2024 Budget Recommendation
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- WMEAC Letter of Support - F&E Placemaking Design Funds
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority adopted the FY2024 budget with modifications to holiday décor and façade improvement items. The board also approved two architectural grants for properties on Eastern Ave. and a letter of support for a greenspace project.
- Approved February 15, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Adopted FY2024 Budget Recommendation with modifications to façade improvement and holiday décor (Unanimous)
- Approved façade improvement grants for 1941 Eastern Ave. and 1947 Eastern Ave. not to exceed $5,000 each (Unanimous)
- Approved letter of support for WMEAC Franklin Alley project (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Authority will meet to review previous minutes and consider two funding requests. The agenda includes reports from the Corridor Manager and Committee.
- 7 Monks Social Zone/District funding request
- Midtown Neighborhood Association Reuben Competition funding request
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority approved two funding requests. The board also received updates regarding a crosswalk and a potential recreational trail along train tracks.
- Approved minutes from February 15, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved funding request for 7 Monks Social Zone/District not to exceed $10,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Midtown Neighborhood Association Reuben Competition funding request not to exceed $515.00 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments is reviewing resolutions to confirm various mayoral appointments. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Zach Skogheim appointment to North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Michael Williams appointment to Vital Streets Oversight Commission
- Roberta Schirado appointment to Grand Rapids Historical Commission
- Joana Hively appointment to Uptown Business Improvement District Board
- Ryan Wheeler appointment to Uptown Business Improvement District Board
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee is reviewing several grant acceptance resolutions and reimbursement approvals. The agenda also includes a resolution to strike outstanding 2017 personal property taxes from the delinquent tax roll.
- $22,144 Battle Creek Community Foundation grant for Project Safe Neighborhoods
- $8,500 Michigan State Police / Metropolitan Enforcement Team grant
- $10,000 Recycling Micros Grant from EGLE Materials Management Division
- $95,000 Heart of West Michigan United Way grant for GRow1000 Academy
- $40,000 Grand Rapids Community Foundation grant for Challenge Scholars Pep Rally
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee is reviewing several resolutions regarding land use, street systems, and construction agreements. Items include funding for park improvements, senior housing developments, and various city service contracts.
- Revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for $14.3 million Dwelling Place project at 637 Winchell Street SE
- $300,000 grant application for Highland Park improvements (total cost $607,100)
- Rezoning of 620, 640 & 644 Chestnut Street SW and 835 & 943 Godfrey Avenue
- MDOT agreement for Ball Avenue resurfacing with a $1,155,774 local share
- Contract with Franklin Holwerda Company, Inc. for Grit Tank Improvements up to $5,980,127
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is reviewing several development applications and funding recommendations. Items include social district permits, enterprise zone exemptions, and brownfield plan amendments.
- $8,494,574 in funding for FY 2024 Neighborhood Investment Plan and HOME-ARP Allocation Plan
- Social District Permit application for Grand Rapids Art Museum at 101 Monroe Center St NW
- Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Exemption Certificate for W&S Development Partners, LLC at 415 Sheldon Avenue SE
- Revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for Talbot Quimby, LLC at 220 Quimby Street NE
- Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Exemption Certificate for Talbot Quimby, LLC at 220 Quimby Street NE
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will review minutes from the January 10, 2023 meeting. The agenda includes strategy discussions regarding city development projects and a report on the Development Center.
- City Development Project Updates by Kate Berens
- Development Center Report by Jon Oeverman
The team received updates on the 201 Market and River Restoration projects. The Development Center reported on current outreach and engagement efforts. No substantive policy decisions were made.
- Minutes from January 10, 2023 received and filed
- City Development Project updates discussed
- Development Center Report discussed
City Commission - Regular Session
The City Commission is reviewing multiple grant awards, city appointments, and development agreements. The agenda includes several infrastructure projects, including road resurfacing and water facility improvements.
- Ball Avenue resurfacing project local share of $1,155,774
- Franklin Holwerda Company, Inc. grit tank improvements up to $5,980,127
- Epic Excavating, Inc. concrete pad installation up to $260,000
- Blight Elimination Program grant of $177,200 from Michigan State Land Bank Authority
- Dwelling Place Regional Community Land Trust project at 637 Winchell Street SE
The City Commission approved several high-value infrastructure contracts, including water facility upgrades and road resurfacing. It also authorized multiple grant acceptances for crime reduction and blight elimination, and approved zoning amendments for residential developments.
- Approved $5.98M contract for Grit Tank Improvements at Water Resource Recovery Facility
- Authorized $1.15M for rotomill/resurfacing of Ball Avenue from Leonard Street to Knapp Street
- Approved $15M for professional and technical engineering services across various projects
- Approved $1.5M extension for geotechnical and construction materials testing services
- Approved $211,720 bid for multimodal concrete pads installation
- Approved commemorative designation of 33rd Street as Bishop Dennis J. McMurray Way
- Approved zoning amendment for mixed-use building at 2160 Celebration Dr NE (7-0)
- Accepted grants totaling $338,844 for crime reduction, blight elimination, and other programs
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will vote on a recommendation for the Gateway Grand Rapids RFQ and an addendum to the SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU. The board will also review interim financial statements and approve minutes from the previous meeting.
- Gateway Grand Rapids RFQ Recommendation*
- SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU Addendum*
- Interim Financial Statements as of February 28, 2023*
- Approval of Minutes from February 8, 2023*
The authority approved a Gateway Services Agreement with the Michigan State University Foundation following a single-proposal RFQ. The board also approved an addendum to the SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU and the February financial statements.
- Approved Gateway Services Agreement with Michigan State University Foundation (Unanimous)
- Approved Addendum I to SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU (Unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of February 28, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved February 8, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The Mobile GR Commission is meeting to discuss several items including evaluating parking market competitiveness, a carshare program planning scope of work, parklet program changes, and a transit master plan. No votes or decisions are listed; the agenda consists of discussions and updates.
- Evaluating Parking Market Competitiveness
- Carshare Program Planning Scope of Work
- Parklet Program Changes
- Transit Master Plan
- March 2023 Project Updates
The Commission approved the minutes from the February 2, 2023 meeting. Members discussed parking market competitiveness, including potential rate increases and enforcement hours, but no formal actions were taken on these items.
- Approved February 2, 2023 minutes as amended (Unanimous)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a regular meeting to review a request to retain a Smart Vent at 320 Union NE in the Heritage Hill Historic District. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and a report on Certificates of Appropriateness issued by staff. A training session is scheduled with no public comment or business.
- Request to retain Smart Vent at 320 Union NE in Heritage Hill Historic District
- Approval of minutes from February 1, 2023
- Staff report on Certificates of Appropriateness issued
The Commission approved a request to retain a smart vent system installed without a permit at 320 Union NE in the Heritage Hill Historic District. Members determined the vent was a minimal change and the most effective way to preserve the structure given the narrow soffits and fire blocking. The Commission also approved several staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness.
- Approved request to retain smart vent at 320 Union NE (Unanimous)
- Approved staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness for 40 Prospect SE, 326 Madison SE, 480 Fountain NE, 534 Morris SE, and 212 Diamond SE (Unanimous)
- Approved February 1, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will vote on an Outdoor Space Activation Grant and amendments to the Facade Improvement Program. The board will also discuss the FY2024 budget and review financial statements and committee reports.
- Vote on Uptown Outdoor Space Activation Grant
- Vote on Uptown Facade Improvement Program Amendments
- Discussion of FY2024 Budget
- Interim Financial Statements as of January 31, 2023
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority approved the Outdoor Space Activation Grant Program and amendments to the Façade Improvement Program. The board also accepted the January 2023 interim financial statements.
- Approved Outdoor Space Activation Grant Program (Unanimous)
- Approved Façade Improvement Program Amendments (Unanimous)
- Accepted Interim Financial Statements as of January 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from February 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will consider approving a rental agreement for the Block by Block Uptown Ambassador truck. The meeting also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and review of interim financial statements.
- Action item: Block by Block Uptown Ambassador Truck Rental (vote required)
- Approval of minutes from January 4, 2023
- Interim financial statements as of January 31, 2023
The board unanimously voted against providing additional funding for a proposed vehicle rental for Block by Block Uptown Ambassadors. The board also approved the January 4, 2023 minutes and the January 31, 2023 interim financial statements.
- Denied additional funding for Block by Block Uptown Ambassador truck rental (Unanimous)
- Approved January 4, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of January 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several development proposals, including a 52-unit apartment building on Coit Ave NE, a bar and restaurant with a food truck court on Bridge St NW, a surface parking lot for a cannabis retailer on Burton St SW, and a 55-unit housing project on Leonard St NW. The meeting also includes extension requests for properties on Leonard St NE and Michigan St NE.
- 628 & 630, 632, 636, 638, 644 and 646 & 648 Coit Ave NE: Rezone to Planned Redevelopment District for 52-unit apartment building
- 648 Bridge St NW: Establish bar and restaurant with permanent food truck court and alcohol service
- 700 Burton St SW: Construct surface parking lot for proposed cannabis retailer at 650 Burton St SW
- 851 Leonard St NW: Major amendment to Planned Redevelopment District for ~55-unit four-story apartment building
- 1216 & 1228 Leonard St NE and 1109 Michigan St NE: Extension requests
The Commission approved a special land use request for a bar and restaurant with a food truck court on Bridge St NW and a surface parking lot on Burton St SW. A proposal for a 55-unit senior housing development on Leonard St NW was recommended for City Commission approval. A request for a multifamily PRD on Coit Ave NE was tabled open for further design and community engagement.
- Approved bar and restaurant with food truck court at 648 Bridge St NW (Unanimous)
- Approved surface parking lot at 700 Burton St SW with condition to consolidate curb cuts (Unanimous)
- Recommended 55-unit senior housing at 851 Leonard St NW to City Commission (Unanimous)
- Tabled open multifamily PRD request at 628-648 Coit Ave NE (Unanimous)
- Granted 6-month extension for 1216 & 1228 Leonard St NE (Unanimous)
- Granted 6-month extension for 1109 Michigan St NE (Unanimous)
- Found no conflict of interest for Board Member Joseph regarding Coit Ave project (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from February 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will hear a report on the 2022 Annual Impact Report and outcomes from completed projects. The board will also vote to approve minutes from the January 25, 2023 meeting. No other business items are listed.
- 2022 Annual Impact Report and outcomes from completed projects
- Approval of minutes from January 25, 2023
The board approved the excused absences of two members and the minutes from the January 25, 2023 meeting. The Economic Development Department's 2022 Annual Impact Report was presented. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved excused absences of Lynn Rabaut and Kim McLaughlin (Unanimous)
- Approved January 25, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider approving an Act 381 Work Plan and a Development and Reimbursement Agreement for the 415 Sheldon Avenue SE project. It will also vote on a revised Brownfield Plan Amendment and a loan agreement amendment for the Dwelling Place Community Land Trust project at 617 Winchell Street SE. An audit and grant program activity report are also on the agenda.
- Resolution approving Act 381 Work Plan and Development/Reimbursement Agreement for 415 Sheldon Avenue SE
- Resolution recommending revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for Dwelling Place project at 617 Winchell Street SE
- First Amendment to Development, Reimbursement and Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Loan Agreement for Dwelling Place
- Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Audit
- Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program activity report
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a work plan and reimbursement agreement for a project at 415 Sheldon Avenue SE. The board also recommended a plan amendment and approved a loan agreement amendment for the Dwelling Place Regional Community Land Trust Project at 637 Winchell Street SE.
- Approved Act 381 Work Plan and Development and Reimbursement Agreement for 415 Sheldon Avenue SE (Unanimous)
- Approved Revised Brownfield Plan Amendment and First Amendment to Development, Reimbursement and Local Brownfield Revolving Fund Loan Agreement for 637 Winchell Street SE (Unanimous)
- Approved Environmental Site Assessment Grant Program Activity Report (Unanimous)
- Approved January 25, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive updates on the Grand Rapids Fire Department's cadet program, the Police Department's strategic plan, and public education and engagement efforts for services and programs for unhoused community members. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and information only.
- Update on Grand Rapids Fire Department Cadet program
- Update on Grand Rapids Police Department Strategic Plan
- Update on public education and engagement for unhoused services and programs
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider consent agenda items including a $1.5 million contract for systematic sidewalk repairs, a $362,846 alley reconstruction contract, and an ordinance to amend the floodplain overlay district for NFIP compliance. Public hearings are scheduled for a commemorative street designation, a $300,000 state grant application for Highland Park, and amendments to the property maintenance code.
- Contract with Wyoming Excavators for $1,504,277 in sidewalk repairs (not-to-exceed $1,595,000)
- Contract with Wyoming Excavators for $362,846 alley reconstruction (not-to-exceed $564,000)
- Ordinance to amend Floodplain Overlay District for NFIP compliance
- Public hearing on $300,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant for Highland Park project
- Public hearing on amendments to Chapter 140 Property Maintenance Code
The City Commission adopted a new ordinance amending the Floodplain Overlay District to restrict uses dangerous to health and safety during floods. The commission also approved several infrastructure contracts and budget amendments.
- Adopted Ordinance 2023-06 amending Floodplain Overlay District zoning (7-0)
- Approved $1.595M contract to Wyoming Excavators, Inc. for systematic sidewalk repairs
- Approved $564,000 budget for Burton Street Alley reconstruction (Wyoming Excavators, Inc.)
- Approved $156,689 agreement with The Salvation Army for Eviction Prevention Program
- Approved $167,595 not-to-exceed contract with Action Target for police range upgrades
- Approved $3,644.66 property tax penalty waiver for Uptown Village and The Avenue Apartments
- Established 415 Sheldon Avenue NEZ as a Qualified Downtown Revitalization District
- Approved transfer of Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate #3-14-0010 to 820 Lofts, LLC and 820 Lofts GR, LLC
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to approve appointments to the Grand Rapids Building Authority, Historic Preservation Commission, Public Safety Committee, Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority, Downtown Improvement District Board, and Vital Streets Oversight Commission. The committee will also discuss the current list of board and commission vacancies.
- Appointment of Kate Berens to the Grand Rapids Building Authority
- Appointment of Erin Chapman-Lewis to the Historic Preservation Commission
- Appointment of Marlin Feyen to the Public Safety Committee
- Appointment of Jeffrey King to the Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority
- Discussion of current board/commission vacancy list
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider several financial items, including a $156,689 agreement with The Salvation Army for eviction prevention, a $199,847 budget substitution for stormwater catch basin lining, and a $3,644.66 property tax penalty waiver for two affordable housing developments. The committee will also vote on a budget amendment and approve routine bid lists and financial reports.
- $156,689 contract with The Salvation Army for Eviction Prevention Program
- $199,847.83 budget substitution for stormwater catch basin and manhole lining
- $3,644.66 real property tax penalty waiver for Avenue Apartments and Uptown Village
- Ordinance amending Budget Ordinance 2022-13 for Fiscal Year 2023 (Amendment No. 11)
- Bid List Resolution and Warrant/Treasurer's Reports
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee will consider awarding a $1.5 million contract for sidewalk repairs and a $564,000 contract for alley reconstruction, along with scheduling public hearings on housing plans and historic preservation agreements.
- Resolution awarding $1,504,277 contract for Systematic Sidewalk Repairs in Various Locations 2023-1
- Resolution awarding $362,846 contract for Reconstruction of Burton Alley and Marshall Alley
- Resolution scheduling public hearing for draft FY 2024 Consolidated Housing and Community Development Annual Action Plan
- Resolution scheduling public hearing for Programmatic Agreements with Michigan State Historic Preservation Officer
- Resolution setting date to consider Major Amendment to Celebration Village SD-PRD for 2160 Celebration Drive NE
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will discuss three items: a temporary authorization for Hopcat's 'Irish on Ionia 10th Anniversary' event, a brownfield plan amendment for the 415 Sheldon Avenue SE redevelopment, and a resolution establishing a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone at the same address. A briefing on the FY2023 mid-year performance and financial update is also scheduled.
- Temporary authorization for Hopcat GR LLC's 'Irish on Ionia 10th Anniversary' event on March 18, 2023
- Brownfield plan amendment for the 415 Sheldon Avenue SE redevelopment project
- Neighborhood Enterprise Zone designation at 415 Sheldon Avenue SE
- FY2023 mid-year performance and financial update briefing
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will hold a regular meeting with an informational session and public comment on the 2022 annual report, followed by a regular meeting to approve minutes and vote on a corridor management contract.
- Public comment on Michigan Public Act 57 2022 Annual Report
- Approval of minutes from January 19, 2023
- Action on Corridor Management Contract (motion required)
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority approved a contract for Kelsey Liebenow to handle corridor management. The board also approved the minutes from the January 19, 2023 meeting.
- Approved Corridor Management Contract for Kelsey Liebenow (Unanimous)
- Approved January 19, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Board of Zoning Appeals - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Board of Zoning Appeals is meeting for a commissioner's lunch, approval of minutes from December 15, 2022, and a joint training session with zoning board members from Wyoming and Plainfield Charter Township. No substantive decisions or public hearings are scheduled.
- Approval of minutes from December 15, 2022
- Joint training with City of Wyoming and Plainfield Charter Township Zoning Board of Appeals
The Board of Zoning Appeals met to approve previous minutes and conduct a joint training session. No zoning variances or appeals were decided during this meeting.
- Approved minutes from December 15, 2022 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority will hold an informational meeting on the 2022 annual report, then a regular meeting to elect board officers, vote on a public art funding request, approve a letter of support for Southtown Lofts, consider facade improvement program projects, and decide on a funding request for the SBDC Business Resource Fair.
- Election of board officers for calendar year 2023
- Public Art Funding Request - Project 49507
- Letter of Support - Southtown Lofts
- Southtown Facade Improvement Program Projects
- SBDC Business Resource Fair - Funding Request
The Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority approved funding for facade improvements and a business resource fair. The board also voted to allocate a percentage of future budgets to public art and greenspace, and issued a letter of support for the Southtown Lofts project.
- Approved allocation of 15% of revenue from future budgets for Public Art and Greenspace Activation (Unanimous)
- Approved facade improvement applications for 821 Oakdale St., 1256 Kalamazoo SE, and 906 Division S Ave. not to exceed $28,205 (Unanimous)
- Approved $2,500 sponsorship for the May 4th GR Small Business Resource Fair (Unanimous)
- Approved letter of support for Southtown Lofts at 640 Eastern Ave SE (5-0)
- Elected 2023 officers: Chair Senita Lenear, Vice-Chair Kristian Grant, and Secretary Darel Ross (Unanimous)
- Approved 2023 meeting schedule (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from November 16, 2022 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will hold an informational meeting on the Michigan Public Act 57 2022 Annual Report, followed by a regular meeting. Action items include a vote on amendments to the Facade Improvement Program. The board will also approve minutes from January 18, 2023, and hear reports from the Corridor Manager and committees.
- Michigan Public Act 57 2022 Annual Report presentation and public comment
- Vote on Michigan Street CIA Facade Improvement Program Amendments
- Approval of minutes from January 18, 2023
- Corridor Manager & Committee Report
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority amended its Facade Improvement Program to match South Division-Grandville CIA thresholds. The board also approved the meeting minutes from January 18, 2023.
- Approved reimbursement limits: 100% up to $10,000 spend, additional $10,000 for spend above $40,000, and $5,000 for architecture design services (Unanimous)
- Approved January 18, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a zone change for six parcels at 620, 640, and 644 Chestnut St SW, 835 and 943 Godfrey Ave SW, and 700 Martin Luther King Jr St SW from industrial to mixed-use, and on special land use requests from Family Dollar Stores of Michigan to sell beer and wine at 2027 Eastern Ave SE and 55 Leonard St NW.
- Zone change for 620, 640, 644 Chestnut St SW, 835 & 943 Godfrey Ave SW, and 700 Martin Luther King Jr St SW from SD-IT to TN-TCC
- Alcohol sales special land use at 2027 Eastern Ave SE (Family Dollar)
- Alcohol sales special land use at 55 Leonard St NW (Family Dollar)
- Public hearings begin at 1:00 p.m. in City Commission Chambers
The Commission recommended approval to rezone several parcels on Godfrey Avenue and Chestnut Street to facilitate a mixed-use development. Two separate requests from Family Dollar to sell beer and wine at locations on Eastern Ave SE and Leonard St NW were denied.
- Approved rezoning of 620, 640 & 644 Chestnut St SW, 835 & 943 Godfrey Ave SW, and 700 Martin Luther King Jr. St SW from SD-IT to TN-TCC (Unanimous)
- Denied Special Land Use request for beer and wine sales at Family Dollar, 2027 Eastern Ave SE (Unanimous)
- Denied Special Land Use request for beer and wine sales at Family Dollar, 55 Leonard St NW (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from January 26, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Found Board Member Aaron Jonker had a conflict of interest regarding the Godfrey Avenue rezoning (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
South Division-Grandville CIA - Regular Meeting
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority will hold a regular meeting on February 9, 2023, at the Grand Rapids Fire Department. The agenda includes an informational session required by Michigan Public Act 57, followed by action items on a facade improvement program and its amendments, both requiring a motion to approve.
- Public Act 57 annual report and public comment
- South Division-Grandville Facade Improvement Program Project (motion required)
- South Division-Grandville Facade Improvement Program Amendments (motion required)
- Approval of minutes from December 8, 2022
The South Division-Grandville Corridor Improvement Authority approved a facade renovation project and updated the program's guidelines. The board also accepted the minutes from the December 8, 2022 meeting.
- Approved minutes from December 8, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved facade improvement application not to exceed $10,000 for street-facing renovation (Unanimous)
- Approved Façade Improvement Program Amendments (Unanimous)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will consider an amendment to the Operators MOU and receive the SmartZone Operators Quarterly Report. The meeting includes public comment periods and approval of previous minutes.
- Action Item: SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU Addendum
- Report: SmartZone Operators Quarterly Report
The board approved the minutes from the January 11, 2023 meeting. A proposed addendum to the SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU was tabled until the March 8, 2023 meeting to allow staff to provide more details on budget allocations.
- Approved January 11, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
- Tabled SmartZone LDFA Operators MOU Addendum until March 8, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Session
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider a $9,378,000 grant award from the Michigan Strategic Fund for the Revitalization and Placemaking grant program, along with seven sub-grant agreements. The meeting also includes a public hearing on proposed site improvements at Highland Park for a $300,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant application, with a total project cost of $629,500. Commissioners will vote on a contract for trench repairs, curb repair, and traffic calming at various locations for up to $985,000, and a contract for City Hall stairwell painting and wayfinding improvements for up to $116,000.
- Resolution accepting a $9,378,000 grant award and authorizing agreements with the Michigan Strategic Fund for the Revitalization and Placemaking grant program
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing on February 21, 2023, for proposed site improvements at Highland Park for a $300,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant application (total project cost $629,500)
- Resolution awarding a contract with Lodestar Construction, Inc. for trench repairs, curb repair, parking lot repairs, and traffic calming at various locations for $825,567 (not-to-exceed $985,000)
- Resolution awarding a contract with Dave Cole Decorators Inc for City Hall interior stairwell painting and wayfinding improvements for $74,470 (not-to-exceed $116,000)
- Resolution scheduling a public hearing for February 21, 2023, to consider a Revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Talbot Quimby, LLC Redevelopment Project at 220 Quimby Street NE
The City Commission accepted a $9.378 million grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund for seven revitalization projects. The board also approved several infrastructure contracts and updated the city's salary ordinance.
- Accepted $9.378M Michigan Strategic Fund grant for seven revitalization projects
- Approved $825,567 contract with Lodestar Construction, Inc. for trench and curb repairs
- Approved $74,470 contract with Dave Cole Decorators, Inc. for City Hall stairwell painting
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2023-05 amending the Salary Ordinance (7-0)
- Approved $260,763.89 reimbursement to Grand Rapids Community College for PEG access channels
- Authorized $27,500 in disbursements to 11 neighborhood organizations for Community Master Plan engagement
- Approved Fireworks Discharge Permit for WWE Raw Event at Van Andel Arena
- Adopted policy recognizing César E. Chávez Social Justice March as a City-Sponsored Event
Public Safety Committee - Regular Meeting
The Public Safety Committee will receive an update from the Grand Rapids Police Department on monthly and year-to-date crime statistics. Members will also hear a briefing from partner agencies that provide services to unhoused community members.
- Update from GRPD on monthly and year-to-date crime statistics
- Briefing by partner agencies on services for unhoused residents
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will discuss resolutions to schedule public hearings on property maintenance code amendments and floodplain overlay district zoning changes, and to recognize the César E. Chávez Social Justice March as a city-sponsored event. Briefings include the Economic Development Department's 2022 annual report and a community master plan update.
- Resolution to recognize César E. Chávez Social Justice March as city-sponsored event
- Public hearing scheduled for February 21 on property maintenance code amendments
- Public hearing set for February 21 on floodplain overlay district zoning changes
- Presentation of Economic Development 2022 annual report and project outcomes 2017-2021
- Community Master Plan update briefing
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee will vote on several resolutions, including scheduling a public hearing for a street commemorative designation, approving a fireworks permit for a WWE event, and scheduling a hearing for a park grant application. They will also consider awarding contracts for trench repairs and City Hall stairwell painting.
- Public hearing for commemorative designation of 33rd Street as Bishop Dennis J. McMurray Way
- Fireworks discharge permit for Strictly FX, LLC at Van Andel Arena for WWE event on Feb 27, 2023
- Public hearing for $300,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant for Highland Park improvements (total project cost $629,500)
- Contract with Lodestar Construction, Inc. for trench/water/sewer repairs at various locations, $825,567 (not-to-exceed $985,000)
- Contract with Dave Cole Decorators Inc for City Hall stairwell painting and wayfinding, $74,470 (not-to-exceed $116,000)
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Fiscal Committee is meeting to consider several financial items, including a $9,378,000 grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund for revitalization and placemaking, a $260,763.89 grant reimbursement from Grand Rapids Community College, and up to $27,500 in contracts for neighborhood organizations to support public engagement for the Community Master Plan. The committee will also vote on a bid list and review the treasurer's report.
- $9,378,000 grant award and agreement with Michigan Strategic Fund for revitalization and placemaking
- $260,763.89 HETA grant reimbursement from Grand Rapids Community College
- Up to $27,500 in contracts for neighborhood organizations for Community Master Plan engagement
- Ordinance amendment creating new classification: Emergency Management Specialist
- Bid list and treasurer's report for January 2023
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will consider resolutions to approve or confirm appointments to the Civil Service Board, North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority, Board of Review, Community Relations Commission, and the Police and Fire Retirement System Board of Trustees. The agenda also includes a discussion of current board and commission vacancies.
- Appointment of Tania Bermejo to the Civil Service Board
- Appointment of Nathaniel Phillips to the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Appointment of Andrea Hendrick to the North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority
- Appointment of Kyle Kimble to the Board of Review
- Appointment of Calvin Mills to the Community Relations Commission
Westside Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Westside Corridor Improvement Authority will hold an informational meeting to present the FY 2022 annual financial report, followed by a regular meeting. Action items include approving a business improvement program application, a bike rack request for Kusterer Brauhaus, and banner maintenance. Discussion items cover facade improvement guidelines, highway ramp beautification, gateway signs, property acquisition, crosswalk funding, and event coordination with the zoo and neighborhood groups.
- FY 2022 annual financial report presentation
- Business improvement program application requiring motion to approve
- Bike rack request for Kusterer Brauhaus
- Banner maintenance approval
- Discussion on facade improvement program guidelines and property acquisition
The Authority approved several business grants and maintenance projects, including a grant for 644 Bridge Street LLC and banner maintenance. The board also authorized funding for a highway ramp landscape plan and issued a letter of support for a development project at 648 Bridge St NW.
- Approved Business Improvement Grant for 644 Bridge Street LLC for $7,947 (Unanimous)
- Approved bike rack proposal for Kusterer Brauhaus not to exceed $3,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Banner Maintenance proposal up to $15,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved up to $5,000 for a highway ramp landscape plan (Unanimous)
- Adopted letter of support for The Backlot development at 648 Bridge St NW (Unanimous)
- Decided to pause Façade grants for the remainder of the fiscal year
- Cancelled June, September, and November 2023 meetings (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from December 2, 2022 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Mobile GR Commission - Regular Meeting
The Mobile GR Commission will meet to introduce new commissioners, seek nominations for the Transportation CAAP Advisory Team, review mid-year performance, and discuss a sponsorship update. No action items or votes are listed on the agenda.
- Introduction of new commissioners Lisa Haynes and Drew Robbins
- Seeking nominations for the Grand Rapids Transportation CAAP Advisory Team
- Mid-Year Performance Update
- Mobile GR Special Event Sponsorship Update
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will hold an informational meeting followed by a regular meeting. They will review the Michigan Public Act 57 FY2022 Annual Report, consider a design proposal and budget request from Lydia Writes Good, and discuss a tree planting and maintenance proposal from Friends of Grand Rapids Parks.
- Michigan Public Act 57 FY2022 Annual Report review and public comment
- Annual Report Design Proposal from Lydia Writes Good
- Annual Meeting Budget Request from Lydia Writes Good
- Friends of Grand Rapids Parks Tree Planting & Maintenance Proposal
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority approved several funding requests, including a partnership for tree maintenance and design services. The board also accepted the December 2022 financial statements and previous meeting minutes.
- Approved January 4, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
- Approved Financial Statement C as of December 31, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved Lydia Writes Good annual report design proposal not to exceed $5,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Lydia Writes Good annual meeting support not to exceed $2,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Friends of Grand Rapids Parks tree planting and maintenance proposal not to exceed $30,000 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing and consider two Certificates of Appropriateness: a new building at 680 Wealthy Street SE in the Cherry Street Historic District, and alterations to a porch floor and removal of a rear chimney at 569 College SE in the Heritage Hill Historic District. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and staff reports.
- Public hearing for a new building at 680 Wealthy Street SE in the Cherry Street Historic District
- Request for alteration to porch floor and removal of rear chimney at 569 College SE in the Heritage Hill Historic District
- Approval of minutes from January 18, 2023
- Staff report on Certificates of Appropriateness issued by staff
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The Planning Commission will discuss proposed Area Specific Plans (ASPs) for the Butterworth area (First Ward), Creston neighborhood (Second Ward), and Southtown neighborhoods (Third Ward) as part of the new Community Master Plan. The commission will also hold public hearings on a 10-story mixed-use building at 260 & 282 Leonard St NW, a zoning text amendment for the Floodplain Overlay District, a five-story mixed-use building at 2160 Celebration Dr NE, and a ground-floor office at 802 Bridge Street NW.
- Discussion of three Area Specific Plans for the Community Master Plan: Butterworth area (Ward 1), Creston (Ward 2), Southtown neighborhoods (Ward 3)
- Public hearing on a Planned Redevelopment District for a 10-story, mixed-use building with ~140 dwelling units at 260 & 282 Leonard St NW
- Public hearing on a zoning text amendment to update the Floodplain Overlay District for NFIP compliance
- Public hearing on a Major Amendment to add a five-story mixed-use building with up to 250 units at 2160 Celebration Dr NE
- Public hearing on a Special Land Use for a ground-floor real estate office at 802 Bridge Street NW
The Commission recommended a major amendment for a 250-unit mixed-use building at 2160 Celebration Drive NE and approved a real estate office at 802 Bridge Street NW. A request for a mixed-use project at 260 & 282 Leonard St NW was postponed. The body also recommended updating the Floodplain Overlay District zoning text.
- Recommended approval of 5-story mixed-use building at 2160 Celebration Drive NE (Unanimous)
- Approved Special Land Use for real estate office at 802 Bridge Street NW (Unanimous)
- Recommended Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment for Floodplain Overlay District (Unanimous)
- Tabled request for mixed-use project at 260 & 282 Leonard St NW until March 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from January 12, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Economic Development Corporation - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Corporation will hold a regular meeting to elect board officers for 2023 and review interim financial statements for FY2023 as of December 31, 2022. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and public comment.
- Election of Board Officers for 2023
- FY2023 Interim Financial Statements as of December 31, 2022
- Approval of Minutes from December 7, 2022
The board approved the slate of officers for 2023 and accepted the interim financial statements as of December 31, 2022. The meeting also included the approval of minutes from December 7, 2022.
- Approved slate of 2023 officers: Chair Guillermo Cisneros, Vice Chair Lynn Rabaut, Secretary Kristine Bersche, and Treasurer Troy Butler (Unanimous)
- Approved FY2023 Interim Financial Statements as of December 31, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from December 7, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Excused absences of Daniel Barcheski, Troy Butler, John Van Fossen, and Micah Perkins (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority - Regular Meeting
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority will consider a revised brownfield plan amendment for the Talbot Quimby, LLC project at 220 Quimby Street NE, approve expense invoices for the 470 Market project at 470 Market Avenue SW, and adopt amendments to its policies. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and financial statements.
- Resolution approving a revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for the Talbot Quimby, LLC Redevelopment Project at 220 Quimby Street NE
- Approval of invoices documenting eligible expenses for the 470 Market (Grand Rapids) Propco, LLC Redevelopment Project at 470 Market Avenue SW
- Approval of amendments to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Policies
The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a revised plan for a project at 220 Quimby Street NE and eligible expenses for a completed project at 470 Market Avenue SW. The board also approved amendments to its internal policies and accepted interim financial statements.
- Approved Revised Brownfield Plan Amendment for Talbot Quimby, LLC at 220 Quimby St NE (Unanimous)
- Approved invoices for eligible expenses for 470 Market (Grand Rapids) Propco, LLC at 470 Market Avenue SW (Unanimous)
- Approved Amendments to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Policies (Unanimous)
- Accepted FY2023 Interim Financial Statements as of December 31, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from December 7, 2022 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Grand Rapids Community Development Committee will consider seven items, including a $1,007,400 safety improvement project on Burton Street, a $120,000 increase for Rosa Parks Circle improvements, and a fireworks permit for Disney On Ice. Other items include nuisance charges totaling $486,727.91, a property tax exemption transfer, and grading permits for the Grand River Edges Trail.
- Resolution approving $1,007,400 safety improvements on Burton Street between Buchanan and Breton avenues
- Resolution authorizing $486,727.91 in nuisance charges for outstanding accounts
- Resolution approving $120,000 increase for Rosa Parks Circle improvements, total $3,153,000
- Resolution approving fireworks permit for Disney On Ice at Van Andel Arena, Feb 2-5, 2023
- Resolution authorizing up to $28,000 for water main and service replacements on Page Street, Lister Court, Plainfield Avenue, and Carrier Street
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider a resolution to lease space at the Knapp Water Tank to AT&T for communication equipment. The committee will also vote on a budget amendment for Fiscal Year 2023, approve a bid list, and review warrants and the treasurer's report.
- Resolution authorizing a lease agreement with AT&T to utilize the Knapp Water Tank for communication purposes
- Ordinance amending Section 1 of the Budget Ordinance 2022-13 for Fiscal Year 2023 (Amendment No. 10)
- Bid List Resolution for January 24, 2023
- Warrant December 28, 2022 thru January 10, 2023 & Small Claims
- Treasurer’s Report for Period of December 28, 2022 through January 10, 2023
Committee on Appointments - Regular Meeting
The Committee on Appointments will vote on resolutions to confirm Mayor Bliss's appointments of Lisa Haynes to the Mobile GR Commission and Ruben Ramos to the Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority. The committee will also discuss the current list of vacancies on city boards and commissions.
- Resolution to confirm Lisa Haynes to the Mobile GR Commission
- Resolution to confirm Ruben Ramos to the Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority
- Discussion of current board/commission vacancy list
City Commission - Regular Meeting
The City Commission will vote on a consent agenda including a $1,007,400 safety improvement project on Burton Street, a $120,000 increase for Rosa Parks Circle improvements, and a Brownfield Plan Amendment for 974 Front Avenue NW. Public hearings will be held for a Brownfield Plan Amendment and a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for the 415 Sheldon Avenue SE project. The agenda also includes routine items such as appointments, a lease agreement with AT&T, and approval of minutes.
- Resolution approving a $1,007,400 safety improvement project on Burton Street between Buchanan Avenue and Breton Avenue with MDOT
- Resolution approving a $120,000 increase for Rosa Parks Circle improvements, total not-to-exceed $3,153,000
- Resolution approving a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the 974 Front Avenue NW Redevelopment Project
- Public hearing to consider a Brownfield Plan Amendment for the 415 Sheldon Avenue SE Redevelopment Project
- Public hearing to consider a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone for the 415 Sheldon Avenue SE project
The City Commission adopted ordinances to amend the City Stormwater Drainage System for floodplain management and update member contribution rates for the Police and Fire Retirement System. The commission also approved several infrastructure contracts, a 30-year water tank lease, and budget amendments.
- Adopted Ordinance 2023-04 updating floodplain management and stormwater drainage definitions
- Adopted Ordinance 2023-03 amending Police and Fire Retirement System contribution rates
- Adopted Ordinance 2023-02 amending FY2023 budget appropriations across multiple funds
- Approved 30-year lease with AT&T for Knapp Water Tank at $28,000 annual fee
- Approved $325,200 contract with Escape Velocity Holding, LLC for network storage
- Approved $120,000 scope increase for Rosa Parks Circle improvements (total not to exceed $3,153,000)
- Approved $20,500 Occupancy License Agreement with Mid-Michigan Railroad, Inc.
- Recommended Social District Permit for San Chez Restaurant, Inc. to the Liquor Control Commission
Civil Service Board - Regular Meeting
The board will vote on a new Emergency Management Specialist classification and review personnel transactions including hiring, separations, and disciplinary actions. They will also receive a recruitment and selection year-in-review report.
- New Emergency Management Specialist classification
- Approval of personnel transactions (eligible list, entering service, personnel changes, leaving service, disciplines)
- 2023 Civil Service Board meeting notice
- Recruitment & Selection Year-In-Review report
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole will discuss and vote on four resolutions: a social district permit for San Chez Restaurant, a brownfield plan amendment for 974 Front Ave NW, a proposed ordinance to amend stormwater drainage code sections, and adoption of the 2022 Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan. Two briefings are also scheduled: an overview of economic development tools and a presentation on addressing lead-based paint in rental properties.
- Social district permit for San Chez Restaurant at 38 Fulton St W, Suite 100
- Brownfield Plan Amendment for 974 Front Avenue NW Redevelopment Project
- Proposed ordinance to amend stormwater drainage code sections 2.203 and 2.261-2.270
- Adoption of 2022 Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan for Grand Rapids and Kent County
Stormwater Oversight Commission - Regular Meeting
The Commission reviewed progress on asset management goals and discussed a new infiltration pond system for Knapp's Corner. Members also approved revised descriptions for several capital projects and the upcoming budget.
- Knapp’s Corner drainage involves $400,000 annual cost to truck water
- Approval of Huff Park daylighting project near Ridgeway St
- New project proposed at 650 28th St SE on Plaster Creek
- Approval of the 2023 meeting schedule
- Approval of revised capital project descriptions
N. Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority will hold an informational meeting on its FY2022 annual financial report, followed by a regular meeting. Action items requiring a motion include a corridor management request and a sponsorship request for Gabe Berghuis Local Bike Team.
- FY2022 Annual Financial Report presentation and public comment
- Corridor Management Request (motion required)
- Sponsorship Request for Gabe Berghuis Local Bike Team (motion required)
- Design Committee report
The North Quarter Corridor Improvement Authority approved the job description and funding for a Corridor Manager. The board also approved a sponsorship for the Local Community Bike Team.
- Approved Corridor Manager job description and funding not to exceed $31,400 (Unanimous)
- Approved sponsorship request for Local Community Bike Team not to exceed $1,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from December 15, 2022 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting
The Historic Preservation Commission will review a request to retain a fireplace vent that was installed on the north elevation of a circa-1890 house at 15 Union NE, instead of through the roof as originally approved. The commission will also consider a request to install an antenna and platform at 50 Louis NW in the Heartside Historic District, and hold a public hearing on a proposal to relocate a building and construct two new buildings at 406-412 Lafayette SE, 300-316 Wealthy SE, and 409-415 Prospect SE in the Heritage Hill Historic District.
- Retention of fireplace vent at 15 Union NE in Heritage Hill Historic District
- Installation of antenna and platform at 50 Louis NW in Heartside Historic District
- Public hearing on relocating a building and constructing two new buildings at 406-412 Lafayette SE, 300-316 Wealthy SE, and 409-415 Prospect SE in Heritage Hill Historic District
The Commission approved the relocation of a historic home from 406 Lafayette SE to 415 Prospect SE via a Notice to Proceed to facilitate a mixed-use development. Several Certificates of Appropriateness were issued for home restorations, while a request for cellular antennas at 50 Louis was partially approved.
- Approved relocation of 406 Lafayette SE to 415 Prospect SE via Notice to Proceed (4-1)
- Approved restoration and addition for 415 Prospect SE, excluding foundation material (Unanimous)
- Approved restoration and addition for 409 Prospect SE (Unanimous)
- Approved single cellular antenna at 50 Louis pending zoning approval (Unanimous)
- Tabled two antennas, platform, and screening at 50 Louis for further study (Unanimous)
- Tabled foundation facing material for 415 Prospect SE for salvage assessment (Unanimous)
- Tabled site plan and massing for new development on Wealthy/Prospect/Lafayette (Unanimous)
- Approved staff-issued Certificates of Appropriateness for 11 properties (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Michigan St. Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority will hold a regular meeting to approve minutes from August and November 2022, review interim financial statements, and vote on several action items. These include adopting the 2023 meeting schedule, electing board officers for the calendar year, and considering a tree proposal from Friends of Grand Rapids Parks and a Poutine Week event planning proposal from Well Design.
- Election of board officers for calendar year 2023
- Approval of the 2023 meeting schedule
- Friends of Grand Rapids Parks Tree Proposal (motion required)
- Poutine Week Event Planning Proposal by Well Design (motion required)
- Interim financial statements as of November 30, 2022
The Michigan Street Corridor Improvement Authority approved contracts for a local event and urban forestry. The board also accepted financial statements and elected its 2023 officers.
- Approved Friends of Grand Rapids Tree Proposal for up to $20,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved Well Design proposal for Poutine Week 2023 for up to $32,750 (Unanimous)
- Approved 2023 Meeting Schedule (Unanimous)
- Approved 2023 Board Officers: Alexander Lamkin (Chair), Kevin Brant (Vice Chair), and Thomas Dunn (Secretary) (Unanimous)
- Accepted Interim Financial Statements as of November 30, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from August 10 and November 9, 2022 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Planning Commission - Regular Meeting
The commission will consider several special land use requests, including changes to alcohol service hours and outdoor seating for local businesses. The agenda also includes major amendments for a residential building project and a cardiovascular surgery center.
- Amendment to cannabis retailer request at 1109 Michigan St NE
- Hours of operation and outdoor seating requests for 158 W. Fulton St / 25 Ottawa Ave SW
- Bar, restaurant, and rooftop seating expansion at 401 Stocking Ave NW
- Five-story mixed-use building amendment at 2160 Celebration Dr NE
- Cardiovascular ambulatory surgery center amendment at 2984 Bradford St. NE
The Commission approved special land use requests for two bars and restaurants, a self-storage facility, and a medical center. Two other development requests were postponed. Decisions included specific restrictions on outdoor entertainment hours and parking reductions.
- Approved Social House Kitchen and Bar request for indoor operations until 2 a.m. and outdoor entertainment until 11 p.m. (Fri/Sat) (Unanimous)
- Approved Sip Shine bar and restaurant expansion with rooftop seating and parking reduction (Unanimous)
- Recommended approval to City Commission for Corewell Health cardiovascular surgery center at 2984 Bradford St NE (Unanimous)
- Approved conversion of part of historic Sligh Building to self-storage at 211 Logan St SW (Unanimous)
- Approved Optional Plan Review for two five-story buildings and one single-story building at 440 Cesar E Chavez Ave (Unanimous)
- Tabled request for cannabis retailer amendment at 1109 Michigan St NE to March 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
- Tabled request for Celebration Village mixed-use building at 2160 Celebration Dr NE to January 26, 2023 (Unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority - Regular Meeting
The SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority will hold an informational meeting to present the Michigan Public Act 57 annual report for FY 2022 and take public comment, followed by a regular meeting. Action items include electing board officers and the executive committee for 2023, and approving a resolution to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Gateway Services.
- Election of board officers and executive committee for 2023
- Resolution to authorize a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Gateway Services
- Michigan Public Act 57 Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2022
- Approval of minutes from December 14, 2022
- Interim financial statements as of December 31, 2022
The Authority approved the issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for Gateway Services. The board also elected its 2023 officers and approved the December 2022 minutes and financial statements.
- Approved RFQ for Gateway Services not to exceed $205,000 (Unanimous)
- Approved slate of 2023 Board Officers and Executive Committee (Unanimous)
- Approved interim financial statements as of December 31, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from December 14, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Received and filed Plante Moran Audit
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
City Commission - Regular Session
The Grand Rapids City Commission will consider several items, including a budget substitution for LaGrave Fire Station structural repairs, a contract for roof replacement at Garfield Park Gymnasium, and amendments to the Police and Fire Retirement System. The agenda also includes a public hearing on a brownfield plan amendment for a redevelopment project at 974 Front Avenue NW and a settlement in a workers' disability compensation matter.
- Budget substitution of $334,863 for LaGrave Fire Station structural repairs
- Contract with Ostrander Window, Siding and Roofing Company for roof replacement at Garfield Park Gymnasium, amount $290,700, not-to-exceed $374,750
- Contract with Kamminga & Roodvoets, Inc. for replacement of Kingsbury Lift Station, amount $1,926,262, not-to-exceed $2,538,400
- Public hearing on Brownfield Plan Amendment for 974 Front Avenue NW redevelopment project
- Resolution to set a date to consider amendments to the Police and Fire Retirement System
The Commission adopted Ordinance No. 2022-01 establishing hourly salary schedules for police recruits, officers, sergeants, and detectives effective through July 1, 2024. Other actions included approving several municipal service contracts and a workers' compensation settlement.
- Adopted Ordinance No. 2022-01 fixing salaries for Uniformed Employee Bargaining Unit (7-0)
- Approved $146,889.30 settlement for workers' compensation matter Robert A. Kozminski (7-0)
- Approved $2.53M budget for Replacement of Kingsbury Sanitary Lift Station
- Approved $374,750 for Roof Replacement at Garfield Park
- Approved $334,863 budget substitution for Structural Repairs at LaGrave Fire Station
- Approved IT service contract increase with Dewpoint for FY2023-FY2026
- Confirmed appointments of Ruth Stevens, Senita Lenear, and Jim Talen to city commissions/authorities
- Approved encroachment agreement with Full of Green Gold Condo Association for snowmelt system
Economic Development Project Team - Regular Meeting
The Economic Development Project Team will receive an overview of city-administered community and economic development programs. Staff will also present an initial analysis of four new state housing laws (Public Acts 236-239 of 2022) that create new tax abatement programs and amend existing ones. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion and information session.
- Overview of new state housing legislation: Public Acts 236 (Attainable Housing Facilities Act), 237 (Residential Housing Facilities Act), 238 (NEZ amendments), and 239 (PILOT amendments)
- Review of city tax abatement programs: NEZ, OPRA, Brownfield TIF, IFT, CFE, CRE, and NPP
- Discussion of other economic development tools: EDC tax-exempt bond financing, Local Brownfield Revolving Fund grants/loans, and ESA grants
- Development Center Report for December 2022
- Approval of minutes from the December 6, 2022 meeting
The team discussed state housing legislation (Public Acts 236, 237, 238, and 239 of 2022) and reviewed the December 2022 Development Center Report. No formal votes or policy changes were decided during the meeting.
- Received and filed minutes from December 6, 2022
- Discussed Economic and Community Development programs and state housing legislation
- Discussed December 2022 Development Center Report
Committee of the Whole - Regular Meeting
The Committee of the Whole is discussing and setting a public hearing date for amendments to the Police and Fire Retirement System code. They will also consider a salary ordinance for the Police Officers Association. Briefings include the FY2022 financial report and a multi-agency overview of homeless services.
- Resolution to publish and set hearing on amendments to Article 2, Chapter 7, Title I of the City Code (Police and Fire Retirement System)
- Salary Ordinance for the Grand Rapids Police Officers Association - Officer & Sergeant Unit
- Briefing: Overview of the FY2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Citizen's Guide
- Briefing: Overview of multi-agency ecosystem providing services related to the unhoused
Community Development Committee - Regular Meeting
The Community Development Committee will consider several resolutions, including awarding a $1.9 million contract for replacing the Kingsbury Lift Station and a $290,700 contract for roof replacement at Garfield Park Gymnasium. Other items include an encroachment agreement, a construction agreement for Lofts on Grove, and a consent to assignment for Franklin Pump Station improvements.
- Contract award to Kamminga & Roodvoets, Inc. for Kingsbury Lift Station replacement: $1,926,262 (not-to-exceed $2,538,400)
- Contract award to Ostrander Window, Siding and Roofing Company for Garfield Park Gymnasium roof replacement: $290,700 (not-to-exceed $374,750)
- Construction agreement of $30,000 and acceptance of a warranty deed for Lofts on Grove
- Encroachment agreement at 621-627 Fulton Street W
- Release of easements in vacated VanderVeen Court for $1.00
Fiscal Committee - Regular Meeting
The Fiscal Committee will consider a budget substitution of $334,863 for structural repairs at LaGrave Fire Station. They will also review a bid list resolution, approve warrants and travel reports for November and December 2022, and receive the Treasurer's Report for December 1–27, 2022.
- Budget substitution of $334,863 for LaGrave Fire Station structural repairs
- Bid list resolution for January 10, 2023
- Warrant approval for November 30 through December 27, 2022
- Fund and travel reports for November 2022
- Treasurer's Report for December 1–27, 2022
Uptown Business Improvement District - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Business Improvement District board will consider appointing a BID representative to the UGRI board and reviewing BID board applications. The board will also vote on approving minutes from December 7, 2022, and interim financial statements through November 30, 2022.
- BID Representative Appointment to UGRI Board (motion required)
- BID Board Applications for Review (motion required)
- Approval of Minutes from December 7, 2022 (motion required)
- Interim Financial Statements as of November 30, 2022 (motion required)
The board approved the appointment of Tamara Sytsma as the representative to the UGRI Board. Additionally, the board approved two board member applications and recommended them to the Mayor for appointment. Financial statements as of November 30, 2022, were also accepted.
- Approved minutes from December 7, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Accepted Interim Financial Statements as of November 30, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved Tamara Sytsma as representative to UGRI Board (Unanimous)
- Approved two board member applications and recommended them to Mayor for appointment (Unanimous)
Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority - Regular Meeting
The Uptown Corridor Improvement Authority will vote on a RAP Grant Match Request, appoint a representative to the UGRI Board, and consider a Facade Improvement Program Design Assistance application for 1349 Lake Drive. The board will also approve minutes from December 7, 2022, and review interim financial statements as of November 30, 2022.
- RAP Grant Match Request
- CIA Representative Appointment to UGRI Board
- Facade Improvement Program Design Assistance application for 1349 Lake Drive
- Approval of minutes from December 7, 2022
- Interim financial statements as of November 30, 2022
The Authority approved a grant match for the Eastown Safety and Beautification project and a facade design assistance application. The board also appointed a delegate to the UGRI board and accepted November 2022 financial statements.
- Approved grant fund match not-to-exceed $8,500 for Eastown Safety and Beautification project (Unanimous)
- Approved $5,000 facade application for Design Assistance for 1349 Lake Drive (Unanimous)
- Approved appointment of Peter Vanderwier as CIA delegate to the UGRI board (Unanimous)
- Approved minutes from December 7, 2022 (Unanimous)
- Approved Interim Financial Statements as of November 30, 2022 (Unanimous)