Tag Archives: Kent County Commission

Wyoming elects Vanderwood as its next mayor

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By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Wyoming City Council Member Kent Vanderwood was elected the city’s next mayor during the Aug. 2 primary election. Vanderwood received 56 percent of the casted votes. (Supplied)

At this week’s primary election, Wyoming voters determined the city’s next mayor, Kent Vanderwood.

“Normally in a primary, there is usually a narrowing of the number down for candidates but in our city charter there is a little asterisk to this in that if a candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote, they automatically win the seat,” said Wyoming City Clerk Kelli VandenBerg.

Vanderwood took 56 percent of the casted votes in Aug. 2 primary, receiving 5,635 votes. Current mayor pro tem and candidate Sam Bolt received 3,033 votes and newcomer Cliff Tompkins had 1,144 votes.

Vanderwood, who current serves as a council member, said he was pleased with the results of the primary and sees this as an opportunity to prepare for the role of mayor.

“This gives me a lot of time to prepare as I will be able to meet with the current mayor, city staff, the city manager,” he said. “It gives me an opportunity to get oriented to the mayor duties.”

VandenBerg said turnout for the primary was about 22 percent of the city’s registered voters which was what her office was expecting.

“What was a surprise is that in the past we have seen more absentee ballots in an election and this year it was much more balanced,” she said.

For the Nov. 8 general election, Wyoming residents will be deciding between three candidates to fill two council member at-large seats, which are four-year terms. Those candidates are Rob Arnoys, Renee Hill and Robert Kilgo. Sheldon DeKryger is running unopposed for the first ward council seat. 

VandenBerg said the elected officials, including mayor elect Vandenwood, would take office in the beginning of December.

Meijer loses to Gibbs

In the 3rd District U.S. House of Representatives, current Congressman Peter Meijer lost his bid for the Republican nomination which went to newcomer John Gibbs. Gibbs had 36,527 votes to Meijer’s 35,395 votes. Gibbs will face Democratic nominee Hillary Scholten in the Nov. 8 general election for the seat.

State House races

For the 80th District State House of Representatives, Democratic Phil Skaggs edged out Lily Chong-Schulting, 5,202 to 4,626 for the Democratic nomination. Skaggs will face Republican nominee Jeffrey Johnson in November.

For the 82nd District State House of Representatives, candidate Kristian Grant had the most votes, 3,884, in a three-way race for the Democratic nomination. Also seeking the nominations were Robert Womack, who received 3,821, and Salim Mohammed Al-Shatel, who received 1,301.

 

The Republican nomination for the 82nd District was between two candidates, Ryan Malinoski and William Alexander. Malinowski beat out Alexander, 2,640 to 1,527.

Malinowski and Grant will now face each other for the 82nd District House seat in the Nov. 8 general election.

In the 83rd District State House of Representatives, current Wyoming Councilmember John Fitzgerald won the Democratic nomination with 2,567 to Jose Flores’ 2,037 votes. Fitzgerald will now face Republican candidate Lisa DeKryger for the season in the November election.

Kent County Commission races

Current 10th District Kent County Commissioner Emily Post Brieve won the Republican nomination with 2,615 votes over her challenger Bill Hirsch, who received 2,127 votes. Brieve will face Democratic challenger Julie Humphrey in November.

In the 12th District Kent County Commission seat, Lee White won the Republican nomination with 1,135 votes over candidate Adam R. Palaces, who had 959 votes. Lee faces current commissioner and Democratic candidate Monica Sparks in November.

Tom McKelvy took the Republican nomination for the 13th District Kent County Commission seat. McKelvy has 1,591 votes to candidate Nick Prill’s 1,169. McKelvy will face Democratic candidate and current commissioner Michelle McCloud in the Nov. 8 general election.

For complete primary election results for the entire county, visit the Kent County Clerk’s office’s election results page.

Six seeking party nominations for Kent County Commission seats

Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Election, West Michigan, , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
WKTV Managing Editor
joanne@wktv.org

Through redistricting, there have been some changes for residents in both the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming as they head to the polls for the primary vote.

All votes, in-person and absentee, must be cast by Aug. 2. Absentee votes must be received by 8 p.m. on Aug. 2. Those voting at the polls have from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. to cast their vote. Remember to check your new voter card or contact your local clerk’s office for your precinct since redistricting may have changed where you vote.

A primary is when voters can indicate their preference for their party’s candidate. Therefore, a voter may only vote on either the Republican ticket or the Democratic ticket. A ballot where a voter has voted in both parties may be thrown out.

For the Kent County Commission, all the commission seats are up for re-election this year. The seats will be four-year terms.

In WKTV’s We the People, we only reach out to candidates who are running opposed for their party’s nomination. Out of the seven Kent County Commission seats representing the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood, only three had more than one candidate running for a party nomination.

Note: In its We the People videos, WKTV invites all candidates to share why they decided to run and the issues the candidate feels are important. Below, are the candidates who participated.

10th District Kent County Commission Seat

Through redistricting, the 10th District is all of Gaines Township and a portion of the City of Kentwood that is bordered by Division Avenue to the west, Eastern Avenue to the east and 56th Street to the north.

Incumbent Emily Post Brieve is facing challenger Bill Hirsch for the Republican nomination for the 10th District.

Emily Post Brieve has been serving on the Kent County Commission since 2014.

Bill Hirsch is a longtime Kent County resident and farmer. He has served on the Kent County Commission in the past.

12th District Kent County Commission Seat

The 12th District encompasses a portion of the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. For a map of the district, click here.

Two candidates are seeking the Republican nomination: Adam R. Palasek and Lee White. 

Adam R. Palasek had no online platform.

Lee White is a graduate of East Kentwood High School and has served many community organizations such SKRA baseball, Wyoming, Grand Rapids, Kentwood and Michigan Jaycees and the West Michigan Veterans Branch.

13th District Kent County Commission Seat

The 13th District covers the remaining portion of the City of Kentwood. For a map of the district, click here.

The two candidates seeking the Republican nomination are Thomas McKelvey and Nick Prill.

Thomas McKelvey has lived in the City of Kentwood for 32 years. He is an educator and small business owner and a former Kentwood City Commissioner.

Nick Prill is a resident of the City of Kentwood.

Kent County commissioners’ work continues, remote meeting attendance available

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The Kent County Board of Commissioners (from a previous meeting). (Supplied/Kent County)

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

It may not exactly be business as usual for the Kent County Board of Commissioners during the COVID-19 emergency, but the work of conducting the public’s business, in public, continues — and the community is invited to attend and offer comment while maintaining their social distance.

“Pursuant to Governor (Gretchen) Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-15, the Kent County Board of Commissioners in order to protect the public health will conduct its (March 26) meeting via electronic communications,” according to a statement from the county administration. “Any member of the public wishing to listen to the proceedings or provide public comment” can do so.

While the March agenda is fairly short, it does — rather appropriately, given the current social restrictions — offer action on Kent County outdoor recreation issues and future projects, including Dwight Lydell Park and Thornapple River Trail Landing. For a complete agenda, visit here.

Commissioner Chair Mandy Bolter (District 5). (Supplied/Kent County)

“It is critically important, especially during this public health crisis, that government maintains its ability to conduct essential business in an open, accessible, and transparent manner while protecting the health and safety of all residents,” Kent County Board of Commissioners Chair Mandy Bolter said to WKTV. “With the use of technology, residents will be able to participate remotely in our meeting to nearly the same extent as if they were present.”

The means to provide the public comment include an internet connection and phone access with pass code, as follows:

https://kentcountymi.zoom.us/j/977751835 … Meeting ID: 977 751 835

 

Phone Options:  1(646) 876-9923 Pass Code:  977751835#
 

or 1(312) 626-6799 Pass Code:  977751835#

For more information about the Kent County Board of Commissioners, visit accesskent.com.

We the People 2018: Election Guide

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

The mid-term election is tomorrow, Tuesday, Nov. 6. Before you head to the polls, here are a few items you should know.

 

No photo ID, no problem: According to the state’s rules, a Michigan voter is required to show a photo ID or sign an affidavit attesting that he or she is not in possession of a photo ID to vote. In other words, if you forget your photo ID or don’t have one, but you are a register voter, you simply sign the ID and then you can cast your vote. All percents are required to have affidavits available for voters.

 

No straight ticket balloting: This year, the ballot does not have straight party ticket voting for Democrat, Republican, Libertarian, Green Party, etc. This means that voters will have to vote for each office: governor, secretary of state, etc., right on through to school boards. 

 

Turn that ballot over: Ballots are two-sided. So make sure to flip the ballot over. The order is governor, secretary of state, state attorney general, congressional candidates, state candidates, county candidates, judgeships, community college, local school districts, state proposals and, finally, county and local proposals.

 

Vote the number: If a section says vote for no more than two, vote for only two. If you vote for more, your vote will not be counted.

 

Absentee balloting: You have until 4 p.m. today (Monday, Nov. 5), to request an absentee ballot. You have until 8 p.m. the day of the election to return the absentee ballot to your municipality’s clerk’s office.

 

Get an early peek of the ballot: If you want to get an idea of which candidates and proposals will be on the ballot for your area, visit michigan.gov/vote. All the candidates will be listed along with their campaign finances and links to their websites. You can check to see if you are registered, where your polling place is, and if you filled out an absentee ballot, the status of that ballot. 

 

All polls are open from 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. 

Make sure you are in line by 8 p.m. to vote.

 

Here is another look at the state, county, and local candidates running in the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming,

 

City of Wyoming

 

Mayor Jack Poll is seeking his third term as the city’s mayor. He is running unopposed for the seat. Also running unopposed are Sam Bolt and Kent Vanderwood, both who are seeking re-election as council members at large. For the city’s 1st Ward Councilor seat, incumbent Sheldon DeKryger will face candidate Pete Rickertson. For more from the candidates, click here.

 

Kent County Board of Commissioners

 

The Kent County Board of Commissioners has 19 districts of which six represent portions of the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming. Of those six districts, two have unopposed candidates. Those districts are 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 12th, and 13th. Harold Voorhees is running unopposed in the 8th District and Emily Brieve is running unopposed in the 10th District.

 

In the 7th District Kent County Commissioner race Republican incumbent Stan Ponstein, of Grandville, will be facing off against Democrat challenger Mike Johnson, of Wyoming.

 

In the 9th District Kent County Commissioner, Republican incumbent Matt Kallman is being challenged by Democrat candidate Bob Smith. Both are from Byron Center.

 

With the announcement that incumbent Harold Mast would not be seeking another term, the 12th District Kent County Commissioner race features three new faces, Republican Jill Martinez, Democrat Monica Sparks, and Green Party Charlotte Aikens.

 

For the 13th District Kent County Commissioner, Republican candidate Jessica Ann Tyson is challenging Democrat incumbent Betsy Melton. Both are from Kentwood.

 

For more on the candidates, click here.

 

State House of Representatives

 

The 72nd District House of Representative seat covers the cities of Kentwood and Wayland, along with a portion of Cutlerville and the community of Dorr. There are three candidates, one a one-term incumbent, seeking the 72th District House of Representatives. They are, in alphabetical order, Republican incumbent Steve Johnson, Libertarian candidate Jamie Lewis and Democratic candidate Ron Draayer.

 

The 77th District House of Representative seat covers the City of Wyoming, Byron Township and a portion of Cutlerville. There are three candidates, one a one-term incumbent, seeking the 77th District House of Representatives. They are, in alphabetical order, Republican incumbent Tommy Brann, Democratic candidate Dana Knight, and Libertarian candidate Patty Malowney.

 

For more on the candidates, click here.

 

State Senate

 

The 26th District of the State Senate includes the City of Kentwood along with all of Allegan and Van Buren counties. Three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election to replace term-limited Republican Sen. Tonya Schuitmaker. They are, in alphabetical order, Libertarian candidate Erwin Haas, Democratic candidate Garnet Lewis and Republican candidate Aric Nesbitt.

 

The 28th District of the State Senate includes the City of Wyoming as well as the cities of Walker, Rockford and Cedar Springs. In the 28th District State Senate race, three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election. They are, in alphabetical order, Democratic candidate Craig Beach, Libertarian candidate Nathan Hewer, and Republican incumbent Peter MacGregor.

 

For more from the candidates, click here.

 

U.S. House of Representatives

 

Michigan’s 2nd District of U.S. House of Representatives includes Lake, Oceana, Newaygo, Muskegon and Ottawa counties as well as portions of Allegan, Mason and Kent counties including the cities of Wyoming and Kentwood. Three candidates are running in the Nov. 6 General election. They are, in alphabetical order, Democratic candidate Dr. Rob Davidson, U.S. Taxpayers Party candidate Ronald Graeser and Republican Incumbent Bill Huizenga.

 

For more from the candidates, click here.

 

School Boards

 

All five public school districts in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas have school board elections. Of those districts, only two have contested races, Godwin Heights and Wyoming. School board elections will be towards the end of the ballot. For more on the candidates, click here.

WKTV Journal: In Focus looks at both sides in Kent County ICE contract issue

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Crime Prevention, Hard News, Our Cities, WKTV Projects, ,

 

By K.D. Norris

ken@wktv.org

 

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal: In Focus, we present in-depth interviews with both sides of the current conflict between the Kent County Commission, and Sheriff’s Department, and Movimiento Cosecha GR over the county Sheriff’s department contract with the federal Immigration and Custom Enforcement agency, known as ICE.

 

The contract between the Sheriff’s Department and ICE relates to the processing and holding in the county jail of persons suspected of crimes who also have an unclear immigration status.

 

Cosecha is a national nonviolent movement fighting for the dignity, respect and permanent protection of all 11 million undocumented immigrants in the United States.

 

 

Early in September, the Kent County Board of Commissioners took the highly unusual step of recessing, relocating and excluding the public from its regular monthly meeting due to the continued protest of board meetings by members of Movimiento Cosecha GR and Rapid Response to ICE. Commission leadership say it does not have the legal authority to end the contract or direct the Sheriff to do so. But members of the protesting groups say the commission will not even conduct good-faith discussions with them on the issue.

 

WKTV brings you both sides of this important and divisive issue.

 

“WKTV Journal: In Focus” airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel. But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVvideos.

 

Snapshots: Wyoming and Kentwood news you need to know

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WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

 

Quote of the Day

"Don't ever question the value of volunteers. Noah's Ark was built by volunteers; the Titanic was built by professionals."  - Dave Gynn, an engineer out of the San Francisco Bay area.

 

A BIG Thanks

 

WKTV Volunteer of the Year was Charlie Kormanik

And WKTV values its volunteers, this year hosting a Brazilian-style barbecue at Johnson Park.

 

This year’s Volunteer of the Year was Charlie Kormanik who had more than 300 volunteer hours. Charlie travels almost 80 miles, one-way, from St. Joseph, Michigan, to participate in a number of WKTV programs. Thanks Charlie and to all our volunteers for another wonderful year. To see all the volunteers who were recognized at this year’s picnic, click here. To become volunteer, call 616-261-5700.

Song spinners

 

The Crane Wives performs July 26.

After making recent tour stops throughout the country, the band will be returning home to play at the Kentwood Summer Concert Series this Thursday.

 

Show time is set for 7p.m. at the lawn next to the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. Click here for more.

 

 

 

Who’s counting?

 

After reporting the busiest June ever in its history, the Gerald R. Ford International Airport has 1,406,644 more to go to hit the three million passenger mark. At the rate things are going, we expect GFIA to land that goal soon. For more on the story, click here.

 

 

 

Be Involved and be informed

 

Stealing Mayor Jack Poll’s closing line for every Wyoming City Council meeting, WKTV reminds residents that the upcoming primary is Aug. 7 and there are a number of candidates seeking their party’s spot for the general election. In the cities of Kentwood and Wyoming, there are two Kent County Commission races, two Republicans for the 8th District and four Democratic in the 12th District.  For more, click here.

 

And today’s fun fact:

400

That is the number of meters of Lycra (an elastic polyurethane fiber or fabric) needed to make the costumes for the "Super Trooper" scene in the ABBA-inspired "Mamma Mia!" Don't believe us? Then check out the Grand Rapids Civic Theatre production this February and see for yourself.

Snapshots: News you need to know from Wyoming and Kentwood

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WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

 

Here’s what’s happening this week…

Corpse Flower set to bloom — and stink — at Meijer Gardens

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park will bloom of a rare Amorphophallus titanum, commonly known as a corpse flower, a bloom 18 years in the making.

 

 

GRandJazzFest seeks volunteers for August event

GRandJazzFest presented by the DTE Energy Foundation seeks volunteers to help at the festival Aug. 18 and 19 at Rosa Parks Circle in downtown Grand Rapids.

 

Bicycling Dos and Don’ts

Summertime and kids on bikes go hand in hand. Here’s how to keep your kids safe.

 

 

 

 

We the People 2018 Primary: Kent County Commission Candidates

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While all the seats for the Kent County Commission are up for election, there are only a few with more than one candidate seeking a specific party’s spot for the general election. In Michigan’s primary, you may only vote for candidates in one party. The primary election is Aug. 7.

 

8thDistrict Kent County Commissioner

 

Kent County Commissioner District 8 covers most of the City of Wyoming, from its western border, heading east. For specific borders, visit accesskent.com.

 

There are only the two Republican candidates on the ballot for the 8thDistrict Kent County Commissioner seat. The candidate who wins the primary will run unopposed in the general election on Nov. 6.

 

 

Name: Benjamin K. Franz

 

Party: Challenger, Republican

 

Occupation: Leasing agent for Byron Lakes Apartments

 

Why did you decide to run for the 8thDistrict Kent County Commissioner seat?

 

I really love this area and where it is headed and I do feel that things are pretty good. Everything is booming and we have had a lot of competent people leading the way. I don’t want to lose that. So, I decided to challenge myself because I really wanted to give back to this place I fell in love with.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

Being that I don’t have a l long resume into this, I want to talk and review meticulously before approval to any issues. I am elected official who actually speaks to the people. So I want to sit and talk to the residents and let the people tell me which issues are important to them.

 

 

Name: Harold Voorhees

 

Party: Incumbent, Republican

 

Occupation: Cookies Unique, president and owner

 

Why did you decide to run for re-election for the 8thDistrict Kent County Commissioner seat?

 

Because I enjoy public service. I also I think I am needed as we transition with new leadership and there is still work to be done.

 

If re-elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

I will be focusing on the financial area. We have a triple A bond rating and I want to see that the county maintains that. I also know that the people work hard for their tax dollars and I want to assure them that those tax dollars are working for them.

 

 

12thDistrict Kent County Commissioner

 

The 12th District Kent County Commissioner seat covers the western portion of the City of Kentwood and the eastern portion of the City of Wyoming. For specific borders, visit accesskent.com.

 

 

With Harold Mast’s announcement that he would not seek re-election, several candidates have put their names on the ballot for the 12thDistrict Kent County Commissioner seat. There are four Democrats seeking the Democratic Party spot. Whoever wins the primary will face Republican Jill Martinez in the general election on Nov. 6.

 

 

Name: Katy Steele Barone

 

Party: Candidate, Democrat

 

Occupation: An office manager by trade, but I’m not working right now.

 

Why did you decide to run for the 12thDistrict Kent County Commissioner seat?

 

To amplify the voices of the working class and to instill confidence and interest (in county government).

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

In general, healthcare, immigration, clean water, and infrastructure.

 

 

Name: Keith Courtade

 

Party: Candidate, Democrat

 

Occupation: Works for GM

 

Why did you decide to run for the 12thDistrict County Commissioner seat?

 

I have a real passion for this and I miss not being able to represent and serve the people of Kent County. When I served as a Kent County Commissioner, I was a voice for the working families, the middles class, the poor and senior citizens – all the residents. I brought a commitment to fiscal responsibility, tax fairness and open government.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

I will put jobs first, working to find jobs and retaining laid-off workers; ease family burdens by helping them cope with the demands of caring for family members who are disabled; keep parks affordable by opposing park and recreation fees so no Kent County families would be priced out of county activities; push for local first purchasing to keep our tax dollars with local businesses; and defend the senior millage.

 

 

Name: Monica Sparks

 

Party: Candidate, Democrat

 

Occupation: Small business owner

 

Why did you decide to run for the 12thDistrict County Commissioner seat?

 

So, in March of this year, I was selected as one of the 50 Most Influential Women in West Michigan by the Grand Rapids Business Journal. I know that with influence it is not something you use for yourself but others. I filed in March, like the next day. I decided to run because I want to see that we have continuous services. We need to make sure that such services as mental health continue because a healthy mind leads to a healthy community.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

Mental health services is one along with fair affordable housing. People say there is only so much land, but there are other options such as there are a number of abandoned buildings that we could tap into for fair housing services. Also, having a father who is a Korean war veteran and received the Purple Heart, making sure our veterans are taken care of and receiving the services they need along with services to those with special needs.

 

 

Name: Scott Urbanowski

 

Party: Candidate, Democrat

 

Occupation: Humoniad Digital, owner

 

Why did you decide to run for the 12thDistrict Kent County Commissioner seat?

 

When I heard Harold Mast was retiring, I considered it but it wasn’t until over the holidays that I made the decision to run. I am running for three reasons. The first is to rebuild trust between the public and government. The second, my promise to serve the less fortunate and our veterans, and third is what I can bring to the county commission, that millennial voice. I am a person who has faced economic challenges and am able to give the ordinary resident a voice at the table.

 

If elected, what issues do you want to focus on?

 

I have a four-part platform: opportunity for all, giving a voice to the less fortunate; government for all, making it more transparent and open to the residents it serves; health and safety for all, as we deal with PFAS issues and trying to address chemicals left in the ground and preventing things like that from happening; and service to all, working on service to help the underserved and less fortunate by looking at issues such as consolidating 911 into one dispatch and seeing if that will provide the quality of service for all.

 

Kent County’s Lead Task Force, reverend turned candidate on latest WKTV Journal: In Focus

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Election, Local Faces, Politics, ,

 

WKTV Staff

news@wktv.org

 

On the latest episode of WKTV Journal: In Focus, two members of the Kent County Lead Task Force, a group which studied the issue of rising levels of childhood lead poisoning in Kent County, talk about a report recently presented to the County Commission which included a list of recommendations to combat the problem.

 

And just in case you think lead poisoning is only a problem of heavily urban areas such as Flint, consider that in 2016 the county being statistically the third worst in the state.

 

In Focus host Ken Norris talks with Kent County Commissioner Emily Brieve and Adam London, the Health Officer for the Kent County Health Department. And, at one point, Brieve discussed the role of local city governments and individual rental property owners as part of the solution.

 

“Each municipality, each city has different rules, different regulations for rental properties, and rental inspections,” Brieve said. “So one of the things that was part of our recommendations was to gather that information, to see what a good practice would be, going on, and what we could recommend to those municipalities, how they should address lead in their communities. … I think it is a multi-facetted effort. There is an awareness on behalf of the renter and also the property owner. It is an awareness of how to take care of the property, how to fix it up. And also local government, keeping an eye, making sure the rules are followed.”

 

Also on the episode, The Rev. Dr. Weldon Frederick Wooden, just Fred to his friends and congregation at Fountain Street Church, who is one of currently two Democratic candidates attempting to unseat Republican U.S. Congressman Justin Amash in Michigan’s District 3.

 

 

The entire episode of “WKTV Journal: In Focus” airs on cable television in the Wyoming and Kentwood areas on Comcast WKTV Channel 26 and on AT&T Channel 99 Government channel.

 

The episode will debut on WKTV cable channels on Tuesday, March 13, at 6:30 p.m., will again air on Thursday, March 15, also at 6:30 p.m., and will continue on the same days and times the week of March 19. But all interviews included in episodes of WKTV Journal: In Focus are also available on YouTube at WKTVVideos.

 

County Commissioner from Wyoming one of three to meet with White House Officials

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , ,

Commissioners Emily Brieve and Stan Ponstein (Photo courtesy of Emily Brieve)

By Lisa LaPlante

Kent County

 

Commissioners Emily Brieve, Stan Ponstein and Robert Womack joined more than 50 county commissioners from across Michigan on Aug. 8 at a White House Conference to discuss greater cooperation between local and federal leaders. The Commissioners were invited by the Trump administration to share their views on public policy challenges facing local governments.

 

Commissioner Brieve, who serves District 10 part of Caledonia Township and Gaines Township, said it was an informative visit. “Communicating with the various levels of government can be like playing a game of telephone. This meeting was important because it gave us, at the County level, a direct line to the White House,” Brieve said. “We were able to communicate our role in local government and bring light to issues important to counties in Michigan. This opportunity has allowed us access to departments that provide funding for core services to Kent County residents.”

 

Commissioners Ponstein and Brieve (in back) with the rest of the county commissioners from Michigan. (Photo by Emily Brieve)

Commissioner Ponstein felt honored to receive an invitation. “No one with the Michigan Association of Counties has ever known of the White House inviting County Commissioners to appear before them to speak of shortcomings of the Federal Government. I am glad I had the opportunity, along with two other Kent County Commissioners, to have our voice be heard,” Commissioner Ponstein of District 7 which is Grandville and part of Wyoming, said after the visit. “I was asked often, ‘What does the public really think?’; I simply stated that in Kent County, when residents see a problem, they work together to find a solution; they don’t feel that way about the Federal Government; they feel the system is broken and it no longer works for the people.”

 

The evening before the conference, the Commissioners attended a briefing from the Michigan Association of Counties and National Association of Counties on “Matters of Importance to Michigan.” “The engagement of Michigan commissioners in this event is highly encouraging,” said Stephan W. Currie, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Counties. “There’s nothing more valuable in the development of strong public policy than to have local elected officials giving their on-the-ground assessments to federal leaders.”

 

For more information on the Kent County Board of Commissioners, visit www.accesskent.com/Departments/BOC/members.

2016 Election results: US Rep, State House, Kent County Commission, Wyoming City

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We The People 2016The unofficial election results from Kent County. Winners are in blue.

 

City of Wyoming

2nd Ward

Marissa K. Postler 3,479

Richard Kent Pastoor 2,873

 

3rd Ward

Robert D. Postema 5,168

Rusty Richter 3,683

 

Member At Large

Dan Burrill 18,474

 

Kent County Commission

7th District

Republican Stan Ponstein 8,312

Democrat Logan Arkema 5,069

 

8th District

Republican Harold Voorhees 8,831

Democrat Franklin Cornielle 5,341

 

9th District

Republican Matt Kallman 11,558

Democrat Keith F. Courtade 4,914

 

10th District

Republican Emily Post Brieve 12,201

 

12th District 

Republican Harold K. Mast 5,739

Democrat Christian Allen 5,292

 

13th District

Democrat Betsy Melton 7,942

Republican Jessica Ann Tyson 7,382

 

Prosecuting Attorney

Republican Chris Becker 167,451

Democrat Alida J. Bryant 119,923

 

Kent County Sheriff

Republican Lawrence A. Stelma 174,260

Michael B. Scruggs 118,244

 

Clerk/Register of Deeds

Republican Lisa Posthumus Lyons 158,132

Democrat Chris Reader 115,122

Libertarian James Lewis 16,007

 

Treasurer

Republican Kenneth D. Parrish 165,841

Democrat Jody Betten 118,164

 

Drain Commissioner

Republican Ken Yonker 159,616

Democrat Rachel Hood 127,812

 

State Legislature 72nd District

Republican Steven Johnson 18,981

Democrat Steve Shoemaker 15,923

 

State Legislature 77th District

Republican Tommy Brann 27,946

Democrat Dana Knight 14,526

 

2nd District Congress

Republican Bill Huizenga 41,374

Democrat Dennis B. Murphy 28,486

Libertarian Erwin J. Haas 2,030

Green Matthew A. Brady 1,276

U.S. Taxpayers Ronald E. Graeser 509

 

3rd District Congress

Republican Justin Amash 132,639

Democrat Douglas Smith 89,569

U.S. Taxpayers Ted Gerrard 5,695

 

 

 

We the People: Kent County Commission Candidates

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We The People 2016WKTV takes seriously its role as a communications provider. We want our community to be well-informed and more involved in local matters.

 

7th District

Kent County Commissioner District 7 includes the City of Grandville and the northern portion of the City of Wyoming, mostly the Godfrey Lee area. For specific borders, visit accesskent.com.

 

Stan Ponstein – Incumbent (R)

Occupation: Costco Warehouse
Residence: Grandville

 

Why did you decide to run for the Kent County Commission 7th District?

“I have enjoyed serving on the various boards such as the Network 180 Board (Community Mental Health Authority Board), the Land Bank Authority and the Pension Board. They have really re-energized me and I would like to continue to work through on the projects these groups have to see them to their realization.”

 

What issues are a high priority to you?


“Taxation and the budget, obviously. Most of the county’s budget is flow through dollars designated by the state for certain projects. I think we need to consolidate where we can and generate new partnerships. The council has done a good job in building partnerships and we need to explore new ideas to foster other partnership opportunities.”

 

What are your thoughts on a central 911 dispatch for Kent County?

“The 911 dispatch is critical and we need to consolidate with the City of Grand Rapids as soon as possible. Having duplicates services is a waste of taxpayer money. As for adding more to the surcharge to pay for improvements. I am a no vote on that. We currently do not know if all of the current surcharge is getting to us. Why should we ask the taxpayers to pay more? 911 dispatch is a critical service and should be a priority in the Kent County general budget, not a ballot issue for the taxpayer. Taxpayers and businesses already pay enough in taxes.”

 

Logan Arkema – Candidate (D)

Occupation: Student at Georgetown University
Residence: Grandville

 

Why did you decide to run for the Kent County Commission 7th District?
“The last couple election cycles have seen only one choice on the ballot. I feel the voters needed at least one more choice. I also want the county to embrace technology to be as optimal as possible.”

 

What issues are a high priority to you?
“I think the Rapid could use some improvement as the city’s main form of public transit. I would want to make sure the Sheriff Department has the training necessary to have positive interactions with the community.”

 

What are your thoughts on a central 911 dispatch for Kent County?
“I’m glad the issue is on the ballot. I still think there’s room for improvement. I think we can invest more in our 911 dispatch and I want to make sure the technology we have is the best possible to save lives.”

 

8th District

 

Kent County Commissioner District 8 covers the eastern portion of the City of Wyoming, including the pan handle. For specific boarders, visit accesskent.com.

 

Harold Voorhees – Incumbent (R)

Occupation: Owner at Cookies Unique
Residence: Wyoming Pan Handle

 

Why did you decide to run for the Kent County Commission 8th District?
“To serve. I serve on the boards for the West Michigan Sports Commission and the John Ball Zoo.”

 

What issues are a high priority to you?
“I want mandated services to run in the most efficient way possible. I also want to continue to strengthen the quality of life on the cultural level here in West Michigan. I believe cultural aspects – sports, the zoo, Meijer Garden, etc. – boost the economy and quality of life for the residents in the area.”

 

What are your thoughts on a central 911 dispatch for Kent County?
“It’s a necessity! Public safety is necessary. There are places in the county where we can’t talk to each other. Our law enforcement and emergency services need to be able to talk to one another.”

 

Franklin Cornielle – Candidate (D)

 

Franklin Cornielle is the Democratic nominee for the 8th District Kent County Commission. He will be running against Harold Voorhees in the November 8 election.

 

9th District

 

Kent County Commissioner District  9 covers parts of southern Wyoming and also Byron Township. For specific boarders, visit accesskent.com.

 

Matt Kallman – Incumbent (R)

 

Matt Kallman is the Republican nominee for the 9th District Kent County Commission. He will be running against Keith F. Courtage in the November 8 election.

 

Keith F. Courtage – Candidate (D)

 

Keith F. Courtage is the Democratic nominee for the 9th District Kent County Commission. He will be running against Matt Kallman in the November 8 election.

 

10th District

 

Kent County Commissioner District  10 covers Gaines Township and the southern half of Caledonia Township. For specific boarders, visit accesskent.com.

 

Emily P. Brieve – Incumbent

 

Emily P. Brieve is the incumbent for the 10th District and is running unopposed in the November 8 election.

 

12th District

 

Kent County Commissioner District 12 covers the western portion of the City of Kentwood and the eastern portion of the City of Wyoming. For specific boarders, visit accesskent.com.

 

Harold J. Mast – Incumbent (R)

Occupation: Former Health Care Administrative at Pine Rest for 28 years. Ten years as executive director Genesis Non-Profit Housing.
Residence: Kentwood

 

Why did you decide to run for the Kent County Commission 12th District?


“I’ve been a city commissioner for 14 years and a county commissioner for 18. I have an interest as a servant and the capability to work with people and solve the issues that face them.”

 

What issues are of high priority to you?


“I think we need to be focused on helping seniors as they age. Along with that, we need to provide adequate care to those with mental and physical disabilities.”

 

What are your thoughts on a central 911 dispatch for Kent County?


“A central 911 dispatch would enhance 911 capabilities throughout Kent County. Having a central location would increase the speed and effectiveness of the response.”

 

Christian Allen – Candidate (D)

Occupation: Assembly fitter for a UAW Shop
Residence: Wyoming

 

Why did you decide to run for the Kent County Commission 12th District?
“I think there needs to be a change in Kent County as I believe some of the commissioners are becoming to comfortable. I think we need a more transparent Kent County Commissioner board and I think that I can make a difference.”

 

What issues are a high priority to you?
“My three key issues are to improve Kent County services, to progress the living wage, and to create a fair community for all.”

 

What are your thoughts on a central 911 dispatch for Kent County?
“I think that they are moving in the right direction with the central dispatch. I think that there are a couple of things that they could change. If I get elected, I would take a closer look at that and I think we could bring more technology and maybe a University to help organize it better.”

 

13th District

 

Kent County Commissioner District 13 covers the eastern portion of the City of Kentwood. For specific boarders, visit accesskent.com.

 

Jessica Ann Tyson – Candidate (R)

Occupation: Small business owner
Residence: Kentwood

 

Why did you decide to run for the Kent County Commission 13th District?
“There is an open seat and I would like the opportunity to represent my city and community at the county level. I’m the state president of a political organization and ran before against an incumbent. I want to be able to affect policy.”

 

What issues are a high priority to you?
“Because there’s an open seat, I’d like to honor the past and keep Kent County at their Triple-A bond rating while also looking for new was to improve.”

 

What are your thoughts on a central 911 dispatch for Kent County?
“I’m all for advancing technology. I believe Kent County has done the homework to get the best price and technology for the residence.”

 

Betsy Melton – Candidate (D)

 

Betsy Melton is the Democratic nominee for the 13th District Kent County Commission. She will be running against Jessica Ann Tyson in the November 8 election.

 

All candidates were contacted and invited to participate in sharing their message to the voters.