The Commission met briefly in the committee of the whole and returned for the Regular Board meeting after a closed session. In the Regular meeting The Commission welcomed Youth Juvenile Justice Fellows from the Lewis Walker Institute for Race and Ethnic Relations at Western Michigan University advocating for mentorship programs. Public comments focussed on the need for effective housing discrimination policies and enhanced civil rights board capabilities. Community members and the Civil Rights Board Chair continue to demand attention and action from the Commission. In the wake of opposition to the denial of appointee Lewis Smith the Commission has appointed Eursla Moore-Doyle to the Civil Rights Board. Chief FInancial Officer Steve Vicenzi updated the commission on the selection of new accounting software and data storage systems fromTyler Technologies for an amount not to exceed 2.9 million dollars. CFO Vicenzi also reviewed the issuance of the 10 million dollar 2025 Capital Improvement Bond. The Commission reviewed the ongoing lead service line replacement project, which aims to remove all lead pipes in the city by the end of 2025. Public Services Director James Baker outlined the project’s scope and expected impacts, with funding sought through state revolving loan funds. The Commission also discussed the aftermath of a recent severe storm, detailing efforts to clear debris and restore services, with aid from the City of Grand Rapids. Assistant City Planner Bobby Durkee presented the first reading of two zoning ordinances for residential development and a new mixed-use building proposed by local developer Jamari Bogan. – public hearings for both are scheduled for June 2nd.
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