Grand Rapids, Michigan, operates under a council-manager form of municipal government, established by its 1916 city charter. This structure divides responsibilities between elected officials and an appointed city manager.

City Commission

The City Commission serves as the city’s legislative body, setting policies and overseeing municipal operations. It comprises seven members: the mayor and six commissioners. The city is divided into three wards, each electing two part-time commissioners to four-year terms, with elections staggered every two years. Commissioners are elected on a non-partisan basis. The mayor, also elected to a four-year term, presides over commission meetings and represents the city ceremonially. Notably, Rosalynn Bliss became the city’s first female mayor on January 1, 2016, and has been an advocate for environmental sustainability, affordable housing, and improved police-community relations.

City Manager

The city manager is a professional administrator appointed by the City Commission to implement policies, oversee daily operations, and manage city departments. This role ensures that the city’s administrative functions align with the commission’s legislative directives.

Departments and Services

Grand Rapids offers a range of services through its various departments, divisions, and offices. These include public safety, public works, parks and recreation, and community development. The city emphasizes sustainability, with an Office of Sustainability dedicated to managing environmental practices and initiatives, such as transitioning to 100% renewable energy by 2025 and enhancing urban green spaces.

Public Participation

Residents are encouraged to engage with the city’s governance through public meetings, boards, and commissions. The city maintains transparency by providing access to meeting schedules, agendas, minutes, and videos of past sessions. Additionally, the Open Data Portal offers datasets on various city metrics, promoting informed community involvement.

Historical Milestones

Grand Rapids has been a pioneer in public health initiatives. In 1945, it became the first city in the world to fluoridate its drinking water, significantly reducing dental decay among its residents.

The city’s commitment to public transportation is evident through “The Rapid,” the regional transit authority. Established in 2000, The Rapid operates bus services, including the Silver Line and Laker Line bus rapid transit systems, enhancing mobility within the city and surrounding areas.