Commission approves classification and budget ordinance amendments, pension change and hires executive search firm

The Grand Rapids City Commission on the evening of the meeting unanimously approved a set of measures, including personnel classification updates, a fiscal-year budget amendment recognizing multiple grants, and an amendment to the police and fire retirement system. The commission also voted to hire Mosaic Public Partners to conduct a national search for the city attorney for up to $32,500.

Commissioners voted to amend job classifications in ordinance 2025-22 to add positions such as an intelligent transportation systems technician and to adjust pay ranges for mechanical and fire-inspection roles. Commissioner Kilgore said the changes update outdated descriptions and classifications requested by the Mobile GR and building-inspection departments.

The commission approved amendment No. 4 to budget ordinance 2025-11, which recognizes several grant awards and appropriations reported out of the fiscal committee. Commissioner Robbins summarized grants from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Michigan'EGLE, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation for riverfront improvements, and multiple awards supporting district court and police programs, including Office of Highway Safety planning grants.

An ordinance amending the city code governing the police and fire retirement system was adopted to align pension escalators with the collective bargaining agreement covering 07/01/2025 through 06/30/2028. Commissioner Suss told the commission the change clarifies which groups receive escalators and the timing of those escalators for retirees on or after July 1, 2025.

The commission suspended rules to consider a walk-on resolution that authorizes a professional services contract with Mosaic Public Partners to lead the city attorney search for an amount not to exceed $32,500. Mayor LeGrand and other commissioners said the contract will enable a national, robust search to identify candidates for the permanent city attorney role.

All votes recorded during the ordinance roll calls were recorded as 'Yes' by the commissioners present; walk-on items and the consent agenda were approved by voice vote.