GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Saturday morning Mayor George Heartwell delivered his State Of The City address.
Grand Rapids, you are beautiful,” he said.
Mayor Heartwell spoke of making “Our Grand Rapids” dreams a reality by working together.
Areas Heartwell highlighted were, children, diversity, sustainability initiatives and economy,
Heartwell said goals set in last years address were reached, including the needs of the Grand Rapids children. Community efforts by teachers, churches, businesses, service clubs, city commissioners and the people of Grand Rapids all took part in accomplishing the goals.
An increase in students taking part in after-school and service learning activities is one of the examples.
Grants were donated by many partners to help. Resources are being created to help children be prepared for the future.
The mayor discussed investing in storm management infrastructure to handle heavy rains and heat waves, and to implement the city’s emergency preparedness plan.
Heartwell said goals are being met with the Transformation Plan, which will be finalized in 2016.
The mayor announced the two national lists Grand Rapids made this past year, including the most sustainable cities and the happiest places to work in America.
