Kent County Finance and Infrastructure Committee 05/05/26

The Kent County Finance and Infrastructure Committee met on May 5, 2026, to discuss several key items related to county infrastructure and finance. A significant portion of the meeting focused on a presentation by the West Michigan Sports Commission highlighting the economic impact of sports tourism, including esports and major sporting events, which contribute millions in visitor spending and hotel room nights. The committee then approved a resolution to issue the 2026 Refuse Disposal System Bond Series, valued at approximately $14 million, to fund necessary improvements such as PAS pre-treatment and wastewater processing. The bond will be repaid from the Kent County Refuse Disposal System revenues, with no general fund obligations. Additionally, the committee approved a supplemental appropriation of $21,124 in Community Development Block Grant program income for home rehabilitation activities and authorized the 2026 summer general operating property tax levy to support county operations. Discussions included bond issuance costs, repayment sources, and the integration of these projects within the county's broader financial strategy.