Housing-related zoning amendments recommended by GR Planning Commission
The amendments— parsed into five categories— primarily serve to increase housing supply, in accordance with a recent update to the city's Housing Needs Assessment, which states a need for 14,106 new housing units by 2027 (an average of 2,831 per year, a pace not currently being met).
Read more at Fox17
The Grand Rapids Police Department recently implemented drones, purchasing eight for $100,000 in August and holding town halls across the city throughout the summer to discuss their use.
Read more at Spartan News Room
Cross and his co-defendants are linked to more than 30 burglaries across metro Grand Rapids as well as a dozen car thefts, according to court records and investigators. Businesses targeted include marijuana dispensaries and liquor stores.
Read more at WoodTV8
Kent County law enforcement searching for organizers of illegal car, motorcycle meet-ups
Numerous clubs in West Michigan host organized events where enthusiasts can admire and share their love for cars. These types of events are legal and peaceful.
It becomes a problem when attendees meet in droves and park their cars in public intersections, creating a public safety hazard.
Read more at WZZM 13
New rules crack down on aggressive panhandling in Grand Rapids
City leaders say the new ordinances are about making downtown safer for everyone and helping business owners.
“In the city of Grand Rapids, it would be a misdemeanor to harass someone who’s in the middle of a transaction, or commercial transaction, where they really feel that is rising to the level of intimidation and they can’t really get away,” Deputy City Manager Kate Berens said.
If convicted, violators could face up to 90 days in jail.
Read more at WoodTV 8
The first time someone is pulled over for distracted driving, they will generally receive a warning. The Kent County department’s goal is making sure it doesn’t happen again.
Read more at WoodTV8
The U.S. Department of Labor recovered $62,412 in back wages and damages for 20 employees of a Grand Rapids restaurant. The failure to pay overtime wages is far too common in the restaurant industry.
Read more at Fox17
The practice of fingerprinting people without probable cause or a warrant is unconstitutional, the Michigan Supreme Court said Friday. The court unanimously said Grand Rapids police violated the Fourth Amendment protection against unreasonable search and seizure.
Read more at: WLNS6.com
The Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce has sent a letter to the city. In it, there's a list of serious and graphic issues.
Read more at: Fox17
The 25 cameras are spread around Kent County in undisclosed locations and constantly relay information that may help law enforcement solve crimes.
Read more at Fox17
