Kentwood Commission approves consent items, swears in new officer and authorizes two DPW vehicles

The Kentwood City Commission convened its first meeting of 2026, excused three commissioners for health reasons, approved the meeting agenda and consent items, and adjourned after brief business.

Key actions

- Commissioners voted to excuse Commissioners Coughlin, Morgan and Arts for prior notification of illness/ailment. - The agenda for the meeting was approved as submitted. - The consent agenda and minutes from the Dec. 16, 2025 meeting were approved. - Police Officer Noah Miller was introduced by the chief and sworn in; the clerk administered the oath and Miller introduced family and friends in attendance. - The commission authorized the purchase and upfitting of two DPW replacement vehicles — one pickup truck and one cutaway van — at a total cost of $151,003.41, to be paid from the DPW equipment fund across fiscal years 2026 and 2027. Staff noted ongoing supply delays and a $100,000 contingency in the DPW equipment fund to help manage costs.

The vehicle purchase was presented by DPW staff member Chad, who said the vehicles replace 2013 units that had reached the end of their life and that rising equipment costs had increased expected replacement costs. Commissioners asked about the timing across fiscal years and contingency funding; staff said the purchase complies with city purchasing policies. The motion to authorize the purchase passed by voice vote.

The meeting concluded with brief commissioner remarks about a planning meeting/retreat to discuss multi-year projects and the city’s direction.