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Some key happenings the past month include:

• The recent census figures show Kent County’s population has grown nearly 50% over the past 40 years to over 600,000 residents. Projecting that continued growth over the next 40 years would result in over 850,000 residents in Kent County in 2050. Are we ready for this population growth?
• The County Public Works Department recently announced the Kentwood recycling center has become a “single stream” recycling station. That means citizens no longer have to separate parts of the recycling material, but can drop off all material in one container at the station.
• The airport announced it has solved the security checkpoint backlog by forming a third lane for security checks during peak periods. They also moved a major airline’s operations to an alternate concourse.
• The Board Chair has appointed a special committee to research some of the issues raised by the One Kent Coalition and come with a report prior to next Spring. This is in response to the refusal of the One Kent Coalition proposers to do such a study through the previous city/county/coalition joint committee. I have been made a part of that committee and will provide periodic reports. Please send me comments.
• The County Parks Department recently acquired the final segment for the Paul Henry Thornapple Trail. By next summer the 42 mile trail from Grand Rapids to Vermontville in Barry County will be complete.
• The KC Land Bank is making its first acquisition this month of foreclosed properties in the Grand Rapids area. They received a grant from the GR Foundation for this initial work. The Land Bank is also hiring an Executive Director to lead their efforts in the future. Check their web www..kentcountylandbank.org.
• My wife and I met many neighbors and constituents among the 650 people attending the July 26th Kelloggsville Community Neighborhood Party. I also attended some August 2 National Night Out gatherings.