Your Grand Rapids Policy Conference Questions, Answered
At our Grand Rapids Policy Conference on March 6th, the conversation was lively, and the questions kept coming. From transformational development reshaping our city’s landscape, to the real impacts of data centers on our communities, to what bipartisan civility looks like in practice – participants had a lot on their minds.
We heard you. And even though we ran out of time, we didn’t run out of answers.
We’ve compiled responses to every question we couldn’t get to — and they’re all waiting for you in one place. Whether you were in the room or wish you had been, this is your chance to go deeper on the topics that matter most to our community.
Go deeper: Read the questions & answers here.
Going PRO: Going, Going… Gone?
Governor Whitmer’s proposed FY 2027 state budget eliminates funding for the Going PRO Talent Fund, one of Michigan’s most successful workforce training programs.
Why it matters: For more than a decade, Going PRO has helped employers train workers, close skill gaps, and strengthen Michigan’s talent pipeline.
By the numbers:
- 240,000+ Michigan workers trained since 2014
Industries supported: manufacturing, healthcare, skilled trades, construction, technology, tourism, and small businesses
Workers who complete training receive a 9% wage increase on average
Accountability: Employers receive funding only after training is completed and employees remain on the job
The challenge: Workforce shortages remain one of the biggest issues facing employers. Going PRO provides a practical solution by helping businesses train and upskill employees while increasing wages.
- Demand for the program continues to exceed available funding, demonstrating how important this tool is for Michigan employers investing in their workforce.
The solution: Restore full funding for the Going PRO Talent Fund in the FY 2027 budget.
Contact your state representative and state senator and share why workforce training programs like Going PRO matter to your business and your employees. Legislators need to hear directly from employers about how this program supports talent development and economic growth.
Governor’s Office: 517-335-7858
Your Business Has a Voice — Use It
The Friends of West Michigan Business Political Action Committee (PAC) is a non-partisan committee dedicated to electing business-friendly candidates in West Michigan who align with the Grand Rapids Chamber’s policy agenda.
With government decisions directly impacting how businesses operate, the PAC works to support candidates who understand the value of a thriving West Michigan business climate, champion pro-growth policies, and build lasting relationships with decision-makers.
Learn more about the PAC and how you can invest.
Finalists Announced in City Attorney Search
Last week, the Grand Rapids City Commission was presented the three finalist candidates for the Grand Rapids City Attorney position. There are two internal candidates and one external candidate.
The candidates:
Philip Strom, who serves as the current Interim City Attorney. He has 17 years of experience, with 15 years in local government.
Sarah Hartman, who is the current Director of Legal Affairs in the Litigation Department for the city. She has 19 years of experience, with 8 in local government.
Matthew Cross, who is a partner at Cummings, McClorey, Davis, & Acho. He has 13 years of experience, with 8 in local government.
What’s next: There will be interviews with internal departments and a public forum with the candidates on March 30th, as well as interviews with the City Commission on March 31st. Following this round of interviews, a finalist will be selected and appointed by the commission in April.
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