The Grand Rapids Policy Conference is a platform to discuss Grand Rapids’ future and the issues we must tackle as a community to support a vibrant future. Local, regional, and national thought leaders will share insights into the policies to create a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all.
During this event, attendees will hear from the Mayor of Grand Rapids and his vision for the city. Michigan House of Representatives Speaker Matt Hall will discuss key policies that matter to West Michigan. Sam Cummings of CWD will highlight an innovative approach turn office space into housing. Special guest Marc Eichenbaum will travel in from Houston, Texas, to share insights into ending chronic homelessness. The full agenda is below.
This event is for business leaders, policymakers, community stakeholders, and anyone invested in shaping the future of Grand Rapids and West Michigan.
Consider purchasing a Member Corporate Table
- Includes 10 tickets, preferred seating, and your logo displayed on the table.
- Individual tickets are available as well.
- Click here to purchase tickets.
Event Agenda
7:30 a.m. – Registration, Networking, & Buffet Breakfast
8:00 a.m. – Welcome from the Public Policy Committee Chair
Hannah Naltner, Senior Vice President of Organizational Strategy and General Counsel, RDV
8:05 a.m. – Driving Growth & Opportunity: Policies for Vibrant Business Environment, a Talented Michigan, and a Place to Call Home
Joshua Lunger, Vice President of Government Affairs, Grand Rapids Chamber
8:15 a.m. – Remarks from the Mayor
David LaGrand, Mayor, City of Grand Rapids
8:30 a.m. – A Conversation with the Mayor
Moderated Q&A by Rick Baker, President & CEO, Grand Rapids Chamber
8:45 a.m. – Bridge to Our Future: The Community Master Plan
Mark Washington, City Manager, City of Grand Rapids
9:05 a.m. – Policy in Practice
Ben Greene, Chair of Board of Commissioners, Kent County
Al Vanderberg, County Administrator/Controller, Kent County
9:15 a.m. – Break & Networking
9:30 a.m. – Discussion: State Policies that Matter to West Michigan
Speaker Matt Hall, Michigan House of Representatives
9:55 a.m. – Introduction of Housing Policies Moving the Needle
Brooke Oosterman, Executive Director, Housing Next
10:05 a.m. – Converting Office to Housing
Sam Cummings, Managing Partner, CWD
10:50 a.m. – Houston’s Transformation in Solving Homelessness Conversation
Marc Eichenbaum, Former Special Advisor to the Mayor of Houston, Texas
11:30 a.m. – Closing Remarks & Call to Action
Rick Baker, President & CEO, Grand Rapids Chamber
Interested in sponsoring the Grand Rapids Policy Conference in 2025? Please contact Omar Cuevas to learn more.