Grand Rapids Commissioner and Mayoral Candidates Answer on our Food System

The Kent County Food Policy Council advocates for and promotes a local, good food system. We are currently working on a Food System Plan for Kent County.

Food is a part of our everyday lives and our regional infrastructure: how does our local government envision and prioritize food? In order to educate our community about their candidate options, we asked Grand Rapids City Commission Candidates and Mayoral Candidates to briefly share their vision and what excites them about the food system in Kent County.

The responses below do not indicate endorsement: our intention is to inform our community about food policy. We thank candidates for their time in responding. 

 

Mayor

David LaGrand

My household is a member of the Grand Rapids Food Co-op. We also operate a grass raised cattle farm in Cannon Township. I am excited by the Farm to Table possibilities and movement in Grand Rapids. I am also excited that increased density in our city has led to more neighborhood grocery options, such as the market on Bridge and Michigan. I would love to see sufficient density to see a grocery store in my own neighborhood.

Senita Lenear

I have a vision for a system that reflects what the community wants in their food system. Listening to those outside the commission or school board chambers has always been a priority to me and I think the work that the food policy council is doing is reflective of listening to community and dealing with the conflict and tension in the system. I am excited to see more young people and students engaged in creating a more connected food system in our county.

 

Ward 1

Dean Pacific

As a candidate for City Commission, I am excited about the potential to strengthen Kent County’s food system by fostering partnerships that enhance local food production, access, and sustainability. The comprehensive Kent County Food System Assessment highlights critical areas of opportunity, from increasing local food access for residents to supporting our farmers and food entrepreneurs. My vision is to ensure that everyone in our community, regardless of background or income, has access to healthy, affordable food options. By investing in resilient food systems and promoting policies that reduce food waste, we can also strengthen our local economy and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable community.

AlicaMarie Belchak

As a candidate for the Grand Rapids City Commission - First Ward, I am deeply committed to advancing a sustainable, thriving and equitable food system. I envision a Kent County food system that is both sustainable and equitable — rooted in the collaboration betAween local producers, policymakers, and the community. My early involvement with the Greater Grand Rapids Food Systems Council, combined with my work supporting local farms through conservation districts, has given me a deep understanding of the critical role our local agricultural network plays in food security and economic empowerment. Imagine a Kent County where every resident, regardless of their neighborhood, has access to fresh, affordable food. Our farmers’ markets are thriving hubs of activity, where locally grown produce is not only accessible but celebrated. Urban gardens and small-scale farms dot our cityscapes, providing nutritious options while reducing food deserts in underserved communities. Local farms, supported by strong policy initiatives, serve as the backbone of this system, connecting rural and urban Kent County in a way that fosters resilience and sustainability. I share the Kent County Food Policy Council’s vision of strengthening our food network by prioritizing local production, reducing food waste, and ensuring food security for all. Programs like urban farming, local food business support, and community-driven food distribution initiatives can help us build a resilient food system that is both environmentally sustainable and economically viable. By working together, we can create a food system that uplifts working families, empowers local producers, and ensures that every resident benefits from fresh, nutritious food. As commissioner, I will advocate for policies that protect our natural resources, foster urban farming and community connections to our rural neighbors, prioritize investments creating economic opportunities in the food system, and ultimately ensure equitable access to nutritious food for all residents.

 

Ward 2

Milinda Ysasi

My vision is to have a food system that is more equitable. That vision would include more opportunities for those who do not have a home to be able to produce their own food, easier and more affordable options for food waste and more options for fresh produce. I am excited about the innovation that has come forward in our city, led by business owners and community leaders. I hope to see continued innovations that come out of different systems and hope the neighborhood match grant fund continues to be one of those avenues.

 

Ward 3

Bing Goei

I am excited to support the vision and mission of the Kent County Food Policy Council. It is comprehensive, innovative and understands the economic impact it will have on our community.

Marshall Kilgore

What excites me most about the Kent County Food system is the amazing teamwork happening in our community! It's inspiring to see people from different backgrounds unite to improve access to healthy food for everyone. Food truly brings us together. I have a straightforward vision for our food system that truly puts people first. It's all about making sure we address the needs of those who are most vulnerable, listening to the voices of our community, and using government resources effectively to turn this vision into reality. I'm eager to keep learning and hearing from experts in this area so we can work together to support our community better. I recently learned a lot from Eleanor Moreno and Ken Cipriano at the Grand Rapids Neighborhood Summit, where they shared insights on the benefits of a solid food system plan. Their expertise reinforced my belief in our community's potential for positive change. As a City Commissioner, I’m dedicated to collaborating with the Kent County Food Policy team to create a food system plan that will: - Boost local agriculture and food businesses, - Support entrepreneurs in these sectors, and - Generate new jobs and opportunities for our community. Together, we can create a stronger and more inclusive food system for Kent County!