November 16, 2023 General Meeting Recap

Here's a recap of the general meeting from last week. A big thank you to everyone who attended.

Why it matters?

Building strong relationships within the community fosters a sense of unity. While our beliefs may differ, mutual respect forms the foundation for a connected and thriving community.

Introductions – 12:00 p.m. Mitch Cook, Bridge Street Market, President SBA 

Presentation from our host David Ringler, Küsterer Brauhaus

  • Shared insights into the history of German beer on the West Side and explained the motivation behind establishing an establishment on Bridge Street in Grand Rapids.

Melvin Eledge, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. - Public Toilets 🚽

  • Discussed loos, their purpose, locations, funding, and ongoing evaluation.

  • Mentioned the illuminated interior of the loo and additional lighting around it.

  • Revealed plans for a couple more loos in the city.

  • No current plan for a loo on the West Side, but the potential soccer stadium could alter this.

Ricardo A. O'Neal II - Founder of Kikcit

  • Introduced Kikcit.com, a building tech platform ready for beta testing.

  • Seeking platform partners and emphasized the use of personality tests.

  • Categories include food, beverages, arts, joy, and entertainment, matching users with businesses.

  • Alpha test scheduled for Feb-April, with the beta test requiring 50 businesses, starting on 11/17.

  • Points earned are redeemable currency in the app, and experiences can be redeemed for trips across the US.

Neighborhood Resource Updates

Monica Hall, JBAN

Commissioner's Update - Drew Robbins

  • Emphasized safety as the number one priority on the West Side in the master plan.

  • Introduced Grpd.com, a recently launched platform for engaging additional law enforcement needs.

  • Discussed ongoing efforts in code enforcement and zoning solutions to enhance safety, particularly with old, dilapidated buildings.

  • Shared experiences from a cruise with other city commissioners and the police department to understand West Side neighborhoods.

Chamber Update- Rich App

  • Shared updates on Sip Shine's imminent opening and Sovengard's opening in mid-January.

  • Expressed excitement about the upcoming soccer stadium on the West Side and its potential to reshape the current landscape.

  • Mentioned the Amphitheater in unison.

    Stephanie Shared some News:

  • Highlighted the approval of a $73 million grant by Whitmer.

  • Discussed a program teaching young adults/students success skills for various jobs.

  • Seeking 12 businesses willing to provide holiday work opportunities for these students.

Do you have exciting news to share? Reach out to me at jes@swiftprinting.com and we can get you on the agenda for 2024.

Big thank you to Natasha Monk from Nonla Burger for taking photos.





Jessica SlaydonStock Bridge Business Assocation