Stalemate Halts Search for First Ward Commissioner as Budget Process Looms

GRAND RAPIDS — The search for a new Grand Rapids city commissioner hit a stalemate after the commission interviewed three finalists for the vacant First Ward seat but could not reach a consensus on an appointment.

The deadlock comes at a critical time, with the city's annual budget process set to begin next week. Currently, both of the city's other wards have two commissioners, but the First Ward is represented by just one.

Three Candidates, Three Votes Not Enough

City commissioners interviewed three finalists for the vacant First Ward seat on April 22. The candidates were Kurt Reppart, Dan Cope, and Lindsey Perez-Plescher.

Perez-Plescher is the only one of the finalists who is also running for the seat in the August primary and the November election, according to Fox 17.

Reppart previously served as First Ward Commissioner before being defeated when he ran for reelection in 2024. He was supported by three commissioners including Commissioner Kelsey Purdue, who said after three votes and not enough support for any of the finalists:

"It feels very deadlocked and I just want to acknowledge that."

Commissioner Melinda Yassi said of Reppart that he "understands all of the issues we have in front of us."

Commissioner Marshall Kilgore supported finalist Dan Cope, a Grand Valley State University professor who teaches democracy and civic engagement. Kilgore said: "Who better to navigate a flawed system than someone who teaches on democracy."

Lindsay Perez-Plescher did not even get a vote. Mayor David LaGrand said he cannot support her appointment because she is the only finalist running for the position in the August primary. The mayor stated: "I am very reluctant to do anything which would have an influence on the voter outcome."

Vacancy Created by State Legislature Run

The vacancy was created after former commissioner Drew Robbins resigned with eight months remaining in his term to run for a seat in the state legislature. Robbins plans to seek representation in the August primary and, if necessary, the November election, according to WGVU News.

In the August primary and, if necessary, the November election, voters will choose his replacement even if the commission does not appoint someone.

Commission Pauses Decision

To appoint someone, commissioners needed at least four votes in support of a single candidate. However, after interviews and discussion, they could not reach a consensus. The commission voted to pause the decision, leaving the First Ward seat empty for the time being.

"It feels very deadlocked and I just want to acknowledge that," Purdue said. "We all need some time to sit with this to have conversations and not continue to waste our time."

It was unclear when the commission will revisit the appointment process.

Candidates Offer Experience and Background

Kurt Reppart, a former commissioner, said of his potential return: "My time on the commission would help me to step in on day one to be helpful to you all." He added that "the job of a commissioner is to serve the people."

Dan Cope, the GVSU professor, said: "I recognize the work is never done. It is only ever evolving and I would bring that work ethic with the commission. I am a lifelong Grand Rapids resident."

Lindsay Perez-Plescher, a mental health professional and director of the Center for Immigration Studies and Education, said: "Grand Rapids is a fantastic place to live and a great place to raise a family and I really want to help us maintain that family friendly environment."

City Clerk Joel Hondorp noted that if someone is selected on April 22, they will move right into an oath office immediately.

The Search Process

Out of ten applicants, the commission narrowed the list to three finalists. The committee on appointments had already done initial reviews before the full commission interviews took place.

What Comes Next

The commission adjourned after the failed vote. Commissioner Purdue suggested the body needs time to sit with the decision and have conversations before proceeding further.

The First Ward Commission seat will remain vacant until the commission can reach a consensus or until voters make their choice in the upcoming election cycle.

Sources:

• WGVU News
• Fox 17 Online
• Grand Rapids Chamber