South Kent News

The Kent County Board of Commissioners on March 26 selected Lindsey Thiel, a planning assistant with Grand Rapids Township, to replace longtime board member Jim Saalfeld. 

Saalfeld, who chaired the board from 2016 to 2018, gave notice last month that he would not be able to serve due to job constraints. Thiel will serve through December 31, reported MLive.com.

Seven candidates applied for the vacancy. Kent County BOC Chair Mandy Bolter said 11th District elected officials who gave letters supporting Thiel is what stood out to her, MLive reported.

“I think that was probably the deciding factor ... when you have all those leaders that are elected by the district in support of her that shows that she has a good relationship with them, and they’re speaking on behalf of their constituency,” said Bolter.

Thiel’s application shows her background in state government included serving as lead staff member for Rep. Rob VerHeulen (R-Walker), chair of the Department of Transportation Subcommittee and chair of Department of Health and Human Services Subcommittee amongst numerous other government positions. 

"I have local government experience from my current position with Grand Rapids Charter Township. I prepare all board meeting materials, including the agendas and packets; act as a liaison for all planning projects from application through building permit application; and handle all public notice requirements, as well as clerk the planning boards," said Thiel in her application. "Most importantly, I interact with all the residents of Grand Rapids Charter Township as they handle any local government issue.