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Boards & Commissions

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1. How do I apply for an appointment to an advisory board?

Appointments are made by the Mayor and affirmed by the City Commission each year before the start of the fiscal year on July 1st. The first step is to fill out an application and return it to the City Clerk’s Office. Applications are kept on file for two years. You can fill out the application online or print out the application form.

Commission Application Form

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Community Center Complex

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1. Can I rent a room at the Community Center for a meeting or event?

Yes, there are several rooms that can be rented when not in use for city programs. View the facility information and then contact the Parks and Recreation Department at 616-949-1750 to check availability.

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Finance - Absentee Voting

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1. What is the deadline to receive an absentee ballot?

If you want a ballot mailed to you, you must apply by 5:00 pm the Friday prior to an election. The day before each election, you may vote an absentee ballot in person at the office until 4:00 pm.

2. How is my absentee ballot counted?

Absentee ballots remain sealed in individual envelopes in a locked room at City Hall until election day. On election day, election workers remove the ballots from their envelopes and feed them into the tabulating machines. Your votes are then added to the totals from precinct voters.

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Finance - Assessing

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1. What is taxable value?

Taxable values began in 1995 as part of Proposal A. Taxable values are adjusted each year by the Consumers Price Index (CPI) or 5%, whichever is less until a property ownership transfers. Your taxable value cannot be greater than your state equalized value. In other words, Proposal A "capped" taxable value increases by the CPI or 5%, whichever is less plus the value of losses and additions caused by physical changes in that property that are not present on the record card.

2. I'm building a new house. How can I estimate the taxes?

Estimate your annual taxes by multiplying ½ of the estimated total value of the completed home times the tax rate. Be sure to add land value to your value estimate before computing your estimated taxes.

3. How do I change my name or mailing address on my assessment and taxes?

To do this, contact the Assessor’s Office to process name and mailing address changes. Name changes will require documentation. Examples of documents are: marriage license, driver’s license, Quit Claim Deeds, or death certificates.

4. Where can I get a copy of my deed?

Copies of recorded deeds and land contracts can be obtained from Kent County Register of Deeds Office at www.accesskent.com. 

5. How can I find my property lines?

If you need to find your property lines, you should contact a local surveyor to perform this service. Several are listed in the yellow pages of the phone books. We can provide your lot size and a copy of your plot map to get you started, but we cannot survey or locate stakes on your property.

6. I don't have any children in school, why do I have to pay school taxes?

Michigan law requires everyone to support local public schools through property taxes. Eligible homeowners may be exempt for 18 mills of school operating taxes, but are still responsible for school debt, building funds and state education taxes.

7. My mortgage company raised my house payment because of my taxes. Why did the taxes go up so much?

Typically this happens about one year after you buy a new house or after a millage election. Your mortgage company probably based your original tax escrow payment on the last known taxes. After you purchased the property it’s taxable value was uncapped for the next tax year. The taxes were then based on a higher value. Even if you have not purchased a new house a special election authorizing additional millage will result in a higher tax bill. Once this happens, your mortgage company reevaluated your escrow amounts and changed your payment to cover the actual taxes on your home. They may also increase your payment to make up any shortfalls in the previous year.

8. If I put an addition on my home, how will it impact my assessment / taxable value and my taxes?

This addition will be added at 50% of true cash value to the assessment and the taxable value. The taxable value for the original property will continue to be calculated in the capped value formula. The new value will add to your taxes. The formula for taxable value is (previous year taxable value-losses) x (CPI or 5%)+ Additions. 

9. How was my assessed value determined?

Assessors use a state required mass appraisal method to value properties. We estimate land values from sales data and building values from a state cost manual. Then, we analyze sales data from your neighborhood and develop factors we use to further adjust our estimates to reflect local market value.

10. What is true cash value?

The term refers to the “usual selling price” of your property.

11. Can my taxable value increase more than the rate of inflation?

Yes, if:

1. A sale and/or title transfer occurs. In the year following a sale and/or title transfer, the property becomes "uncapped" making the state equalized value (SEV) and taxable value the same. Michigan law states the actual sale price must not be the sole basis for the new SEV for that property.
2. New construction to a property is added to the taxable value.
3. The value of items omitted from the previous year(s) assessed value is added to the taxable value.

12. Why is my change in assessed value different than my neighbor's?

Assessed value changes vary according to the individual characteristics of houses in relation to sales in your area. Building style, size and amenities such as porches, decks, garages, and extra bathrooms affect value estimates. 

13. My assessed value didn't change, but my taxable value increased. Why?

The current sales information for your neighborhood may show no value increase over last year’s value. However, the taxable value is tied to the Consumer Price Index and calculated annually causing an increase in your taxable value. Until your taxable meets your assessed value, your taxable value will continue to increase the CPI or 5%. 

14. I just bought a new home, why isn't my assessed value one half of my sales price?

Michigan law prohibits assessors from basing values on one sale price. We are required to value your property based on the methods used to value other properties in your area. While we hope our value estimate is close to your sale price, it is an estimate and may not be the same as your recent sale.

15. When are my taxes due?

The summer taxes are billed July 1st each year and are due by August 14th without penalties. The winter taxes are billed December 1st each year are due by February 14th without penalties. On March 1st, the delinquent tax rolls are given to the County Treasurer and additional penalties are added.

16. What period do my tax bills cover?

Although the taxing agencies on your bills may have different fiscal years, your bills are for the calendar year in which they are billed. Add your July and December tax bills together for your total annual taxes.

17. How are my taxes computed?

Taxes are computed by multiplying your taxable value times the total mills. A mill is $1.00 per thousand dollars of taxable value. An easy formula to calculate taxes is shown below:

Taxable Value X Mills / 1,000 = Taxes
Homestead 200,000 X 48.6664/ 1,000 = $9,733
Non-homestead 200,000 X 66.6664/ 1,000 = $13,333
(Remember, a homestead is exempt from 18 mills of school operating taxes!)

18. Why are my neighbor's taxes less than mine?

Property taxes are determined individually according to taxable value. If you recently purchased your property, your taxable value was uncapped. Your neighbor’s taxable value may still be capped and less than yours. The assessed values on a property in 1994 became the base value for taxable value calculations starting in 1995. Because properties have been bought and sold at different times taxable values may vary significantly. A lower taxable value means lower taxes.

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Finance - Polling Locations

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1. How do I know which precinct I vote in?

Call our offices at 949-2110, refer to the Ward-Precinct Map, or visit www.michigan.gov/vote.

2. What hours are the polls open?

7:00 am until 8:00 pm.

3. Do I vote in the same place all the time?

Yes, you will always vote in the same location for each election until you change your home address.

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Finance - Registering to Vote

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1. How can I find out if I’m registered to vote?

Call the EGR Clerk’s Office at 616-949-2110 or visit the Michigan Secretary of State's website at www.michigan.gov/vote. Michigan Website.

2. Where do I vote?

There are six polling locations in the City of East Grand Rapids. Visit our polling locations page or call City Hall at 616-949-2110.

3. How do I change my voter registration?

You can change your voter registration at any Michigan Secretary of State’s Office (your voting address is the same as your Driver’s License address) or visit City Hall to fill out a new registration card.

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Main

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1. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

2. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

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Mayor & Commission

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1. How do I know which commissioners represent me?

The City is divided into three wards with two commissioners representing each ward. To find out which ward you live in, call the City offices at 949-2110 or refer to the Ward/Precinct Map.

2. How can I contact the mayor or my city commissioner?

Contact information is listed for each commissioner. Generally, email is the best contact method so that your request is in writing and goes directly to your commissioner.

If you wish to share something with all members of the City Commission, send an email to City Clerk Karen Brower at and it will be distributed to the entire commission.

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Parks & Recreation - Art Festival

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1. How do I apply to be a vendor?

You need to contact the Grand Valley Artist Association. Here is a link to their Website

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Parks & Recreation - Special Events

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1. Is alcohol allowed in city parks during special events?

No, alcohol is not allowed in any city or school park at anytime.

2. When is the Rhoades McKee Reeds Lake Triathlon?

Always the Saturday after Labor Day each year.

3. How many special event permits are allowed in a year?

The City will allow up to two events per month. A Special Event permit form must be completed and submitted for approval. Also, the City will allow up to eight events requiring road closures such as running races, bike races, art festivals, etc...

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Parks & Recreation Department Programs

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1. Can non-residents of East Grand Rapids sign up for programs?

Non-residents will pay more for programs because they do not pay city taxes, but you do not have to be a resident to participate.

2. What form of payment do you accept?

We accept cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. You can register in person, phone, fax or online.

3. How many acres of park land is there in East Grand Rapids?

179 acres

4. How big and deep is Reeds Lake?

283 acres and 52 feet at the deepest point

5. What is the temperature of the two indoor pools?

Wealthy Pool is 86 degrees and the High School Pool is 78 degrees

6. Can people use personal grills or have any type of fire in public parks?

No. There are charcoal grills at Manhattan Park and they can be used by the public. People renting the Manhattan Park pavilion can request a gas grill permit and if approved may be allowed to use gas grills.

7. What is the distance of the Reeds Lake Trail going around the lake?

The Reeds Lake Trail is approximately 4.2 miles long. The trail consists of boardwalks, asphalt pathways and sidewalks. The trailhead map is located near the sidewalk at the south end of John Collins Park off Lakeside Dr.

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Public Works - Building Permits

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1. How do I apply for a building permit?

Submit the completed application form and three copies of your plans to the Public Works Administration office. For a building addition, you must also include a site plan and a storm water drainage plan. You must also obtain all other necessary city permits, such as right-of-way permits, at this time. Once this is completed and we have approved your plans for zoning compliance and drainage, we will forward the application to our building official at Cascade Township, who will notify you when the permit is ready to be issued and paid for. Building Permit Application

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Public Works - Code Enforcement

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1. Can I place a sign in the public right of way, on telephone poles or other public property?

No. Signs are permitted on private property only.

2. Can an unlicensed or inoperable vehicle be stored on private property?

Only within a fully enclosed building. Outside storage is strictly prohibited.

3. What are the regulations for the storage of trailers, boats and other recreational units?

Storage of any trailers, boats and other recreational units is permitted for a maximum of 72 hour period in residential districts, unless otherwise stored in accordance with city code. Permitted storage is within a rear yard and in such a way as to shield it from view of streets or adjacent properties, or inside a garage. Not all properties and not all units are capable of compliance.

4. Does the construction of a fence require a permit?

Yes, the City does require a fence permit before any fence installation can begin. This fence permit allows city staff and property owners the chance to make sure that any new fence is compliant with the City's fence ordinance in regards to height, location, and material. For more information, contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817.

5. What is the maximum height allowed for grass/weeds?

No higher than 5"

6. Does the installation of a sign require a permit?

In many cases, yes. A sign permit can be obtained from Public Works Administration and is required for most sign installations. All new signs must comply with the city's sign ordinance.

7. Can a resident leave waste containers in front of their residence?

No. Containers must be inside a building or to the side or rear of a building and must be reasonably inconspicuous.

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Public Works - Forestry

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1. Do I need a permit to remove a tree from my yard?

No, permits are not required for removal of trees on private property. Trees in the outlawn (the area between the sidewalk and the street) are the responsibility of the City. If there is a problem with one of these trees, please contact the Public Works Administration Monday – Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM at (616)940-4817.

2. Who is responsible for trees located between the sidewalk and the street (public right of way)?

The city is responsible for the trimming, maintenance, removal and restoration. Contact the Public Works Administration, Monday – Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM at (616) 940-4817.

3. What is the tree planting program?

This is a program in which the city and residents share the cost of planting a 2" tree within the public right of way. Information can be found on the website on this program can be found on the website by searching "tree planting program".

4. How do I report a fallen tree? tree that has fallen in the City right of way or street?

Call Public Works Operations at Monday – Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. Evenings and weekends call the emergency line at (616) 949-7010. Fallen trees on private property are the responsibility of the property owner. Related disputes are a civil matter.

5. My tree branches are in utility wires. Who do I contact?

Call Consumers Energy at (800) 477-5050.

6. Does the City do routine tree trimming?

No, the City trims trees when they are a hazard or low hanging limbs are over the public right of ways.

7. Will the City pick up storm damaged trees?

Tree damage from storms are subject to the City's yard waste policy. Check the City's website, social media and e-notifications for updates regarding and special collection from storm events.

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Public Works - Refuse Collection

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1. I missed my pick up! What now?

If it's your household trash or recycle, call your hauler. Yard waste, fall leaves and Christmas trees will be picked up on your next scheduled date. Large brush piles that may require special equipment are noted by the crews for Friday pickup. If you have missed the seasonal pick up dates, you will either have to store the material or call a private hauler. Unfortunately, there is no drop off site in East Grand Rapids.

2. Does the City pick up ornamental grasses?

Ornamental grass pick up is permitted. It must be tied, bundled and weigh less than 40 pounds.

3. What day does my yard waste get picked up?

You can find a map showing the yard waste pick up schedule on our website.

4. What is the schedule for yard waste pickup when a holiday falls during the week?

If the holiday falls on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday, pick up will be on the following day. If the holiday falls on a Friday, pickup will be on the Thursday before and the Monday after the holiday.

5. What are the schedule and guidelines for fall leaf collection?

In the fall City try to follow the same schedule as for regular yard waste pickup, however, this cannot be guaranteed due to the high volume of leaves at certain times. Fall leaves may be placed out for collection without containerizing commencing on Monday of the second full week of October through Friday of the first full week of December. Leaves should be placed along or in the street without obstructing the traveled portion of the roadway or walkways.

6. When does yard waste collection resume in the Spring?

Collection resumes the first full week in April.

7. Why didn't branches get picked up on my collection day?

The City uses specialized equipment to pick up larger piles of branches and yard waste. The larger piles are noted by the crew for pickup on Friday.

8. When does the City pick up Christmas trees and other holiday greenery?

Christmas trees, wreaths and other natural plant based decorations may be placed out for collection from Monday of the first full week of January through Friday of the second full week of January. Items with metal attached (tree stands, wired garland, wired wreaths) cannot be collected and must be disposed of by residents.

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Public Works - Sidewalks

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1. Who is responsible for sidewalk repairs?

The City has a sidewalk repair and replacement program that targets designated areas of the City each year. Search the website for "sidewalk repair" for construction updates. Sidewalk repair requests that meet City replacement criteria, but are not in the repair/replacement area, can be requested by calling a City Engineering Technician at (616) 940-4817, Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The City's Public Works staff will replace sidewalks that have defects of 2" or more. Contact the Public Works Department at (616) 940-4870, Monday – Friday from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

2. When does the City plow sidewalks?

Search the website for "sidewalk snow policy".

3. Does the City salt sidewalks?

No. Salt damages concrete, is harmful to the environment and is cost prohibitive for operations.

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Public Works - Water/Sewer Systems

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1. Something is wrong with my water meter (leaking, loud or not working).

The City owns the water meter itself and will repair or replace it. You will be responsible for the cost if it has been tampered with. Call Public Works Operations Monday - Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. If the leak is severe and it is after hours, call the emergency number (616) 949-7010. Water will be shut off until repairs are complete.

2. I need to have the water to my home turned off by the City, what do I do?

If you need to turn water off for internal plumbing work or for any other internal reason, you can turn the water off by turning the valve near your water meter. If you need the water service shut off because your water service line is leaking, please contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. From 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817. Evenings and weekends call the emergency number (616) 949-7010.

3. I've noticed that my water has an odor, what do I do?

Water odor can be caused by a variety of things. If you have internal water system items (filter systems, water softener, etc.), those are common causes and you should contact a licensed plumber to investigate. If you do not have these items, call Public Works Operations Monday - Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870.

4. How can I obtain a Water Quality Report?

Contact Public Works Administration Monday - Friday between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM at (616) 940-4817 or search the website for "water quality report".

5. The water pressure in my home seems to be low. What can I do?

Water pressure problems can be related to an internal plumbing issue or may be something the City can assist you with. If your neighbors aren't experiencing issues, it is an internal problem. Call a licensed plumber for assistance. If water pressure is impacting other homes adjacent to yours, contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870.

6. My water seems to be discolored, what can I do?

Discolored water can be the result of natural minerals, such as calcium or iron, that accumulate in water pipes. When interrupted by water main flushing or repairs, they can come through your faucets. Flush your system by running cold water at the faucet closest to the incoming water supply for 10 to 20 minutes. If the problem continues, contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870.

7. I think I have a water leak. What should I do?

Water leaks from the stop box, located in the right of way, to the home are the homeowner's responsibility. Contact a licensed plumber for repairs. Leaks from the stop box to the main are the City's responsibility. Contact Public Works Operations Monday through Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. From 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817. Evenings and weekends call the emergency number (616) 949-7010.

8. Has the water been shut off to this property? (This is a common realtor question.)

If you represent the property, check the faucets, then the valve near the water meter.

9. A storm drain appears to be backed up, what do I do?

Storm drains are commonly clogged by yard waste debris that should not be placed in the street. Residents can help unclog these drains by using yard tools. Debris removed from drains should be placed in a yard waste container and put out on the regular yard waste collection day. If there is still an issue, call Public Works Operations Monday – Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870 or submit a request below.

10. I would like to drain water from my property the street. What do I do?

If there is adequate storm sewer adjacent to your property, you may be able to have a contractor connect to the City's storm sewer. A right of way permit is required. If this option is not available to you, there are other options that can be considered, such as dry well, French drain, rain garden, popup drains, etc. that can be done on your property. You may wish to consult with a landscaper, excavator or an engineering professional to assist you.

11. My sewer is backing up, what do I do?

Immediately contact Public Works Operations Monday - Friday between 7:00 AM and 3:30 PM at (616) 940-4870. Between 3:30 PM and 5:00 PM contact Public Works Administration at (616) 940-4817. Evenings and weekends call the emergency number (616) 949-7010.

City staff will check the city sewer main in the street to make sure there is not a blockage in the City main. If the city main is clear, the blockage is located in the private sewer lateral and you will need to contact a private licensed plumber to clear the blockage. Sewer claims are subject to the City sewer backup policy and state law. A claim form may be requested by contacting the Finance Department at (616) 940-2110.

12. I'm having an issue with my sump pump. What can I do?

Sump pumps and foundation drainage systems are the responsibility of the homeowner. You should contact a licensed plumber for assistance.

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Public Works - Zoning & Planning Services

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1. Can I divide and sell a piece of my property?

This requires a land division approved by the City Commission, and must conform with the City's zoning ordinance. Applications are available from the Public Works Administration office.

2. What are zoning regulations?

These are codes which regulate what a property owner can do with their property, such as the size and location of a new home or a home addition. The city zoning regulations are available for review on the City's website.

3. How do I find out what my property is zoned?

You can find a zoning map on our website which gives zoning designations. Each property's zoning is also listed under the "Property Information" icon on the City's website home page.

4. What is a variance?

Improvements which do not comply with zoning regulations may sometimes be approved through a formal variance application. A public hearing is held and variances are only approved by the zoning board of appeals. Application forms and additional information can be obtained from the Public Works Administration office.

5. What is the difference between zoning codes and building codes?

Zoning codes regulate how a given section of land can be used and what type of structures can be built on a certain location. Zoning is used to govern how a building will function in its potential location within a zoning district. Building codes deal exclusively with the structures built on your lot. These codes work to ensure the safety and accessibility of your home or building according to the International Building Code also known as the International Residential Code IRC). These building codes establish a set of rules that are made to ensure the level of performance, quality of standards, and safety any structure must adhere to.