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Hi Neighbor,

As our community continues to experience dangerous heat waves, I encourage you to take advantage of cooling centers in Kent County, and to be mindful of limiting time outdoors during extreme temperatures to keep you and your loved ones safe.

This will be my last e-newsletter until after Aug. 4, due to members of the Michigan House of Representatives being prohibited from using state resources for mass communication from July 6-Aug. 4. While we will not be able to send out e-newsletters during that time, our constituent services remain strong and you can reach out to our office using the contact information below if you have any questions.

Read on to learn about my upcoming office hours, legislative updates about the state budget process, cooling center resources and more.

I am honored to represent and advocate for our community in Lansing. Please feel free to go to my website at RepFitzgerald.com to stay up to date on our work. You can also email at [email protected] or call at 517-373-0835 to voice your opinion, ask a question or express a concern. My dedicated staff and I are here to support you and answer any questions you may have.

 

In service,

John Fitzgerald

State Representative

Minority Floor Leader

House District 83

 

In this edition:

  • Office Hours
  • Legislative Updates
  • Community Updates & Resources

Office Hours

 

A graphic featuring a headshot of Michigan State Representative John Fitzgerald for his office hours every 2nd and 4th Monday of the Month from 10 to 11:30 AM at Wyoming City Hall, 1155 28th Street SouthWest.

 

I hold office hours twice a month to hear your thoughts, questions and concerns. This is a great opportunity to meet with me in person to discuss the issues that affect our community. No appointment is necessary, but you are welcome to call ahead if you would like to schedule a specific time or a meeting outside of regular office hours. I look forward to meeting with you!

When: Every 2nd and 4th Monday of the month from 10-11:30 a.m.

Where: Wyoming City Hall, 115 28th St. SW.

 

Legislative Updates

 

Up Next This Week: State Budget for Fiscal Year 2027

One of the most important legislative tasks I have as your state representative is helping to negotiate and pass our state’s budget. This is how we fund everything our state does, from our schools and libraries to our hospitals and fire departments to our roads and bridges. It is absolutely vital that we get a budget done by July 1 because that is when most school districts start their fiscal years.

As we come down to the wire on this budget process, I encourage you to look to my Facebook and website pages to find updates. I am committed to standing up for the funding and programs that matter to our community, including continuing universal school meals, funding Medicaid and childcare support, strengthening public safety and investing in family businesses.

 

Community Updates & Resources

 

An infographic from State Representative John Fitzgerald for how his office can assist you. Next to an image of the Michigan State Capitol Building, options for how Representative Fitzgerald's office an assist you include: Navigating state agencies, hearing your concerns and listening to suggestions for issues in our community, answering questions and addressing concerns about state level legislation, advocating for policies that address the needs of our communities, presenting tributes and certificates to community members, teachers and small businesses, and hosting students and groups who visit and tour Michigan's Capitol.

 

Cooling Centers

Summer temperatures are on the rise and we’re likely to see more heat waves over the coming months. I wanted to share some information about the cooling center locations that you can access in Kent County if you need help beating the heat.

Find your closest cooling center here: Cooling Centers in Kent County – Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness.

 

Visiting the New Rapid Central Station Early Childhood Center

 

 

For many families, finding affordable and reliable childcare is one of the biggest challenges they face. That’s why the new YMCA-operated Rapid Central Station Early Childhood Center is such an exciting addition to our community. The center will expand access to high-quality childcare and early learning opportunities. Located within The Rapid’s central transit station, it brings childcare and transportation together in one place for families.

Last week, I had the opportunity to visit the facility. It was great to celebrate this milestone and the partnerships that made it possible.

 

Celebrating the Expansion of Rx Kids in the 19507 Neighborhood

Every family deserves a strong start. Rx Kids provides direct financial assistance to new and expecting mothers, helping families navigate the costs that come with welcoming a child. Programs like this can make a meaningful difference during some of the most important times in a family’s life.

 

Suggest a Tribute to Honor a Community Member or Accomplishment

Do you know anyone celebrating a milestone birthday or retirement? What about an anniversary of a homegrown business, an athletic accomplishment or exceptional academic performance? A great way to celebrate the immense work of people in our community is to submit a suggestion for a tribute certificate from my office. This is a high honor to receive, and I look forward to hearing about all the great things happening in our community!

Click here to suggest a tribute.

I look forward to recognizing the great achievements of our community!