Meet Monica Sparks
I’m Monica Sparks, and I’m running for Mayor of Kentwood because I love this city and I believe in the power of people working together. I’m a mom, a cancer survivor, a small business owner, and a proud public servant. For the past four terms, I’ve served as your Kent County Commissioner, where I’ve worked hard to make government more responsive, more inclusive, and more compassionate.
I know what it’s like to struggle and rise again. I’ve built businesses, supported families through tough times, and stood up for what’s right even when it wasn’t easy. I believe leadership isn’t about titles it’s about service. That’s why I lead with my feet, not just my voice.
Through my S.P.A.R.K.S. Plan, I’m ready to bring real change to Kentwood focusing on safety, partnerships, advocacy, resources, knowledge, and servant leadership. Whether it’s helping small businesses grow, making housing more accessible, or giving our kids better opportunities I’m all in.
This campaign isn’t about politics. It’s about people. It’s about you. And together, I know we can build a city that works for everyone.
Let’s spark something great in Kentwood together.
Monica Sparks
Plan of Action
1
S – SAFETY
- Support mental health officers and community based safety programs
- Expand neighborhood watch partnerships and public safety forums
- Ensure first responders have the tools and training to serve effectively
2
P – PARTNERSHIP
- Launch the Mayor’s Youth Council, Cultural Council, and Community Impact Initiative to connect residents directly with City Hall
- Build strategic alliances to expand higher education and workforce development in Kentwood
- Partner with Kent County to launch a community wide recycling education campaign
3
A – ADVOCACY
- Introduce the Kentwood Housing for All Initiative for seniors, families, and young professionals
- Promote small business growth through the Kentwood Business Launchpad, Small Business Concierge, and Commercial Revitalization Grants
- Champion Kentwood: Green & Clean Protect. Preserve. Prosper., a sustainability platform creating green jobs, preserving wetlands, and improving public health
4
R – RESOURCES
- Bring a College Extension Campus and Skilled Trades & Innovation Center to Kentwood
- Improve senior mobility, wellness, and housing through Kentwood for All Ages
- Invest in parks, transit, and infrastructure that connect neighborhoods and promote wellness
5
K – KNOWLEDGE
- Host public forums and listening sessions to keep residents informed and involved
- Expand digital communication, access to data, and multilingual outreach
- Support civic learning through student engagement and environmental education programs
6
S – SERVANT LEADERSHIP
- Empower and uplift city employees through Team Kentwood: Thriving & Serving Community Together, focusing on mental health, job security, and workplace well being
- Make space for every voice at the table, from youth to seniors
- Govern by values that reflect the heart and diversity of Kentwood
