Commissioner Bing Goei's Goals

In my 64 years of living in the City of Grand Rapids, I have seen the City respond with candor and commitment to many challenges and have made Grand Rapids a great city for MOST of its residents. My goals are as follows:

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Reduce Poverty

It must be unacceptable that the poverty rate in Grand Rapids stands at 18.6% while Michigan's poverty rate is at 13.1% and our nation's poverty rate is at 12.8%. Data will show that reducing poverty will result in:

• Healthier and more successful children.

• Stronger families experiencing fewer stress related incidents.

• Stronger and more vibrant neighborhoods.

• Reduced pressure on our healthcare systems.

• Greater hope for attaining upward mobility.

• Fewer people experiencing homelessness.

• Reduced racism.

• Increased quality of life for every resident in Grand Rapids

• Increased resources available to support our vulnerable population.

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Talent Attraction and Retention

 

To accomplish the goal of reducing poverty,
Grand Rapids must continue to grow and strengthen its global economy and commit to strengthening and growing its small businesses. We know that small businesses are the greatest resources for new employment.

 

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, small businesses have created 63% of all new jobs between 1995 and 2021.  

 

We are seeing Grand Rapids grow in its knowledge-based economy. For Grand Rapids to maintain its competitive edge, Grand Rapids must support local families and encourage diverse talent to choose Grand Rapids. That was my job as Executive Director of the Michigan Office for New Americans (a gubernatorial appointment): attract even more talent to our state.

 

Leadership and Relationships

 

I will commit to working with City leaders and community leaders to establish and implement strategies that will encourage our recruits to say "YES" to Grand Rapids! I will work with organizations who are committed to meeting the needs of our underserved and underrepresented population. As a Commissioner for the Third Ward, I appreciate the fact that the City has made intentional efforts to bring resources to us. But much more must be done to overcome the lack of investments experienced by residents in previous years. I am confident that we will be able to do so and to do so with a sense of urgency.

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