GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – The city of Grand Rapids has budgeted to spend $1.59 million on travel expenses to conferences in 2024-25.

That’s according to documents the city posted on its website and was presented to the City Commission during a recent meeting.

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The city has budgeted conference travel expenses for all but a few of its 46 departments and employed about 1,790 employees as of 2024.

The police had the largest amount allocated for travel to conferences at $479,860 followed by the fire department ($165,170), Environmental Services ($147,570), and Community Development Services ($140,034).

A city spokesman said the budgets cover both conferences and training.

“Governmental Excellence and Customer Service are two of six priorities in the City of Grand Rapids’ strategic plan. Providing respectful, high-quality service and assistance before, during and after the person’s interactions with the City is rooted in our mission to elevate the quality of life in Grand Rapids,” the city stated in an email to Michigan News Source. “Attending conferences is a vital part of achieving these two priorities. These events are crucial training and networking opportunities to interact with industry experts and thought leaders. The practical skills and knowledge gained at these training events increase productivity and proficiency and help the City achieve its priorities to serve its constituents.”