Monica Sparks

nonpartisan

Kent County Commissioner (4 terms) Real Estate Broker, Small Business Owner

I love to advocate for others! I am a servant leader who believes in a people centered leadership style!

One and four people live with a mental health issue. The residence deserve positive mental health outcomes, and resources to live a quality life. I will prioritize partnerships, establish partnerships with organizations, and our municipality to ensure people feel supported getting help. They need and know where the resources are.

My S.P.A.R.K.S. approach ensures that small businesses and entrepreneurs have the resources, policies, and advocacy needed to thrive in Kentwood. Small businesses are the hub and lifeline of our economy. It is imperative to support small business! To strengthen the S.P.A.R.K.S. campaign’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and small businesses, we can expand on the Partnership (P) and Advocacy (A) pillars while integrating elements across the plan: Supporting Entrepreneurship & Small Businesses Through S.P.A.R.K.S. S – Safety: • Hire mental health safety officers. •Ensure small business districts are well-lit, secure, and supported by community policing to prevent crime and vandalism. • Work with first responders to create emergency preparedness plans tailored for local businesses. P – Partnership: • Establish a Small Business Advisory Council to provide direct input on city policies. • Strengthen partnerships with local chambers of commerce, business incubators, and financial institutions to expand access to funding and resources. • Create public-private collaborations that support small business grants, shared workspaces, and mentorship programs. A – Advocacy: • Streamline permitting and licensing processes to reduce bureaucratic hurdles for new businesses. • Advocate for affordable commercial spaces and revitalization efforts to prevent displacement of small businesses. • Push for policies that incentivize local hiring, business growth, and equitable economic opportunities. R – Resources: • Expand small business support services, such as free workshops on marketing, digital tools, and financial literacy. • Promote access to low-interest microloans and grants for startups and small businesses. • Improve infrastructure in business corridors, including better roads, parking, and public transit options. K – Knowledge: • Provide a business mentorship and education series featuring successful local entrepreneurs and industry experts. • Keep business owners informed on available grants, tax incentives, and city initiatives that support economic growth. • Increase transparency on local government contracts and procurement opportunities for small businesses. S – Servant Leadership: • Lead with a pro-business approach that prioritizes small enterprises alongside larger economic development projects. • Hold regular town halls and business roundtables to listen to entrepreneurs’ needs and ensure policies reflect their realities. • Champion initiatives that make Kentwood a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic growth.