Equity PAC Endorses Longtime Community Advocate Kurt Reppart for GR City Commission in Ward 1
Equity PAC, a political organization working to increase the number of equitable officials, policies, and practices in West Michigan, proudly announced their endorsement of Kurt Reppart for the Grand Rapids City Commission election in the First Ward. They believe his longstanding commitment as a community leader in Grand Rapids’ west side, and his strong grasp over a wide variety of issues make him the best candidate to support those who’ve been left out and left behind in the city.
“Kurt’s experience in the community is unmatched in this election, and our members responded to that,” said Jeremy Moore, Equity PAC Co-Chair. “If elected we believe he will be an advocate for economic fairness, housing that is affordable for working families, and stronger opportunities for residents who are still struggling in Grand Rapids.”
Reppart is the executive director of The Other Way Ministries, a community development organization focused on Grand Rapids’ west side. Their work includes education and health supports, civic engagement, and English as a second language assistance. As a candidate, he has spoken up for his neighbors who feel anxious about the skyrocketing cost of housing, despite stagnant wages, and feel their voices are not being heard in government.
EquityPAC has a multi-step endorsement process. Candidates initially respond to a questionnaire that focuses on key issue areas related to equity and that matter to the organization’s membership. Those whose responses are considered strong on equity by the board of directors are brought to the full membership for a public dialogue. The board bases their final decision to endorse on a candidate’s responses on key issues, the membership’s feedback on a candidate, and other items related to their candidacy.
At EquityPAC’s June 26 endorsement meeting, candidate Christine Mullan was also brought before membership. Members felt she brought a unique perspective on immigration and civic engagement, but the broad consensus was Kurt’s longstanding commitment to the area and grasp of a wide variety of issues facing Grand Rapids made him the best candidate. Catherine Mish did not respond to the questionnaire and was not considered.
“Kurt is a leader on the Westside and understands what First Ward residents need: new economic opportunities, a strong quality of life for everyone, and a listening ear on the city commission.”
###
About Equity PAC: Equity PAC formed in March of 2016 as an independent political action committee under the Michigan Campaign Finance Act (PA 388 of 1976). Their mission is to advance the number of equity-minded policies, practices and officials in Michigan. Equity PAC leverages both money and time to support candidates, with over 1000 hours of volunteer time committed by members to support Equity PAC endorsed candidates this year. Learn more at www.equitypacmi.com
Originally published July 6, 2017
