Grand Rapids, Michigan Public Records

The state offers Election Day registration, permitting eligible citizens to register and vote simultaneously at their clerk's office or polling place with proof of residency. Mail registration applications must be postmarked at least 15 days before an election. Acceptable identification includes a Michigan driver's license, state ID, student ID from a Michigan high school or college, tribal ID, or current utility bill showing name and address. The city holds municipal elections in odd-numbered years. Candidates and local ballot proposals for city races appear on the City Clerk's website at www.grandrapidsmi.gov/Government/Departments/City-Clerk-s-Office. Residents can locate their assigned polling place through the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.michigan.gov/vote by entering their address, or by contacting the Kent County Clerk. Michigan public election records include voter registration files (available for purchase by qualified requestors under MCL 168.522-523), campaign finance reports searchable at www.michigan.S. Local ballot proposals for city millages or charter amendments may also appear. Michigan voters can request absentee ballots (now called "mail-in ballots" under Michigan's expanded voting laws) without providing a reason - any registered voter may request one. Applications are available at www.michigan.gov/vote, through the Kent County Clerk, or from the Grand Rapids City Clerk at 300 Monroe Avenue NW (phone: 616-456-3010). Absentee ballot applications must be received by 5:00 PM the Friday before the election, though voters can request and submit an absentee ballot in person at the clerk's office through 8:00 PM on Election Day.