Grand Rapids City Commissioners interviewed three finalists; Bing Goei was the unanimous choice. Goei’s business and administrative background as former director of the Michigan Office for New Americans was appealing.
Third Ward Commissioner Kelsey Perdue made a motion for Goei.
“When I think about who I want to serve with for the next 10 months, someone who is familiar with city work, someone who understands a link to public policy issues.”
Perdue has maintained Third Ward official business since precinct colleague, Commissioner Reverend Nathanial Moody, stepped down at the end of 2023. Goei will serve out his term.
Goei is the first Asian American to serve on the Grand Rapids City Commission. The 75-year-old owns Eastern Floral and the Goei Center.
Mayor Roselyn Bliss supported the appointment citing she has known Goei for more than two decades.
“And during that time, I have been able to see his real heart for service, but also his broad experience both in the private sector and the public sector. He has a proven track record in our community.”
Third Ward residents will have the opportunity to cast their vote in the August Primary and November election. Commissioners serve a four-year term.
