A couple of weeks ago, I provided my annual State of the City to our community. For those who were not able to see it during the live stream on our Facebook page, you can click here to view it.

As we look back on the past year and ahead to the future, Walker continues to accelerate in ways that make our community stronger, safer, and more connected. This year’s State of the City highlighted five key pillars: Public Safety, Commercial and Industrial Development, Fiscal Stability, Housing Inventory, and Quality of Life. All of these guide our momentum.

Public Safety

Public safety remains Walker’s top priority. Over 43% of the City’s budget is dedicated to police and fire services, reinforcing our commitment to safety for residents, businesses, and visitors. Our Police Department has seen a 22% decline in Part 1 crimes, such as robbery and aggravated assault, over the past two years - contrasting with national trends. At the same time, new technology, including upgraded body cameras and a mobile command vehicle, enhances both transparency and preparedness. The Fire Department also made major strides with new leadership, bringing on additional full-time firefighters and expanding fire prevention efforts. Together, our first responders embody the proactive and community-centered approach that defines Walker.

Commercial and Industrial Development

Walker’s industrial and commercial growth continues at record pace, creating jobs and sustaining City services. Falk Panel, which opened in Walker in 2020, is undergoing its second major expansion, a testament to the City’s strong manufacturing climate. Visser Brothers has transformed the former DeltaPlex site with new industrial space and is building further to meet demand. At the south end, the Vista 45 project is set to bring more than 200 new housing units and mixed-use development to Standale. Each of these projects reflects years of planning, now accelerating into reality.

Fiscal Stability

Walker has managed growth without falling into the traps of short-term debt. By planning ahead, setting aside funds, and executing with discipline, the City has maintained a strong financial position while welcoming new businesses and creating jobs. This foundation allows Walker to invest confidently in infrastructure, housing, and community projects while protecting taxpayers. Fiscal strength ensures that acceleration is sustainable.

Housing Inventory 

A thriving city must ensure there are homes for families, workers, and retirees alike. With roughly 400 new housing units approved or pending, approximately 60% of which are multifamily and 40% single-family, Walker is balancing growth with community character. Guided by the 2024 Master Plan, the City continues to support smart, sustainable housing development so that new residents have choices while neighborhoods remain vibrant.



Quality of Life

Finally, quality of life is what turns growth into belonging. From infrastructure improvements, like the Fruitridge Bridge, to community projects such as Eagle Scout-led initiatives, investments — big and small — strengthen daily life. The new Walker library is rising quickly, set to open next fall as a community hub. Meanwhile, discussions about a possible West Michigan Aquarium highlight the regional potential for transformational projects. Together, these initiatives ensure that Walker is not just growing, but thriving.

As we accelerate into the future, these five pillars continue to guide us toward a stronger, safer, and more connected Walker.



Thank you for making the choice to call Walker home.

Mayor Gary L. Carey, Jr.

Calling All Young Leaders!

Applications are now open for the Mayor’s Youth Academy! We’re seeking motivated high school juniors and seniors who want to make a real impact in our community.

As part of this advisory committee, you’ll:

• Engage with local leaders
• Gain insight into how your city operates
• Collaborate on solutions for your community



Meetings run once a month from October to May:

• First meeting: Tuesday, October 21 | 6–7:30 PM
• Following meetings: 3rd Tuesday each month | 6–7:30 PM

Requirements:

• High school junior or senior
• Walker resident

Applications are due October 14. ➡️ Apply Now

New Look, Better Usability

We are excited to debut a fresh look for our City website, now featuring improved functionality for users! When you visit www.walker.city, you will notice that the drop-down menus have been transformed into mega menus, making it easier to find the department or service you need. We have also added more quick-link options for many of the most frequently searched items on our website. Additionally, the news section now features a feed from our Facebook page, enabling you to stay up-to-date with our recent posts. These same enhancements can also be found at www.walkericeandfitness.com. While we may have a few kinks to work out with the transition, let us know what you think!

Important Dates

October 1-20: City of Walker Haunted Home & Yard Decorating Contest

October 4: Pumpkin Bash

October 25: Skary Skate @ Walker Ice & Fitness

Pumpkin Bash New Location

While construction on the new Walker Library is underway, we’re “carving out” a new location for Pumpkin Bash at Walker Community Park, a spot already known for hosting our summer concerts. The event will also take place at a new time this year, on Saturday, October 4, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. From treats to seasonal activities, Pumpkin Bash remains a “boo-tiful” way to celebrate autumn and the upcoming Halloween season with the community, just in a different pumpkin patch this year. Here is the map of the event.

The Made in Walker podcast features a 15-20 minute discussion with local business owners, elected officials, Walker City staff, and other community members. New episodes debut every other week. Listen to them on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you download your podcasts. You can also watch them on the City's YouTube page.

Clerk's Office Updates

Income Tax Department Updates

Due Dates

Fourth quarter estimated payments for calendar year 2025 are due February 2, 2026. Forms are available on our website.

Please be aware that failing to make necessary quarterly estimated payments or making insufficient payments may lead to an assessment.

Forgotten Returns

If you have past years of Walker returns that you have forgotten to file, contact the tax department immediately at (616) 791-6880. If you file prior year returns and pay the tax and interest due, you may request a waiver of penalty. If the tax department contacts you first regarding unfiled returns, you will not be eligible for a waiver of penalty. We are electronically matching State of Michigan returns filed from a Walker resident address with Walker returns filed. If you have forgotten to file Walker returns from prior years, now is the time to get that cleared up before the letters go out from this matching program.

Questions?

If you are not sure if you need to file Walker Income Tax returns, the most common questions are answered on our website. You can also call us at (616) 791-6880.

Public Works & Engineering Updates

Police Department Updates

Walker PD can’t wait to see all the creative costumes at this year’s trick-or-treat events! Make sure costumes fit properly to help prevent trips and falls. Before heading out, take a few minutes at home to talk with your trick-or-treaters about staying on sidewalks, crossing safely at intersections, and keeping safety top of mind.

Finally, if you joined us for any of the Special Olympics (SOMI) fundraisers in September, THANK YOU! We were able to raise several hundred dollars for SOMI athletes!

Fire Department Updates

This year’s Fire Prevention Week™ (FPW™) campaign, October 5-11, “Charge into Fire Safety™: Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home,” works to educate everyone about using these batteries safely. The campaign stresses how important it is to BUY, CHARGE, and RECYCLE safely when it comes to lithium-ion batteries.

Buy only listed products: When buying a product that uses a lithium-ion battery, look for a safety certification mark such as UL, ETL, or CSA. This means it meets important safety standards.

Charge devices safely: Always use the cords that came with the product to charge. Follow the instructions from the manufacturer. Buy new chargers from the manufacturer or one that the manufacturer has approved. Charge your device on a hard surface. Don’t overcharge your device. Unplug it or remove the battery when it’s fully charged. 

Recycle batteries responsibly: Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or regular recycling bins because they could start a fire. Recycle your device or battery at a safe battery recycling location. Visit call2recycle.org to find a recycling spot near you. 

While the library is being remodeled and expanded, we have moved to a temporary location in Standale Plaza. Some programs will be held in the Community Room at Walker Fire Station 2 and Walker Community Park. Here is a selection of fun-filled fall events for September. For more info on programs, click here.

Coffee: Roasts, Types and Flavors

Wednesday, October 08, 6:30 PM–7:30 PM

This event will be held at Walker Fire Dept. Station 2, 4101 Lake Michigan Dr NW

Click here for more info.

Meet Your Community Helpers!

Monday, October 13, 10:00 AM–11:00 AM

Enjoy a storytime with firefighters from the Walker Fire Department and tour the fire department!

This event will be held at Walker Fire Dept. Station 2, 4101 Lake Michigan Dr NW

Click here for more info.

KDL Lab Experience: Light Up Your World

Tuesday, October 14, 2:00 PM–3:00PM

This event will be held at Walker Fire Dept. Station 2, 4101 Lake Michigan Dr NW

Click here for more info.

Legendary Readers is a simple and fun reading program designed to help children develop a lifetime love of reading and learning. Participants in grades K-5 are asked to read, write or visit the library for 100 days throughout the school year, outside of the classroom. Find out more here.