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Building a Stronger Kentwood
Together, We Shape the Future of Our City
Join Mayor Stephen Kepley’s campaign to keep Kentwood thriving. From safe neighborhoods to smart growth, your voice and involvement matter more than ever. Be part of a movement that values integrity, progress, and people-first leadership.
Want to make a real difference locally?
Ready to help Kentwood grow with purpose?
Believe in experienced, caring leadership?
Let’s work together for a better tomorrow.
Public Safety
I will ensure that our public safety services are maintained and sustainable while providing exceptional service.
Business, Employment, & Housing
I will continue to support Kentwood businesses and local job growth, and championing new housing starts, while marketing Kentwood as a place to invest.
Quality of Life
I will continue championing exceptional community events and leading our city’s master plan, with a focus on the new Community Center, infrastructure improvements, and protecting our parks from invasive species.
Schools, Youth & Neighborhoods
I will continue to use the powers of this office to build deeper relationships with our residents, schools, youth groups, neighborhood associations, and other community organizations bringing unity to our community through the bonds of love and understanding.
Why is Mayor Stephen Kepley still the right choice for your city?
Mayor Stephen Kepley has delivered proven results—retiring city debt early, securing a fully funded pension, and driving quality-of-life projects like trails, parks, infrastructure, and community events. His leadership on the city’s master plan and development of the new Community Center shows a clear vision for Kentwood’s future.
Beyond the numbers, Mayor Kepley leads with dedication, care, and service. He values a deep sense of personal responsibility to all his 56,000+ bosses. He has championed inclusion, worked full-time to serve all residents, and expanded Kentwood’s regional voice through key leadership roles. With a heart for service and a record of success, he’s the leader Kentwood still needs.
Strong Leader for Safety and Housing
Mayor Kepley has led the way to pursue new avenues for housing development while leading the charge to increase Police and Firefighter/EMS employees to serve our community.
Proven Fiscal Stewardship
Mayor Kepley paid off the library debt 10 years early, saving taxpayers $1.36 million, and helped secure a fully funded pension plan—making Kentwood one of only six cities in Michigan to achieve this.
Champion of Community Development
From the beloved July 4th celebration to food truck rallies and 5k races, Kepley has made community events a vehicle to unite the community, enhancing quality of life for all residents.
Strong Vision for Kentwood’s Future
He has led the city’s master plan initiatives, including new trail systems, parks, and the visionary development of the new Community Center and Covenant Park—a 109-acre gift to the city.
Strong Steward of Public Land and Resources
Kepley continues to protect and enhance Kentwood’s parks, including efforts to combat invasive species and preserve green space for future generations.
About the Mayor
Mayor Stephen Kepley has served as Kentwood’s Mayor and Head Administrator since 2013, bringing a heart for service and a head for solutions. Before stepping into the role of mayor, he spent 11 years as the city’s Director of Engineering and Inspections, and another 15 years in the private sector leading manufacturing design and construction projects. With a B.S. in Engineering from Virginia Tech and multiple state certifications, Mayor Kepley brings both practical experience and visionary leadership to everything he does.
What truly sets Mayor Kepley apart is his deep love for the people of Kentwood. He believes leadership is one’s character in action exhibiting excellent leadership qualities such as empathy and love, active listening, problem solving, and a drive to create a city where families and businesses thrive.
He is always working to amplify Kentwood’s voice and influence across West Michigan by serving on several key regional and state boards, including: Board of Trustees for the Michigan Municipal League, Chair and Vice-chair of The RAPID, Executive Committee member of the Grand Valley Metro Council, Vice Chair for Kent County’s Materials Management Planning Committee, EK High School’s YoungLife Committee, and President of the Kentwood Community Foundation.
Stephen and his wife Susan have been married for 30 years and live in Kentwood with two of their daughters, with the third married and living in West Michigan. Whether it’s mentoring, serving on any number of community groups, or walking the city’s parks, Mayor Kepley is deeply rooted in the life of the community he serves. His commitment is simple: lead with integrity, serve with love and compassion, and keep Kentwood moving forward.