Jim Talen

Jim Talen

Jim Talen graduated from Calvin College with majors in Philosophy and Elementary Education. He has worked as a sanitation engineer, third grade teacher, home repair technician, human service agency administrator, school technology coordinator, database manager and adjunct professor. Jim currently works for the Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness and is in his ninth two-year term as a Kent County Commissioner, representing part of Grand Rapids, Michigan. He serves on the boards of the Grand Rapids Downtown Development Authority and network180, a local mental health oversight agency. As part of his County Commission work, Jim writes a weekly e-mail update that attempts to inform citizens and stimulate dialogue about local issues.

Jim and his wife, Pat, have lived on the edge of downtown Grand Rapids for over 40 years and have three adult children and two grandchildren. In his spare time, Jim likes to brew and share craft beer.