Urbanowski Launches Kentwood Mayoral Campaign

KENTWOOD — Scott Urbanowski, a digital media company owner who first moved to Kentwood in 1988, announced on Tuesday that he is running for Mayor of Kentwood in this year’s election. Urbanowski filed the necessary petitions and paperwork shortly before noon on Tuesday.

“I’ve gone to school, worshipped, worked, and started a digital communications business here,” Urbanowski in a statement posted on social media. “I am eager to help ensure that Kentwood begins its second half-century in solid shape,” he added in reference to Kentwood’s 50th anniversary.

Urbanowski graduated from East Kentwood High School before earning his degree in political science with a leadership minor from Central Michigan University. Just weeks after he graduated, he was unanimously elected to lead West Michigan’s largest council of the Knights of Columbus, a Catholic family service organization. Under his leadership, the council greatly increased its charitable support while still balancing its budget during the midst of the worst recession since the 1930s.

As owner of Humanoid Digital, Urbanowski assists clients with search engine optimization (SEO), social media management, content, analytics, and digital advertising. He has also worked in a number of customer-service and hospitality positions, which have enhanced his ability to serve Kentwood’s growing, diverse population. Urbanowski serves on the public relations committee for Grand Rapids Young Professionals and has also been involved with Local First, the West Michigan Environmental Action Council, and Relay for Life.

A 2015 Census Bureau estimate lists Kentwood’s population at 51,357 — a more than 5% increase since 2010. The most recent Census data shows that Non-Hispanic whites make up approximately 70% of the city’s population in 2010, compared with 83% in Kent County and 80% in Michigan. Kentwood is home to many refugees and immigrants from Asia, Africa, the Balkans, and elsewhere, along with their families.