Transparency down to the penny
Ensuring every government expense is open to the public to see
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6+ yrs
On the job experience as your current elected City Comptroller
$1+ billion
Itemized government expenses published for the public to see
1
The only candidate endorsed by GR's former City Comptrollers
5+ Awards
To the city for achievements and excellence in financial reporting
WHO IS MAX FRANTZ
EXPERIENCE THAT DELIVERS.
A VISION BUILT ON INTEGRITY.
Max Frantz has served Grand Rapids as City Comptroller since 2019. During his tenure, he has transformed and simplified the City's financial reports to help the public better understand the City's financial health. Max has further helped modernize government processes so businesses and community organizations can receive the money they are owed by the City faster and more efficiently. Max believes that an unwavering commitment to following our City Charter is crucial to Grand Rapids' future and maintaining the public's trust in their government.
Born in Grand Rapids and now a resident of the Third Ward, Max studied finance at Grand Valley State University before building an extensive private-sector career spanning corporate finance, risk management, treasury, financial reporting and customer service. This experience has enabled him to bring fresh perspectives, proven practices, and a results-oriented approach to local government.
Today, Max is actively working to protect Grand Rapids taxpayers and preserve the independence of the Comptroller's Office. He has taken action to challenge efforts by unelected city officials to diminish the Comptroller's Office and dismantle the voter-approved financial safeguards enshrined in the Grand Rapids City Charter. Max remains committed to serving as your City Comptroller — championing values of integrity and transparency throughout City Hall.
THE PRIORITIES
Protecting Grand Rapids taxpayers
Standing up for voter approved checks and balances in our local government
Championing our City Charter
A commitment to following our City Charter preserves integrity, accountability, and public trust.
PRESS & VIDEO
IN THE NEWS
- Press
Commentary: Grand Rapids must reclaim checks and balances in government
Grand Rapids City Comptroller Max Frantz says unelected city officials transferred duties of the office under the city manager without a public vote.
Crain's Grand Rapids Business · June 30, 2026
- Press
Who watches Grand Rapids City Hall if the watchdog is muzzled?
After the Comptroller flagged questionable spending at City Hall, the officials he reviews cut his staff from 16 to three and slashed his budget by nearly 80%.
Mackinac Center for Public Policy · June 9, 2026
- Press
Grand Rapids stripped comptroller's authority after he questioned spending, lawsuit says
Court denies early motion in the Grand Rapids comptroller lawsuit as Frantz fights the transfer of 13 employees and $1.3 million out of his office.
Michigan Capitol Confidential · March 23, 2026
- Press
GR comptroller sues the city, alleging 'usurping' of duties, staff
The comptroller's office budget was cut more than 78% while the city manager's office grew by nearly $9 million over the same period.
WOOD TV 8 · January 5, 2026
- Press
5 things to know about city's elected watchdog suing Grand Rapids leaders
A plain-language breakdown of the comptroller's office, why it was restructured, and what Frantz is asking the court to do.
MLive / The Grand Rapids Press · January 7, 2026
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