City of Kalamazoo - January 26, 2026 Kalamazoo City Commission

Updated about 18 hours ago

Gavel to gavel coverage of the Social Justice Youth Awards followed by the January 26, 2026 Regular Business Meeting of the Kalamazoo City Commission from Kalamazoo City Hall. The commission hears public comment and holds a public hearing on a property zoning near Asylum Lake.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:01:17)
The meeting is called to order by Mayor Anderson, and Clerk Barley conducts the roll call of commissioners.

Mayor Anderson calls the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting to order. Clerk Barley conducts the roll call, confirming the presence of Commissioner Paal, Commissioner Slaby, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:02:06)
Reverend David Zomer leads the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the assembly.

Reverend David Zomer from the Bethany Reform Church provides an invocation, asking for blessings on the meeting and the community. The assembly then stands for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States.
Social Justice Youth Awards Presentation (00:03:43)
The city recognizes outstanding young residents with Social Justice Youth Awards, highlighting their contributions to the community.

Several awards are presented to young residents who have made significant impacts in their communities. Various organizations sponsor the awards, including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Consumers Energy, Douglas Community Association, Fifth Third Bank, and others. Notable recipients include Char Atkinson, Dontre Hemphill Jr., Kiwan Green Hempfield, Yadira Sandoval, and others. Each award recipient is introduced, and their contributions are highlighted, emphasizing their leadership, community service, and advocacy for social justice.
Recognition of Social Justice Award Recipients (00:40:02)
Hosanna Andy Kuana receives the Dr. Lewis Walker Social Justice Youth Award for her leadership and service in Kalamazoo.

The meeting celebrated the achievements of Hosanna Andy Kuana, who was recognized for her leadership and dedication to social justice, embodying qualities of empathy and initiative, akin to Martin Luther King Jr. Her work includes organizing fundraising events, preparing meals for the homeless, and creating blankets for hospitalized children. This award acknowledges her contributions to uplifting diversity and supporting underrepresented students.
NAACP Membership Award Presentation (00:45:02)
Youth recipients of social justice awards are given NAACP memberships, emphasizing the importance of civil rights.

Dr. Harvey Myers from the NAACP spoke about the significance of the awards and the one-year membership to the Kalamazoo NAACP branch given to each youth recipient. The NAACP, as a longstanding civil rights organization, congratulates the youth for their work in social justice and invites them to participate in the organization's activities.
Proclamation for Northside Ministerial Alliance (01:15:17)
A proclamation is presented to the Northside Ministerial Alliance for their contributions to social justice and community unity.

The city presented a proclamation to the Northside Ministerial Alliance (NMA) in recognition of their 50 years of service. The NMA has been instrumental in addressing social issues such as poverty, racism, and injustice, and fostering community unity through various initiatives. The proclamation highlighted the NMA's role in leading change and strengthening community ties in Kalamazoo.
Public Comment on Rezoning and Community Issues (01:15:59)
Community members express concerns about rezoning, environmental issues, and the impact of surveillance technologies.

During the public comment period, residents voiced opposition to the rezoning for a new car wash, citing environmental concerns and the need to preserve green spaces. Other comments focused on issues of flooding and the impact of surveillance technologies, such as flock cameras, on civil liberties. Residents urged the city to take proactive measures against ICE activities and to protect community members from surveillance and deportation.
Public Comments on Surveillance and Policing (01:38:15)
Community members express concerns over surveillance technology, demand removal of cameras, and call for reallocating funds to community services.

Multiple speakers from the community raised concerns about the use of surveillance technology in the city. They demanded the immediate removal of surveillance cameras and called for a public audit of data sharing agreements. There was a strong sentiment that the funds used for such technologies should be reallocated towards critical community services to better serve the needs of the residents.
Public Comments on Housing and Economic Challenges (01:46:02)
Speakers address housing crisis, economic inequality, and call for action against ICE and better city leadership.

Several community members spoke about the urgent need to address the housing crisis and the economic challenges facing the city. They criticized the local government's response, urging them to take immediate action to support the unhoused and to stand against federal immigration enforcement (ICE). Speakers emphasized that the current leadership is not doing enough and called for new leadership that prioritizes the needs of the community.
Public Comments on Environmental and Social Justice (01:47:45)
Residents demand action on environmental justice, oppose rezoning, and highlight social justice issues.

The discussion continued with calls for environmental justice, including preserving green spaces and opposing harmful rezoning plans like the one at Asylum Lake. Speakers linked these local issues to broader social justice concerns, including systemic racism and the need for the city to divest from surveillance technologies that threaten community safety.
Public Comments on Mental Health and Community Safety (01:49:42)
Community members highlight mental health issues, criticize local government response, and demand community-focused safety measures.

Speakers addressed the mental health crisis exacerbated by inadequate housing and economic conditions. They criticized the local government's response to these issues and demanded that community safety measures be prioritized. The community called for transparency and accountability in how resources are allocated, emphasizing the need for the city to support its most vulnerable residents.
Public Comments on Leadership and Accountability (01:52:00)
Speakers call for city leaders to take responsibility and act on community demands for safety and support.

Community members expressed frustration with the current city leadership, calling for them to take responsibility and act on the demands of the community for increased safety and support. The sentiment was that the leadership needs to prioritize the needs of the residents over financial interests and to be more transparent and accountable in their actions.
Public Comments on Historical and Cultural Context (01:55:01)
Speakers provide historical context to current issues, linking them to systemic oppression and calling for decolonization.

Several speakers provided historical and cultural context to the ongoing issues, linking them to systemic oppression and the legacy of colonialism. They called for decolonization and a shift in priorities towards equity and justice for all community members, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Public Comments on Climate and Environmental Responsibility (01:59:00)
Community demands environmental responsibility, opposes harmful development, and calls for investment in green spaces.

The community expressed a strong desire for environmental responsibility, opposing developments that harm green spaces and calling for more investment in preserving these areas. They emphasized the importance of green spaces for community well-being and ecological health, urging the city to take action to protect them.
Public Comments on Economic Priorities and Equity (02:03:01)
Speakers criticize economic priorities, demand equity in resource allocation, and highlight systemic injustices.

Community members criticized the current economic priorities of the city, demanding more equitable resource allocation that addresses systemic injustices. They highlighted the need for policies that support all residents, rather than catering to corporate interests, and called for a re-evaluation of how city resources are used.
Public Comments on Community and Solidarity (02:07:01)
Speakers emphasize community and solidarity, urging collective action for justice and equity.

The meeting concluded with speakers emphasizing the importance of community and solidarity in facing the challenges ahead. They urged collective action to achieve justice and equity, highlighting the power of the community to bring about change.
Public Comments (02:11:13)
Numerous residents express concerns about ICE, surveillance, and rezoning. Calls for action against ICE cooperation and preserving green spaces dominate the session.

The public comment section of the meeting was marked by a series of passionate speeches from residents of Kalamazoo. Many individuals spoke about their fears and objections regarding the cooperation of local law enforcement with ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement). Speakers expressed their worries over the use of surveillance technologies such as cameras that could aid ICE in tracking individuals. There was a strong demand for the city to refuse cooperation with ICE and to protect vulnerable community members. Additionally, concerns were raised about the proposed rezoning near Asylum Lake Preserve, which residents argued would lead to environmental degradation and unnecessary development, such as the construction of new car washes. The speakers conveyed a strong sense of urgency and a desire for the city leaders to act in accordance with the community's wishes to protect both people and the environment.
Public Comments (02:46:08)
Citizens expressed concerns about ICE, homelessness, and the rezoning of Asylum Lake, highlighting community distress and civic duty.

Multiple citizens took the opportunity to speak during the public comments session. A recurring theme was the presence of ICE and the fear it instills in immigrant communities. Concerns about the increasing number of homeless individuals in the area were also raised, with calls for the city to take responsibility and provide shelter, especially for those with pets. There was significant opposition to the rezoning of land near Asylum Lake, with speakers urging the commission to preserve green spaces rather than allowing commercial development. The discussion was emotionally charged, with references to past protests and demands for action from city officials.
Consent Agenda (03:08:03)
Approval of various contracts, resolutions, and reappointments, including water systems improvements and polling facilities designation.

The consent agenda included several items for approval. Notable items were the approval of contracts for water systems corrosion control and water filters, adoption of a resolution designating polling facilities for the city's voting precincts, and reappointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. The commission moved to approve items one through nine, and the motion passed with unanimous support from all commissioners present.
Public Hearing on Rezoning Request (03:11:15)
Discussion on rezoning land near Asylum Lake from residential to community commercial, highlighting competing land uses and environmental concerns.

The meeting proceeded to a public hearing on a contentious rezoning request. The request was to change the zoning of land near Asylum Lake from residential single-family to community commercial. The assistant city planner presented the context, showing the area's current residential zoning and the implications of changing it to community commercial, which would allow for a broader range of commercial uses and mixed-use developments. The presentation emphasized the site's proximity to natural features and the competing interests of development versus preservation of green space. The public hearing was a platform for both the city's presentation and continued public input.
Rezoning Process Overview (03:35:54)
The rezoning process involves notices, public participation, and hearings. The City Commission is at the final stage to vote on rezoning.

The meeting discussed the rezoning process, starting with notices before the planning commission meeting, public participation, and the current public hearing for the City Commission's vote. The process also involved an informational meeting and a recommendation from the planning commission not to rezone the property.
Rezoning Criteria and Staff Report (03:49:00)
Five criteria are used to evaluate rezoning, including consistency with the master plan and community need. Staff recommends CC zoning with NFP overlay.

Five criteria from the zoning ordinance are used to evaluate rezoning: consistency with the master plan, changed conditions, community need, compatibility with surrounding uses, and logical development pattern. Staff's report supports CC zoning with NFP overlay to balance development and natural features.
Applicant's Presentation (03:49:00)
The applicant seeks rezoning to CC with NFP overlay, citing no demand for residential use. The focus is on exploring commercial opportunities.

The applicant, representing the landowner, clarified the rezoning request is not for a specific development like a car wash but to allow a mix of uses. They emphasized there is no demand for residential development on the property and highlighted the potential for commercial use consistent with the master plan.
Commissioner's Questions and Discussion (03:57:00)
Commissioners raised concerns about NFP feasibility, existing vacancies, and transitional zoning. Discussion on development impacts and enforcement.

Commissioners asked about the feasibility of developing with NFP overlay, noting prior statements about its challenges. They discussed best practices for development given existing commercial vacancies and the unique transitional zoning of the property. Questions were raised about enforcement of NFP regulations if violated.
Code Enforcement and Inspections (04:10:07)
Discussion on code enforcement during construction, inspector visits, and enforcement notices with cost recovery fees.

The discussion involved the process of code enforcement during construction, including frequent inspector visits from the city to the site. If there isn't immediate action on site, the city's office issues enforcement notices that include cost recovery fees. These notices are sent to the owner, and if there's construction, the city works with the people doing the work. Examples were given on how the code enforcement team responds to issues.
Community Engagement on Rezoning (04:10:53)
Mass commercial rezoning discussed with six community meetings, resulting in a decision to pull specific parcels from the proposal.

The rezoning proposal was presented to the planning commission but hadn't reached the city commission until now. There were six community engagement meetings about the mass commercial rezoning, which were heavily attended, especially regarding specific parcels planned for rezoning. After community feedback, city staff decided to pull those parcels from the proposal, although the mass commercial rezoning itself was approved. The recommendation for rezoning is back after years, and the conversation about the change in stance was questioned.
Staff's Position on Rezoning (04:13:17)
Staff supported zoning initially, believing it met criteria. The parcel was pulled to allow larger rezoning to proceed.

When the rezoning was first brought to the plan commission, staff supported it, believing it met the necessary criteria. During the large commercial rezoning, it was decided to pull this property out to ensure the larger rezoning could proceed without issues. The decision was strategic to allow the larger project, which involved updating outdated codes and addressing residential properties zoned as commercial, to move forward without controversy.
Discussion on Green Space and Rezoning (04:18:00)
Debate on rezoning property to commercial versus maintaining green space, considering community desire and environmental impact.

There was a discussion on the possibility of maintaining the property as green space rather than rezoning it for commercial use. Concerns were raised about the environmental impact, community desire to keep it as a park, and the feasibility of the property being managed as open space. The current owner faces issues with trespass and believes development could mitigate these problems. The community's interest in preserving the space as a park was noted, but it would require community action and funding to purchase the property rights.
Public Comment Procedures (04:29:31)
Procedures for public comment, including ticket system and multiple rooms for overflow, with potential for extended sessions.

The process for public comments was outlined, including the use of a ticket system and multiple rooms to accommodate the large number of attendees. Each person would have three minutes to speak, and it was suggested that if many comments were similar, speakers might simply acknowledge agreement with previous comments to save time. The possibility of extending the meeting or scheduling a special meeting if comments ran too late was also discussed.
Public Comments on Rezoning (04:36:39)
Community members express opposition to rezoning, citing environmental concerns and neighborhood plans.

Several community members spoke against the rezoning of the property to commercial, emphasizing the environmental risks, potential harm to nearby residential areas, and inconsistencies with the neighborhood plan. They argued that the zoning change would lead to increased runoff, noise, and traffic, negatively impacting the community and the adjacent preserve. Speakers also noted the lack of demonstrated need for additional commercial zoning in the area.
Public Comments on Rezoning Application (04:45:03)
Multiple speakers from various community organizations express strong opposition to the proposed rezoning application, citing environmental concerns and community interests.

The meeting featured an extensive public comment period regarding a proposed rezoning application to change a parcel from residential to community commercial zoning. Various speakers, including representatives from the Woods Lake Association, Asylum Lake Preservation Association, and other neighborhood organizations, voiced their strong opposition to the rezoning. They argued that the proposed change would negatively impact the environment, particularly the Asylum Lake Preserve, and was inconsistent with the neighborhood's character and strategic vision. Concerns included potential pollution, increased traffic, and the undermining of community-driven planning efforts. They urged the city commission to deny the rezoning request, emphasizing the importance of protecting natural areas and maintaining the community's values.
Public Hearing on Rezoning Request (05:20:07)
Discussion on the rezoning application, addressing compliance with city plans and public opposition.

The public hearing covered the application for rezoning, with emphasis on how the proposal aligns or misaligns with the city's adopted plans and rezoning criteria. Concerns were raised about reliance on generalized corridor characterizations and a lack of clear language in neighborhood plans. City staff's justifications versus the applicant's lack of evidence were discussed.
Presentation of Community Petition (05:22:01)
A resident presents a petition against the rezoning, emphasizing community values and environmental protection.

A resident from the Winchell neighborhood presented a petition with significant community support, advocating for the protection of natural areas and opposing the rezoning to commercial use, citing inconsistency with the city's strategic vision. Concerns included the impact on ecosystems, potential pollution, and disruption of the natural habitat.
Community Comments on Asylum Lake Preservation (05:23:55)
Multiple residents express emotional and environmental concerns regarding the rezoning near Asylum Lake.

Several community members, including those from nonprofit organizations, expressed deep emotional connections to the Asylum Lake Preserve and highlighted the ecological importance of the area. The comments emphasized the community's reliance on the preserve for mental and physical health, and the potential long-term environmental impacts of rezoning.
Environmental Concerns and Policy Alignment (05:27:54)
Discussion on environmental risks and alignment with the city's climate and strategic policies.

Speakers from neighborhood associations and environmental groups voiced concerns about the environmental impact of rezoning, including increased runoff and pollution. They argued that the proposal contradicts Kalamazoo's climate resolutions and strategic vision for preserving natural areas, and urged the city to adhere to its commitments to sustainability and environmental protection.
Public Commentary on Traffic and Safety Issues (05:31:37)
Residents discuss safety concerns at a major intersection and potential traffic impacts from development.

Several residents raised concerns about the dangerous intersection at Drake and Stadium, noting its high accident rate. They argued that additional commercial development would exacerbate traffic congestion and safety issues, and questioned the need for more commercial space given existing vacancies in the area.
Public Discussion on Development and Environmental Value (05:40:18)
Debate on the economic viability of development versus the intrinsic environmental value of the preserve.

Community members highlighted the intrinsic value of the Asylum Lake Preserve, emphasizing its role in providing clean air and supporting biodiversity. They questioned the economic rationale of the proposed development, citing existing commercial vacancies and the long-term environmental costs of losing green space.
Former City Commissioner's Perspective (05:50:14)
A former commissioner presents an alternative viewpoint on zoning and development viability.

A former city commissioner offered a different perspective, suggesting that rezoning to commercial could enable viable development that addresses runoff issues. They argued that keeping the current zoning might prevent any beneficial development and proposed trusting existing regulatory processes to ensure responsible development.
Closing Public Comments and Calls to Action (05:52:29)
Final public comments emphasize community unity and calls for action on environmental preservation.

The closing comments focused on the community's strong opposition to the rezoning, with calls for the city to prioritize environmental preservation over commercial development. Speakers urged the city to consider the long-term impacts on natural resources and to explore options like purchasing the land for public use.
Public Comments on Rezoning Request (05:58:35)
Numerous community members voiced their opposition to the rezoning request, citing environmental concerns, lack of community benefit, and the importance of preserving Asylum Lake Preserve.

The meeting included extensive public comments regarding a proposed rezoning request for property near Asylum Lake Preserve. Many residents and community members spoke against the rezoning, arguing that it would lead to environmental degradation, increased stormwater pollution, and loss of valuable green space. Speakers emphasized the importance of Asylum Lake Preserve for recreation and wildlife, and expressed concerns that further commercial development would negatively impact the area. Some speakers also questioned the lack of a concrete development plan and highlighted the community's repeated opposition to similar requests in the past.
Public Comments on Rezoning Proposal (06:32:42)
Numerous residents express opposition to the proposed rezoning of land near Asylum Lake, citing environmental concerns and community needs.

The community expressed strong opposition to the rezoning of land near Asylum Lake, emphasizing the historical significance of the land, environmental concerns, and the lack of need for additional commercial development. Residents highlighted the importance of protecting green spaces and criticized the developer's motivations. Several speakers urged the commission to vote against the proposal, noting the land's role as a buffer zone and its ecological value.
Public Hearing on Rezoning Proposal (06:50:00)
The public hearing addressed the rezoning proposal with community members voicing concerns about environmental impact and land use.

During the public hearing, numerous Kalamazoo residents called in to express their opposition to the rezoning of the stadium drive parcel near Asylum Lake. Concerns were centered around the environmental impact, the importance of preserving natural habitats, and the potential negative consequences of increased commercial development. The hearing provided a platform for community members to voice their views and urge the commission to consider the long-term implications of the rezoning request.
Commission Deliberation on Rezoning (07:06:04)
Commissioners deliberate on the rezoning proposal, discussing criteria and community impact before making a decision.

Following the public hearing, the Kalamazoo City Commission engaged in a detailed deliberation regarding the rezoning proposal. Commissioners discussed the five criteria guiding rezoning decisions, including consistency with the comprehensive plan, changed conditions, community need, compatibility with surrounding properties, and logical development patterns. Key points included the potential impact on the Asylum Lake area, the lack of demonstrated community need for more commercial space, and the importance of preserving green spaces. Commissioners expressed skepticism about the developer's case and highlighted the need for factual findings to support any motion.
Public Hearing on Rezoning Proposal (07:08:58)
Discussion on environmental and community impact of proposed rezoning. Concerns over development risks and public safety raised.

The meeting addressed the proposed rezoning of a parcel near a lake. Concerns were raised about environmental risks, including slope stability and potential impact on local ecology. The development was criticized for increasing danger at a nearby intersection and potentially reducing green spaces. Many residents opposed the rezoning, worrying about long-term community effects.
Commissioner Comments on Rezoning (07:15:14)
Commissioners express concerns about rezoning, emphasizing community input and environmental preservation.

Commissioner Prado and Hess voiced strong opposition to the rezoning, citing the unanimous rejection by planning commissions and community opposition. They emphasized the importance of maintaining green spaces and aligning with community vision.
Vote on Rezoning Application (07:17:07)
The commission voted unanimously to deny the rezoning application, supporting community and environmental concerns.

The commission voted on the rezoning application, with all members voting yes to deny the application. The decision was based on community feedback and environmental considerations, aiming to preserve local green spaces.
City Manager's Report (07:19:04)
City Manager Hankins highlighted the written report and thanked staff for efforts during extreme weather conditions.

City Manager Hankins asked the commission to review the written report and thanked city staff and partners for their work in providing shelter and resources during recent extreme weather conditions.
Commissioner Comments and Community Reflections (07:19:50)
Commissioners reflected on community resilience, solidarity, and the need for action on social issues.

Commissioner Wilson emphasized the importance of community action and expressed concerns about ICE activities. Commissioner Prado highlighted community protests and the Youth Social Justice Awards. Commissioner Hess spoke about fear and the need for love and community action.
Recognition of Community Efforts (07:26:00)
Commissioners and Mayor Anderson expressed gratitude for community and staff efforts during recent challenges.

Commissioners and Mayor Anderson thanked staff and community members for their collaboration during recent weather challenges. They recognized volunteers and officials for their dedication. The mayor emphasized the importance of community voices and participation in decision-making.