Kalamazoo City Commission - February 2, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Updated about 8 hours ago

The Kalamazoo City Commission Committee of the Whole Meeting, held on Monday, February 2, 2026, addressed community initiatives and development strategies. Public comments highlighted the Edison Initiatives' efforts to transform the Edison neighborhood through homeownership programs for underrepresented families. The commission also discussed a housing corridor study aimed at identifying underutilized land in Kalamazoo for future development. The study proposes using existing infrastructure to reduce development costs and enhance housing options across various corridors. The meeting emphasized community involvement, financial strategies, and the need for sustainable, affordable housing solutions.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:59)
The Kalamazoo City Commission Committee of the Whole meeting is officially called to order with roll call taken.

The meeting is officially called to order at a little after five, as scheduled. Roll call is taken by Kirk Bing, and the commissioners present are noted. A motion is made to excuse Commissioner Slaby, which is moved by Commissioner Hass and supported by Vice Mayor Duncan. The motion passes.
Public Comments (00:02:08)
Public comments are heard from various citizens and representatives, including those from Edison Initiatives.

Public comments are opened, allowing citizens two minutes to speak on any topic. Keith Platting introduces Edison Initiatives, a nonprofit focused on bringing transformation to the Edison neighborhood. Several representatives from Edison Initiatives, including Anna Herron and David Davis, speak about their mission to increase homeownership in the neighborhood. They request consideration for discretionary funds from the commission. Toby Hannah Davies praises the city's home sharing focus groups. Sherry Davis reads a statement from Telon J. Steele, emphasizing personal transformation through homeownership programs.
Work Session on Housing Corridor Opportunities (00:12:57)
A presentation is given on housing corridor opportunities in Kalamazoo, focusing on land use and development study findings.

Community Development Manager Sherilyn Parsons introduces the presentation on housing corridor opportunities. The study aims to create development opportunities across the housing spectrum and adds another tool to the city's toolbox. Ryan Kilpatrick from Flywheel Community Development Services discusses the implications of current development patterns, opportunities for increasing housing supply, and generating more revenue through better use of existing infrastructure. The presentation covers theory versus reality in housing development, the need for diverse housing options, and strategies for increasing tax revenue on a per-acre basis.
Planning for Community Development (00:31:42)
Discussion on community development focusing on revenue, safety, green spaces, housing, and infrastructure.

The meeting discusses how to increase revenue per acre and infrastructure to provide better community amenities and services. The importance of putting people first is emphasized, including creating safe streets for all ages and abilities. The need for children and elderly mobility is highlighted, as well as integrating large green spaces and small private gardens. The discussion includes not advocating for density for its own sake but in proximity to local amenities. Historical examples from the 60s and 70s show the drawbacks of isolated density. The current focus is on allowing people to live close to amenities like grocery stores, cafes, schools, and civic engagement opportunities. Examples from Kalamazoo are provided, showing potential for redevelopment to increase housing and economic viability. Key takeaways include designing walkable streetscapes, accommodating various mobility options, and encouraging local business growth. The plan aims to involve the community in development decisions and seeks to create generational wealth and economic mobility.
Questions and Discussion (00:59:04)
Commissioners ask questions about financial assistance, climate, and senior housing options.

Commissioners inquire about providing financial assistance to homeowners facing increased property taxes, especially in neighborhoods undergoing redevelopment. The discussion includes mechanisms like the Headley amendment and tools like the Neighborhood Enterprise Zone to offset taxes. There is also a focus on incorporating climate and environmental justice into development plans, encouraging compact building to reduce carbon footprints. The need for diverse housing options for seniors, including accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and senior-oriented facilities, is discussed. Mixed-use development challenges and opportunities are also explored.
Discussion on Housing Corridor Study (00:59:16)
The discussion focused on the housing corridor study, exploring challenges in development and strategies to support affordable and efficient housing.

The conversation centered around the housing corridor study, addressing issues like deferred maintenance, out-of-state commercial ownership, and the high cost of development. The discussion emphasized the need for city involvement to reduce costs by utilizing underutilized land with existing infrastructure, thus removing the burden of new infrastructure costs from developers.
Retail and Commercial Space Challenges (01:07:00)
The challenges of retail and commercial space in mixed-use developments were examined, focusing on the impact of e-commerce and the need for incubator spaces.

The discussion highlighted the shift in retail and commercial space needs due to increased e-commerce and the COVID-19 pandemic. There was a focus on the importance of building momentum and density in neighborhoods before requiring commercial spaces, and the potential for live-work spaces. The need for incubator spaces for local entrepreneurs to test the market was emphasized, as well as the financial challenges developers face in maintaining commercial spaces.
Strategic Financing for Development (01:11:00)
Strategies for financing development projects were discussed, emphasizing the role of impact capital and small-scale developers.

The conversation explored the importance of pre-approved plans, engaging emerging developers, and leveraging impact capital for long-term neighborhood growth. The discussion noted the need for investors willing to see returns over the long-term instead of immediate profit, and the challenges of financing in a market that requires creative solutions to support development.
Office to Residential Conversions (01:17:00)
The feasibility and risks of converting office spaces to residential units were analyzed, considering current market trends.

The discussion considered the trend of converting office spaces to residential units due to vacancies post-pandemic. The challenges of such conversions, including the need for extensive renovations for plumbing and mechanical systems, were highlighted. The potential risks and benefits of these conversions were weighed, with an emphasis on the need for thoughtful consideration of long-term market needs.