Kalamazoo City Commission - February 2, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated about 8 hours ago

During the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting on February 2, 2026, commissioners discussed the potential establishment of a new Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) at the southwest corner of Vine Street and Burdick Street. The meeting included a public hearing on this NEZ proposal, which is part of the city's strategy to encourage housing development. The commission addressed concerns about local rent levels and tenant rights. Public safety was also a key topic, with Chief Place providing an overview of the usage and benefits of flock cameras for crime prevention and resolution in Kalamazoo. Community members expressed concerns over housing affordability, surveillance, and police-community relations.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:02:57)
The Kalamazoo City Commission meeting is called to order, and the roll call is conducted with Commissioner Slaby being excused.

The meeting is officially called to order with a roll call of the commissioners. Commissioner Slaby is noted as absent, and a motion is made and approved to excuse him.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:03:59)
Reverend Leventhal provides an Invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the chamber attendees.

Reverend Leventhal delivers an Invocation, asking for wisdom and grace for the commissioners and attendees. The assembly then recites the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Proclamation for Wear Red Day (00:05:27)
Commissioner Hoffman reads a proclamation declaring National Wear Red Day to raise awareness for cardiovascular diseases in women.

Commissioner Hoffman reads a proclamation recognizing National Wear Red Day in Kalamazoo, highlighting the impact of cardiovascular diseases on women and urging citizens to wear red to show support. The proclamation is accepted by a representative of the American Heart Association.
Adoption of Formal Agenda and Communications (00:09:22)
The formal agenda is adopted without changes, and there are no communications to report.

The formal agenda is reviewed, with an opportunity for commissioners to move items from the consent agenda to the regular agenda. No changes are made, and City Manager Hankin reports no additional communications.
Public Comments (00:09:49)
Several residents and representatives provide comments on various topics, including tenant rights, surveillance concerns, and community initiatives.

Multiple public comments are made, addressing issues such as tenant rights and the need for ordinances to protect renters, concerns over the use of Flock Safety cameras and privacy implications, and community initiatives like the Edison Initiative for home renovations. Speakers include local organizers and residents sharing personal stories and advocating for change.
Public Comments (00:34:22)
Residents express concerns about the housing crisis, high rent, public safety, and mass surveillance in Kalamazoo.

Several residents, including April Ales and Kay, addressed the commission, highlighting issues such as the high cost of rent, lack of affordable housing, and the challenges faced by tenants. Concerns were also raised about the local police's cooperation with ICE and the use of surveillance cameras. Speakers urged the commission to take action to support renters and address the growing housing crisis.
Public Hearing on Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) (00:59:29)
A public hearing was held to discuss the establishment of a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) at the southwest corner of Vine Street and Burdick Street.

The assistant city planner, Bobby Durkey, presented information on the proposed NEZ, which is intended to encourage housing development. The NEZ would apply to a specific project by Bogan Development, involving mixed-use development with commercial tenants and housing. The city manager and mayor noted that the public hearing is focused on the boundary area for the NEZ and not a specific project proposal. The NEZ is part of the city's housing toolkit to provide incentives for development.
Discussion on NEZ Policy and Housing Plans (01:05:31)
Discussion on the NEZ policy, its alignment with county housing plans, and the types of housing supported in Kalamazoo.

The discussion focused on the Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) policy and its alignment with the county housing plan. There was a detailed breakdown of how different types of housing, such as high-density residential buildings, are encouraged in the city of Kalamazoo. The discussion also covered the incentives available for projects that align with these plans, and how they contribute to the city's and the county's housing goals.
Commissioner Questions and Clarifications (01:12:00)
Commissioners asked questions about the NEZ policy and its impact on housing projects, seeking clarity on its implications.

Commissioners, including Commissioner Slaby, raised questions about how the NEZ policy aligns with broader housing goals and its impact on housing projects. The discussion touched on the need for clarity on how proposed projects contribute to addressing housing needs, particularly in relation to the 'missing middle' housing and affordable housing goals.
Public Hearing on NEZ (01:20:00)
Public hearing on the creation of a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) for a specific project in Kalamazoo.

The public hearing opened for comments on the proposed NEZ for a specific housing project in Kalamazoo. Members of the public expressed their views on the necessity and impact of the NEZ, with some questioning the democratic process and the effectiveness of tax abatements for development.
Consent Agenda Approval (01:26:00)
Approval of several contracts and purchases as part of the consent agenda by the city commission.

The city commission approved the consent agenda, which included various contracts and purchases, such as those related to water main projects and improvements to local facilities. These items were approved collectively without further discussion.
Reports and Legislation: Flock Camera System (01:28:00)
Report on the use and regulation of the flock camera system in Kalamazoo for public safety and crime prevention.

Chief Boone provided a detailed report on the flock camera system used in Kalamazoo. The report covered the purpose of the cameras, which include supporting criminal investigations and improving public safety. The chief emphasized the system's restrictions, such as not being used for immigration enforcement or violating individual rights, and highlighted the successes of the system in solving crimes and recovering stolen property.
Public Safety Update (01:37:16)
The Chief of Police discusses efforts to reduce violence while maintaining transparency and accountability within the community.

The Chief of Police presented an update on the department's initiatives to reduce violence in the community. Emphasis was placed on maintaining transparency, accountability, and adherence to legal standards. The Chief offered to answer additional questions from the commissioners, after which the city manager confirmed there were no further updates.
Commissioner Comments (01:37:44)
Commissioners share comments, including congratulations and gratitude to community members and staff for their efforts and achievements.

During the commissioner comments section, Commissioner Perel acknowledged and congratulated two members of the Kalamazoo community for their recognition at the MLK Beyond the Dream Celebration. He expressed pride in their achievements and extended gratitude to individuals and teams working tirelessly in extreme cold conditions, including those involved in snow removal, water main repairs, and public safety. The commissioner also highlighted the efforts of the community planning team in organizing outreach events and encouraged public participation.
Gratitude and Community Engagement (01:40:00)
Commissioner Hess expresses gratitude towards city staff and community members working in harsh conditions, highlighting the importance of community engagement.

Commissioner Hess expressed her gratitude to city staff and community members, particularly those working outdoors in harsh winter conditions. She highlighted the efforts of public services and safety personnel. Additionally, she acknowledged Reverend Millard Southern's work in organizing events for Black History Month, including a performance by Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Hess emphasized the importance of community and the collective responsibility to improve it.
Acknowledgment of Community Losses (01:42:54)
The mayor acknowledges recent community losses, highlighting the impact of gun violence and honoring the contributions of influential community members.

The mayor took a moment to acknowledge the recent losses in the community due to gun violence. He attended funeral services for Jeanne Baraka Love, a respected community icon, and a young man who was a victim of gun violence. The mayor reflected on the ongoing efforts to reduce violence and the importance of community support and non-profit partners. He stressed the need to remain focused on addressing gun violence and expressed empathy for families and community members affected by such tragedies.
Community Support During Extreme Cold (01:46:01)
The mayor commends various organizations and community members for their response during the extreme cold, emphasizing collaboration and support.

The mayor expressed deep gratitude to numerous organizations and individuals who stepped up during the recent extreme cold weather crisis. He highlighted the contributions of Kalamazoo Gospel Ministries, Ministry of the Community, and various warming shelters and volunteers. The mayor also thanked the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, Metro Transit, and his own team at ISK for their efforts in providing shelter, transportation, and outreach to vulnerable populations. He called for continued community support and collaboration to ensure no lives are lost during such crises.
Adjournment (01:53:05)
The meeting concludes with the mayor expressing love for Kalamazoo and officially adjourning the session.

The mayor concluded the meeting by expressing his affection for the Kalamazoo community and officially adjourning the session, marking the end of the proceedings.