Kalamazoo County - Committee of the Whole - February 3, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Updated about 13 hours ago

In the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole Meeting, held on October 12, 2023, the Board discusses various public initiatives. Jared Vander Wheel from the Kalamazoo County Public Arts Commission presents on public art projects, including a large mural installation at the parking ramp and administration building. The meeting also explores a proposed fellowship for gun violence prevention in collaboration with the Blueprint for Peace. This fellowship aims to enhance community engagement and address transportation challenges, particularly in underserved areas. The Board considers cost-sharing with the City of Kalamazoo and United Way for this initiative. Additionally, the meeting reviews public comments and accounts payable, with ongoing discussions about local transportation safety and accessibility.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:28)
Meeting called to order by the Chair. Roll call conducted with eight commissioners present and one commissioner en route.

The meeting was called to order at 4:00 PM by the Chair of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners. A roll call was conducted, confirming the presence of eight commissioners. Commissioner Morales is on her way to the meeting.
Public Comment (00:01:19)
Public comment opportunity provided. Chandra Kinney of the Kalamazoo Conservation District invited everyone to an upcoming annual meeting and election event.

During the public comment section, attendees were invited to speak for up to three minutes. Chandra Kinney, district manager at the Kalamazoo Conservation District, invited everyone to their upcoming annual meeting and election of the board. The event will include games, awards, and is open to the public, though voting is limited to Kalamazoo County residents.
Accounts Payable and Payroll Disbursement Review (00:03:39)
Finance Director presented the accounts payable claims list and general payrolls for approval by the Board of Commissioners.

The Finance Director presented the accounts payable claims list to the Board of Commissioners for approval. The list includes various claims totaling a significant amount. Questions from the Board regarding specific line items and transactions were addressed, with explanations provided about reclassified administrative fees and other payments.
Presentation on Kalamazoo County Public Art (00:06:06)
Jared Vander Wheel from the Kalamazoo County Public Arts Commission presented an overview of recent and upcoming public art projects and collaborations.

Jared Vander Wheel, representing the Kalamazoo County Public Arts Commission, provided an overview of the commission's activities and collaborations over the past year. Highlights included support for the Brush the Block Mural Festival, partnerships with local government and organizations, and ongoing projects like the Washington Square Pedestrian Scramble and upcoming public art installations. The presentation emphasized the importance of public art in enhancing the vibrancy of Kalamazoo and invited community involvement.
Discussion on Funding Support for Blueprint for Peace Initiative (00:16:42)
Discussion on potential funding support for a Blueprint for Peace initiative focused on gun violence prevention and economic stability.

Dr. Catlin and Nolan Bergstrom discussed a request for funding support for a Blueprint for Peace initiative aimed at preventing gun violence and enhancing community safety and economic stability. The initiative involves applying for a fellowship through the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan to place a fellow to work on community-focused projects. The discussion included potential cost-sharing with the United Way and the City of Kalamazoo and addressed questions from commissioners about the initiative's goals and expected outcomes.
Discussion on Addressing Gun Violence and Community Needs (00:31:05)
The discussion focused on addressing gun violence and improving access to jobs and healthcare to prevent gang involvement.

The meeting addressed concerns about gun violence and the need for improved access to employment and healthcare. It was discussed how lack of access leads to stress and potential gang involvement. Transportation challenges were highlighted, especially for residents near Fox Ridge Apartments and Interfaith Homes, impacting children and community safety.
Transportation and Safety Concerns (00:31:45)
Transportation issues near Fox Ridge Apartments and Interfaith Homes were discussed, focusing on pedestrian safety and lack of busing.

The meeting highlighted transportation issues, including the congested and dangerous intersection near Fox Ridge Apartments and lack of pedestrian walkways. The lack of school busing for children at Interfaith Homes was also discussed, emphasizing the safety concerns for children walking to Hillside Middle School.
Support for Gun Violence Funding (00:33:01)
Support was expressed for moving forward with gun violence funding, with plans to report back on application success.

Support was confirmed for utilizing gun violence funding, which is already budgeted. The discussion included plans to report back if an application for funding is successful, and to discuss contract terms and conditions.
Motion to Enter Closed Session for Collective Bargaining (00:34:00)
A motion was made and carried to enter a closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement.

Commissioner Wheeler motioned to enter a closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement with SME. The motion was supported by Vice Chair Pro TEM Ler and carried after a roll call vote.
Motion to Enter Closed Session for Lease Discussion (00:34:40)
A motion was made and carried to enter a closed session for an update on the lease of the Asylum Lake Preserve site.

Commissioner Wheeler motioned to enter a closed session to discuss the lease of the Asylum Lake Preserve site. The motion was supported and carried following a roll call vote, with unanimous approval from commissioners.