City of Kalamazoo - Zoning Board of Appeals - February 12, 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals

Updated about 18 hours ago

The board reviews a variance request by Statewide Rentals LLC to allow encroachments on protected slopes for residential development along Cork Street. The board discussed the implications of slope encroachments and considered public comments, ultimately deciding to delay the decision to allow further review by the Natural Features Protection Board. Additionally, the board elected new officers, with Joe Holder as chair, Gary Wark as vice-chair, and Beth Vanden Hamburg as secretary. An annual report summarizing the board's activities and trends in variance requests was also presented.

Chapters

Welcome and Introduction (00:05:20)
The meeting was called to order and attendees were welcomed to the Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals meeting.

The meeting begins with a greeting and an introduction to the Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals, a volunteer advisory board appointed by the city commission.
Roll Call (00:05:39)
Roll call was conducted with all members present.

The staff takes roll call to ensure all members of the board are present. Members Ler, Urban, and Han are confirmed to be present.
Approval of Agenda and Minutes (00:05:58)
The agenda was approved with no changes, and last month's minutes were approved without correction.

The board confirms there are no announcements or changes to the agenda. A motion is made to approve the minutes from the last meeting, which passes unanimously.
Public Hearing Procedure Overview (00:06:31)
The procedure for public hearings is outlined, including applicant presentations and public comments.

An overview of the procedure for public hearings is given, explaining the roles of the secretary, applicants, and public commenters. The process includes reading requests into the record, applicant presentations, and public comments with time limits.
Variance Request Presentation (00:08:19)
Jeremy Cole presents a variance request to allow limited slope relief for residential development.

Jeremy Cole, representing Statewide Rentals LLC, requests a variance for slope relief on parcels along Cork Street to build duplexes. He argues that without relief, development on the lots is impractical due to steep slopes.
Discussion on Variance Request (00:21:00)
Board discusses the variance request, expressing concerns and requesting more information.

The board discusses the variance request with input from staff, who express concerns about the impact on natural features and suggest exploring other options. The need for additional information and alternatives is emphasized.
Decision to Adjourn the Variance Request (00:36:01)
The board decides to adjourn the variance request to allow more time for review by the Natural Features Protection Board.

After discussion, the board agrees to adjourn the variance request until May to allow the applicant to provide additional details and seek approval from the Natural Features Protection Board.
Motion Scheduling (00:38:59)
A motion was discussed to schedule an item for the May meeting, which was supported and approved unanimously.

The board discussed scheduling a motion for N-F-P-Z-B-A. There was a consensus that May would be a better time to return than April. The board supported the motion, and it was approved unanimously. This item will be on the schedule for the May meeting.
Election of Board Officers (00:39:37)
The board held elections for officers, nominating and voting on positions of chair, vice chair, and secretary.

The election of board officers was conducted. There was a discussion about the eligibility of a secretary to perform findings of fact. The board then nominated and voted on candidates for the positions of chair, vice chair, and secretary. Ultimately, Joe Holder was elected as chair, Gary Wark as vice chair, and Beth Vanden Hamburg as secretary.
Discussion on Natural Features Protection (NFP) Parcels (00:39:45)
The board discussed challenges and potential solutions regarding the development of NFP parcels and shared driveways.

There was a detailed discussion regarding several parcels protected under the Natural Features Protection ordinance. Issues with driveway access and potential solutions, such as shared driveways and auxiliary exits, were discussed. The board aimed to balance the protection of natural features with development needs.
Annual Report Presentation (00:54:27)
The annual report of the Zoning Board of Appeals was presented, highlighting initiatives, variances, and trends.

The annual report for the Zoning Board of Appeals was presented. It included information on initiatives such as procedural changes and joint board training sessions. Variances related to NFP and food trucks were discussed, and an increase in variance requests was noted, partially due to downtown developments.
Adjournment (00:59:46)
The meeting was adjourned after confirming that all agenda items were addressed.

After confirming that all items on the agenda were addressed, the meeting was adjourned. There was a brief informal exchange before the meeting officially concluded.