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

Updated about 9 hours ago

The board reviewed housing framework updates provided by Housing Director Mary Balkema. Key topics included the progress of the Landing Place shelter, voucher programs, and the development of a data integration system. The meeting also covered the issuance of tax-exempt capital improvement bonds for the new indoor youth sports facility and a resolution supporting changes in deed recording fees. The board emphasized the need for strategic implementation planning and coordination among housing providers to address current challenges effectively.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:45)
The meeting of the KSU County Board of Commissioners Committee was officially called to order.

The chairperson initiated the meeting by calling it to order, signaling the official start of the session for the committee.
Roll Call (00:00:52)
Roll call was conducted with eight commissioners present, confirming a quorum.

The clerk conducted a roll call, confirming the presence of the commissioners. Commissioners Dlo, Gissler, Heppler, Maser, Morales, Ray, Taylor, and Wheeler were present, establishing a quorum for the meeting.
Public Comment Opportunity (00:01:21)
An opportunity for public comments was provided, but no attendees chose to speak.

The chair opened the floor for public comments, allowing in-person or phone participation. Attendees were instructed on how to join the speaker queue, but no public comments were made at this time.
Review of Accounts Payable and Payroll Disbursements (00:02:20)
The finance director presented the accounts payable claims and payroll disbursements for review and approval.

Ryan Post, the finance director, presented a list of accounts payable claims and payroll disbursements for review. The board was asked to approve the claims, and questions from the commissioners were welcomed. A clarification was made regarding a chiller replacement agreement.
Housing Framework Update (00:04:09)
An update on the housing framework was provided, including progress on funding, strategic plans, and voucher programs.

Housing Director Mary Bima and Deputy Director Willa d Toronto provided an update on the housing framework. They discussed the framework's drafting, funding for initiatives, the opening of the Landing Place, and strategic implementation plans. They also covered staffing needs, data integration efforts, county vouchers, and shelter access coordination.
Discussion on Winter Shelter Program and Housing Stability (00:33:10)
Discussion on the end of winter shelter funding and the transition plans for current residents in temporary housing and shelters.

The meeting discussed the upcoming end of the winter shelter funding and how it affects current residents, particularly focusing on medically vulnerable individuals in temporary housing. The dialogue included ongoing coordination between city, county, and service providers to ensure transition plans are in place. Concerns were raised about maintaining stability for families already housed and the prioritization process for future housing placements.
Resolution on Issuance of Tax-Exempt Bonds for Youth Sports Facility (00:37:01)
First reading of the resolution to hold a public hearing on issuing tax-exempt bonds for an indoor youth sports facility.

The board conducted the first reading of a resolution to call a public hearing regarding the issuance of tax-exempt capital improvement bonds. These bonds are intended to finance the construction of an indoor youth sports facility. Discussions included the financial assumptions and revenue expectations tied to the bonds, with concerns about potential risks such as another pandemic event affecting financial projections.
Closed Session for Legal Opinion on Work Permit Extensions (00:40:28)
Motion to enter a closed session to review a legal opinion concerning work permit extensions.

The board moved to enter a closed session to discuss a legal opinion related to work permit extensions. The motion was made by Commissioner Wheeler and supported by Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler, with unanimous approval from the board members.