Kalamazoo Township - Board of Trustees - March 09, 2026 Board Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

The Board considered a FOIA appeal submitted by attorneys on behalf of Treasurer Sherine Miller, prompting discussions on the cost and logistics of fulfilling extensive document requests. Additionally, the board considers ordinance changes to allow more housing on smaller lots by eliminating the merger clause. The meeting also addresses concerns about Treasurer Sherine Miller's conduct, including her failure to appoint a deputy, refusal to complete bond application forms, and communication through her personal attorney, which incurs costs for the Township. The board acknowledges the ongoing challenges and costs associated with the Treasurer's actions and consider further steps to address these issues. The meeting concludes with positive notes on new staff hires and upcoming developments in the Township.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:14)
The meeting of the Kalamazoo Township board of trustees was called to order at 7:00 pm exactly.

The Kalamazoo Township board of trustees business meeting was officially called to order at 7:00 pm. Trustee Robertson led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:21)
Trustee Robertson led the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America.

Trustee Robertson led the board and attendees in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Roll Call (00:00:45)
Roll call was conducted, noting the presence of board members and excusing absences.

During roll call, Trustees Robinson, Leonard, Sherwood, and Glass were noted as present. Clerk Mackie and Treasurer Miller were excused with a motion passed to acknowledge their absences.
First Public Comment Period (00:01:15)
No public comments were made during the first public comment period, either in person or via Zoom.

The first public comment period was opened, allowing attendees three minutes to speak. No one present in the room or on Zoom made any comments.
Consent Agenda (00:01:37)
The consent agenda was approved with a motion and support by the board members present.

The board considered the consent agenda. In the absence of the clerk, a motion to approve the consent agenda as recommended by the superintendent and supervisor was made, supported, and passed unanimously.
FOIA Appeal Presentation (00:02:06)
The board discussed a FOIA appeal regarding a request by Attorney Brad on behalf of Sherine Miller.

A presentation was given regarding a FOIA request appeal submitted by Attorney Brad on behalf of Sherine Miller. The request involved a large amount of documentation and was under review for estimated costs and required staff time. The board was informed of the appeal process, including a formal hearing to review the estimated costs.
Recusal Motion for Conflict of Interest (00:13:06)
The board voted to recuse Treasurer Miller from the FOIA appeal matter due to a conflict of interest.

A motion was made and unanimously passed to recuse Treasurer Miller from participation in the FOIA appeal matter due to a conflict of interest, as the request was submitted on her behalf.
New Business: Ordinance Discussion (00:13:55)
The board discussed a new ordinance to eliminate the merger clause and expand housing options.

The board considered a new ordinance intended to eliminate the merger clause and expand the ability to construct single-family residences on small lots and parcels in R-1 and R-2 districts. The ordinance was moved for adoption for a first reading.
Board Member Reports (00:16:06)
Board members gave reports, highlighting positive developments and staff commendations.

Board members provided updates and reports, highlighting positive developments such as new hires and upcoming projects. They also commended staff for their hard work and addressed public inquiries about curbside pickup schedules.
Second Public Comment Period (00:28:53)
A resident commented, asking for the treasurer to resign due to ongoing issues.

During the second public comment period, a resident expressed concerns about the treasurer's actions and expenses incurred by the Township. The resident publicly asked the treasurer to resign to prevent further complications and costs.
Public Comment (00:31:26)
Public comments were made expressing dissatisfaction with certain officials and the need for change.

During the public comment section, various individuals expressed their concerns regarding current officials, stating that some have pursued financial gains at the expense of taxpayers. There was a call for these officials to step aside and let others take over. The residents emphasized the need to focus on positive developments rather than on current issues. Additional comments were heard both in-person and over Zoom, but no further public comments were made after a point.
Conclusion of Public Comment and Transition (00:32:54)
The public comment session concluded, and it was noted that there would be no closed session.

Following the completion of public comments, it was announced that there would be no closed session for the evening. The meeting was set to proceed without any additional private discussions or closed-door sessions. This announcement marked the transition to the next segment of the meeting.