Kalamazoo County - April 7, 2026 Board of Commissioners

Updated about 9 hours ago

Significant discussion occurred on a resolution opposing a ballot proposal requiring documentary proof of citizenship for voting. The board also holds a public hearing to discuss the bond issue for a new parking garage. Additionally, the board considers reallocating funds for the sheriff's office noise reduction project and approves an upgrade to the BSNA software system. Other topics include the introduction of new employees in the housing and veterans services offices and a discussion on the upcoming groundbreaking for the new parking garage.

Chapters

Invocation and Reflection (00:00:59)
Commissioner Morales introduced Matthew Campbell for the invocation and reflection, who spoke about submitting to authorities and offered a prayer for the meeting.

Matthew Campbell, Ministry Director of Kalamazoo Area Youth for Christ, provided the invocation and reflection. He shared a scripture about submitting to governing authorities, recognizing the service of the commissioners, and offered a prayer. He emphasized the blessings of being in the community and asked for guidance and unity for the meeting.
Proclamations (00:05:17)
There were no proclamations for consideration during this meeting.

The agenda item for proclamations was addressed, and it was noted that there were no proclamations to present at this meeting.
Communications (00:05:21)
Communications from various entities were noted, including support for legislative action and a resolution supporting House Bill for emergency shelter operations.

Several communications were presented, including support for state legislative action on fiscal accountability and local zoning authority, as well as communications related to emergency winter shelter operations and a resolution supporting a House Bill.
Approval of Minutes (00:06:39)
The minutes of the committee of the whole and regular meeting were approved with an amendment to correct a recorded vote.

A motion was made to approve the minutes of the previous meetings. Commissioner Guru noted a correction regarding a recorded vote, which was amended. The minutes were then approved with the amendment.
Approval of the Agenda (00:08:08)
The agenda was amended, including moving an item from the consent agenda and tabling the conflict of interest form vote to the next meeting.

Several adjustments were made to the agenda. Commissioner Gisler requested to move an item regarding a local democracy resolution from the consent agenda. Commissioner Ray questioned the inclusion of some items related to House Bill support and conflict of interest forms, leading to a motion to table the conflict of interest form vote to the next meeting. The agenda was then adopted as amended.
Presentations (00:14:11)
A presentation from the WSA Body President was scheduled but did not occur as the presenter was not present.

The agenda included a presentation from the WSA Body President Luke Kitzman. However, Mr. Kitzman was not able to join, and the presentation did not take place. The intention was to foster a relationship with student government representatives.
Public Hearings (00:14:49)
A public hearing was conducted regarding the issuance of tax-exempt bonds for an indoor youth sports facility, with few public comments received.

The public hearing addressed the proposed issuance of tax-exempt capital improvement bonds for the construction of an indoor youth sports facility. The hearing was opened to public comments, and one comment was made in person regarding the need to address poverty. No other comments were received.
Public Comments (00:21:11)
Public comments were received on various topics, including opposition to voting barriers and support for local projects and transfers.

During the public comment period, several individuals spoke on different issues. Comments included opposition to ballot initiatives imposing voting barriers, support for Kalamazoo County assuming ownership of Asylum Lake Preserve, and appreciation for the county's support of the Cal Recovery Project. The YWCA and Voters Not Politicians also expressed concerns about voting rights and related resolutions.
Public Comment on Voter ID and Documentary Citizenship Proof (00:34:56)
Public comments were made opposing voter ID laws and initiatives requiring documentary proof of citizenship, arguing they add unnecessary barriers to voting and represent government overreach.

Speakers expressed concerns about proposed voter ID laws and initiatives like 'Americans for Citizen Voting,' stating that these would add unnecessary bureaucracy and barriers to voting. They emphasized that such measures are not needed as Michigan already has strong voter ID laws. There were examples of citizens facing criminal charges due to errors in voter lists, which were cited as consequences of enforcing strict ID laws. There was also a call to support a resolution against these initiatives.
Introduction and Welcome (00:36:37)
The meeting began with a welcome from the chair and assistance with microphone setup for speakers.

The chair welcomed attendees to the meeting, and there was a brief pause to assist a speaker with turning on their microphone. This was followed by an introduction from Aiden Clemens, co-president of the League of Women Voters of the Kalamazoo area.
Public Comment by League of Women Voters (00:36:48)
A representative from the League of Women Voters spoke against adding documentary proof of citizenship to voter registration, citing it as unnecessary and a barrier to democracy.

Aiden Clemens, co-president of the League of Women Voters of the Kalamazoo area, spoke about the mission of the League, which is to empower voters and defend democracy. Clemens argued that non-citizen voting is not a problem in Michigan, and adding documentary proof of citizenship would create unnecessary hurdles to voter registration, which is already illegal for non-citizens in federal and state elections. The League urged a yes vote on a resolution opposing such barriers.
Sheriff's Report on Costs and Jail Population (00:38:00)
The Sheriff discussed rising costs related to jail operations and an increasing jail population, emphasizing the importance of managing these issues locally.

The Sheriff addressed the meeting, discussing the increase in operational costs for the county jail, including provisions and delivery costs. He noted that these costs have risen due to various factors, including economic changes and increased jail population. The Sheriff highlighted the smooth operation of jail services despite these challenges and stressed the importance of addressing these issues locally while forecasting future increases in costs and jail population.
Consent Agenda Discussion (00:41:04)
Board members discussed the consent agenda, emphasizing the importance of transparency and the need to review reallocations of funds, particularly for jail-related projects.

During the discussion of the consent agenda, several board members expressed their views on the importance of transparency in the reallocation of funds, especially regarding projects related to the jail. They argued that significant reallocations, such as those involving CIP dollars, should not be included in the consent agenda but rather discussed openly to allow for input and ensure that funds are used for their intended purposes.
BSNA Software Agreement (00:49:11)
The board considered a request to approve a BSNA software agreement to upgrade the county's tax software to a cloud-based system, discussing the benefits and cost implications.

The Administrator presented a request to approve an agreement with BSNA software to transition the county's delinquent tax and property tax software to a cloud-based platform. The board discussed the benefits of such a transition, including improved accessibility, security, and reduced reliance on on-premise infrastructure. They also addressed the cost implications and the importance of securing a spot in the vendor's implementation schedule.
Axon Justice Premier Plus Contract (01:00:09)
The board discussed a contract with Axon for a software platform to improve digital evidence review in the prosecutor's office, considering its operational benefits and future funding.

The Administrator and the Chief Assistant Prosecuting Attorney discussed a contract with Axon for the Justice Premier Plus platform. This software is intended to streamline the review of digital evidence, such as body-worn camera footage, in the prosecutor's office. The board considered the operational benefits of the platform, including enhanced efficiency and reduced staff burden. They also discussed the funding strategy, noting that current state support for the case management system may not be permanent, and the need for future budget adjustments.
Resolution on Citizenship Requirements for Voting (01:08:23)
The board discusses a resolution opposing a ballot proposal requiring documentary proof of citizenship for voting.

The Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners discussed a resolution that opposes a ballot proposal which would impose documentary proof of citizenship requirements for voting. The proposal includes requiring voters to present a birth certificate, passport, or other documents that are often difficult for residents to access. The resolution affirms support for Michigan's existing election laws, which are deemed secure, fair, and accessible. The board expressed concerns that the proposal would disproportionately impact married women, rural residents, young people, low-income individuals, transgender individuals, people with disabilities, and older adults. The resolution urges state leaders to reject such policies driven by out-of-state interests.
Board Discussion and Vote on Resolution (01:15:00)
Board members discuss and vote on the resolution regarding voter ID and citizenship requirements.

Board members engaged in a discussion regarding the resolution about voter ID and documentary proof of citizenship requirements. Various commissioners voiced their opinions, with some supporting the resolution as a necessary measure to protect voter rights and others opposing it, citing the need for voter ID as a security measure. The board voted on the resolution, resulting in a split decision. Commissioners expressed their gratitude and trust in the current election system and the local clerks managing the elections.
Public Comment (01:31:15)
Public participants provide comments on the resolution and other matters.

Members of the public were given the opportunity to comment on the resolution and other issues. Comments included concerns about voter access, election security, and the impact of potential changes to voting requirements. Public participants thanked the board for their decision and expressed hopes for continued protection of voter rights.
Closing Remarks by Board Members (01:35:58)
Board members offer closing remarks, highlighting the importance of civic engagement and upcoming projects.

In their closing remarks, board members discussed the importance of civic participation and expressed their commitment to maintaining a fair and accessible voting process. They also highlighted upcoming projects and initiatives aimed at improving the community, such as the youth sports complex and housing initiatives. Board members thanked county employees for their hard work and dedication, and emphasized the need for continued collaboration and planning to address future challenges.
Recognition of Dr. Catlin (01:44:55)
Dr. Catlin recognized for ICMA credentialed manager designation and leadership acknowledgment by Government Business Review.

Dr. Catlin was recognized with the credentialed manager designation from the International City and County Management Association (ICMA) for his substantial executive-level experience in local government, commitment to integrity, and lifelong learning. Additionally, he was acknowledged by the Government Business Review for his leadership in strategic governance, fiscal stewardship, and community impact.
Treasurer's Report and Highlights (01:47:00)
Recognition of Treasurer's Office for investment strategy, foreclosure prevention, and capacity building initiatives.

The Treasurer's Office was commended for its disciplined investment strategy, yielding strong returns despite a changing interest rate environment. Their foreclosure prevention efforts have been effective, with most foreclosed properties being vacant or unsafe, underscoring the success of early intervention. The Chief Deputy Treasurer was praised for innovating internal benchmarking tools and professional certifications. Upcoming board training sessions focus on budgeting and governance.
Parking Garage and Environmental Assessment Update (01:50:52)
Discussion on parking garage environmental assessment and construction impacts, with groundbreaking scheduled.

An additional environmental assessment was required for a parcel associated with the parking garage project. A memo has been sent to Waste Management to avoid delays. The groundbreaking for the parking garage is scheduled for Friday at noon. The construction will impact surface parking availability, and employees are encouraged to use parking garages to free up space for public and visitors.
Retirement and Succession Planning for Equalization Director (01:52:22)
Discussion on the retirement of Equalization Director Matt Hansen and succession planning for his replacement.

Equalization Director Matt Hansen is retiring in May, with plans to promote the deputy director to replace him due to the specialized nature of the role and scarcity of qualified candidates. The board is supportive of the internal succession plan to ensure continuity and maintain institutional knowledge.
General Discussion and Announcements (01:56:01)
General comments from commissioners, including appreciation for leadership and training, solar energy discussions, and meeting reminders.

Commissioners shared various updates and comments, including appreciation for leadership and upcoming budget training sessions. Discussions included solar energy opportunities in local townships and upcoming training sessions for emergency management and sky-warn training. A reminder was issued that the first meeting in May will be on a Wednesday due to an election.