Kalamazoo City Commission - April 20, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

The April 20, 2026 Kalamazoo City Commission meeting began with five proclamations, including National Work Zone Awareness Week and Arbor Day. Extensive public comment addresses the use of Flock cameras, with community members both supporting and opposing the technology. The City Commission discusses recent flooding in Kalamazoo and the city's response. The meeting includes approval of the HUD action plan for community development funding and a closed session for labor negotiations.

Chapters

Welcome and Opening Remarks (00:00:01)
The meeting began with friendly conversation among attendees and remarks about the positive atmosphere.

The meeting started with the clerk welcoming everyone and commenting on the friendly and positive conversation happening in the chambers. The clerk expressed appreciation for this atmosphere as a good way to start the business meeting.
Call to Order (00:00:23)
The Kalamazoo City Commission business meeting was officially called to order.

A few moments after seven, the clerk officially called to order the Kalamazoo City Commission business meeting.
Roll Call (00:00:36)
Commissioners present were Hess, Hoffman, Praedel, Slaby, Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson.

The roll call was conducted, confirming the presence of Commissioners Hess, Hoffman, Praedel, Slaby, Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:48)
Pastor Brett Lair provided an invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the attendees.

Pastor Brett Lair from the Calvary Bible Church gave an invocation, which included prayers for wisdom and strength for the commissioners. This was followed by the attendees standing and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.
Proclamation: National Work Zone Awareness Week (00:04:28)
The city recognized National Work Zone Awareness Week, emphasizing safe driving through work zones.

A proclamation for National Work Zone Awareness Week was read, highlighting the importance of safe driving in work zones, acknowledging the role of construction workers, and encouraging the community to wear orange to support the cause.
Proclamation: Arbor Day (00:07:43)
Arbor Day was celebrated with emphasis on the benefits of trees for the environment and community.

The proclamation for Arbor Day was read, emphasizing the environmental benefits of trees, such as reducing climate change effects and providing habitat for wildlife. The community was urged to celebrate Arbor Day and protect trees and woodlands.
Proclamation: Earth Day (00:09:59)
Earth Day was recognized, focusing on environmental protection and the impact of climate change.

The Earth Day proclamation highlighted the need for environmental stewardship and awareness of climate change impacts, particularly on vulnerable populations. It called for increased environmental education and commitment to sustainable practices.
Proclamation: International Compost Awareness Week (00:12:32)
The city proclaimed International Compost Awareness Week, promoting composting benefits and practices.

The proclamation emphasized the benefits of composting for soil health, waste reduction, and environmental sustainability. The city encouraged residents to recognize the value of composting and its role in supporting healthy communities.
Proclamation: Kalamazoo Valley Community College Month (00:16:23)
April was proclaimed as Kalamazoo Valley Community College Month, acknowledging its educational impact.

The proclamation recognized Kalamazoo Valley Community College for its contributions to higher education, workforce development, and community revitalization. The college was praised for providing accessible educational opportunities and partnerships.
Adoption of the Formal Agenda (00:20:21)
The formal agenda was adopted without any changes or requests for item reconsideration.

Commissioners were asked if there were any items on the consent agenda they wished to move to the regular agenda. With no requests made, the agenda was adopted as presented.
Public Comments (00:21:35)
Public comments were heard on topics including the use of flock cameras and community safety.

Several members of the public spoke on various topics, including support for the continued use of flock cameras by the police department for crime reduction, appreciation for city staff efforts during flooding, and concerns about property sales and flooding issues in certain areas.
Public Comments on Flooding Issues (00:35:16)
Residents expressed concerns about persistent flooding in Kalamazoo neighborhoods, highlighting the impact on safety and property.

Several residents voiced their frustrations regarding ongoing flooding problems in Kalamazoo neighborhoods, emphasizing the financial burden and safety risks posed by waterlogged streets. They called for more effective government intervention to ensure dry streets for all neighborhoods.
Concerns About Policing and Community Safety (00:35:43)
Community members discussed the relationship between policing and crime statistics, advocating for genuine community engagement and addressing root causes like housing and employment.

Speakers raised concerns about the perceived ineffectiveness of policing strategies, questioning crime reduction statistics and advocating for real efforts in community policing. They highlighted the need for addressing systemic issues such as housing insecurity and inadequate wages as underlying factors contributing to crime.
Traffic and Safety Issues in Neighborhoods (00:38:54)
Residents highlighted traffic congestion and safety hazards in the West Main Hill neighborhood, requesting strategic improvements like better placement of speed bumps and traffic monitoring.

A resident discussed the worsening traffic conditions in the West Main Hill neighborhood, including dangerous intersections and inadequate speed bump placements. They suggested redirecting heavy vehicle traffic and improving parking regulation enforcement to enhance neighborhood safety and reduce infrastructural damage.
Environmental Concerns: Kalamazoo Metal Recyclers Fire (00:44:03)
There were calls for transparency and better emergency response planning following a large fire at Kalamazoo Metal Recyclers, with concerns about potential environmental hazards.

Community members expressed concerns about the recent fire at Kalamazoo Metal Recyclers, which involved hazardous materials and raised questions about air and water safety. They urged the city to improve emergency response protocols and ensure public access to environmental data to prevent future incidents.
Support for Flock Cameras in Crime Prevention (00:48:40)
Community discussions centered on the use of Flock cameras for public safety, with arguments for and against their implementation based on privacy and effectiveness concerns.

The use of Flock cameras by the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety was debated, with supporters highlighting their role in solving crimes and enhancing safety, while opponents raised privacy issues and potential misuse of surveillance data. The need for public education on the technology and its safeguards was emphasized.
Improving City Boards and Commissions Engagement (01:03:00)
Suggestions were made to enhance public engagement with city boards by improving accessibility of information about meetings and vacancies.

A resident proposed improvements to the city's boards and commissions system, advocating for a more centralized and accessible platform for residents to engage with civic opportunities. They emphasized the importance of making information about board meetings and vacancies readily available to encourage broader community participation.
Public Comments on Flock Cameras (01:05:04)
Numerous residents express concerns and opinions regarding the use of Flock safety cameras in Kalamazoo, citing privacy issues, surveillance, and potential misuse of data.

Residents of Kalamazoo, including representatives from the 'Get the Flock Out of Kalamazoo' campaign, voiced their concerns about the Flock safety cameras. They highlighted issues of privacy infringement, the potential for misuse of personal and community data, and the ethical implications of using such surveillance technology. Some speakers detailed how Flock retains data and the implications for local and federal data sharing. Concerns were also raised about the local government's understanding and control over the technology, as well as the physical safety and infrastructure implications of installing the cameras. A few community members also spoke in favor of the cameras, citing their utility in solving crimes and enhancing public safety.
Public Comment on Flock Cameras (01:35:12)
A speaker expresses support for Flock cameras, citing trust in the police department and statistics showing their usage.

A community member speaks in favor of the Flock camera system, emphasizing the belief in elected officials to improve Kalamazoo. The speaker mentions that the police department has not allowed ICE to use the system, which builds trust and shows transparency.
Discussion on Peak Street Closure (01:36:15)
Residents voice concerns over the closure of Peak Street and the lack of compromise or communication from the city.

A community member discusses the history of Peak Street's closure, the mixed opinions from residents, and the need for a compromise. Despite attending many meetings, there has been no progress or communication from the city about a hybrid or compromise solution. The speaker emphasizes the need for transparency and action.
Comments on Jones Park and Play Street (01:39:49)
A resident provides an update on the Jones Park and Play Street area, advocating for reopening Peak Street for safety and accessibility.

A local resident discusses the challenges and changes around Jones Park and Play Street since Peak Street was closed. Issues include traffic difficulties, safety concerns during winter, and the increased use of Jones Park as a dog park. The resident argues for reopening Peak Street or finding a compromise to meet community needs.
Public Comment on Metal Recyclers and Street Islands (01:44:01)
Concerns are raised about toxic land at a metal recycling site and the installation of street islands for pedestrian safety.

A community member talks about the toxicity of land owned by metal recyclers and the challenges of removing it. The speaker also comments on plans to install street islands for pedestrian safety, mentioning past issues with similar structures and urging for proper design to avoid accidents.
Public Comment on Cal Recovery Building (01:46:01)
Appreciation is expressed for the Cal Recovery Building project, with a call for expedited development processes for affordable housing.

A representative from Isaac praises the groundbreaking of the Cal Recovery Building, highlighting the long process it took. The speaker urges the city to simplify and expedite development processes, especially for projects involving affordable housing in underserved areas. Examples from other cities are mentioned as models to consider.
Public Hearing on Program Year Action Plan (02:02:46)
A public hearing on the HUD Program Year Action Plan, detailing funding allocations for housing and community projects.

The city presents the Program Year Action Plan required by HUD, which includes allocations for community development block grants, home investment partnerships, and various public service projects. The plan focuses on affordable housing, public services, and neighborhood improvements.
Public Hearing on Action Plan for HUD Dollars (02:35:00)
Public hearing on the action plan for HUD dollars, inviting comments from those present in chambers.

The meeting includes a public hearing regarding the action plan for HUD dollars. Attendees are invited to comment, but no one comes forward. The hearing is then closed, and a motion to approve the action plan is moved and supported.
Approval of Action Plan and Budget Amendment (02:36:00)
Commissioners discuss and approve the action plan and budget amendment related to HUD dollars.

Following the closure of the public hearing, commissioners move to approve the action plan and its associated budget amendment. The motion is made and supported, followed by a roll call vote where the motion passes.
Consent Agenda Approval (02:38:02)
Commissioners approve the consent agenda items without additional discussion.

The consent agenda items are presented by Manager Hankins. Commissioners move to approve the items, and a roll call vote is conducted. The consent agenda is approved.
Regular Agenda Item Approval (02:42:00)
Commissioners approve regular agenda items, including property sales and budget amendments.

The regular agenda includes items such as property sales and budget amendments. Commissioners discuss and approve these items, with the necessary motions and roll call votes. All items are passed.
City Manager's Report (02:44:17)
City Manager Hankins provides updates on flooding assessments and other community initiatives.

City Manager Hankins reports on the city's response to recent flooding, including staff assessments and assistance provided to residents. Other updates include the opening of the farmer's market and ongoing community engagement initiatives.
Commissioner Comments (02:54:04)
Commissioners provide comments on various city issues and initiatives, including public safety and community engagement.

Commissioners take the opportunity to comment on issues such as public safety, community engagement, and the city's use of technology. They also address resident concerns and highlight ongoing efforts to improve communication and services.
Public Safety Officers' Acknowledgment (02:54:42)
Recognition of the work done by public safety officers in tracking and apprehending a suspect after a shooting.

The council acknowledged the dedication and hard work of public safety officers who worked tirelessly from the afternoon of the shooting into the next morning, utilizing canines and technology to apprehend the suspect.
Voter Registration Information Notice (02:55:11)
Discussion on a voter registration form sent to residents, clarifying no action needed if already registered.

A discussion was held regarding a voter registration form sent to residents by the Center for Voter Information, advising that registered voters need not re-register and can recycle the form.
Collaboration with Kalamazoo Forward Ventures and Western Michigan University (02:56:03)
Overview of a collaborative effort between local ventures and the university fostering entrepreneurship.

A collaborative event was reported involving Kalamazoo Forward Ventures and Western Michigan University, where nine applicants pitched their entrepreneurial ideas to improve life in Kalamazoo. The winner, with a project named One Shot AI, received $100,000.
Imagine Kalamazoo Downtown Design Input (02:57:52)
Encouragement for public input on downtown design as part of the Imagine Kalamazoo project.

The city manager mentioned the Imagine Kalamazoo Design It Downtown initiative, encouraging residents to provide input on how to improve the downtown area through online platforms and upcoming events.
Environmental Awareness and Recycling Event (02:58:50)
Promotion of a recycling event for various materials, emphasizing environmental awareness for Earth Day.

Details were provided about an upcoming recycling event at Mayor's Riverfront Park, where residents can bring EPS foam, cardboard, old electronics, textiles, and more, with a focus on Earth Day and reducing landfill waste.
Communication from the Environmental Concerns Committee (02:59:36)
City commission received recommendations from the Environmental Concerns Committee for a response.

The Environmental Concerns Committee communicated recommendations to the city commission, prompting a request for a response from the city manager and public services regarding their queries.
Recognition of COO Laura Lamb (03:00:23)
Honoring of Laura Lamb for receiving the Woman of Achievement Award from the YWCA.

The city commission recognized Laura Lamb, the Chief Operating Officer, for her accomplishments and receiving the Woman of Achievement Award from the YWCA, celebrating her impact and career achievements.
Affordable Housing Project Update (03:00:45)
Discussion on the challenges and progress of a deeply affordable housing project in Kalamazoo.

The mayor discussed the lengthy process of developing deeply affordable housing, highlighting the complex financing and regulatory challenges faced over eight years, and the importance of leveraging city resources and grants to support such projects.
Executive Session for Labor Negotiations (03:04:38)
Commissioners moved to a closed session to discuss labor negotiations, followed by a return to open session.

The commission entered an executive session to discuss labor negotiations. After the session, they returned to open session to consider approving the KMEA collective bargaining agreement.
Approval of KMEA Collective Bargaining Agreement (03:06:09)
The commission approved the KMEA collective bargaining agreement after returning from closed session.

Following the executive session, the commission voted on and approved the KMEA collective bargaining agreement, with commissioners expressing gratitude for the efforts during negotiations and commitment to ensuring fair wages.