Road Commission of Kalamazoo County - May 5, 2026 Board of County Road Commissioners Meeting

Updated about 3 hours ago

During the Kalamazoo County Road Commission Meeting several key issues are addressed. Public comments focus on the removal of trees along U Avenue, with residents expressing concern over the environmental impact and aesthetic changes. The Commission approves easements for Oshtemo Township's sanitary sewer project, facilitating infrastructure improvements in the Westport neighborhood. Additionally, a road contract with the Village of Climax is approved, involving crack sealing and chip sealing projects. The Comstock Township Fire Department's request for a letter of support for a DOT grant application is also granted. The meeting highlights ongoing infrastructure and safety projects within Kalamazoo County.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:01:51)
The meeting of the Board of County Road Commission for the County of Kalamazoo was called to order.

The meeting of the Board of County Road Commission for the County of Kalamazoo was officially called to order. Initial business guidelines were mentioned including the opportunity for public comment at the beginning and end of the meeting.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:03:00)
Participants were asked to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States.

Participants were asked to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, emphasizing the unity and indivisibility of the nation.
Approval of Agenda (00:03:44)
The agenda for the meeting was presented and approved without opposition.

The agenda for the meeting was presented to the commissioners and the audience. A motion to approve the agenda was made and seconded, with no opposition noted, thus the agenda was approved as presented.
Approval of Minutes (00:04:13)
Minutes from the previous meeting were approved after confirming no corrections or additions were needed.

The minutes from the previous board meeting were presented for approval. A motion to approve was made and seconded. No corrections, additions, or deletions were noted by the audience or commissioners, and the minutes were approved.
Approval of Payroll and Vendor Accounts (00:05:12)
Payroll and vendor accounts were approved following a motion and brief discussion.

A motion was made to approve the payroll and vendor accounts as presented. The motion received support and was followed by a brief discussion. Without any opposition, the accounts were approved.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:05:39)
Residents raised concerns about tree removal along U Avenue and its impact on aesthetics and safety.

During the public comment period, residents expressed concerns about the removal of trees along U Avenue, arguing for alternatives like signage or rumble strips to preserve the scenic nature and safety benefits provided by the trees.
New Business - Comstock Fire Department Support (00:21:09)
Approval was requested for a letter supporting Comstock Fire Department's grant application for safety equipment.

The Comstock Township Fire Department requested a letter of support for their application to the U.S. Department of Transportation for funding to improve traffic management safety. The board was asked to approve the letter of support.
New Business - Oshtemo Township Sewer Easements (00:22:08)
Approval was requested for permanent easements to construct new sanitary sewer infrastructure in Oshtemo Township.

Oshtemo Township sought approval for permanent easements to build new sanitary sewer infrastructure in the Westport neighborhood. The plan involves two easements on Road Commission owned parcels, with costs covered by the Township.
New Business - Corrugated Steel Pipe Bids (00:26:00)
The board reviewed and approved bids for materials to replenish corrugated steel pipe inventory.

The board considered bids to replenish the inventory of corrugated steel pipes used for water conveyance under roads. After reviewing bids from multiple vendors, the board approved the contract with Jensen Bridge and Supply Company.
New Business - Village of Climax Road Contract (00:30:34)
Approval was sought for a road maintenance contract with the Village of Climax for local road projects.

The Village of Climax requested a contract with the Road Commission for road maintenance projects, including crack filling, chip sealing, and fog sealing. The board approved the contract with costs entirely covered by the Village of Climax.
Second Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:33:24)
Further public comments included requests for meetings about tree removal policies and concerns about roadside management.

In the second public comment period, residents continued to express concerns over tree removal and roadside management policies. A request was made for a meeting with the engineer manager to discuss these issues in detail.
Public Comments (00:37:29)
Members of the public expressed concerns about road maintenance and the potential installation of a roundabout.

Several members of the public addressed the commission regarding various issues. There was discussion about the county's responsibility for road surfaces and liability, with references to Michigan laws. One member of the public asked about the cost of tree removal and suggested considering a roundabout at the corner of U Avenue and Portage Road. The response was that roundabouts are always being considered. The public comment session concluded with no further input from attendees.
Managing Director's Report (00:39:24)
The Managing Director introduced new staff members and discussed service requests related to the S4A project.

The Managing Director introduced three new staff members: Nathan Beam, Anthony Ladd, and Kirsten (last name not provided). Nathan Beam is a road maintenance operator, Anthony Ladd is the new operations director, and Kirsten is a project engineer. The report also included information about service requests related to the S4A project, and it was mentioned that a presentation would be prepared for a future board meeting to discuss the project timeline and objectives. The Managing Director also mentioned an upcoming financial audit presentation to the board.
Commissioners' Comments (00:43:09)
Commissioners shared various updates and comments, including acknowledgments of public concerns and upcoming community events.

Commissioner Kennedy reminded everyone about Memorial Day and encouraged support for veteran families. Commissioner Davis expressed sympathy for those concerned about tree removal, acknowledging the difficulties of such decisions. Vice Chair expressed appreciation for fellow commissioners and commented on the importance of considering alternatives and public input in decision-making. Other commissioners also shared their thoughts and reflections.
Adjournment (00:50:14)
The meeting was adjourned after all agenda items were addressed, and a motion to adjourn was passed.

Following the completion of all agenda items and commissioner comments, a motion to adjourn the meeting was made and seconded. The motion passed, and the meeting was adjourned with all in favor.