City of Kalamazoo - Planning Commission - May 7, 2026 Planning Commission Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

In the Kalamazoo Planning Commission meeting on May 7, 2026, the Commission reviews a special use permit request for the redevelopment of a gas station at a major intersection. The discussion includes the project's adherence to zoning criteria and its impact on local traffic. Additionally, the Commissioners receive a presentation on a new database that catalogs historical planning commission actions to improve accessibility and transparency of city planning records. The meeting also includes updates on local housing projects and the opening of the farmer's market.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:10)
The meeting began at 7:00 PM with a call to order, followed by the roll call of Planning Commission members.

The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. A roll call was conducted, and it was confirmed that a quorum was present with members Ed Bowman, Binette, Curtis, Duncan, Riva, Sandoval, and Tober present. Wilson and Vyas were absent.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:44)
The agenda for the meeting was approved after noting a minor update to include a site plan list under item G3.

A minor update was made to the posted agenda regarding the site plan list under item G3, which was initially missing. The updated agenda was moved and seconded for approval. The motion carried with all in favor.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:19)
Minutes from the previous meeting were approved without any noted questions or concerns.

The minutes from the prior meeting were presented for approval. No questions or concerns were raised by the members. A motion to approve the minutes was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Communications and Announcements (00:01:42)
There were no significant communications or announcements except for the winding down of Imagine Kalamazoo events.

Bobby noted the conclusion of the Imagine Kalamazoo events, thanking planning commissioners for their participation. There were no other announcements or communications to report.
Public Hearing: Special Use Permit Request (00:02:08)
A public hearing was held regarding a special use permit request to redevelop a property with a new gas station and convenience store.

The main item was a public hearing on a special use permit request to redevelop an existing gas station site into a new gas station and convenience store. The staff report was presented by Bobby, outlining the criteria for the special use permit, site layout, and compliance with zoning standards. The applicant's representatives, Steve Whitty and Jason Barris, provided additional details and answered questions from the commissioners. After discussing traffic, construction timeline, and site design, the commission opened and closed the public hearing with no public comments. The commission voted to approve the special use permit request.
Discussion and Action Items (00:28:08)
There were no additional discussion or action items on the agenda for this meeting.

The Chair inquired about any discussion or action items, and it was confirmed by Bobby that there were none on the agenda to address.
City Planner's Report (00:28:29)
The City Planner's report included remarks on the Imagine Kalamazoo outreach effort.

Bobby gave a brief report, mentioning the winding down of the Imagine Kalamazoo community outreach events. Commission members commended the outreach efforts and transparency demonstrated through the Imagine Kalamazoo process.
Discussion on Planning Commission Database Project (00:29:21)
The meeting focused on the development and implementation of a new comprehensive database for the Planning Commission records, presented by Bobby and Charlie.

Bobby provided a detailed background on the need for a centralized database for Planning Commission records, highlighting the historical challenges in accessing and organizing minutes and records from the past. An intern, Charlie Kovac, worked on this project, creating a comprehensive database to consolidate records. The database allows for easy access, searchability, and filtering of planning commission requests and actions. It includes various details such as request types, locations, and dates. The project aims to modernize the record-keeping process and make historical data more accessible for future use. Bobby and Charlie explained the features, benefits, and future potential of the database, including public access and internal use. The presentation included questions and discussions from other members about the database's operation and its impact on public record access.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:54:02)
The meeting opened for public comments on items not listed on the agenda, but there were no public comments made during this section.

The chair opened the floor to the public for any comments on topics not covered in the agenda. The public was invited to come forward or call a provided number to make their comments. However, no members of the public came forward in person or called in to provide comments. The chair then closed the public comment section.
City Commission Liaison Comments (00:54:43)
City Commission Liaison provided updates on city commission meeting schedules, local events, and housing developments, highlighting the community's growth and initiatives.

The City Commission Liaison informed attendees about the revised schedule of city commission meetings due to recent elections, with the next meetings occurring on consecutive Mondays. Updates were provided on local events, including the opening of the farmer's market and recent housing initiatives such as the William Schmo house, the Landing Place project, and the new office for Kalamazoo Housing Advocates. These updates highlighted ongoing efforts and partnerships to improve housing and community services. The Liaison thanked Commissioner Slaby for their presence at the meeting and encouraged continued community engagement.
Planning Commissioner Comments (00:57:03)
Planning Commissioner expressed gratitude for the presentation on the Planning Commission database and congratulated Charlie Kovac on his graduation.

A Planning Commissioner took the opportunity to thank Bobby and Charlie for their thorough presentation on the Planning Commission database, appreciating the historical insights it provided. The Commissioner also congratulated Charlie Kovac on his recent graduation from Western Michigan University, expressing pride as a fellow Bronco alumnus and recognizing the contributions of other Western Michigan affiliates present at the meeting.
Discussion on Farmer's Market (00:57:38)
Commissioners discussed the success and joy of the farmer's market, highlighting its development and the opening event.

The discussion included Commissioner Radell's positive remarks about the farmer's market, which has been a significant achievement in collaboration with the city. The joy and success of its development were emphasized, and attendees were encouraged to visit on Saturday mornings. There was also mention of the Don Cooney Cultivation Center providing shelter from a brisk breeze during the opening event.
Adjournment of the Planning Commission Meeting (00:58:11)
The meeting of the planning commission was officially adjourned with no further comments or business.

With no further comments or business to address, the meeting of the planning commission was adjourned. The adjournment marked the end of the discussions and proceedings for this session.