City of Kalamazoo - Zoning Board of Appeals - May 14, 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals

Updated 23 minutes ago

The Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals met May 14, 2026 to discuss various issues, notably including attendance policies and a new development proposal. The meeting addressed concerns about board members' attendance and the need for a protocol to handle excused and unexcused absences. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a heated discussion about attendance records and the fairness of enforcement. The board also reviewed changes to a development proposal for five duplexes, which had not been properly noticed for public hearing and lacked the required review from the Natural Features Protection Review board. Consequently, the board decided to table the decision until July to allow for proper review and notification. This meeting highlights ongoing issues with board member participation and procedural challenges in handling development projects.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:03:22)
The meeting of the Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals is called to order and roll call is conducted.

The Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals meeting is called to order. The board is a volunteer advisory board appointed by the city commission. Staff conducts the roll call of the members present.
Announcements (00:04:16)
An announcement about the zoning board training with the City of Portage is made.

There is an announcement regarding the zoning board of appeals training with the City of Portage. It will be held at Portage City Hall and starts at 7 PM. Refreshments and snacks will be provided.
Approval of Minutes and Corrections (00:05:06)
Discussion on last month's minutes and the need for corrections and clarifications.

The board discusses whether there are any corrections or clarifications needed for the minutes of the last meeting. A member requests that their statement about attendance and nominations be included in the minutes. The discussion includes the need for detailed minutes and the process for making corrections.
Attendance and Participation Discussion (00:14:08)
Debate over board member attendance, excused versus unexcused absences, and participation.

A lengthy discussion ensues about board member attendance, including the distinction between excused and unexcused absences. Concerns are raised about selective enforcement and the impact of attendance on participation.
Public Comments and Board Member Conduct (00:25:06)
Comments on board member conduct and the need for respectful communication.

Public comments are made regarding the conduct of board members, including accusations of disrespectful and violent communication. There is a call for more respectful interactions and a consideration of having a conversation about these issues in the public domain.
Public Hearings: Zoning Cases (00:32:34)
Continuation of public hearings for five zoning cases with no new information presented.

Continuation of previously opened public hearings for five zoning cases. The applicant has not attended the Natural Features Protection Review board as required. New development proposals cannot be heard due to lack of public notice and NFP board review.
Motion to Table Zoning Cases (00:39:05)
Motion to table the zoning cases until the July meeting is made and passed.

A motion is made to table the five zoning cases until the July meeting. The board discusses the need for proper notice and NFP board review before proceeding. The motion is passed with a voice vote.
Adjournment (00:40:58)
The meeting is adjourned after addressing all agenda items.

With no further agenda items, the meeting is adjourned. A point of order is raised to confirm who seconded the motion to table the zoning cases.