Kalamazoo City Commission - May 18, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated 27 minutes ago

The Kalamazoo City Commission held a public hearing on the establishment of a new social district within the North Side Cultural Business District, aimed at boosting local business and community engagement. The commission also hears public concerns about persistent flooding in the north side neighborhood, with plans for a community meeting to discuss solutions. Additionally, the meeting covers the approval of various contracts and resolutions related to city infrastructure and services. Commissioners also discussed the importance of public safety and public services within the community.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:02:36)
The meeting is called to order by the Mayor and roll call is conducted by Clerk Bley with all commissioners present.

Mayor Anderson calls the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting to order and Clerk Bley conducts the roll call. All commissioners, including Commissioner Hess, Commissioner Hoffman, Commissioner Praedel, Commissioner Slaby, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson are present.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:03:20)
Reverend Mary Austin provides the Invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Mayor.

Reverend Mary Austin from the First Congregational Church delivers an invocation, invoking the spirit of unity and peace for the city and its commission. The Invocation is followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag, led by Mayor Anderson.
Proclamations (00:05:14)
Two proclamations are announced: National Gun Violence Awareness Day and Public Services Week, highlighting community safety and public service contributions.

The Mayor announces two proclamations. The first is for National Gun Violence Awareness Day, led by Commissioner Wilson, emphasizing the need to end gun violence and recognize its survivors. The second proclamation, read by Commissioner Slaby, declares Public Services Week, acknowledging the essential work of public services employees in maintaining community infrastructure and safety.
Adoption of Formal Agenda (00:17:27)
Commissioners discuss changes to the formal agenda, including moving items and adding new agenda points for discussion.

The commission discusses the adoption of the formal agenda. Items from the consent agenda are moved to the regular agenda for further discussion. Manager Hankins and Attorney Li propose additional changes, including removing and adding items related to city policies and a settlement agreement.
Public Comments (00:20:24)
Residents and community members express concerns and suggestions on various local issues including infrastructure, social districts, and public safety.

During the public comments section, several community members, including Dia Paris, Carl Rizzuto, and Maddie Jordan Woods, address the commission. Topics include the establishment of a new social district, infrastructure issues, especially flooding on the north side, and public safety concerns such as speeding and gun violence. Residents urge the commission to take action on these pressing local issues.
Public Comments on Palisades Nuclear Plant (00:36:18)
Speakers expressed concerns over the restart plans for Palisades Nuclear Plant, highlighting safety risks and urging the city to oppose the project.

Multiple speakers addressed the city commission to express concerns about the potential restart and expansion of the Palisades Nuclear Plant. They cited safety concerns, the risk of radioactive incidents, and the use of taxpayer money for a potentially dangerous and unnecessary project. The speakers urged the commission to consider passing a resolution to oppose the restart and expansion efforts, emphasizing the importance of public safety and the environment.
Public Hearing on Enterprise Zone District (00:42:48)
A public hearing was held to discuss the creation of an Enterprise Zone District to facilitate a new development project on the north side.

The city commission opened a public hearing to receive comments on a resolution to establish an Enterprise Zone District on the north side. The project, led by Bogan Developments, aims to create affordable housing and improve infrastructure in the area. The developers presented their plans, which include a mix of residential units and commercial space. Commissioners and the public asked questions about the project's details, funding, and its impact on the community. Concerns were raised about the perception of tax benefits for residents and the responsibilities for infrastructure improvements.
Consent Agenda Approval (01:04:02)
The commission approved items on the consent agenda, which included contracts and agreements related to city operations and infrastructure.

The city commission reviewed and approved items on the consent agenda, which included various contracts and agreements. These covered areas such as software renewals, well rehabilitation, waste removal services, installation of sanitary pumps, and purchases of equipment through cooperative purchasing programs. The approval also included agreements related to city management and infrastructure projects, such as road resurfacing and water plant improvements.
Approval of Purchase Agreement for Property in Comstock Township (01:08:19)
The commission considered the approval of a purchase agreement for property in Comstock Township for city development.

The city commission reviewed a purchase agreement with Steven and Linda French for the acquisition of property located in Comstock Township. The property is intended for future city development projects. The agreement had been previously discussed and was brought back for approval. No additional staff report was presented, but staff were available to answer any questions from the commissioners.
Approval of Agenda Item One (01:09:49)
The commission discussed and approved agenda item one after a motion and roll call vote.

The commission invited public comments for agenda item one, but seeing none, proceeded with a motion to approve. After a brief discussion, a roll call vote was conducted with all commissioners voting 'yes', approving the agenda item.
Approval of Contract Extension with J&H Oil Company (01:11:16)
The commission approved a contract extension with J&H Oil Company for fuel supplies after a motion and roll call vote.

Public comments were opened for the approval of a contract extension with J&H Oil Company for gasoline, diesel, and biodiesel. With no public comments received, the commission moved to approve the contract extension after a motion and a roll call vote, with all commissioners voting in favor.
Approval of Contract Extension with Wreath Riley Construction Company (01:12:17)
The commission approved a contract extension for asphalt paving materials with Wreath Riley Construction after a motion and roll call vote.

The commission opened the floor for public comments regarding the contract extension with Wreath Riley Construction Company for asphalt paving materials. With no public comments, a motion was made and seconded to approve the contract extension. The motion passed unanimously following a roll call vote.
Adoption of Resolution for Street Lighting Contract Changes (01:13:23)
The commission adopted a resolution for changes in the street lighting contract with Consumers Energy after discussion and a vote.

Public comments were invited on the resolution approving changes to the street lighting contract with Consumers Energy. A commission member raised concerns about lighting removal but was assured that new, improved lighting would be installed. The resolution was adopted following a motion and a roll call vote.
Adoption of Resolution for North Church Street Lighting Changes (01:22:23)
The commission adopted a resolution approving changes in the street lighting on North Church Street.

Commissioners discussed and approved changes to the street lighting on North Church Street. After opening the floor to public comments and receiving none, a motion was made and supported, leading to a roll call vote that passed the resolution.
Establishment of a Social District in North Side Cultural Business District (01:23:27)
The commission approved the establishment of a social district within the North Side Cultural Business District to promote business and community engagement.

The commission considered a resolution to create a social district in the North Side Cultural Business District. Representatives explained its purpose to allow patrons to move between establishments with open containers, similar to the downtown district. Public comments were supportive, emphasizing the district's potential to support local businesses.
Approval of Settlement Agreement in Rashard Armstrong Lawsuit (01:38:38)
The commission approved a settlement agreement in the Rashard Armstrong lawsuit following advice from outside litigation counsel.

The city commission reviewed a proposed settlement agreement in the Rashard Armstrong lawsuit during a closed session. In the open session, they moved to approve the settlement based on the counsel's advice, with the motion passing after a roll call vote.
Vote on Motion (01:40:28)
Commissioners voted on a motion presented by Commissioner Slabby, with all commissioners in favor.

The meeting involved a vote on a motion presented by Commissioner Slabby. The roll call was conducted by Clerk Boiling, with Commissioners Hoffman, Praedel, Slaby, Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, Mayor Anderson, and Commissioner Huss all voting 'Yes'. The motion passed unanimously.
Removal of Agenda Item K1 (01:40:52)
Item K1 has been removed from the agenda due to pending internal policy review questions.

Manager Hankins informed the commission that item K1 under policy items had been removed from the agenda for the night. Vice Mayor Duncan questioned the removal, and it was clarified that the policy was still under internal review and would be revisited once the questions were resolved.
Commissioner Comments - Flooding on the North Side (01:42:00)
Commissioner Wilson invites the community to discuss ongoing flooding issues at an event with the Kalamazoo County Drain Commissioner.

Commissioner Wilson addressed recent flooding concerns on the North Side, inviting community members to an event at the North Side Association. The event aims to gather resident concerns, discuss root causes, provide guidance on resources, and explore next steps. Kalamazoo County Drain Commissioner Jason Mond will attend to answer questions.
Commissioner Comments - Acknowledgments and Retirements (01:42:55)
Commissioner Praedel acknowledges teamwork and thanks Director Antonio Mitchell, retiring soon, for his service.

Commissioner Praedel highlighted the importance of teamwork in governance, thanking Vice Mayor Marin for her contributions. He acknowledged Director Antonio Mitchell's upcoming retirement, expressing gratitude for his service. Commissioner Praedel also discussed the lighting enhancements in residential areas and expressed a desire for further improvements.
Commissioner Comments - Community Events and Recognition (01:44:58)
Commissioner Hess shares positive community events, police recognition, and welcomes new Kalamazoo College president.

Commissioner Hess celebrated recent community events, including the Mayor's bike ride, highlighting the involvement of officers who ensured safety. She recognized Officer Annette's heroism in rescuing a baby from a burning building. Hess welcomed six new public safety officers and acknowledged public services week. She also welcomed Carolyn Crowley, the incoming president of Kalamazoo College, succeeding Jorge Gonzalez.
Commissioner Comments - Street Conditions and Community Engagement (01:47:03)
Mayor discusses street conditions, community events, and thanks local organizations for their contributions.

The Mayor reflected on the poor condition of streets encountered during the Mayor's bike ride, expressing hope for future funding to address these issues. He praised public services and highlighted recent community events, including a women's conference and the opening of Open Roads in the Edison Neighborhood. The Mayor emphasized the importance of community efforts and acknowledged the work of local nonprofits, faith centers, and individuals contributing to Kalamazoo's well-being.