Kalamazoo City Commission - June 1, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated about 2 hours ago

The Kalamazoo City Commission Meeting covers important community issues and projects. The commission discusses the long-planned two-way conversion of Kalamazoo Avenue, a significant infrastructure project aimed at improving transportation and safety, with multiple contracts approved for construction and engineering services. Public comments highlight concerns about housing affordability, safety, and local infrastructure. The commission also addresses community events such as Pride Month, the impact of local labor strikes, and upcoming city events. Commissioners express support for local workers and emphasize the importance of communication and community engagement in ongoing projects.

Chapters

Welcome and Opening Remarks (00:01:00)
The meeting began with a welcome from the mayor, noting the beautiful weather and the presence of colleagues and attendees.

The mayor welcomed everyone to the meeting, expressing positivity due to the beautiful weather in Kalamazoo. He appreciated seeing his colleagues and those present in the chambers.
Call to Order (00:01:22)
The Kalamazoo City Commission meeting was officially called to order for Monday evening.

The mayor officially called the meeting to order, initiating the proceedings for the Kalamazoo City Commission.
Roll Call (00:01:31)
Roll call was conducted with all commissioners present, including the mayor and vice mayor.

Clerk Bley conducted the roll call for the meeting. Commissioners Hess, Hoffman, Praedel, Slabby, Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson were all present.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:48)
Chaplain Regina Mays led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the mayor.

Chaplain Regina Mays from Missional Chaplains delivered the invocation, inviting peace and unity. The mayor then led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Public Comments (00:05:47)
Multiple residents provided public comments on various issues including housing, safety, and public services.

Several residents spoke on topics such as housing affordability and conditions, public safety, speed bumps for traffic control, and the enforcement of ordinances against unhoused individuals. Concerns about flooding issues and the use of public spaces were also raised.
Consent Agenda (00:31:00)
The commission approved various items on the consent agenda including contracts and reappointments.

Manager Hankins presented items on the consent agenda for approval, which included purchases and agreements related to city operations, utility easements, and appointments to the Water System Advisory Council. The agenda was approved by the commissioners.
Regular Agenda Item Discussion (00:34:42)
Discussion of a contract with Ferguson Waterworks for water inventory purchase as part of the regular agenda.

The commissioners discussed a contract with Ferguson Waterworks for the annual purchase of miscellaneous water inventory. No staff report was provided, but staff were available for questions.
Discussion on Miscellaneous Water Inventory (00:35:51)
Director Baker explained the purpose and details of the miscellaneous water inventory, including maintenance and new service connections.

The discussion centered around the miscellaneous water inventory handled by the water department. Director Baker described it as a contract that provides necessary parts and materials for the operation and maintenance of the water distribution system. This includes water mains, hardware connections, copper pipes, fire hydrants, and repair clamps. The parts are also used for making new service connections for new customers. These materials are bid out annually, and the results influence the rate structures in the upcoming year.
Approval of Miscellaneous Water Inventory Contract (00:38:01)
Commissioners voted to approve the water inventory contract and authorize the city manager to sign related documents.

Following the discussion on the miscellaneous water inventory, a motion was made to approve the contract and authorize the city manager to sign all related documents. The motion was made by Commissioner Slaby and supported by Vice Mayor Duncan. The roll call vote was unanimous in favor, with all commissioners voting 'yes.' The motion passed successfully.
Approval of Contract with Wayne County Appraisal LLC (00:39:35)
Commissioners discussed and approved a three-year contract with Wayne County Appraisals LLC for assessing services.

City manager Hankins introduced the approval of a three-year contract with Wayne County Appraisal LLC for assessing and assessor of record services. The discussion included details about the cost savings and efficiency of contracting these services compared to hiring a full-time assessor. The city has been using WCA due to a shortage of level four assessors. Commissioners asked questions regarding service delivery, oversight, and customer service. The contract was approved with the understanding that it ensures cost-effective and efficient operations.
Public and Commissioner Comments on Assessing Contract (00:59:00)
Commissioners and public discussed the contract with Wayne County Appraisal, focusing on customer service and accountability.

During the discussion about the contract with Wayne County Appraisal, Commissioner Slaby expressed concerns about customer service experiences and the importance of high standards in public service. He emphasized the need for the contractor to represent the city well and suggested that long-term strategies should be considered to potentially bring services in-house. Vice Mayor Duncan inquired about the contract's terms for performance and customer service. City Manager Hankins and CFO Steve Vicenzi provided responses and assurances about monitoring service quality and addressing complaints.
Discussion on City Manager's Office Responsiveness (01:04:55)
Commissioner Slaby praises the city manager's office for quick responsiveness and follow-ups regarding service gaps.

Commissioner Slaby expressed support for a contract, citing confidence in the city manager's office due to their proactive follow-ups and responsiveness in addressing service gaps and customer service quality issues. The city manager's office, led by Hankins and COO Lam, was credited with identifying breakdowns in processes and initiating conversations to find solutions.
Roll Call Vote (01:06:08)
A roll call vote is conducted, and the motion passes with unanimous support from the commissioners present.

The roll call vote was conducted for an unspecified motion, with each commissioner voting 'Yes'. The commissioners included Commissioner Slabby, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, Mayor Anderson, Commissioner Hess, Commissioner Hoffman, and Commissioner Praedel.
Approval of Contract with Wightman and Associates Inc. (01:06:30)
City Manager Hankins presents the approval of a contract with Wightman and Associates Inc. for construction engineering services on Kalamazoo Avenue.

City Manager Hankins introduced the agenda item for approving a contract with Wightman and Associates Inc. The contract is for providing construction engineering services for the Kalamazoo Avenue Construction Project. The decision reflects more than a decade of planning and community engagement, including early corridor studies and ongoing strategic vision work.
Presentation on Kalamazoo Avenue Construction Project (01:07:10)
Director Baker presents on the Kalamazoo Avenue project, covering contracts, timelines, and community impact.

Director Baker provided a detailed presentation on the Kalamazoo Avenue Construction Project, which involves two related agenda items. The project is a result of over a decade of planning and includes contracts for construction engineering and construction work. Baker discussed the project's history, community engagement, and the phased approach to minimize disruption.
Commissioner Questions and Discussion (01:19:47)
Commissioners ask questions about project timelines, community impact, and cost management strategies.

Commissioners engaged in an in-depth discussion with Director Baker, asking questions about the project's impact on traffic and neighborhoods, the timeline for completion, and strategies for managing construction costs and avoiding overruns. The discussion also addressed concerns about coordinating construction with other developments, such as the upcoming arena, and maintaining safe conditions on West Michigan Avenue.
Discussion on Construction Outreach and Public Communication (01:36:36)
Discussion on the plans for public communication during construction projects, including outreach and minimizing detours.

The meeting discussed plans for public communication during construction projects, including working with a marketing company to invest in advertising, marketing, and social media. The goal is to keep traffic flowing and minimize detours, working with business owners to address issues.
Public Comment on Construction Engineering Services Contract (01:39:03)
Public comments regarding the contract with Wightman and Associates for construction engineering services.

Public comments were invited regarding the contract with Wightman and Associates for construction engineering services. Comments included concerns about metal detector enthusiasts trespassing during construction projects and the impact of semi-truck routes.
Discussion on Truck Routes and Impact on Local Traffic (01:40:38)
Discussion on truck traffic and routes in Kalamazoo, including impacts on local traffic and businesses.

The discussion focused on truck traffic in Kalamazoo, including the impact of truck routes on local traffic and businesses. Efforts are being made to reroute trucks to major streets and limit their presence in residential areas, with enforcement of no-truck routes on local streets.
Commissioners' Discussion on Downtown Projects (01:43:00)
Commissioners discussed downtown development projects, funding, and community engagement.

Commissioners discussed the development projects in downtown Kalamazoo, highlighting the importance of community engagement and communication. They emphasized the significance of securing federal and state grants for these projects and the need for community education to mitigate public concerns.
Approval of Resolution for MDOT Sub-recipient Agreement (01:55:44)
Approval of a resolution for a sub-recipient agreement with MDOT for the two-way conversion of Kalamazoo Avenue.

The commission approved a resolution for a Michigan Department of Transportation sub-recipient agreement related to the two-way conversion of Kalamazoo Avenue. The discussion included the importance of this project for improving downtown traffic flow and infrastructure.
Reports from City Manager (01:56:36)
City Manager provided updates on city staff transitions and ongoing projects.

The City Manager reported on the transitions of key city staff members and acknowledged their contributions. The report also covered ongoing projects and the efforts to improve city infrastructure and services.
Commissioner Comments (01:58:05)
Commissioners made comments on various topics including community events and support for workers.

Commissioners provided comments on various topics including support for UAW workers on strike, upcoming community events like Pride Month celebrations, and initiatives related to gun violence and men's health. They also expressed gratitude for city staff and highlighted the importance of community engagement.
Gun Violence Documentary and Community Impact (02:07:29)
A Kalamazoo College alum's documentary Watts has significantly reduced gun violence and inspired local initiatives.

The discussion highlights a documentary made by a Kalamazoo College alum living in LA, Nothing to See Here: Watts, which has notably decreased gun violence. The Public Safety Office has taken notice and is promoting the documentary's impact within gun violence prevention communities. Kalamazoo College, in conjunction with Social Justice, is organizing a gathering that includes a talk with the filmmaker, aimed at jumpstarting summer efforts to reduce gun violence in Kalamazoo.
Commendation for Retiring City Official (02:08:12)
Antonio Mitchell receives commendation for his service to the city and best wishes for his retirement.

Gratitude was expressed to Antonio Mitchell, a city official, for his dedicated service to the city. The speaker wished him well in his upcoming retirement, acknowledging his contributions to the community.
Jumpstart Weekend and Community Events (02:08:22)
Jumpstart Weekend features Pride and the Art Fair, attracting significant attendance to Kalamazoo.

Commissioner Prado discussed the Jumpstart Weekend, which includes major events such as Pride and the Art Fair in downtown Kalamazoo. These events are among the highest attended, drawing visitors from outside the region, and are crucial to the community's vibrancy. The weekend is noted for its ability to bring the community together and showcase Kalamazoo's energy and inclusiveness.
Update on Home Share Program (02:09:12)
The Home Share program seeks to address housing needs with input from community partners and current initiatives in Michigan.

An update was provided on the Home Share program, with efforts to assess interest and gather input from potential housing partners and experts. A consultant was hired to facilitate this process, involving significant listening sessions with stakeholders. The program draws inspiration from similar initiatives in Washtenaw and Grand Traverse counties, which have shared their experiences and resources. A housing conference in Lansing provided further insights into the program's potential and challenges.
Recognition of Graduation Ceremonies (02:12:03)
Graduation ceremonies for Kalamazoo students are celebrated, highlighting the community's support for education.

The meeting acknowledged recent graduation ceremonies for Kalamazoo Central, Lo Nor, and Phoenix High School students. The importance of education and community support in helping young people achieve their academic goals was emphasized. The speaker shared a personal note about attending a grandson's graduation in Washington, reflecting on the familial and community significance of such milestones.
Discussion on McKinney-Vento Act Funding and Homelessness (02:13:41)
McKinney-Vento Act funds aim to address homelessness, despite being insufficient, and require community collaboration for effective use.

The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act provides essential funds to combat homelessness in Kalamazoo through the Continuum of Care. Although the funds are limited, efforts are made to maximize their impact. Recent changes in funding allocation by HUD pose challenges, yet the community remains committed to addressing homelessness. A recent point-in-time count highlighted the current state of homelessness in the area. The application process for these funds involves community input and collaboration, with awards expected by the end of the year.
Adjournment (02:18:45)
The meeting concluded with expressions of love for the city and appreciation for colleagues.

The meeting was adjourned with the mayor expressing gratitude towards the commissioners and the community, emphasizing a collective love for Kalamazoo. It marked the end of the session, leaving attendees with a sense of unity and purpose.