City of Kalamazoo - Planning Commission - June 4, 2026 Planning Commission Meeting

Updated about 1 hour ago

Commissioners reviewed the site plan for a new office building by Owen Ames Kimball in the BTR Park. The discussion included details on the site plan review process, parking requirements, and the impact of zoning classifications. The meeting also featured reports on the upcoming Kalamazoo Avenue project, which is set to begin next month, and updates from the city's Parks and Recreation Department on new developments, such as the pump track at Burg Park. The meeting concluded with public comments and commissioner updates.

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Agenda (pdf, 101 KB, opens in new window/tab)

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:19)
The meeting of the Kalamazoo City Planning Commission is officially started.

The chairperson calls the Thursday meeting of the Kalamazoo City Planning Commission to order.
Roll Call (00:00:27)
Attendance is taken with all members present.

A roll call is conducted to ensure all members of the Kalamazoo City Planning Commission are present. Members Curtis, Duncan, Riva, Sandoval, Tober Wilson, and Bias are in attendance.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:50)
The agenda for the meeting is approved without changes.

The chairperson asks if there are any changes to the agenda. Hearing none, a motion is made and seconded to approve the agenda. All members vote in favor, and the agenda is approved.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:08)
Minutes from the previous meeting are reviewed and approved.

The minutes from the last meeting are reviewed. Members are asked if they have any questions or comments. A motion is made to approve the minutes, which is seconded and passed unanimously.
Communications and Announcements (00:01:28)
Discussion on public hearing placement and agenda items.

The chairperson asks if there are any communications or announcements. Discussion ensues regarding the placement of public hearings on the agenda and the requirements for public comment during site plan review.
Discussion on Site Plan Review Process (00:02:01)
Detailed explanation of the site plan review process and its requirements.

An overview of the site plan review process is provided, including the roles of the planning commission and the site plan review committee. The specific case of the BTR park and its requirements for site plan review are discussed in detail.
Applicant Presentation: Owen Ames Kimball Project (00:15:47)
Presentation by Owen Ames Kimball about their proposed project in the BTR park.

Representatives from Owen Ames Kimball present their project plans for a new office building in the BTR park. They discuss the purpose of the building, its design, and its significance for the company's growth and presence in Kalamazoo.
Public Comment on Action Items (00:28:34)
Public comment period opened for agenda item discussions.

The chairperson opens the floor for public comments regarding the current agenda item, inviting both in-person and online participants to share their views. No comments are received from the public.
Planning Commissioner Discussion and Vote (00:29:24)
Planning commissioners discuss and vote on the action item with conditions.

The planning commissioners discuss the site plan approval with the condition that it receives final approval from the site plan review committee. A motion is made, seconded, and approved unanimously.
City Planner's Report (00:30:46)
City planner updates on Kalamazoo Avenue work and future planning projects.

The city planner reports on the approval of a bid for Kalamazoo Avenue work, set to begin soon. A presentation is planned to inform the public and commissioners about the project details and future planning initiatives.
Discussion on the Imagine Kalamazoo Plan (00:31:46)
Discussion on how current construction ties back to the Imagine Kalamazoo plan and the importance of community vision in site planning.

The meeting discussed the connection between current construction projects and the Imagine Kalamazoo plan. It was highlighted how these projects are a result of early community vision and planning. The procedural nature of site plan reviews and their importance as permanent records was also emphasized.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:32:54)
Opportunity for public to comment on items not on the current agenda. No comments were made.

The meeting opened the floor for public comments on items not listed on the current agenda. Participants were invited to step up to the podium or call in to share their thoughts. No public comments were made during this session.
City Commission Liaison Comments (00:33:21)
Commissioner discussed the significance of the two-way conversion project and upcoming projects in Kalamazoo, including the new bicycling pump track and community events.

Commissioner Pre shared insights into the significance of the two-way conversion project in Kalamazoo, noting the long process and community involvement. The commencement of this project next month was announced, which will occur in three phases. Additionally, new developments in Burg Park, including a bicycling pump track and other facilities, were discussed. Upcoming community events such as Pride Fest, the Art Fair, and others were also highlighted.
Commissioner Comments (00:36:29)
Commissioner Roland Bissonnette announced his new position as Community Disaster Program Manager for the Red Cross Southwest Michigan chapter.

During the commissioner comments section, Roland Bissonnette announced his new role as the Community Disaster Program Manager for the Red Cross Southwest Michigan chapter. He expressed excitement about the new position and shared his experience with the job application process.
Adjournment (00:37:09)
The meeting was adjourned with closing thanks to participants.

The meeting concluded with thanks to all participants, and the session was officially adjourned.