Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners - June 16, 2026 Kalamazoo County Board of Trustees

Updated 36 minutes ago

The Kalamazoo County Commission's regular business meeting includes discussions on exiting closed sessions and approving minutes. Commissioners address public comments on community concerns, including gun violence and local development projects. The finance department presents its report, highlighting budget improvements and fiscal transparency. The board plans a strategic retreat to discuss long-term priorities and reviews options for establishing a fund to address gun violence prevention. A moment of remembrance is held for community member Betsy Rice.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:04:31)
The Kalamazoo County Commissioner's regular business meeting was called to order.

The meeting officially began with the calling to order of the Kalamazoo County Commissioner's regular business meeting.
Invocation Reflection (00:06:22)
Commissioner Gisler led the invocation reflection, focusing on guidance and wisdom for community decisions.

Commissioner Gisler delivered an invocation reflection, asking for blessings, wisdom, and guidance as the council makes decisions affecting the community. The reflection emphasized the importance of using best skills and judgment, showing respect, and acting in the best interest of the community.
Roll Call (00:07:54)
Attendance was taken, confirming nine commissioners present.

Roll call was performed to verify the attendance of the commissioners. Commissioners present included Commissioner Mazer, Commissioner Morales, Commissioner Ray, Chair Strebs, Vice Chair Taylor, Commissioner Wheeler, and Commissioner Delo, making a total of nine present.
Approval of Minutes (00:09:45)
Minutes from previous meetings were approved with no opposition.

A motion was made and supported to approve the minutes from all three closed sessions and the regular meeting minutes. The motion carried without opposition, signified by a unanimous 'Aye' vote.
Approval of Agenda (00:10:23)
Agenda approved with amendment removing Road Commission presentation.

The agenda for the meeting was approved with an amendment to remove the presentation from the Kalamazoo County Road Commission, as they needed to reschedule. A motion was made and supported to approve the amended agenda, which was carried unanimously.
Public Comments (00:11:07)
Public comments included elevator repair appreciation and concerns about grant fund usage.

The public comment period allowed individuals to express their views. One comment appreciated the repair of the elevator, while another raised concerns about a grant recipient not reporting fund usage. Additional comments addressed community events, such as the gun violence resource rally and support for affected families.
Consent Agenda Approval (00:19:09)
Consent agenda approved with no further discussion required.

A motion was made and supported to approve the consent agenda, which included items to be passed by roll call vote. The motion carried with unanimous approval as the roll call confirmed all commissioners in favor.
Unfinished Business (00:20:23)
Discussion of unfinished business and general orders.

The meeting proceeded to address unfinished business and general orders.
New Business - Request for Approval and Signature (00:20:36)
Approval for amendment with Housing Resources Inc. for shelter services.

The board discussed and moved to approve an amendment with Housing Resources Incorporated to provide shelter diversion and access coordination services. The amendment aimed to extend the contract period and enhance services, addressing capacity challenges and coordination between service providers.
New Business - ARPA Funding Project (00:31:34)
Resolution to terminate and reallocate ARPA funding project approved.

A resolution was presented to terminate and reallocate ARPA funding project. The motion was made and supported, leading to a roll call vote where all commissioners voted in favor, thus carrying the motion.
Public Comment Opportunity (00:33:33)
Second opportunity for public comment with no participants.

The meeting opened the floor for a second and final public comment period, inviting attendees to address the body. However, no additional public comments were made during this time.
Reports (00:33:58)
Reports are provided
Gun Violence Prevention Initiative (00:42:17)
Discussion on establishing a long-term fund for gun violence prevention in Kalamazoo County.

A presentation on gun violence was discussed, focusing on the establishment of a long-term funding mechanism to support gun violence prevention and community safety initiatives. Various funding options were considered, including an endowed field of interest fund, a donor-advised fund, and utilizing the Community Urgent Relief Fund.
Personal Grooming Needs at County Jail (00:45:09)
Exploration of funding for personal grooming needs, such as haircuts, for inmates at Kalamazoo County Jail.

A concern was raised about the funding of personal grooming needs for inmates at the Kalamazoo County Jail. Discussions are ongoing with the Sheriff's Office and Kalamazoo Defender's Office to explore options for providing these services, particularly haircuts, recognizing broader policy considerations about dignity and reentry readiness.
Finance Department Annual Report (00:46:14)
The Finance Department's annual report was praised for its dedication and achievements in financial management.

The Finance Department's annual report was discussed, highlighting the enthusiasm of elected officials and department heads. The department has improved efficiencies, implemented an integrated budget structure, enhanced operations, and received awards for excellence in financial reporting.
State Budget Update (00:49:23)
Update on ongoing state budget negotiations and their potential impact on local government funding.

The state budget negotiations were discussed, with concerns about the possibility of a delayed budget. Local governments rely on state funding to finalize their own budgets, and there is an emphasis on the need for a timely budget approval.
Upcoming Budget Training and Retreat (00:50:31)
Announcement of upcoming budget training session and annual budget retreat for county commissioners.

An upcoming budget training session and annual budget retreat for the Board of County Commissioners were announced. The training will provide context on the county's budgeting process, and the retreat will focus on strategic priorities and policy direction.
Public Comments and Commissioner Remarks (00:51:41)
Commissioners shared various updates, condolences, and concerns during the public comment period.

Commissioners expressed condolences to the family of Betsy Rice, discussed concerns about state budget cuts affecting EMS services, and highlighted the importance of the proposed long-term fund for gun violence prevention. They also thanked various individuals and organizations for their contributions.
Adjournment (01:00:00)
The meeting was adjourned with a mention of Betsy Rice.

The meeting concluded with a mention of Betsy Rice and her impact, and the meeting was officially adjourned.