Kalamazoo City Commission - July 20, 2026 Business Meeting

Updated about 22 hours ago

The Commission proclaims Northside Day for Saturday, August 8, recognizing the contributions of the Northside community to Kalamazoo. A major discussion on the potential moratorium on data centers highlights concerns about environmental impact and energy use. Additionally, the Commission considers reintroducing call-in public comments to allow more residents to participate in meetings. The meeting also includes public concerns about the use of flock cameras and updates on local infrastructure projects.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:35)
Mayor Anderson called the Kalamazoo City Commission meeting to order and Clerk Burling conducted roll call.

The meeting was called to order by Mayor Anderson at 7:00 PM. Roll call was conducted by Clerk Burling, with all commissioners present.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:25)
Father Bryce Buffenbarger from the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Father Bryce Buffenbarger delivered the invocation, emphasizing peace, light, and hope for the community. The assembly then participated in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Proclamation for Northside Day (00:02:55)
Commissioner Hoffman read a proclamation declaring a Northside Day in Kalamazoo to celebrate the community's culture and history.

The proclamation for Northside Day was read by Commissioner Hoffman, highlighting the Northside neighborhood's rich history, community contributions, and the Northside Association for Community Development's role in fostering growth and opportunity.
Approval of the Formal Agenda (00:07:07)
The commission approved the formal agenda with an addition of a new item H5 related to a settlement agreement.

Mayor Anderson introduced the formal agenda, with a motion to add item H5 regarding the approval of a settlement agreement in federal and state cases. The agenda was approved with this addition.
Public Comments (00:09:01)
Residents provided comments on various topics including the Kalamazoo Farmer's Market, a wrongful conviction, data centers, and flock cameras.

Multiple residents addressed the commission with comments on diverse issues. Deb Droppers provided updates on the Kalamazoo Farmer's Market, Sam Dixon spoke on his wrongful conviction case, and others discussed concerns about data centers, environmental impacts, and the use of flock cameras for surveillance.
Public Comments on Surveillance and Public Safety (00:34:32)
Discussion on the accountability and impact of surveillance technology on public safety and civil liberties, including a closing prayer.

The speaker discusses the balance between powerful surveillance technology and its accountability to the public, emphasizing that public safety and civil liberties can reinforce each other. A closing prayer asks for wisdom and justice in leadership.
Community Acknowledgements and Flock Camera Concerns (00:35:22)
Charla Davis thanks community leaders and addresses concerns about flock cameras, including questions on contracts and equitable oversight.

Charla Davis expresses gratitude to community leaders and organizations for their support and involvement in democracy initiatives. She raises concerns about flock cameras, questioning their oversight and the status of contracts, and supports a moratorium on a data center.
Data Centers and Energy Concerns (00:38:47)
Matt Griffith opposes data centers due to energy and pollution concerns and demands transparency regarding flock cameras.

Matt Griffith criticizes data centers for increasing energy costs and pollution. He questions the transparency and oversight of flock cameras, suggesting that the city commission should vote on such contracts.
Flooding and Infrastructure Issues (00:42:08)
Tina McClin highlights ongoing flooding issues, criticizes road diets, high rent, and the focus on downtown development over neighborhood needs.

Tina McClin describes persistent flooding problems in her neighborhood, criticizes road diets for causing traffic and pollution, and highlights high rent and crime issues. She calls for infrastructure improvements before further development.
Homelessness and Neighborhood Safety (01:03:12)
Residents discuss homelessness encampments, neighborhood safety, and the effectiveness of flock cameras in crime prevention.

Speakers express concerns about homelessness encampments affecting neighborhood safety and emphasize the need for solutions. Opinions on flock cameras are divided, with some supporting them for safety and others questioning their effectiveness.
Public Comments on Community Safety (01:06:55)
Residents express concerns about violence, safety, and the effectiveness of security cameras in their neighborhoods.

Several residents, including Lisa Jordan and Kimberly Hooper, shared personal experiences and concerns regarding safety in their neighborhoods. They discussed issues with violence, shootings, and the perceived benefits and limitations of security cameras installed in their areas. Lisa Jordan highlighted a recent incident where her neighbor's house was shot, while Kimberly Hooper emphasized that cameras have helped reduce drug activities but also shared concerns about vandalism. Many residents expressed frustration over the lack of action from authorities and the need for better community safety measures.
Endorsement Request for ESP Bill of Rights (01:19:02)
Shawn Espinoza asks the commission to endorse the ESP Bill of Rights, seeking better conditions for educational support staff.

Shawn Espinoza addressed the commission to request endorsement for the ESP Bill of Rights, which advocates for improved wages, healthcare, retirement benefits, and working conditions for educational support staff, including bus drivers and paraprofessionals. Espinoza emphasized the importance of the commission's support in advancing these rights and encouraged members to endorse the initiative both individually and collectively.
Concerns About Homeless Encampments (01:20:26)
Amanda shares concerns about homeless encampments and the associated environmental and safety issues.

Amanda, a resident living near a mixed-use area in Kalamazoo, expressed concerns about homeless encampments and their impact on the local environment and community safety. She highlighted issues such as the accumulation of waste, presence of weapons, and people living in unsafe conditions. Amanda urged the city commission to address these problems and noted her efforts in reporting these issues to city officials without receiving adequate responses.
Reopening of Arcadia Creek Festival Place (01:24:31)
Residents request the reopening of Arcadia Creek Festival Place, which has been fenced off for months with no ongoing work.

Residents, including Jeff Messer and Erin, called on the city commission to reopen the Arcadia Creek Festival Place, which has been fenced off for over seven months despite the lack of ongoing renovations. They argued that the site should be accessible to the public when no construction is occurring, and that its closure sends the wrong message to the community. The residents cited promises made by city officials to keep the area open and emphasized the need for transparency and trust in city governance.
Consent Agenda Items (01:32:00)
The commission approves various contract extensions and agreements related to city services and infrastructure projects.

The city manager presented the consent agenda, which included items such as a one-year contract extension for actuarial services, agreements for water reclamation plant improvements, and custodial services contracts. The commission unanimously approved all items on the consent agenda, authorizing the city manager to sign the related documents.
Professional Services Agreement for Clarifier Rehabilitation (01:35:00)
The commission discusses a professional services agreement for engineering services related to the rehabilitation of clarifiers at the water reclamation plant.

The commission considered a professional services agreement with Tetra Tech Inc. for design engineering services for the rehabilitation of secondary clarifiers at the Kalamazoo Water Reclamation Plant. Director Baker provided an overview of the project, explaining the need to replace aging mechanical elements and improve efficiency. The commission discussed the timeline for the design and construction phases, with an anticipated construction start in 2025.
Approval and Signing of Documents (01:39:41)
Commissioners approve a motion to authorize the city manager to sign necessary documents, with a roll call confirming unanimous agreement.

The meeting involved a motion put forth by Commissioner Slaby, supported by Vice Mayor Duncan, to approve and authorize the city manager to sign all related documents. There was no discussion on this motion, and the roll call vote resulted in unanimous approval from all commissioners present.
Approval of Contract for Water Main Replacement (01:40:19)
Commissioners approved a contract with SWT Excavating Inc. for a water main replacement project, with no discussion or public comments following the motion.

The agenda included approval of a contract with SWT Excavating Inc. for the water main replacement project on Verdict Street from Emerson to Stockbridge. The city manager was authorized to sign all related documents following a motion by Commissioner Slaby, supported by Commissioner Praedel. The motion passed unanimously after a roll call.
Approval of Utility Metering Solutions Contract (01:41:49)
The commission approved a contract with Utility Metering Solutions LLC for smart water meters, with explanations provided by Director Baker about the benefits and implementation of smart meters.

Commissioners discussed and subsequently approved a contract with Utility Metering Solutions LLC for the replacement of water meters with smart meters. Director Baker explained the advantages of smart meters, such as improved data collection and billing processes. Public comments were generally supportive, highlighting the benefit of more manageable monthly billing.
Approval of Contract for Electrical Reliability Project (01:45:29)
Commissioners approved a contract for an electrical reliability project, which includes updates to motor control centers and backup generators to improve water station operations.

The agenda item involved approving a contract with LD DOSA Associates for an electrical reliability project. The project aims to upgrade outdated motor control centers and replace a diesel generator with a natural gas-powered one to ensure reliability and compliance with modern standards. Commissioner questions focused on the project's necessity and safety improvements.
Approval of Settlement Agreement in Litigation (01:59:08)
Commissioners approved a settlement agreement in employment discrimination litigation, resulting in no liability admission and ending both federal and state lawsuits.

The commission discussed and approved a settlement agreement in the case of Dirk Adam vs. City of Kalamazoo. Attorney Lial provided details of the settlement, which resolves both federal and state court cases without admitting liability. The settlement includes a release of all claims against the city related to the case.
Reports and Budget Process Update (02:02:10)
City Manager Hankins provided updates on the budget process, emphasizing community engagement and equity considerations in evaluating potential projects.

City Manager Hankins discussed the ongoing budget process, highlighting efforts to engage the community through meetings and to evaluate services with an equity lens. He also mentioned the development of a resident academy to enhance understanding of city operations.
Discussion on Public Comment and Participation (02:03:44)
Vice Mayor Duncan led a discussion on reinstating call-in public comments to improve accessibility and engagement with the community, with consideration of legal and operational impacts.

Vice Mayor Duncan proposed reinstating call-in public comments for city commission meetings to enhance public engagement and accessibility. The commission discussed the need for consistent policies across boards and commissions, potential legal considerations, and the operational impact on staff. The city manager, clerk, and attorney were directed to prepare options for implementation.
Public Comments on Call-in Participation (02:11:07)
Discussion on the importance of reinstating call-in options for public comments to ensure accessibility for all community members.

Commissioners discussed the value of allowing call-in comments for public meetings to ensure accessibility, especially for homebound individuals. Past small group meetings on this topic were mentioned, with concerns about the timeliness of follow-up actions. Multiple community members expressed support for call-in options, citing accessibility barriers for those unable to attend in person.
Motion on Call-in Comments (02:26:59)
Vote to direct city staff to explore options for reinstating call-in comments for public meetings.

The commission voted on a motion to direct city staff to explore the logistics and options for reinstating call-in comments for public meetings, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and accessibility.
New Business: Moratorium on Data Centers (02:27:32)
Discussion on the potential impacts of data centers and the proposal for a moratorium to study these impacts further.

Commissioners discussed a proposal to impose a moratorium on data centers in the city to study their potential impacts on the community, such as increased electricity prices and environmental concerns. The need for careful consideration of remaining developable land was emphasized, with potential zoning changes to be explored during the moratorium period.
Commissioner Comments (02:37:39)
Commissioners shared updates on local events and expressed gratitude for infrastructure improvements.

Commissioner Hess highlighted the ongoing infrastructure improvements in downtown Kalamazoo and expressed gratitude for the efforts to enhance the city. Additionally, she mentioned a local screening of the film 'Nachos' that raises awareness on important social issues.
Community Events and Activities (02:41:19)
Discussion of upcoming community events including Friday lunchtime lives at Bronson Park and a recycling event at Mayors Riverfront Park.

The meeting includes an announcement about regular Friday lunchtime lives at Bronson Park where community members can meet, have food, and enjoy entertainment. Additionally, there is information about a recycling event at Mayors Riverfront Park, encouraging participation for environmental protection. Dates for these events will be available on the city's Facebook page.
Commissioner Comments: NACD Partnership (02:42:13)
Commissioner Slaby discusses visiting NACD's community garden and the partnership with local organizations.

Commissioner Slaby shares his experience visiting the NACD community garden, highlighting the partnership with Bronson Hospital and KC's food hub. The garden serves as a place for residents to learn and participate in food growing activities. The commissioner also appreciates the efforts during the National Day of Learning.
Workplace Power Event at Shakespeare's Pub (02:43:05)
Announcement of a Workplace Power event at Shakespeare's Pub to discuss union history and workers' rights.

Commissioner Slaby announces an event called Workplace Power, taking place at Shakespeare's Pub. This event provides an opportunity for workers and community members to learn about union history, organizing, and workers' rights. It is open to everyone, free of charge, and aims to foster community discussions.
Update on Spring Valley Park Community Response (02:43:44)
Vice Mayor Duncan updates on changes in park rule enforcement and calls for a parking ticket amnesty day.

Vice Mayor Duncan provides an update on changes made to the response at Spring Valley Park. Park rangers will now be the primary contact for park rule violations, with Kalamazoo Public Safety stepping in only when necessary. The Vice Mayor advocates for a parking ticket amnesty day to support community members facing economic challenges.
Acknowledgments and Community Engagement (02:46:58)
Vice Mayor Duncan acknowledges community members and encourages black men to engage in community building.

Vice Mayor Duncan appreciates community members like Marco who actively contribute to the community. He encourages black men to participate and engage in community planning and action. The Vice Mayor also thanks organizers of local events and emphasizes the importance of community involvement.
Mayor's Comments on Community and Public Service (02:49:11)
The Mayor reflects on the role of public service and performing marriages, emphasizing community commitments.

The Mayor shares his thoughts on the honor of performing marriages as part of public service. He reflects on the significance of public promises and commitments both in personal and civic contexts, highlighting the role of community building through such engagements.