City of Kalamazoo - Zoning Board of Appeals - August 13, 2026 Zoning Board of Appeals

Updated 1 day ago

The board considered a variance request from IMR Realty. The request involved installing a drive-up window in the front yard of a property on West Michigan Avenue, where current zoning only permits such installations in side or rear yards. The board discussed the history and layout of the property, which presented unique challenges due to its positioning and double frontage. Staff supported the variance due to these unique circumstances, and the board approved the request. The meeting concluded with no public opposition and a unanimous vote in favor of the variance.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:14)
The meeting of the City of Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals was called to order.

The chair called the meeting to order, identifying it as the City of Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals, a volunteer advisory board.
Roll Call (00:00:27)
Roll call was conducted, and members were present.

Staff conducted roll call of the board members. Members Han, Work, Polar, Harrington, McReynolds, and Sylvester were present.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:27)
Minutes from previous meetings were reviewed and approved by voice vote.

The board reviewed the minutes from previous meetings. Corrections were discussed, and the revised minutes were approved by voice vote.
Public Hearing Procedure (00:04:11)
The procedure for the night's hearing was outlined, including public comment rules.

The chair outlined the procedure for the public hearing, detailing how applications would be read, public comments would be received, and how the board would deliberate and vote.
Variance Request Presentation (00:05:31)
IMR Realty presented a variance request for a drive-up window in a front yard.

IMR Realty requested a variance to allow a drive-up window in the front yard of a property, explaining the constraints and intended use for a laundromat.
Staff Comments on Request (00:08:35)
Staff supported the variance request due to unique property constraints.

Staff provided comments supporting the variance, citing the property's history, building positioning, and the practicality of the proposed location for the drive-up window.
Public Hearing (00:13:17)
The public hearing was opened and closed with no comments received.

The chair opened the public hearing for comments on the variance request. No public comments were made, and the hearing was closed.
Finding of Fact (00:14:10)
The board moved for a finding of fact, summarizing the request and context.

The board discussed and voted on the finding of fact, which included details from the notice, staff report, and the lack of public responses.
Variance Request Vote (00:16:22)
The board approved the variance request by roll call vote.

The board discussed the merits of the variance request and voted to approve it by roll call, with all members voting in favor.
Adjournment (00:18:28)
The meeting was adjourned after completing the agenda.

The chair noted the completion of the agenda and adjourned the meeting, commenting on the ease of the meeting.