Kalamazoo County - Board of Commissioners - September 15, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 18 hours ago

The board honored Undersheriff Michelle Greenlee for her dedicated service to Kalamazoo County. Several proclamations were approved, including those recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month, Juvenile Justice Awareness Month, Recovery Month, and National Service Dog Month. Additionally, the board discussed community concerns regarding tree cutting on rural roads and approved the formation of a task force and ad hoc committee for the childcare millage. The meeting addressed administrative updates and future plans for county facilities.

Chapters

Roll Call (00:01:00)
The clerk calls roll and confirms the presence of all commissioners.

The meeting begins with a roll call conducted by the clerk. All commissioners are present, including Commissioner Rey, Chair Strebs, Vice Chair Taylor, Commissioner Wheeler, Commissioner DeLeeuw, Commissioner Gisler, Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler, Commissioner Mazer, and Commissioner Morales.
Proclamation for Michelle Greenlee (00:01:29)
A proclamation is presented to Michelle Greenlee honoring her service as undersheriff.

Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler presents a proclamation to Michelle Greenlee, undersheriff of Kalamazoo County, in recognition of her long service and dedication to the residents. The proclamation acknowledges her contribution and wishes her continued success.
Proclamation Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month (00:05:00)
Commissioners approve a proclamation for National Hispanic Heritage Month.

The board moves and supports a proclamation to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month. The motion is carried unanimously with all commissioners voting in favor.
Proclamation for Juvenile Justice Awareness Month (00:05:29)
Proclamation for Juvenile Justice Awareness Month is approved.

A motion is made and supported to approve a proclamation designating Juvenile Justice Awareness Month. The commissioners unanimously agree and the motion passes.
Proclamation for National Service Dog Month (00:06:36)
Proclamation recognizing National Service Dog Month is approved.

The board considers and approves a proclamation recognizing National Service Dog Month. The motion is supported and passes without dissent.
Approval of Minutes (00:07:01)
Minutes from previous meetings are reviewed and approved.

The chair moves to approve the minutes from the previous committee of the whole and regular meeting, as well as special meeting minutes. The motion is supported, and the minutes are approved following a roll call vote.
Approval of Agenda (00:08:01)
The agenda for the meeting is reviewed and approved with amendments.

The chair entertains a motion to approve the agenda as amended. There are corrections noted, and a resolution is pulled for further discussion. The amended agenda is approved by the board.
Public Comment (00:09:00)
Members of the public express concerns about tree removal on rural roads.

Community members express concerns about excessive tree removal on rural roads, urging the Road Commission to revise their project and consider alternative safety measures such as rumble strips and lower speed limits.
Consent Agenda (00:12:34)
Consent agenda items are approved by the board.

Commissioner Wheeler moves that the consent agenda items be voted on as a group by roll call vote. The motion is supported, and the consent agenda passes with all commissioners voting in favor.
Unfinished Business: Childcare Millage Task Force and Committee (00:13:25)
Resolution to establish a Childcare Millage Task Force and Committee is discussed and approved.

The board discusses and amends a resolution to establish a Childcare Millage Task Force and Ad Hoc Committee. Amendments include adjusting membership categories to include representatives from the philanthropic community. The resolution is adopted with unanimous support.
New Business: Finance and Administrative Committee (00:21:02)
A new Finance and Administrative Committee is established and commissioners are appointed.

The board establishes a Finance and Administrative Committee to address budget and financial operations. Five commissioners are appointed to serve on the committee, with Commissioner Rey nominated as chair. The resolution is passed unanimously.
Second Public Comment (00:24:33)
Further public comments about tree removal project are heard.

A member of the public reiterates concerns about the Road Commission's tree removal project, advocating for alternative measures and emphasizing the importance of preserving the rural landscape.
Reports from Officers and Administration (00:26:06)
Various reports and updates are provided by the Vice Chair and Administrator.

The Vice Chair discusses trends in county budgeting and the importance of careful financial planning. The Administrator provides updates on the recommended budget, facility projects, and upcoming community events, highlighting ongoing efforts in economic mobility and housing solutions.
Condolences to Families (00:36:37)
Commissioner Rey and others express condolences to the families of Gwendolyn Hooker and Dr. Gus Calbert for their recent losses.

Commissioner Rey expressed condolences to Gwendolyn Hooker and her family for the loss of her fiancé and to the family of Dr. Gus Calbert, noting it as a great loss for the community. Prayers and love were sent to the families.
Visit to PR Justice Center (00:37:08)
Commissioner Wheeler describes her visit to the PR Justice Center, highlighting the treatment-focused court system and mental health recovery court.

Commissioner Wheeler visited the PR Justice Center and was introduced to the court system by District Court Administrator Kevin Tatroe. She highlighted the treatment-focused nature of the courts, particularly the mental health recovery court led by Chief Judge Hemingway, which aims to keep people out of jail and is innovative in its collaborative approach.
Hispanic Heritage Month (00:39:57)
Commissioner Morales announces events for Hispanic Heritage Month, including a gala and a downtown celebration.

Commissioner Morales wished everyone a Happy Hispanic Heritage Month and invited them to attend El Concilio's gala and a celebration at the downtown museum. She offered tickets to those interested and encouraged participation in the events.
Support for Local Governments (00:41:37)
Vice-Chair Heppler emphasizes support for local governments and the importance of their services.

Vice-Chair Heppler discussed the importance of supporting local governments, including county governments, townships, villages, and cities, as they provide essential services such as water, sewer, and public safety. He stressed the need to continue supporting these efforts.
Tribute to Public Servants (00:42:56)
Vice-Chair Heppler extends gratitude to public service workers and encourages support for them.

Vice-Chair Heppler expressed gratitude to fire, police, ambulance, and county employees for their service. He encouraged the community to thank these workers for their dedication and to recognize their efforts in maintaining safety and services.
Pocket Constitution Distribution (00:44:26)
Commissioner Gisler distributes pocket constitutions to encourage civic education.

Commissioner Gisler provided copies of the pocket constitution to each member, encouraging them to share these with young people to foster interest in learning about the constitution. This was in recognition of Constitution Day.
Safe Storage of Marijuana (00:45:22)
Commissioner Gisler discusses the distribution of 'pot pouches' for safe storage of marijuana.

Commissioner Gisler talked about the availability of 'pot pouches' from the Healthy Community Services group, which are designed to safely store marijuana away from children and pets. These pouches are available at no cost to citizens.
Senior Expo Announcement (00:46:26)
Commissioner Gisler announces the upcoming Senior Expo, encouraging attendance.

Commissioner Gisler announced the upcoming Senior Expo, which will provide resources and assistance to seniors. The event is scheduled for September 30th and will feature various vendors and service providers.