Road Commission of Kalamazoo County - September 22, 2026 Board of County Road Commissioners Meeting

Updated about 20 hours ago

The board approves the acquisition of new mobile radios to enhance communication for road maintenance and emergency response. A significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to the SS4A (Safe Streets for All) project, with discussions on tree removal notifications and the impact on local communities. The board also revises the local road capital improvement plan for Brady Township to optimize remaining funds for road projects. Public comments highlight concerns about tree markings and road closures related to the S4A project, underscoring the need for improved communication with residents. These discussions reflect ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the county's road systems while balancing community needs and safety.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:01:22)
The meeting of the Road Commissioners of Kalamazoo County Board was called to order at 3 PM.

The meeting was officially called to order, starting the session for the Road Commission of Kalamazoo County Board. The time of the meeting was noted to be 3 PM.
Reading of Remote Participation Guidelines (00:01:33)
Guidelines for remote participation in the meeting were read out for those attending remotely.

Guidelines pertaining to remote participation were read out. This included instructions on how public comments can be made both at the beginning and end of the meeting, the procedure for using Zoom's raise hand feature, and the use of the chat feature for technical issues.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:02:41)
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those present at the meeting.

Attendees were invited to rise and join in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. This is a customary practice in many government meetings.
Approval of Agenda (00:03:40)
The proposed agenda for the meeting was approved after a motion and a second.

A motion was made to approve the proposed agenda for the meeting. It was seconded, and without any comments or objections from the managing director or staff, the agenda was approved as presented.
Approval of Minutes (00:04:18)
Minutes from the previous meeting on September 8 were approved.

The minutes from the prior meeting held on September 8 were presented for approval. A motion was made by Commissioner Kennedy and seconded by Commissioner Davis. With no comments or objections, the motion to approve the minutes was carried.
Approval of Payroll (00:05:10)
Payroll and vendor accounts were discussed and approved after a motion was made.

The payroll and vendor accounts were presented for approval. A motion was made by Commissioner Davis and seconded by Commissioner Kennedy to approve the accounts. Some discussion followed regarding specific vendor payments, after which the motion was carried.
Public Comment Period (00:07:07)
The public was invited to comment, with some choosing to speak in person and others online.

During the public comment period, individuals were invited to speak either in person at the podium or online. Comments were limited to three minutes per person, and the public was reminded that this time was for comments only, not for interaction with the board.
New Business: Mobile Radio Purchase (00:14:34)
The board discussed and approved the purchase of new mobile radios for vehicles.

A proposal was made to purchase new mobile radios for installation in motor vehicles, replacing older models. The discussion highlighted the importance of reliable communication for road maintenance and emergency response. A motion to approve the purchase was made and carried.
New Business: Revised Local Road Capital Improvement Plan (00:21:04)
The board discussed and approved a revised capital improvement plan for Brady Township.

The board considered a request to revise the local road capital improvement plan for Brady Township. The revised plan was needed to allocate remaining funds to additional projects. After discussion, a motion to approve the revised plan was made and carried.
Second Public Comment Period (00:25:33)
A second period for public comment was held, with no additional comments received.

The floor was opened again for public comments. Attendees were given another opportunity to speak or raise concerns, but there were no additional comments from the public.
Managing Director's Report (00:26:28)
The managing director provided updates on upcoming events and projects.

The managing director reported on various upcoming events, including conferences and meetings. Key dates for budget discussions were outlined, and updates on additional road projects added to the schedule were provided.
Discussion on Wood Removal and Safe Streets for All (00:35:44)
The commission discussed the procedure for wood removal during tree removal projects and informed residents about wood handling policies.

The contractors are instructed to place wood outside of the road right away. Residents are sent letters about tree removal, asking if they want the wood. If residents do not respond, the wood will be removed to avoid safety concerns. Residents can contact the office if they perceive any logs as a threat.
Public Comments and Service Request System (00:37:57)
The commission addressed issues with the service request system for residents outside the county jurisdiction.

Residents have reported issues with the service request system when they are not within the county's jurisdiction. The system rejects requests from areas not covered by the county. A note has been added to inform residents of this.
Commissioner Kennedy's Comments on Community Events (00:38:09)
Commissioner Kennedy shared information about community events, including the Kalamazoo County Stand Down and Senior Expo.

Commissioner Kennedy highlighted the Kalamazoo County Stand Down and Senior Expo happening on the same day. Veterans attending the event must show proof of veteran status, such as an ID or driver's license with a veteran designation. This event is for veterans and seniors to access available services and resources.
Asset Management Training and Community Feedback (00:39:59)
Commissioner Kennedy thanked the Road Commission for asset management training and shared community feedback on road projects.

Commissioner Kennedy expressed gratitude for the asset management training, which was informative about road construction and maintenance. Positive feedback from residents on Dillard Street was shared, appreciating the work done by the Road Commission.
Discussion on Liaison Visits and Township Meetings (00:43:10)
Commissioners discussed their visits to township meetings and emphasized the importance of maintaining rapport with township officials.

Commissioners attended various township meetings, including Alamo and Ross Townships, to engage with local officials and discuss ongoing projects. They highlighted the importance of being present and available to address any issues or concerns from local communities.
Upcoming Commissioner Seminar and Personal Announcements (00:46:02)
Commissioners announced their attendance at an upcoming seminar and personal travel plans.

Several commissioners plan to attend a seminar to further their knowledge and networking. Announcements were made about personal travel plans, ensuring that responsibilities are covered during absences.
Adjournment (00:48:27)
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and carried.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was proposed, seconded, and approved by all present commissioners, officially concluding the session.