Kalamazoo City Commission - Committee of the Whole - October 5, 2026 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

In the City of Kalamazoo Committee of the Whole Meeting held on October 05, 2026, the commissioners and city management discussed various topics, primarily focusing on legislative affairs in partnership with MHSA. The meeting featured a presentation by Sandi Jones and Nick Baugh from MHSA, who outlined their firm's role in advocating for the city's interests at the state level. They highlighted recent successes, such as securing legislative enhancement grants and navigating challenges with state departments. The discussion also covered the impacts of upcoming elections and potential changes in state priorities. The meeting provided insights into how the city plans to navigate legislative challenges and opportunities in the coming months.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:01:29)
The meeting of the City of Kalamazoo commission was called to order.

The committee of the whole for the City of Kalamazoo commission was called to order.
Roll Call (00:01:49)
Commissioners present were Hess, Hoffman, Praedel, Slaby, Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson.

Commissioner Hess, Commissioner Hoffman, Commissioner Praedel, Commissioner Slaby, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Mayor Duncan, and Mayor Anderson were present. Roll call was conducted to confirm attendance.
City Manager Communications (00:02:30)
The city manager reported no communications or updates at this time.

The city manager stated there were no communications or updates to report during this meeting.
Public Comments (00:03:05)
Two members of the public provided comments.

One resident from Kalamazoo City commented about alien visitors. Another resident thanked the commissioners and spoke about the city's energy efficiency improvements and the potential of solar energy.
Legislative Affairs Update (00:06:04)
A detailed update on the city's legislative affairs work and successes in partnership with MHSA was provided.

The Deputy City Manager introduced two people from MHSA, who provided an update on the city's legislative affairs work. They discussed partnership efforts, legislative successes, and ongoing advocacy for the City of Kalamazoo in Lansing.
Commissioner Questions and Discussion (00:21:20)
Commissioners engaged in a discussion with the legislative team, asking questions about priorities and strategies.

Commissioners asked questions about how legislative priorities are set, how issues are identified and addressed, and the effectiveness of the city's advocacy efforts. Topics included multi-jurisdictional priorities, legislative directed spending items, and upcoming legislative agendas.
Adjournment (00:29:00)
The meeting was adjourned with no further comments from commissioners.

The meeting was adjourned after the opportunity for commissioner comments, with none being made at this time.