Kalamazoo County - Board of Commissioners

Kalamazoo County - Board of Commissioners - October 6, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

The Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners Meeting covers significant topics including the Safe Streets for All program and its implications for tree removal in Kalamazoo County. Public concerns about the environmental and community impact of the program are raised, with requests for a moratorium on tree removal pending further legal review. The meeting also addresses appointments to the Road Commission, budget considerations, and community engagement in government processes. Several community members voice their concerns about the tree removal project, urging the board to reconsider its approach. The board votes to reappoint Toni Kennedy to the Road Commission and discusses the importance of community involvement in county decisions.

Chapters

Call to Order and Invocation (00:00:49)
Meeting called to order by the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners. Invocation led by Vice Chair Pro Tem.

The meeting was officially called to order by the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners. The invocation and reflection were led by Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler, who gave thanks and sought guidance for the decisions to benefit citizens and businesses.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:55)
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all present.

Following the invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all the commissioners and attendees at the meeting.
Roll Call (00:02:16)
Roll call was conducted with seven commissioners present.

The clerk conducted a roll call to ensure the presence of the commissioners. Chair Strebs, Vice Chair Taylor, Commissioner Wheeler, Commissioner DeLeeuw, Commissioner Gisler, Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler, Commissioner Mazer were present. Commissioners Morales and Rey were expected to join later.
Proclamations - National Infant Safe Sleep Awareness Month (00:02:58)
Proclamation recognizing October as Infant Safe Sleep and SIDS Awareness Month.

The board approved a proclamation recognizing October as Infant Safe Sleep and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Awareness Month. The proclamation highlighted the importance of safe sleep environments for infants and the efforts to reduce infant mortality in Kalamazoo County.
Approval of Minutes and Agenda (00:11:19)
Minutes and agenda were approved with amendments for further discussion items.

The minutes of the previous meeting were approved. The agenda was also approved with amendments to move certain consent agenda items to the non-consent agenda for further discussion, including the Kalamazoo County Road Commission's Safe Streets for All program.
Public Hearing - Proposed Budget (00:13:35)
Public hearing for the proposed budget of Kalamazoo County was opened and adjourned.

A public hearing was opened for the proposed budget of Kalamazoo County. The hearing was then adjourned to be taken up at a subsequent meeting in two weeks, where a finalized budget will be discussed.
Public Comments (00:14:40)
Public comments primarily addressed concerns about tree removal by the Road Commission.

Several members of the public expressed their concerns about the Kalamazoo County Road Commission's plans to remove trees along various roads. They highlighted the lack of communication, the historical significance of the trees, and the potential environmental impact. Residents requested a moratorium and better transparency from the Road Commission.
Public Comments on Tree Removal (00:34:36)
Residents expressed concerns about tree removal and its impact on safety, environment, and local habitat.

Multiple residents voiced their opposition to the ongoing tree removal project, citing concerns over environmental impacts, loss of natural habitat for local wildlife, and potential safety issues such as increased snow drift without tree barriers. They questioned the transparency and decision-making process of the local road commission and requested that dead trees be prioritized for removal over healthy ones.
Consent Agenda Approval (01:00:44)
The commission approved the consent agenda items unanimously after a roll call vote.

A motion was made by Commissioner Wheeler and supported by Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler to approve the consent agenda items in a single roll call vote. The clerk conducted the roll call, and all present commissioners voted in favor, resulting in the motion carrying unanimously.
Resolution to Levy Taxes (01:02:09)
The commission discussed and approved the resolution to levy taxes with refined language.

The commission considered the resolution to levy taxes, which included refined language to incorporate childcare management. Commissioner Wheeler moved the motion, supported by Commissioner Morales. There was a brief discussion about the timing of the levy resolution in relation to the budget adoption, which was clarified by counsel. The motion was approved through a roll call vote.
Approval of Reappointment to Road Commission (01:07:15)
Discussion on the reappointment of Toni Kennedy to the Kalamazoo County Road Commission, with arguments for reappointment and concerns about the appointment process.

The board discussed the potential reappointment of Toni Kennedy to the Kalamazoo County Road Commission. The discussion included a history of the vacancy, how Ms. Kennedy was previously appointed to fill a vacancy, and the current options of reappointment, re-interview, or reopening the application process. Several commissioners voiced support for Ms. Kennedy, citing her performance and the need for continuity. There was also discussion on the broader appointment process, with some commissioners expressing concern over the lack of applicants for such positions and the need for better outreach and engagement with the community.
Motion and Vote on Reappointment (01:18:00)
A motion to reappoint Toni Kennedy to the Road Commission was made and seconded, followed by extensive discussion and a final vote in favor.

Commissioner Morales made a motion to reappoint Toni Kennedy to the Road Commission, which was seconded by Commissioner Mazer. The discussion continued, with commissioners addressing both the merits of Ms. Kennedy's service and the larger issues of appointment processes and public engagement. Vice Chair Taylor and other commissioners expressed support for Ms. Kennedy, citing her effectiveness and commitment. Ultimately, the board voted on the motion, and it was passed unanimously, reappointing Toni Kennedy to the Road Commission.
Personnel Policy Manual Updates (01:29:06)
The HR Director presented clerical updates to the personnel policy manual for approval, focusing on correcting errors and updating language.

The HR Director presented updates to the personnel policy manual, noting that the changes were primarily clerical, such as correcting numbering errors and updating language to be more gender-neutral. The goal was to align the manual with current practices and prepare it for the open enrollment period. The board discussed the updates briefly before moving to approve the corrected version of the manual.
Discussion on Road Commission's Safe Streets Program (01:33:00)
The board discussed the community's concerns about the Road Commission's Safe Streets program and the legal authority for tree removals.

The board addressed concerns raised by the community regarding the Road Commission's Safe Streets for All program, which involved the removal of trees. Community members requested the board to direct the Road Commission to publish a list of trees identified for removal, provide the legal basis for these actions, and suspend removals pending review. The board discussed the need for a clear legal understanding of their authority in this matter and requested a legal opinion on their powers concerning the Road Commission's actions.
Discussion on Road Commission Operations and Tree Cutting (01:36:04)
Commissioners discuss concerns about the Road Commission's tree cutting plans and seek legal guidance on authority and oversight.

The board discusses several requests related to the operations of the county Road Commission, including moving from appointment to election of road commissioners and evaluating misleading submissions. There's a significant focus on the tree-cutting plans under the Safe Streets for All program, with commissioners expressing concerns about clear-cutting before the board's review is complete. Commissioner Morales shares concerns about tree preservation and the environmental impact of the Road Commission's actions. Legal counsel is sought to clarify the board's authority over the Road Commission, and the role of federal grants in the timeline and execution of tree cutting is debated. Commissioners express the need for more information and request a halt to tree cutting pending legal review. The discussion reflects the tension between safety improvements and environmental conservation, with a call for more community engagement and transparency.
Public Comments on Road Commission Activities (02:06:10)
Citizens expressed concerns about tree removal projects by the Road Commission, questioning the necessity and transparency of the operations.

During the public comment section, multiple citizens shared their concerns and frustrations about the ongoing tree-cutting projects by the Road Commission. They questioned the safety rationale behind the tree removal, the lack of transparency and communication from the Road Commission, and the impact on their communities and the environment. Several speakers requested a halt to the tree-cutting until further discussions and public hearings could be arranged to address these issues.
Public Comment on Tree Replacement and Road Commission (02:36:18)
Discussion on issues about tree replacement, commissioner appointments, and community feedback related to road projects.

The discussion started with addressing concerns about a list of trees and properties affected by a project. The public was assured a list would be available as public information. Appreciation was expressed for Commissioner Toni Kennedy's reappointment, emphasizing her contributions. A tree replacement policy was announced, with two trees planted for each removed. Feedback from residents, especially from EF Avenue, was addressed, encouraging direct communication with the Road Commission. The importance of safe streets and the impact of road right-of-ways on tree planting was discussed. Liability concerns for property owners with trees were clarified, noting that state law protects them. After storms, it may take six months to clear trees. Kalamazoo County's growth and its implications were mentioned.
Closure of Public Comment Period (02:39:30)
The public comment period was closed after allowing one final opportunity for comments.

After allowing the community to express their concerns and comments regarding the road and tree issues, the chair closed the public comment period, noting the opportunity given to all participants to speak.
Reports and Administrative Updates (02:39:44)
Updates on county events, administrative changes, and community involvement opportunities were provided by the administrator.

The administrator provided updates on several topics: the Kalamazoo County Senior Expo and Veterans Stand Down, emphasizing community support and staff involvement; the Kalamazoo County Clerk’s Veterans Day Parade; and open opportunities for community involvement on various boards. The flu vaccination campaign was promoted. Animal Services highlighted pets available for adoption. The upcoming Administration Finance Committee meeting was announced, focusing on financial policies, expenditures, and long-term planning. The administrator and other county officials will attend an international conference, ensuring coverage during their absence.
Discussion on Budget, Committees, and Community Involvement (02:46:47)
The board discussed the importance of budget meetings, community involvement, and appointments to committees and commissions.

Commissioners emphasized the significance of budget meetings and encouraged attendance, highlighting the importance of financial oversight. The need for increased public participation in committee applications was discussed. Commissioners shared views on community engagement, highlighting issues like road safety and tree removal policies. They stressed the importance of representing the entire county and encouraged public advocacy for broader community issues. The discussions also touched on the challenges of managing time and responsibilities as commissioners.
Commissioner Comments and Closing Remarks (02:57:56)
Commissioners provided final comments and expressed appreciation for public participation and road commissioners' attendance.

In closing comments, commissioners expressed gratitude for the public’s participation and acknowledged the road commissioners' presence, appreciating their willingness to listen and engage. They encouraged young people to get involved in local governance and reiterated the importance of community service and representation. The chair concluded with a personal note, affirming the value of government service.