Road Commission of Kalamazoo County - November 3, 2026 Board of County Road Commissioners Meeting

Updated 1 day ago

The Commission approves the Safe Streets for All tree project services, awarding contracts to Alpine Tree Service and K and H for tree removal in various sections. The board also adopts a resolution accepting an updated asset management plan, emphasizing the need for more funding to meet long-term goals. Additionally, the board approves the renewal of employee health, dental, and disability insurance plans, with some changes in providers. The meeting includes a heartfelt tribute to retiree William 'Bill' DeYoung for his years of service. New hires Alex Dalk Davis and Josh Howard are introduced as new road maintenance operators. The meeting concludes with a reminder of upcoming events and appreciation for the work of the Road Commission staff.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:01:07)
The meeting of the commissioners of the county of Kalamazoo is called to order.

The meeting of the commissioners of the county of Kalamazoo is officially called to order to begin the proceedings.
Public Comment Guidelines (00:01:17)
public comment guidelines are read including time limits and procedures for participating.

the guidelines for public comment are read specifying that participants will have opportunities to address the board at the beginning and end of the meeting. Comments are limited to three minutes per person, and instructions for providing comments via Zoom are provided.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:02:15)
The attendees rise to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America.

All attendees are asked to rise, if able, to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, demonstrating loyalty and patriotism.
Approval of Agenda (00:03:01)
The agenda for the meeting is presented and approved with no changes after a motion and vote.

A motion is made by Vice Chair Stehouwer to approve the meeting agenda as presented. The motion is supported, and the agenda is approved with no objections from the audience or commissioners.
Approval of Minutes (00:03:30)
Minutes from previous meetings are reviewed and approved with no corrections or deletions.

A motion is made by Commissioner Thompson, supported by another, to approve the minutes of previous meetings. The motion carries as there are no corrections, additions, or deletions noted by the audience or commissioners.
Approval of Payroll and Vendor Accounts (00:04:42)
Payroll and vendor accounts are reviewed and approved with no questions from the audience or commissioners.

A motion is made and supported to approve the payroll and vendor accounts as presented. The motion carries with no questions or objections raised during the review by the audience or commissioners.
Approval of Expense Report (00:05:37)
Expense reports are reviewed, with discussions on specific expenses incurred by commissioners during official duties.

The board reviews and discusses the expense report, focusing on specific items such as travel expenses incurred by commissioners. Questions are addressed, and the report is approved following the discussion.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:10:06)
Public comments are invited on non-agenda items, with several commissioners and public members addressing the board.

The floor is opened for public comments on non-agenda items. County Commissioner Gisler and others bring up various topics, including the childcare task force and agricultural studies, inviting public participation and inquiry.
New Business: Tree Project Services (00:11:00)
Discussion on the competitive bid for contracted tree removal services, including federal requirements and contractor selection.

The board discusses the competitive bid process for contracted tree removal services under the Safe Streets for All program. Managing Director provides background on the federal requirements and the selection of contractors Alpine Tree Service and K&H for different sections.
Resolution: Asset Management Plan (00:33:15)
The resolution to adopt the updated asset management compliance plan is discussed and moved for approval.

Managing Director, Travis Bartholomew presents the updated asset management compliance plan, highlighting key aspects of the pavement and bridge plans. The resolution for adopting the plan is discussed, with provisions for minor updates by the county engineer without board re-approval.
Resolution Accepting Asset Management Compliance Plan (00:38:05)
Discussion on adopting a resolution for the asset management compliance plan, focusing on road conditions and future planning.

Commissioners discussed the asset management compliance plan focusing on the condition of primary, local, and gravel roads. Questions were raised about why certain roads are not prioritized, and the engineering team explained the process of determining priorities based on road conditions, budget constraints, and long-term planning. It was noted that the report submission was late, but steps are being taken to ensure timely future submissions. The plan aims to assess road conditions and prioritize funding for improvements, incorporating future development impacts and emergency management considerations.
Health, Dental, Life, and Short-Term Disability Insurance Plans Renewal (01:01:06)
Renewal of employee insurance plans was discussed, with changes to providers due to service issues and cost savings.

The board reviewed the renewal of employee health, dental, life, and short-term disability insurance plans. The managing director explained the recommendation to continue with Blue Care Network for health insurance, MetLife for dental, and switch from MetLife to One America for life and short-term disability. This change aims to maintain competitive benefits for recruitment and retention. Commissioners expressed pride in offering comprehensive benefits despite rising healthcare costs.
Proclamation Honoring Retiree William 'Bill' DeYoung (01:09:01)
Proclamation to honor retiree Bill DeYoung for his dedicated service to the Road Commission.

The board issued a proclamation honoring William 'Bill' DeYoung, who retired after many years of service as a permit specialist. Bill was recognized for his versatility and dedication, having worked in various roles and often being available for emergency calls. His commitment and positive attitude were highlighted as major contributions to the organization. The managing director and chair expressed their gratitude and well wishes for his retirement.
Acknowledgment and Tribute to Bill DeYoung (01:11:56)
The board acknowledges Bill DeYoung's contributions to the county's road system and congratulates him on his retirement.

The Board of County Road Commissioners acknowledges Bill DeYoung's significant public service in maintaining the county's road system. Bill has served in various roles, including equipment operator and general superintendent, demonstrating strong leadership and commitment. The board extends its gratitude and best wishes for Bill's retirement.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (01:16:26)
Opportunity for the public to speak on non-agenda items; County Commissioner Gisler provided a brief update.

The chair opens the floor for public comments on non-agenda items. County Commissioner Gisler provides a quick update regarding a response from the chief of staff about an ad hoc committee. No additional public comments are made in person or online.
Managing Director's Time (01:17:16)
Introductions of new staff, financial updates, upcoming meetings, and project updates were presented by the Managing Director.

The Managing Director introduces new road maintenance operators. Financial updates include receiving the highest-ever September payment and neighborhood road fund payments. Upcoming meetings and events are discussed, including a board work session and a liaison meeting with the County Board. A project update on a local road contract is also provided.
Commissioners' Time and Committee Reports (01:22:52)
Commissioners discuss local elections, veterans' events, and express gratitude to Bill DeYoung for his service.

During Commissioners' Time, Commissioner Kennedy reminds everyone about election day and upcoming veterans' events. Commissioner Thompson and Vice Chair Stehouwer express gratitude and share personal anecdotes about Bill DeYoung. Vice Chair Stehouwer also commends the organization for its comprehensive efforts and facility usage by community organizations.
Adjournment (01:33:00)
The meeting is officially adjourned with unanimous consent from the commissioners.

The chair calls for a motion to adjourn the meeting. The motion is seconded and passes unanimously, officially adjourning the meeting.