Kalamazoo County Government - November 4, 2026 Kalamazoo County Board

Updated 1 day ago

In the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners' meeting focused on the Tree Removal Resolution, the board addresses public concerns about the removal of mature trees as part of the Safe Streets for All initiative. Community members express environmental and safety concerns during public comments, urging the board to adopt a resolution for better community engagement and transparency. The resolution also proposes exploring the possibility of electing road commissioners. After extensive public input and discussion, the board votes against the resolution, opting to maintain the current appointed road commission structure but encourages improved communication and collaboration with the public.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:02)
Meeting called to order by the Chair of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners.

The regular business meeting of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners was called to order by the Chair at the specified time, marking the beginning of the session.
Invocation and Reflection (00:00:12)
Commissioner Wheeler led an invocation and reflection before the meeting.

Commissioner Wheeler provided a reflection focusing on the importance of the gathering, encouraging open minds and hearts. Attendees were invited to join in the pledge following the reflection.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:37)
Attendees were invited to join in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Following the invocation and reflection, the meeting attendees participated in the Pledge of Allegiance as a customary practice to commence the meeting.
Roll Call (00:01:24)
Roll call was conducted with eight commissioners present.

The clerk performed a roll call to confirm attendance. Eight commissioners responded as present, establishing a quorum for the meeting. One commissioner was absent due to illness.
Proclamations (00:01:58)
No proclamations were scheduled for this meeting.

The agenda item for proclamations was announced, and it was noted that there were no proclamations to present or discuss during this session.
Communications (00:02:04)
Commissioners discussed various communications received, including emails and letters regarding local issues.

The commissioners shared communications they had received, including several emails about a proposed resolution and a letter from the supervisor of Texas Township concerning safe streets and roads initiatives. Discussions touched on tree issues and a memorial tree donation program.
Approval of Agenda (00:05:12)
The agenda was reviewed and approved without changes or additions.

The chair asked if there were any changes, deletions, or additions to the agenda. Seeing none, a motion for approval was made and seconded. The agenda was approved unanimously by voice vote.
Public Comment (00:05:57)
Public comments were heard from several residents regarding tree removal and the Road Commission's actions.

During the public comment period, multiple residents spoke about their concerns over tree removal tied to the Safe Streets for All initiative. Comments varied from support the tree resolution to opposition to the Road Commission's methods. Concerns included lack of public engagement, safety impacts, and the balance between removing trees and maintaining community aesthetics.
Public Comment Continues (00:36:31)
Resident comments on the safe streets for all initiative and tree removal

Resident expresses support for a resolution proposed by Jen Strebs and emphasize the importance of community involvement and conservation.
Public Comments on Tree Removal (00:37:01)
Community members express concerns over the removal of trees by the road commission, emphasizing conservation and transparency.

Several community members speak during the public comment section, voicing their concerns about the road commission's plans to remove trees. They highlight the need for conservation, suggest using grant money for removing only dead or dangerous trees, and propose involving a third-party team of arborists to assess the necessity of tree removal. There is a strong call for transparency and community engagement in the decision-making process.
Comment on Asylum Lake Preservation (00:47:02)
A positive note on the transfer of Asylum Lake Preserve to the parks department to ensure its protection.

A speaker expresses appreciation for the transfer of the Asylum Lake Preserve to the parks department, ensuring it will not be subject to road commission tree cutting. They emphasize the preserve's importance to the community and thank the commission and Western Michigan University for their efforts in protecting it.
Further Public Comments on Tree Removal (00:48:48)
Additional community members speak against the tree removal, advocating for alternative solutions and questioning the commission's decisions.

More community members come forward to speak against the tree removal plans, suggesting alternatives like rumble strips to improve road safety without cutting trees. There is skepticism about the commission's decision-making process, and calls for more community involvement and transparency. Some express distrust in the commission's intentions and request more accountability.
Public Comment by Road Commission Representative (01:02:00)
A representative from the road commission addresses concerns and explains the rationale behind the tree removal plans.

Dave Pawloski from the Kalamazoo County Road Commission speaks to address the public's concerns about the tree removal plans. He discusses the road commission's safety rationale, the benefits of the tree removal program, and the input received from township supervisors. He emphasizes the need to consider the townships' advice and requests the county to clarify its legal authority over the road commission.
Resolution on Road Commission Practices (01:09:52)
The board discusses a resolution urging the road commission to enhance community engagement and transparency in its practices.

The Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners discusses a resolution calling on the road commission to improve public engagement, transparency, and vegetation management. The resolution includes expectations for pausing tree removal for public input, establishing advisory panels, inventorying and justifying vegetation decisions, and reporting results. The board emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach to road safety and tree management.
Motions and Discussions on Road Commission Engagement (01:13:49)
Commissioners discuss the need for improved community engagement by the Road Commission and consider a motion addressing these issues.

Commissioner Wheeler makes a motion, supported by Commissioner Rey, to open discussion on the Road Commission's engagement with the community. The focus is on improving meaningful engagement and addressing community concerns. The discussion highlights the importance of involving the community in decision-making processes, particularly when it comes to infrastructure projects. Commissioners share examples of past successes due to community input and express a desire for the Road Commission to formalize their engagement strategies.
Discussion on Road Commission Election vs. Appointment (01:31:05)
The commissioners debate whether the Road Commission should be elected or appointed, considering the political implications and community feedback.

Several commissioners express concerns about moving from an appointed to an elected Road Commission, citing potential political patronage and loss of effective service. They acknowledge the community's desire for more transparency and input but are hesitant to change the current system. The discussion reflects on past practices and the balance between representation and political influence.
Approval of Contract for Child Support Services (01:31:59)
The commission discusses and approves a contract for child support enforcement with M-D-H-H-S, expressing concerns about budget impacts.

Vice Chair Taylor introduces a motion to approve a contract with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for child support services. The discussion reveals significant budgetary implications and dissatisfaction with previous decisions to move these services out of the prosecutor's office. Commissioners voice concerns about the long-term costs and the impact on single-parent families. Despite reservations, the contract is approved due to the necessity of the services.
Approval of Asylum Lake Nature Preserve Agreement (01:37:05)
Commissioners approve an interlocal agreement with Western Michigan University for the management of Asylum Lake Nature Preserve.

The commission unanimously supports an agreement with Western Michigan University to manage Asylum Lake Nature Preserve. Commissioners praise the collaborative effort led by the parks director, which balances conservation needs with operational efficiencies. The agreement is seen as a positive example of intergovernmental cooperation, with significant community and environmental benefits.
Public Comments on Road Commission and Other Issues (01:42:02)
Members of the public express concerns over the commission's decision-making and transparency, particularly regarding the Road Commission resolution.

During the public comment period, several citizens voice disappointment with the commission's handling of the Road Commission resolution. They feel the focus was too narrow, primarily on the election vs. appointment issue, without addressing broader concerns about transparency and community engagement. Other comments touch on the safety of meeting locations and the need for better communication with the public.