City of Kalamazoo - November 20, 2024 Environmental Concerns Committee Meeting

Updated about 12 hours ago

The Kalamazoo City Environmental Concerns Committee met on November 21, 2023, to address multiple topics affecting the community. Key discussions included strategies for addressing housing insecurity, with input from local nonprofit representatives, emphasizing the importance of involving those experiencing homelessness in decision-making processes. The committee also reviewed a proposed bird-friendly window design ordinance aimed at reducing bird mortality, though concerns about its impact on homeowners and construction costs were raised. Additionally, updates on local sustainability projects and waste management initiatives were provided, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve environmental quality in Kalamazoo. The meeting underscored the city's commitment to engaging community members in its environmental and social initiatives.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:00)
The meeting is officially started with a call to order.

The chairperson calls the meeting to order, signaling the official start of the proceedings.
Call to Order and Quorum Confirmation (00:03:18)
The meeting was called to order, and it was confirmed that there was a quorum present for the proceedings.

The meeting began with a call to order, confirming that enough members were present to meet the quorum requirements. The live streaming setup on Facebook and YouTube was also checked to ensure the meeting was broadcasted.
Adoption and Amendment of Agenda (00:04:06)
The agenda was adopted, with a motion to amend it if necessary. Members discussed potential additions.

A motion was made to adopt the meeting agenda, and members discussed if there were any additional items that needed to be included. Justin noted some back-and-forth on potential additions, but no specific amendments were made.
Roll Call (00:05:01)
Members introduced themselves for the record, ensuring everyone present was accounted for in the minutes.

Each member present at the meeting introduced themselves by name and position. This was done to ensure that the minutes accurately reflected who was in attendance. Members were reminded to use the microphone when speaking.
Approval of Minutes (00:05:37)
The minutes from the last meeting were approved unanimously after a motion and seconding.

The minutes from the last meeting were reviewed. A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes. The approval was unanimous, with no opposition. Members were invited to discuss any changes, but none were raised.
Communications and Staff Updates (00:06:19)
Staff provided updates on sustainability and personnel changes, including new positions awarded.

The staff provided updates on sustainability initiatives and personnel changes. Alexa Hemp will finish her term, and Destiny Stina has been awarded a new position, joining in December. Members were asked for additional updates.
Public Comments (00:06:52)
No public comments were received via phone or email, and audience comments were invited but none were made.

The meeting opened the floor for public comments. No comments were received via phone or email, and members of the audience were invited to speak. There were no public comments at this time, but an invitation was extended for later.
New Business: Meeting on the Go (00:08:22)
A new meeting format called 'Meeting on the Go' was introduced, focusing on community engagement and development.

The 'Meeting on the Go' was introduced, aimed at engaging the community in discussions about the Imagine Kalamazoo initiative. The format includes rules for equitable participation and focuses on shaping the city's strategic vision.
Discussion: Community Engagement and City Planning (00:17:00)
Participants discussed changes in the community and challenges, focusing on sustainability and urban planning.

The discussion centered around community engagement and city planning, with a focus on the Imagine Kalamazoo initiative. Topics included sustainability, multimodal streets, housing, and public transit, with participants sharing insights.
Discussion on City Improvements (00:40:03)
Discussion on areas of the city that require improvements, like infrastructure and green spaces.

Participants discuss various areas in the city that require improvements, such as the infrastructure, roads, green spaces, and downtown businesses. The need for a vibrant downtown and the impact of construction on local businesses are highlighted.
Public Engagement Strategies (00:48:00)
Strategies for involving more community members in city conversations are discussed.

There is a discussion on how to include more community members in city planning conversations, especially those from underrepresented neighborhoods. Suggestions include holding meetings at local parks and grocery stores to reach more residents.
Unfinished Business: Attendance Policy (00:53:27)
Review of attendance policy and how to handle member absences on the board.

The board reviews the policy regarding member absences, considering whether to enforce demotion to associate member status after three absences. The current bylaws and the need for quorum are discussed.
Officer Positions Discussion (01:01:00)
Discussion on the upcoming need to fill chair and vice-chair positions.

With the current chair's term ending, there is a discussion about who will fill the chair and vice-chair positions. Members are encouraged to consider stepping up, as these roles are crucial for setting agendas and leading meetings.
Bird Friendly Window Design Ordinance (01:05:00)
Proposal to vote on a bird friendly window design ordinance to protect birds.

A draft ordinance is presented for voting, aiming to reduce bird collisions with buildings. The ordinance outlines definitions and requirements for bird-friendly materials and building features.
Discussion on Ordinance Proposal (01:14:58)
Concerns about the current wording of the bird-friendly ordinance, its feasibility, and community buy-in were discussed extensively.

The discussion focused on the challenges and concerns related to the proposed bird-friendly ordinance. Members expressed worry about the lack of community buy-in due to financial and practical implications. The importance of involving major stakeholders, such as construction companies and homeowners, was emphasized to avoid pushback. Suggestions included inviting Gail, who helped draft the proposal, to address questions and provide additional perspective.
Reports from Committees (01:23:11)
Various committee reports were presented, including updates on wildlife protection, planning commission, and other local initiatives.

Reports were given from several committees. The wildlife and natural resource protection committee did not have any updates due to lack of meetings. The planning commission discussed the capital improvement plan, with an emphasis on road renovations and water line replacements. There were no updates from the Tree Committee. The Asylum Lake Policy Management Council wrapped up their stormwater management education project. The Parks and Rec position remains open.
Public Comments (01:29:00)
Public comments highlighted issues like housing insecurity, community engagement in projects, and infrastructure concerns.

During public comments, Kennedy Williams from a local nonprofit discussed a housing project aimed at addressing housing insecurity, emphasizing the involvement of those affected in the planning process. Rita Chandler raised concerns about bike path accessibility and suggested expanding cleanup efforts beyond downtown. She also proposed a centralized resource hub for community needs and highlighted the need for accessible public feedback options.
Adjournment and Final Thoughts (01:32:01)
The meeting concluded with final thoughts and further public comments, addressing community involvement and infrastructure.

The meeting wrapped up with more public comments and a brief discussion on infrastructure and community engagement. Suggestions included improving bike path connectivity and expanding the scope of downtown cleanup efforts to other areas. The importance of involving residents in community planning and providing accessible channels for feedback were reiterated.