Kalamazoo City Commission - December 16, 2024 Business Meeting

Updated 1 day ago

The Kalamazoo City Commission meeting began with a tribute to John Reeves, a community arts leader, and announcements about local initiatives such as the Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners and Impact Visions coat drive. The commission discussed amendments to the city's budget, including a new allocation for emergency shelter funding for the unhoused, and the RX Kids program, which will provide cash allowances to support families with newborns in Kalamazoo. The commission also addressed financial matters related to the Downtown Economic Growth Authority and the Downtown Development Authority, ensuring their continued operations. Community members expressed their gratitude and concerns regarding housing, volunteer opportunities, and public safety. The meeting highlights the city's commitment to addressing social issues and supporting community-driven efforts.

Chapters

Welcome and Opening Remarks (00:02:01)
The meeting was initiated with a welcome to the Kalamazoo City Commission chambers.

The meeting started with a welcome from the chair, expressing gratitude for attendance and noting the absence of a prior committee meeting, which made the evening feel different.
Call to Order (00:02:25)
The Kalamazoo City Commission meeting was officially called to order.

The chair officially called the meeting of the Kalamazoo City Commission to order for Monday, signifying the start of the session.
Roll Call (00:02:31)
Attendance was taken with all commissioners present, including the mayor and vice mayor.

Clerk Borland conducted the roll call. Commissioners Cooney, Decker, Hoffman, Praedel, Wilson, Vice Mayor Hess, and Mayor Anderson were all present.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:02:45)
Deacon Joe Schmidt provided an invocation followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Deacon Joe Schmidt from St. Thomas Moore delivered the invocation, focusing on perseverance in service. This was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
Adoption of the Formal Agenda (00:06:22)
The formal agenda was reviewed and adopted without changes.

Commissioners were asked if any consent agenda items should be moved to the regular agenda; none were requested, and the agenda stood as presented.
Public Comments (00:06:48)
Public comments were invited, with several citizens addressing various community issues.

The floor was opened for public comments. Speakers included Jim and Jane Van Tynan discussing Kalamazoo Valley Gleaners, Daniella and Margie on the annual coat drive, and others on community volunteer opportunities and concerns.
Public Comments (00:36:19)
Community members express concerns about high rent, crime, and flooding in poor neighborhoods.

Various community members spoke during the public comment section, raising issues such as high rent, crime, and inadequate city response to flooding in poorer neighborhoods. They emphasized the need for the city to address these issues, highlighting that the wealthier areas seem to receive more attention and resources. Concerns about homelessness and the lack of services for vulnerable populations were also voiced.
Public Hearings (00:51:01)
Public hearing on the fiscal budget for the city of Kalamazoo is held to receive comments.

A public hearing was conducted to gather comments on the fiscal budget for the city of Kalamazoo. The city manager and financial officers provided an overview of the budget, highlighting changes made since the last meeting, including allocations for emergency shelter space for the unhoused. Community members and commissioners were invited to provide input and ask questions about the budget allocations and priorities.
Budget and Financial Reports (00:53:53)
Overview of the city budget, including allocations for various departments and ARPA funds.

The city's Chief Financial Officer presented an overview of the budget, covering highlights and changes from the previous year. The budget includes allocations for capital improvements, departmental funding, and the use of ARPA funds. The presentation emphasized the importance of maintaining a sustainable budget while addressing the needs of the community, such as providing emergency shelter space for the unhoused. Commissioners asked questions regarding staffing growth, revenue trends, and the sustainability of the budget.
Public Hearing on Budget (01:07:06)
The meeting includes a public hearing to discuss the budget. No action will be taken tonight, but it is a required step before the budget vote.

The public hearing on the budget was held to allow for public comments and questions. It is an essential part of the process to pass the budget. Citizens were encouraged to review the budget online and provide comments. The actual vote will take place on the evening of the sixth.
Public Comments on Budget (01:08:04)
Toby Hannah Davies thanked the commissioners for changes in the budget aimed at helping the unhoused community.

During the public hearing, Toby Hannah Davies expressed gratitude on behalf of various congregations and organizations for the budget changes that support the unhoused community. The speaker noted the importance of the budget changes and expected strong community support for the commissioners' decisions.
Close of Public Hearing (01:11:10)
The public hearing was closed after receiving comments. The budget discussion will continue in the next meeting.

After public comments were heard, the public hearing on the budget was formally closed by the chair. The commissioners thanked the public for their participation and noted that the budget discussion will be ongoing, with a vote scheduled for the sixth.
Consent Agenda (01:11:16)
The consent agenda included multiple contract approvals and budget amendments, all of which were approved by the commissioners.

The consent agenda featured several items, including contract extensions, budget amendments, and resolutions. Notable approvals included a contract with Rothco Safety Supply Inc. for sign installation, a three-year contract with Hydroco LLC for cross connection program administration, and a resolution for neighborhood enterprise zone applications. All items were approved by the commissioners.
Approval of Contract Extension with Salinas LLC (01:14:00)
A contract extension with Salinas LLC for biosolids dewatering polymer was approved without opposition.

The commissioners discussed and approved a contract extension with Salinas LLC for providing biosolids dewatering polymer. Public Services Director James Baker was available for questions, but no further inquiries were made by the commissioners. The motion to approve was passed unanimously.
Agreement with Downtown Economic Growth Authority (01:16:00)
The commission approved a consolidation of outstanding inter-fund loans with DEGA, ensuring continued support for downtown development.

An agreement with the Downtown Economic Growth Authority (DEGA) was approved to consolidate outstanding inter-fund loans. This agreement will help DEGA maintain its mission of improving the downtown area and ensure repayment to the city's general fund. The approval prevents the risk of a deficit elimination plan being needed.
Agreement with Downtown Development Authority (01:26:00)
The commission approved a similar loan consolidation agreement with the DDA to prevent financial deficits.

The agreement with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) was approved, similar to the DEGA agreement, to consolidate inter-fund loans. This step helps the DDA avoid filing a deficit elimination plan with the state and supports its operations in enhancing the downtown area.
Approval of Agreement for RX Kids Kalamazoo Pilot (01:28:00)
An agreement with the Kalamazoo Community Foundation for a grant supporting the RX Kids pilot project was approved.

The commission approved an agreement with the Kalamazoo Community Foundation for an ARPA grant to fund the RX Kids Kalamazoo pilot project. This project provides cash stipends for every child born in the city, aiming to boost family financial stability and support child development. The program has successfully raised significant funds and is set to launch early next year.
Discussion on Program for Newborns (01:39:21)
Discussion on a program providing support for families with newborns in Kalamazoo, focusing on Medicaid births but open to all.

Commissioners discussed a new program aimed at supporting families with newborns in Kalamazoo. The program focuses on Medicaid births but is open to all residents. The discussion included questions about income limits and eligibility, with clarification that the program is universal but certain funds are directed towards Medicaid births.
Public Comments on New Program (01:45:16)
Public expressed support for the new program aimed at assisting families with newborns, highlighting its potential positive impact.

Members of the public commented on the agenda item regarding the new program for supporting newborns. They expressed strong support, highlighting the potential for the program to positively impact families and reduce poverty in the community. The public praised the city's initiative and collaborative efforts.
Commissioner Comments on New Program (01:48:19)
Commissioners expressed excitement and support for the new program, emphasizing its potential to alleviate child poverty.

During the commissioner's discussion, several commissioners expressed their excitement and support for the new program aimed at assisting families with newborns. The discussion emphasized the program's potential to alleviate child poverty and make a significant impact on the community. Commissioners also praised the collaborative efforts involved in making the program a reality.
Reports and Legislation (01:52:09)
City Manager reported on city staff's efforts and thanked the commission for their support throughout the year.

The City Manager provided a report on the efforts and accomplishments of city staff over the past year. He thanked the city commission for their support and highlighted the collaborative work that has been done. The report acknowledged challenges but focused on the positive outcomes achieved through teamwork.
Commissioner Comments (01:53:05)
Commissioners commented on various topics, including the budget, community support, and holiday wishes.

During the Commissioner Comments section, commissioners took the opportunity to discuss various topics. They expressed gratitude for the timely completion of the budget, highlighted the positive contributions of the city commission and staff, and shared holiday wishes with the community. Commissioners also acknowledged the challenges faced and the importance of collaborative efforts.
Adjournment (02:05:37)
Meeting adjourned with closing remarks from the Mayor, emphasizing community and holiday spirit.

The meeting concluded with closing remarks from the Mayor, who emphasized the importance of community and the holiday spirit. The Mayor thanked public safety and public services for their dedication and hard work. The adjournment included a reminder to focus on giving time, attention, and love during the holiday season.