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City of Kalamazoo - March 31, 2025 Kalamazoo City Commission Special Session

Updated 2 days ago

The commission gathers to approve a critical loan agreement for the Legacy housing development in collaboration with Mt Zion Baptist Church This project aims to construct senior housing on the north side.The meeting also includes public comments addressing serious concerns about homelessness, public safety, and the need for more housing initiatives. The city commission listens to public input and acknowledges the collaborative effort needed for community development. This meeting highlights the city's ongoing commitment to addressing housing shortages and supporting community projects.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:00:55)
The meeting was called to order at 5 PM with a quorum present, and attendees were welcomed to the special business meeting.

The meeting was officially opened at 5 PM as a quorum was present, despite not having all commissioners. Attendees were welcomed to the special business meeting of the Kalamazoo City Commission.
Roll Call (00:01:23)
Roll call was conducted, confirming the presence of commissioners and excusing absentees for the meeting.

Clerk Burling conducted the roll call, confirming the attendance of Commissioners Cooney, Decker, Hoffman, Wilson, Vice Mayor Hess, and Mayor Anderson. A motion was made to excuse Commissioners Praedel and absent members.
Approval of Absences (00:01:41)
A motion was passed to excuse absent commissioners from the meeting, ensuring the quorum was maintained.

A motion was made by Commissioner Decker and supported by Commissioner Wilson to excuse the absent commissioners, which was passed unanimously, ensuring the quorum was maintained for the meeting.
Communications and Updates (00:02:01)
Updates were shared on public safety success, community involvement opportunities, and upcoming meetings.

C.O.O. Lamb shared positive news about public safety crime reduction strategies, community involvement opportunities, and upcoming sustainability meetings. He encouraged visiting the city's website for notifications about future events.
Public Comments (00:03:33)
Public comments were made addressing concerns about policing, housing, and community resources.

Members of the public expressed concerns about police conduct during protests, lack of housing and resources for the homeless, and the need for better community support, particularly for marginalized groups. Speakers urged the city to take action to improve these conditions.
Special Meeting Agenda Item: Zion Place Project (00:12:39)
Discussion and approval of a loan modification for the Zion Place senior housing development project.

The meeting focused on approving a loan modification for the Zion Place project, a senior housing development. Community Development Manager Shirley Parsons explained the need for amendments due to scheduling changes, with construction set to begin in April. The project is supported by ARPA funds.
Public Comments on Zion Place Project (00:16:09)
Positive public comments were made supporting the Zion Place housing development for seniors.

Community members and leaders, including Pastor Moore, expressed strong support for the Zion Place senior housing project, highlighting its potential to transform the community and provide much-needed housing for seniors.
Approval of Loan Agreements (00:18:39)
The commission approved the loan agreements for the Zion Place project, facilitating the project's progress.

A motion was made and approved to authorize the city manager to sign loan agreements related to the Zion Place project, ensuring the necessary funding and administrative support for the development to proceed.
Adjournment (00:23:42)
The meeting was adjourned after closing comments from commissioners.

Following final comments and expressions of gratitude for the project's progress, the meeting was adjourned with a statement of love for Kalamazoo.