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City of Kalamazoo - April 15, 2025 Historic District Commission

Updated 13 minutes ago

In the Kalamazoo Historic District Commission Meeting, members discuss a proposal by Bogan Developments to demolish several buildings in a historic district to make way for a new development. The project, which includes affordable housing and community amenities, is presented by Jamari Bogan and Jason Nevat. There is debate over the historic value of the buildings and the potential benefits of the new development. The commission considers the process and criteria for approving demolitions in historic areas, with input from community members and business owners.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:02:06)
The meeting was called to order at 5:02 PM by the Chair.

The Chair called the meeting to order at 5:02 PM. Casey was asked to conduct the roll call.
Roll Call (00:02:10)
Roll call was conducted to establish the presence of members.

Casey conducted the roll call. Members present included Christie, Dana, Dan, and James.
Approval of Absence (00:02:23)
Motion to approve the absence of Eric Stuckey was passed.

A motion was made to approve the absence of Eric Stuckey. The motion was seconded and passed with all members voting in favor.
Public Comments (00:03:08)
No public comments on non-agenda items were made.

The Chair asked if there were any public comments on non-agenda items. There were no comments from the public.
Approval of Minutes (00:03:18)
Minutes from the last meeting were approved unanimously.

A motion was made to approve the minutes from the last meeting. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously with all members voting in favor.
Adoption of Agenda (00:03:39)
The formal agenda was adopted with amendments.

A motion was made to adopt the formal agenda with an amendment to withdraw item number three. The motion was seconded and passed with all members voting in favor.
Disclaimer Reading (00:04:01)
Luis read the disclaimer regarding historic preservation.

Luis read the disclaimer from the Kalamazoo code of Ordinance, stating that historical preservation is a public purpose, and explaining the responsibilities of the historic district commission.
New Business - Garage Project Proposal (00:05:39)
Carlson proposed a garage project for approval.

Carlson introduced a garage project that has been in the works for over a decade. She presented the plans and was accompanied by her architect. The project was discussed and ultimately approved with a roll call vote.
New Business - Bogan Development Proposal (00:08:29)
Jamari Bogan presented a development proposal for neighborhood improvement.

Jamari Bogan, CEO of Bogan Developments, presented a proposal for a new development called the B. The project includes an early learning center and neighborhood amenities. The proposal aims to replace a neglected liquor store and provide workforce housing.
Discussion on Development Proposal (00:12:31)
Commissioners discussed the implications of the proposed development.

The commissioners engaged in a detailed discussion about the proposed development, addressing concerns about historic preservation, the condition of the properties, and the potential benefits to the community. Various aspects of the proposal were scrutinized, including site control, partnerships, and future planning.
Discussion on Development Project and Community Input (00:31:52)
The meeting started with a discussion on a proposed development project, focusing on community input, architectural elements, and construction logistics.

The meeting covered the setup of stations for community input on the proposed development, discussing the mix of amenities, architectural elements, and construction logistics. Community members are encouraged to engage and provide feedback on these elements.
Public Comments on Development and Historic Preservation (00:40:00)
Public comments were made regarding the proposed development, focusing on the preservation of historic properties and the impact on the community.

Members of the public expressed concerns about the potential demolition of historic properties and the impact on the community. There was a discussion about the condition of the properties, the potential for relocation or restoration, and the importance of maintaining the historic district.
Discussion on Project Approval Process and Criteria (00:53:00)
The commission discussed the criteria for approving the development project, including the need for community benefit and alignment with neighborhood plans.

The discussion focused on the criteria for approving the demolition and development, including the condition of the properties, community benefit, and alignment with the Vine neighborhood plan. The commission considered the input from the public and the need for a clear plan before proceeding.