City of Kalamazoo - Civil Rights Board

City of Kalamazoo - Civil Rights Board - June 4, 2025 Meeting

Updated 3 days ago

The Civil Rights Board convenes to discuss various matters including subcommittee commitments, the ordinance rewrite subcommittee, and the education subcommittee. Chairperson Phason welcomes new member Director Moore Doyle and emphasizes the importance of subcommittee participation. The board reviews recent nominations for new members Willow Sly and Joshua Devore and discusses their qualifications. The meeting also addresses the potential shift from bimonthly to monthly meetings, contingent upon having a full board. Public comments highlight the community's support and the ongoing challenges the board faces.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:30)
The Civil Rights Board meeting is called to order by the Chairperson. Roll call is conducted to confirm attendance of board members.

The meeting of the Civil Rights Board is called to order by the Chairperson. Director Hewitt Smith conducts the roll call to confirm the presence of board members. Chairperson Faison, Vice Chair Luman, Director Burpee, Director Calderone, and Director Moore Doyle are present.
Adoption of Agenda (00:01:09)
Motion to adopt the agenda for the meeting is made and approved without opposition.

A motion to adopt the agenda for today's meeting is entertained. The motion is moved by Director Kyle Durong and seconded by Director Burpee. The motion is approved with all in favor and the agenda is adopted.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:55)
Minutes from the previous Civil Rights Board meeting are approved following a motion and discussion.

A motion to adopt the minutes from the previous Civil Rights Board meeting is made by Vice Chair Luman and seconded by Director Mor. After a brief discussion, the motion is approved with all members in favor and no opposition.
Public Announcements and Communications (00:02:50)
Director Hewitt Smith announces that there are no public announcements or communications at this time.

Director Hewitt Smith informs the board that as of today, there are no public announcements or communications to be made.
Welcome to New Board Member (00:03:07)
Director Moore Doyle is welcomed to the Civil Rights Board with remarks about filling empty seats.

Director Moore Doyle is formally welcomed to the Civil Rights Board. The chairperson acknowledges that the board has had empty seats for some time and expresses eagerness to work with the new director.
Subcommittee Commitment and Discussion (00:03:33)
Discussion on the importance of subcommittee commitment and updates on various subcommittees.

The board discusses the importance of commitment to subcommittees, including the Ordinance Rewrite, Education, and Nominating subcommittees. The chairperson stresses the need for members to be present and active in subcommittee work and invites discussion on these topics.
Updates on Ordinance Edits (00:06:12)
Updates on the progress of ordinance edits and interactions with the city commission.

The board receives updates on ordinance edits, including the rejection of previous edits and ongoing efforts to work with the city commission. Vice Chair Luman shares news from Attorney Lewis Smith about expected updates by Friday.
Nomination Process Discussion (00:10:49)
Discussion of the Civil Rights Board's nomination process for new board members.

Vice Chair Luman and Director Calderon explain the nomination process and interview procedures for new board members, including the recent instance where more applicants than available seats were managed.
Nomination of New Board Members (00:14:38)
Board discusses and votes on the recommendation of two new members, Willow Sly and Joshua Devore, to the mayor for appointment to the board.

The board considers two applicants, Willow Sly and Joshua Devore, for recommendation to the mayor. Their qualifications and interview highlights are discussed, and both are unanimously recommended for three-year terms.
Discussion on Monthly Meetings (00:25:03)
Board discusses whether to transition from bimonthly to monthly meetings, with a decision to revisit the topic in August.

The board discusses the possibility of holding monthly meetings instead of bimonthly. After considering the schedules and potential for a full board, they agree to revisit the decision in August after new members are confirmed.
Public Comment (00:36:18)
Public comments are received, including apologies from Lewis Smith for delays and encouragement from residents.

During public comment, Lewis Smith apologizes for delays in ordinance edits and provides an update. Residents express support and encouragement for the board's efforts in the face of challenges.
Welcome and Introductions (00:40:53)
Charla Davis welcomes the board and expresses gratitude for their ongoing work. Acknowledges the challenges they face and the support from the community.

Charla Davis welcomes the chair, vice chair, board of directors, committee members, staff commissioner, and liaison. Special welcome to the new board director. Expresses gratitude for the board's dedication and commitment, especially during challenging times. Reiterates that the board is not alone in their efforts and that their work is appreciated. Emphasizes the importance of the board's work in light of recent troubling events in the community.
Public Comments and Community Support (00:41:17)
Charla Davis and Toby Hannah Davies highlight community support and the importance of communication and publicity for the board's initiatives.

Charla Davis continues to thank the board and emphasizes the importance of community support. She acknowledges the presence of Isaac family members and partners in the audience. Highlights the collaborative educational efforts with the board and the need for strong communication and awareness. Toby Hannah Davies speaks about the challenges of modern publicity and communication, stressing the need for diverse media strategies to reach the community. Encourages the board to consider various channels, including social media, print media, and local radio and TV stations to effectively communicate their message.
Board Member Comments and Discussion (00:47:00)
Board members express appreciation for community support, welcome new members, and discuss the importance of a full board and future plans.

Board members take turns expressing their gratitude to the community, Isaac partners, and new board members. They discuss the importance of having a full board to effectively tackle the challenges ahead. Vice Chair Luman emphasizes the need for the educational subcommittee to meet and start planning. Other members highlight the collaborative work with community partners and the critical role of the board in addressing issues of equity and discrimination. The discussion reflects a strong sense of commitment to pushing forward and achieving positive change.
Adjournment (00:53:00)
The meeting is formally adjourned with a motion from Vice Chair Luman and a second from Director Burpee.

The Chair calls for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Vice Chair Luman proposes the motion to adjourn, which is seconded by Director Burpee. The meeting is officially concluded with expressions of thanks and a welcome to all attendees.