City of Kalamazoo - June 10, 2025 Citizen Public Safety Review and Appeals Board Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The board reviews reports from the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, with Inspector Chuck Mason providing an update on outstanding cases and recent community events like the Citizens Academy and a bike rodeo. The meeting highlights the importance of public engagement in safety initiatives.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:16)
The meeting was called to order at 6 o'clock, and roll call was conducted with board members stating their presence.

The meeting officially began with the chair calling it to order at 6 PM, followed by a roll call where board members confirmed their attendance, including Jason Allen, Christopher Caldwell, Wally Ferra, Barb Hamilton Miller, Ebony Heel, Regina Miller, and Susan Stapleton. Ashley Huber, Teresa Thrash, and Larry Tolbert were excused.
Public Comments Introduction (00:01:09)
The process for public comments during the meeting was explained, including how citizens can participate via phone.

The chair welcomed attendees both in person and online and explained the procedure for public comments. Community members wishing to provide comments over the phone were instructed to call during the designated citizen comments period, where they would enter a queue to present their comments in turn.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:44)
The minutes from the April meeting were approved with a motion and a vote.

A motion was made to approve the minutes from the April meeting, which was seconded. The chair called for a verbal vote, and all members present signified their agreement by saying 'Aye', with no objections noted.
Kalamazoo Public Department Report (00:02:00)
Inspector Chuck Mason provided updates from the Kalamazoo Public Department of Public Safety, including the PCR report and Citizens Academy events.

Inspector Chuck Mason from the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety reported on recent activities, including the successful Citizens Academy, despite weather-related challenges. He presented the PCR report covering January through May and addressed questions about ongoing investigations. Mason assured that communication with complainants is maintained even if some cases are delayed.
Board Member Comments (00:04:43)
Comments from board members were shared, including experiences at community events and training academies.

The chair opened the floor for board member comments. Ms. Huber, unable to attend the meeting, provided comments on her participation in the Citizens Academy and a community bike rodeo, highlighting the importance of community engagement and safety education. The chair and other members echoed her sentiments, emphasizing the value of community-police interactions.
Citizen Comments (00:07:57)
The floor was opened for citizen comments, but no comments were made in person or via call-in.

The meeting provided a period for citizen comments, allowing each speaker three minutes to present their views. Speakers could address the board in person or call in. However, no comments were made during this session.
Adjournment (00:09:26)
The meeting was adjourned and moved into a closed session with a motion and vote.

The chair reiterated the schedule of upcoming meetings and noted the cancellation of the next meeting due to no scheduled appeals. A motion was made to adjourn, seconded, and approved without opposition, concluding the meeting.