City of Kalamazoo - June 16, 2025 City Commission Business Meeting

Updated 1 day ago

The Commission addresses significant water infrastructure projects, including lead service line replacements and PFAS treatment, to improve the city's water quality and capacity. Public comments highlight concerns about housing, public safety, and immigrant rights. The Commission approves several contracts related to these infrastructure projects and discusses the importance of trust and community involvement in city governance. Additionally, the meeting covers topics such as the DDA tax levy and the purchase of property for local development.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:02:52)
The Kalamazoo City Commission business meeting is officially called to order at 7 PM.

The meeting is called to order by the chairperson, marking the official beginning of the Kalamazoo City Commission business meeting scheduled for 7 PM.
Roll Call (00:03:13)
Roll call is conducted by Clerk Boyland, confirming the presence of the commissioners.

Clerk Boyland conducts the roll call, confirming the presence of Commissioner Comey Re, Commissioner Decker, Commissioner Hoffman, Commissioner Praedel, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Mayor Hess, and Mayor Anderson.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:03:31)
Sister Sue McCreary provides the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Sister Sue McCreary from the congregation of St. Joseph offers an invocation, asking for wisdom and grace for the commissioners. After the invocation, attendees stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Adoption of the Formal Agenda (00:05:57)
Commissioners discuss changes to the formal agenda, including moving and removing items.

The formal agenda is adopted with modifications: item G9 is moved to the regular agenda, and item J1 is pulled and will be discussed at a later meeting.
Public Comments (00:07:09)
Members of the public present their comments on various community issues and concerns.

Public comments are heard on topics such as community safety, housing crises, ICE enforcement, and environmental concerns. Speakers express their views and call for action from the commission.
Consent Agenda (00:32:06)
The commission reviews and approves items on the consent agenda, including contracts and resolutions.

Items on the consent agenda include software licensing, professional services agreements, and resolutions related to transportation and infrastructure. These are presented for approval by the commission.
Appointment of Joshua Debo and Rural Siping to the Civil Rights Board (00:34:33)
The appointments of Joshua Debo and Rural Siping to the Civil Rights Board were announced.

The city manager announced the appointment of Joshua Debo and Rural Siping to the Civil Rights Board. The appointments were part of the meeting's agenda items.
Motion to Approve Consent Agenda (00:34:51)
A motion was made and approved to authorize the city manager to sign all related documents on behalf of the city.

Commissioners were asked to make a motion to approve items one through an unspecified number on the agenda and authorize the city manager to sign all related documents on behalf of the city. Commissioner Hoffman made the motion, which was supported by Vice Mayor Hess. A roll call vote was conducted, and all commissioners present voted in favor.
Approval of Contract with USA Earthworks LLC (00:35:34)
The contract with USA Earthworks LLC for the Richland Township Water Main Extension Project was approved.

The city commission approved a contract with USA Earthworks LLC for the drinking water state revolving fund contract number three, which involves the Richland Township Water Main Extension Project.
Presentation on Water Infrastructure Projects (00:36:01)
Director James Baker presented an overview of several water infrastructure projects related to the DWSRF.

Public Services Director James Baker provided an overview of several water infrastructure projects that are related to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). The projects include water main extensions, lead service line replacements, and the construction and consolidation of water treatment facilities. He discussed funding details, project schedules, and potential construction impacts.
Approval of Agenda Item H1 (00:55:00)
The city commission approved Agenda Item H1 related to various water infrastructure projects.

The city commission discussed and approved Agenda Item H1, which involves multiple contracts and agreements related to water infrastructure improvements. Commissioner Praedel commented on the significance of the projects and the proactive measures being taken to ensure water quality and infrastructure resilience.
Approval of Contract with Peters Construction Company (00:58:28)
The city commission approved a contract with Peters Construction Company for a pump station and transmission main project.

The commission approved Agenda Item H2, which is a contract with Peters Construction Company as part of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) for pump stations and transmission main projects. The item was discussed briefly, and there were no public comments.
Approval of Agreement with CD Arena LLC (01:00:11)
The city commission approved an agreement with CD Arena LLC for the Arcadia Creek Phase Zero project.

Agenda Item H3 was approved, involving an agreement with CD Arena LLC for the Arcadia Creek Phase Zero project, which includes work on Westridge Avenue from Kalamazoo Avenue to Michigan Avenue. Commissioner Wilson abstained from voting due to a conflict with their employer.
Approval of Contract with E and L Construction Group (01:02:23)
The commission approved a contract with E and L Construction Group for a pump station project.

Agenda Item H5 was approved, which involves a contract with E and L Construction Group Incorporated for a project at pump station number five as part of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) initiative.
Approval of Purchase Agreement with Jaya Cushman (01:03:31)
The city commission approved a purchase agreement with Jaya Cushman for a property on Lauren Street.

The commission approved a purchase agreement with Jaya Cushman for a property on Lauren Street. This purchase was discussed briefly, with clarification provided that the city is purchasing the property, which is why it required commission approval.
Discussion on Property Purchase for Development (01:06:10)
The city plans to purchase property for affordable development and blight removal, supported by the Foundation for Excellence funds.

The discussion centered around the city's efforts to purchase a property that has been a target for acquisition for some time. Commissioner Decker emphasized the importance of this purchase for the development of affordable housing and the removal of blight in the area. The funds from the Foundation for Excellence are facilitating this purchase, and there is a commitment to work closely with the neighborhood association to ensure the development meets community needs.
Motion to Approve Property Purchase (01:08:10)
A motion was made by Commissioner Decker and supported by Vice Mayor Hess to approve the property purchase.

Following the discussion, a motion was made by Commissioner Decker, with support from Vice Mayor Hess, to approve the purchase of the targeted property. The motion was subject to additional discussion and was ultimately passed with a roll call vote.
Discussion on DDA Levy Adoption (01:08:13)
A resolution to approve the DDA levy was discussed, including its history and fiscal impact.

The discussion involved a resolution to approve a request from the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to levy a tax. Mr. Vai explained the process of establishing the millage rate, its history of Headley rollback adjustments, and the roles of public hearings and budget approvals in the process. The levy supports activities in the designated DDA area.
Public Comment on DDA Levy Item (01:11:19)
A citizen expressed concern about moving items from the consent agenda and the importance of being present for discussions.

During the public comment period, city resident Jeff Messer noted that the item was moved from the consent agenda to the regular agenda at citizen request. He emphasized the importance of staying for discussions if one requests an agenda change, and he questioned the fiscal details of the levy.
Motion to Approve DDA Levy Resolution (01:11:49)
A motion was made and passed to adopt the resolution approving the DDA levy for the fiscal year.

Commissioner Cooney made a motion, supported by Commissioner Hoffman, to adopt the resolution approving the DDA's request to levy the tax. The motion was discussed briefly and then passed with a roll call vote, indicating unanimous support from the commissioners.
City Manager's Report (01:13:21)
The city manager highlighted improvements in the 311 call center and a transition to Salesforce for better tracking.

City Manager Isma reported on the ongoing improvements in the city's 311 call center, including the appointment of a new data systems analyst. The transition to Salesforce software is expected to enhance call tracking and service delivery to citizens.
Commissioner Comments (01:14:18)
Commissioners shared comments on various topics including public safety, community events, and the city manager search.

Commissioners took turns sharing their comments on a range of topics. Commissioner Cooney thanked volunteers, Commissioner Decker acknowledged public works efforts, and Commissioner Praedel discussed the visit of Ukrainian mayors and condemned ICE raids. Commissioner Hess and others shared thoughts on public safety and community support, reflecting on recent tragic events and community vibrancy.
Mayor's Closing Remarks (01:24:49)
The mayor emphasized community unity and thanked everyone for their service and dedication to Kalamazoo.

In his closing remarks, the mayor reflected on the importance of viewing Kalamazoo as a family, especially in light of recent tragic events. He expressed gratitude for the dedication and service of the commissioners and city staff, and emphasized the need for continued collaboration and care for the community.