Kalamazoo County - June 17, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

In the Kamoo County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole Meeting, key topics discussed include public comments on the new accommodations tax system implemented by the Kalamazoo County Treasurer's Office, which aims to improve visibility into short-term rentals. Additionally, a detailed presentation on the Kalamazoo County Community Health Needs Assessment was given, highlighting significant health needs and the importance of a Community Health Improvement Plan. The meeting also touched on infrastructure planning involving the City of Kalamazoo and Oshtemo Township related to the proposed youth sports facility complex.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:25)
The meeting was called to order and roll call was conducted, confirming nine commissioners present.

The Kamoo County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole meeting was called to order. Roll call was conducted with Vice Chair Proton Heppler, Commissioner Mazer, Commissioner Morales, Commissioner Ray, Vice Chair Taylor, Commissioner Wheeler, Commissioner Dilu, and Commissioner Gissler present, making a total of nine commissioners.
Public Comment (00:01:03)
Public comments were invited. Jane Gosh discussed the new accommodations tax system, and Andrea McCubbin expressed concerns about fair operations.

The opportunity for public comment was provided. Jane Gosh, President and CEO of Discover Kalamazoo, spoke in appreciation of the Kalamazoo County Treasurer's office for implementing a new accommodations tax system that improves visibility into short-term rentals like Airbnbs. Andrea McCubbin, from Galesburg, raised issues regarding the transparency and operations of the fair, specifically about the use of 4-H barns and the need for better facilities.
Accounts Payable and Payroll Disbursements Review (00:07:42)
The finance director presented the accounts payable and payroll disbursements, addressing a discrepancy in the claims list.

Finance Director Post presented the review of accounts payable and payroll disbursements. Vice Chair raised a question about a discrepancy between what the board approves and the claims list. The director explained that certain funds like the childcare fund and drain district fund are reported but not approved by the board.
Monthly Investment Report (00:09:29)
The deputy treasurer presented the monthly investment report, highlighting investment returns and inflation impacts.

Chief Deputy Treasurer Tyler White presented the monthly investment report, discussing the mark-to-market variance, effective rates of return, and the impact of inflation over the past month. The deputy also explained that the variance only affects the bottom line if the portfolio is liquidated.
Community Health Needs Assessment Presentation (00:13:11)
Jody Ralph and James Rutherford presented the Community Health Needs Assessment, highlighting significant health needs and the potential for a Community Health Improvement Plan.

Jody Ralph from Ascension Borches Hospital and James Rutherford, Health Officer Director, presented the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The assessment identified six significant community health needs: behavioral health, economic stability, healthcare access, housing and homelessness, sexually transmitted infections, and systemic racism. They discussed the possibility of developing a Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) to address these needs. The discussion covered the challenges of implementing a CHIP, including collaboration among local health systems and resource allocation.
Discussion on Manpower and Funding Coordination (00:32:57)
Discussion focused on the coordination of resources for staffing and housing, including funding and community collaboration.

The meeting addressed the need for coordination of existing resources being taxed for housing and health. Questions were raised about the county's role in finding and funding positions or placing personnel. It was highlighted that in other counties, local health departments often lead these efforts, with funding and staffing contributions from multiple partners.
Community Health Improvement Planning (CHIP) Efforts (00:37:02)
Discussion on the Community Health Improvement Planning efforts, emphasizing the need for collaboration and partnership across organizations.

The discussion highlighted the importance of community collaboration in Community Health Improvement Planning (CHIP) efforts, with examples from Allegan County and other communities. The role of local foundations and health departments as lead agencies was noted, and the need for broad partnership and shared funding was emphasized. The potential involvement of Beacon Health and Bronson, known for their community focus, was also mentioned.
Public Health Challenges and Budget Considerations (00:39:00)
Emphasis on the importance of public health initiatives and the role of local government in supporting these efforts through budgeting.

The conversation revolved around the significant effort required for public health initiatives such as reducing infant mortality. Commissioners were encouraged to see themselves as partners in these public health efforts, considering these priorities in their budgetary decisions. The need for a clear plan to guide policy and resource allocation was stressed, highlighting the potential impact on housing applications and employee recruitment.
Senior Data Collection Methodologies (00:41:02)
Discussion on improving data collection methodologies for senior populations and the ongoing efforts to fill data gaps.

The discussion addressed data collection gaps for seniors and the need to improve methodologies. It was noted that while there are challenges, such as reaching organizations that serve seniors, efforts are being made to enhance data collection. The use of technology for surveys was discussed, with recognition of its limitations for senior engagement. There is an opportunity to collect additional data for future reports.
First Reading: Resolution to Form Kalamazoo County Event Center Assessment District Authority (00:43:00)
Discussion on forming an authority with the City of Kalamazoo for an event center, addressing infrastructure and governance concerns.

The board discussed a resolution to authorize contract negotiations with the City of Kalamazoo to form the Kalamazoo County Event Center Assessment District Authority. Concerns were raised about the need for a municipal partner due to infrastructure needs and the governance structure of the authority. The discussion included consideration of the event center's location, the involvement of Oshtemo Township, and potential benefits and pitfalls of shared authority.
First Reading: Summer Learning Day Proclamation (00:49:01)
Introduction of a proclamation for Summer Learning Day, with plans to bring it forward at a future meeting.

The board introduced a proclamation for Summer Learning Day, marking its first reading. The proclamation aims to recognize the importance of summer learning opportunities for children. No discussion ensued, and it was noted that the proclamation, along with the previous resolution, would be brought forward for approval at a future meeting.
Closed Session on Legal Matters and Property Purchase (00:56:01)
Motion to enter closed session for legal advice on presidential implications and property purchase related to a youth sports complex.

The board moved to enter a closed session to discuss legal advice concerning presidential implications and to consider the purchase or lease of real property for a proposed youth sports facility complex. Two separate motions were made and approved, allowing the board to discuss these sensitive matters in private.