Kalamazoo City Commission - July 7, 2025 Business Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The Commission addresses critical topics such as substantial investments in water system infrastructure, with a bond issuance designed to finance these upgrades. Public safety is a major concern following a weekend of multiple shootings, prompting Chief Boysen to outline measures and calls for community cooperation. The meeting also covers progress on the Kalamazoo County Event Center and the roles of Discover Kalamazoo in its development. Commissioners emphasize the importance of community involvement and transparency in ongoing city projects and initiatives.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:00:59)
The meeting was called to order and a roll call was conducted. Commissioner Cooney was excused by motion.

The City Commission business meeting was officially called to order by the Mayor. A roll call was conducted by Clerk Boiling, with Commissioner Decker, Commissioner Hoffman, Commissioner Praedel, Commissioner Wilson, Vice Mayor Hess, and Mayor Anderson present. Commissioner Cooney was absent, and a motion to excuse him was made by Commissioner Decker, supported by Commissioner Praedel, and passed unanimously.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:37)
Reverend David Zomer provided the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Reverend David Zomer from Bethany Reformed Church delivered an invocation, reminding everyone of the higher power and the importance of respect and caring for each other. The invocation was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by the assembly.
Proclamation for Day of Summer Learning (00:03:32)
A proclamation was presented to recognize the importance of summer learning initiatives.

The Mayor introduced a proclamation recognizing the importance of summer learning programs. Commissioner Hoffman read the proclamation, which highlighted the benefits of high-quality summer learning opportunities for youth, including building lifelong skills and keeping young people engaged during the summer months. The proclamation was accepted by Brin Roadie from the Kalamazoo Youth Development Network, who spoke about the organization's work and upcoming events.
Adoption of Formal Agenda (00:08:22)
The formal agenda was adopted without changes.

The Mayor asked if there were any items on the consent agenda that commissioners wanted to move to the regular agenda. Seeing none, the agenda was adopted as presented.
City Manager's Communications (00:08:38)
Communications included announcements about summer cinema rescheduling and Arcadia Creek project updates.

COO Lamb announced the rescheduling of the Parks Summer Cinema movie due to weather and provided details on the upcoming free event. Updates were given on the Arcadia Creek project, noting road closures and infrastructure improvements aimed at reducing flood issues. Residents were asked for patience during construction.
Introduction of New Deputy City Manager (00:10:42)
David Marquardt introduced as the new Deputy City Manager.

Laura introduced David Marquardt as the new Deputy City Manager. David spoke about his previous experience in municipal leadership in Grand Rapids and Denver and expressed his enthusiasm for joining the Kalamazoo team and contributing to the community.
Public Comments (00:11:54)
Public comments covered flooding concerns, crime issues, and community support initiatives.

Multiple citizens expressed concerns during public comments. Topics included persistent flooding issues and the impact of new developments, the rise in local crime and safety, community support and healing initiatives, and concerns about infrastructure and road conditions. Organizations like Lean on Healing highlighted their work in supporting families and addressing trauma.
Equitable Wellbeing Discussion (00:32:05)
Discussion on centering equitable wellbeing of community members and addressing disparities.

The meeting opened with a discussion focused on centering the equitable wellbeing of all community members, especially those impacted by existing disparities. The speaker emphasized the importance of acknowledging and dismantling inequitable systems to prevent worsening disparities. It was noted that silence is not an option and that intentional action is needed to build a beloved community.
Public Comment on Community Concerns (00:33:38)
Public comments raised concerns about signage, transparency, and city actions regarding community needs.

Several community members expressed their concerns during the public comment period. Issues included inadequate signage at the farmer's market leading to towing incidents, lack of transparency in posting minutes of the Shared Prosperity Board meetings, and insufficient actions by the Foundation for Excellence to address needs of Black, Brown, and Indigenous communities. The comments highlighted growing gun violence, housing insecurity, and the need for the city to be more inclusive and supportive of the community's diverse populations.
Public Comment on Mental Health and Housing (00:37:47)
Community members voiced concerns about mental health services and housing affordability.

Concerns were raised about the inadequate mental health support for Black and Brown community members, with specific cases mentioned where help was not provided. There was also criticism of the city for prioritizing projects that do not benefit low-income residents, such as building arenas and parks downtown. The speakers highlighted the need for better housing solutions and more equitable support from the city government.
Closing of Public Comment and Consent Agenda Introduction (00:41:22)
Public comment period closed, and the consent agenda items were introduced.

The public comment period was closed by the chair, who thanked the participants for their input. Following this, the consent agenda items were introduced by COO Lamb, which included various contract approvals and appointments. The items on the consent agenda were then moved and approved by the commissioners.
Regular Agenda Item H1: Professional Services Agreement Approval (00:43:19)
Approval of a professional services agreement for construction engineering related to pump and transmission mains.

The commission considered the approval of a professional services agreement with Tetra Tech for construction engineering services related to the contract one Pump and Transmission Mains project. The commission discussed the importance of this infrastructure investment for the community's water supply system. The motion to approve the agreement was made and passed unanimously.
Regular Agenda Item H2: Utility Improvements Contract Approval (00:44:44)
Approval of a contract for utility improvements on Newton's Court, Fellows Avenue, and John Street.

The commission reviewed and approved a contract with Peters Construction Company for utility improvements on Newton's Court, Fellows Avenue, and John Street. This project includes replacing drinking water and sanitary sewer assets to ensure safe and reliable infrastructure. The motion was supported and passed unanimously by the commissioners.
Regular Agenda Item H3: Construction Engineering Agreement Approval (00:48:10)
Approval of a professional services agreement for construction engineering of pump station projects.

The commission approved a professional services agreement with Tetra Tech for construction engineering related to the contract two Pump Station Five project. This agreement is part of the city's ongoing efforts to upgrade its water infrastructure, ensuring compliance and reliability. The discussion highlighted the necessity of maintaining and upgrading critical infrastructure for community resilience.
Regular Agenda Item H4: Water Supply System Bond Ordinance (00:49:24)
Adoption of an ordinance authorizing bonds for significant water infrastructure investments.

The commission adopted an ordinance authorizing the issuance of bonds for the water supply system. This represents a major investment in the city's water infrastructure, aiming to replace aging pipes and ensure safe drinking water for the community. The discussion emphasized this as a necessary investment rather than an expense, with the goal of long-term benefits for future generations.
Regular Agenda Item H5: Event Center Assessment District Authority (00:55:13)
Participation in negotiations for the Kalamazoo County Event Center Assessment District Authority.

The commission discussed and approved participation in negotiations to create the Kalamazoo County Event Center Assessment District Authority. This initiative aims to finance and manage an indoor sports facility, benefiting local youth and families. The funding model relies on a millage assessed primarily on visitors rather than residents, ensuring financial sustainability. The project was praised for promoting community engagement and providing valuable recreational opportunities.
Reports and Legislation: Update on Public Safety and Violence (01:02:22)
Chief of Police provided an update on recent violence and department response efforts.

Chief Boysen provided an update to the commission on recent incidents of gun violence in the community and the department's response strategies. The update included information on the challenges faced over the weekend and the ongoing efforts to address and reduce violence. The chief emphasized the department's commitment to ensuring public safety and engaging with community partners in violence prevention initiatives.
Addressing Gun Violence in the Community (01:03:12)
The chief of police discusses multiple recent shooting incidents, their impact, and the ongoing community efforts to identify perpetrators and prevent future violence.

During this segment, the chief of police provides a detailed account of recent gun violence incidents in the community. There were four separate shootings with a total of eight victims, leaving one person dead and another in critical condition. The chief emphasizes the gravity of the situation, noting the involvement of multiple shooters and the unacceptable level of violence. The police department, alongside community outreach teams, is working tirelessly to gather evidence and engage with the families of those involved. Efforts are being increased, including more patrols and utilizing community tips. The chief urges witnesses to come forward and stresses the importance of community cooperation in combating gun violence.
Public Comments and Concerns (01:06:51)
The city manager addresses concerns raised during public comments, including road conditions and the allocation of Foundation for Excellence funds.

In response to public comments, the city manager acknowledges the concerns about road conditions and assures that efforts are ongoing to address them. The manager also highlights the availability of an online tool that tracks the allocation of Foundation for Excellence funds, providing transparency and detailed information on investments in the community. Questions about the city manager search process were also noted, with a commitment to provide more information as it becomes available.
Commissioner Comments on Gun Violence and Community Safety (01:09:07)
Commissioners express condolences for recent gun violence victims, discuss community safety efforts, and emphasize the importance of proactive measures.

Commissioner Wilson shares a personal connection to a recent gun violence victim and extends condolences to affected families. The commissioner highlights a recent forum on gun violence and the community's desire for solutions, while acknowledging concerns about trust in local law enforcement. The need for community cooperation and proactive measures is emphasized. Vice Mayor Hess also expresses gratitude to public safety officers and stresses the importance of community involvement in preventing violence.
Update on City Manager Search Process (01:12:08)
An update is provided on the city manager search process, with plans for community involvement and transparency in the selection process.

Vice Mayor Hess provides a brief update on the ongoing search for a new city manager, noting that city staff will be meeting with the search firm to further the process. There is a commitment to transparency, with plans to create a page for updates and to involve the community in the selection process. Commissioner Cradle echoes the need for a nationwide search and community input, reaffirming the commitment to a thorough and inclusive process.
Adjournment and Closing Remarks (01:19:03)
The meeting concludes with closing remarks from the mayor, expressing gratitude and hope for the community's future.

The mayor concludes the meeting with heartfelt remarks, welcoming a new member to the community and expressing gratitude for the efforts of all involved in addressing community issues. The meeting is adjourned with a positive note and a commitment to ongoing collaboration and improvement.