City of Kalamazoo - July 10, 2025 Zoning Board of Appeals

Updated 2 days ago

The board considers two primary cases. The first case involves a variance request for a new drive-thru coffee shop, Seven Brew, which seeks to develop a site without the required landscaping green strip. The second case involves a request from Taco Jefe food trailer for an extension to operate while pursuing a permanent site plan. The board also discusses amendments to its rules of procedure, particularly focusing on the reconsideration process and the composition of the board. Interviews for a new alternate board member position are conducted, and Jack Urban is selected. The meeting highlights ongoing efforts to balance development with community standards and procedural integrity.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:02:22)
The meeting of the Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals was called to order and attendees were welcomed.

The chairperson opened the meeting by welcoming attendees to the July session of the Kalamazoo Zoning Board of Appeals, explaining the board's role as a volunteer advisory board appointed by the city commission.
Roll Call (00:02:34)
Roll call was conducted to confirm the presence of board members.

Staff conducted a roll call, confirming the presence of board members Amanda Hamburg, Holder, Harrington, and Nick Reynolds.
Approval of Agenda (00:03:19)
The agenda was adjusted with the removal of item number three under public hearing.

The board discussed potential changes to the agenda. Item number three under public hearing was removed due to the need for more discussion between the property owner and business owner about a food truck and site plan review process.
Approval of Minutes (00:04:14)
The minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved unanimously.

The board reviewed the minutes from the last meeting. No changes were suggested, and a motion to approve the minutes was passed unanimously.
Public Hearing Procedures (00:04:52)
The procedure for public hearings was explained, including the process for public comments.

The chairperson outlined the procedures for the public hearing segment, describing how requests would be read into the record, public comments received, and the process for board deliberation and decision-making.
Variance Application for Seven Brew Coffee (00:05:44)
Seven Brew Coffee requested a variance for site development without the required landscaping strip.

Ella Ackerman, representing Seven Brew Coffee, presented their application for a variance to develop the property at West Main and Drake without a five-foot landscaping strip due to existing access driveway constraints. The project aims to establish a drive-through coffee shop with dual lanes.
Staff Comments on Seven Brew Application (00:13:54)
Staff supported the variance request due to site constraints and redevelopment potential.

Staff provided comments supporting the variance request due to the site's configuration and access road requirements established for fire safety. The property is eligible for redevelopment, and the variance would not negatively impact adjacent properties.
Public Hearing and Vote on Seven Brew Application (00:16:10)
No public opposition; the board unanimously approved the variance for Seven Brew Coffee.

The public hearing for the Seven Brew Coffee variance was opened. No public comments were made either for or against the request. The board proceeded to deliberate and unanimously approved the variance, allowing the project to move forward.
Variance Application for Taco Jefe Food Trailer (00:28:51)
Taco Jefe sought an extension to operate their food trailer while pursuing a permanent site plan.

Sergio Carre translated for Claudio Velasquez, owner of Taco Jefe, who requested a six-month extension to operate their food trailer, citing collaboration with a store owner to eventually open a permanent restaurant.
Staff Comments on Taco Jefe Application (00:31:13)
Staff supported the extension request, noting adequate space and no negative impacts.

Staff provided comments supporting the extension request for Taco Jefe, highlighting the commercial zoning compatibility, sufficient parking, and the absence of negative impacts on adjacent properties. The extension would allow time for site plan review.
Extension Request for Food Trailer Operation (00:37:53)
Discussion on extending the operational time for a food trailer while developing a permanent restaurant.

The board discussed a request to extend the time a food trailer can operate while the owners work on establishing a permanent restaurant with the store owner where the trailer is parked. The extension would help solidify their business without infringing on adjacent properties and is consistent with current ordinances. A condition was set to submit a site plan review application. The board approved the finding effect and then voted to approve the request itself.
Motion and Vote on Extension Request (00:41:00)
The board voted on the motion to approve the extension request for the food trailer.

After a discussion on the extension request for the food trailer, a board member moved to approve the finding effect, which was seconded. The board took a vote, resulting in unanimous approval of the request.
Discussion on Amendments to Zoning Board of Appeals Rules (00:41:21)
The board discussed potential amendments to their rules, focusing on reconsideration procedures and the number of board members.

The board engaged in a lengthy discussion about amending the rules of procedure for the Zoning Board of Appeals. The main focus was on whether to remove the reconsideration procedure from the bylaws. There was debate over the legality and appropriateness of reconsideration, with references to Robert's Rules and the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act. Concerns were raised about the board's empowerment and procedural consistency. Additionally, the board discussed the possibility of expanding the number of board members to an odd number to avoid tie votes.
Discussion on Board Diversity (01:07:48)
Discussion on the need for more diversity on the board, including race, gender, and neighborhood representation.

The meeting discussed the importance of having more diverse representation on the board. Members highlighted the need for diversity not only in terms of race and gender but also from different neighborhoods. There was an encouragement for people from various backgrounds to apply for positions on the board.
Motion to Adjourn Discussion (01:08:45)
Motion to adjourn part of the discussion to the next meeting was proposed and debated.

A motion was proposed to adjourn part of the discussion to the next meeting to allow more time for consideration. The terminology of 'adjournment' versus 'table' was clarified, and it was decided to adjourn the discussion to the next regular meeting, with a motion and voice vote to confirm this decision.
Interviews for Board Positions (01:11:16)
The committee conducted interviews for board positions, discussing the qualifications of two candidates, Michael Bingham and Jack Urban.

The committee reviewed the interviews of two candidates for board positions. Michael Bingham, a retired attorney, emphasized his legal experience and community involvement. Jack Urban, a former city commissioner, highlighted his extensive board experience and commitment to fair decision-making. The discussion included the candidates' qualifications and their potential contributions to the board.
Committee's Recommendations on Candidates (01:15:25)
Committee members shared their thoughts on the candidates and recommended Jack Urban for the alternate board member position.

The interview committee shared their evaluations of the candidates. Although both candidates were deemed qualified, Jack Urban was recommended for the alternate board member position due to his extensive experience and readiness to contribute immediately. The committee emphasized that the other candidate was also qualified.
Vote on Board Appointment (01:20:09)
The board voted to approve Jack Urban as an alternate member. The motion was passed unanimously.

A motion was made to approve Jack Urban as the alternate board member. The motion was seconded and passed through a voice vote with all members in favor. The board welcomed Jack Urban as the second alternate chair.
Adjournment (01:22:49)
The meeting concluded with a reminder to email information about the next meeting and bylaws for review.

The meeting was adjourned with a reminder to email the information about the next meeting and the bylaws to all members for further review and consideration. Members were encouraged to brainstorm alternative language for consideration in future meetings.