Kalamazoo County - September 2, 2025 Board of Commissioners Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The board discusses budget priorities, emphasizing the need to align spending with strategic goals and community needs. There is a significant focus on housing initiatives, particularly the renovation of the former County Inn Suites for use as a support facility for families, known as the Landing Place. The board also reviews amendments to the purchasing policy and procedures manual to streamline processes and support local businesses. Annual reports from departments such as Human Resources and Equalization are presented, highlighting departmental achievements and future plans. Public comments address issues such as the opioid crisis and the need for a drug alert system. Overall, the meeting emphasizes strategic planning and community engagement to tackle pressing local issues.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:01:07)
The meeting of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners was officially started.

The chair called the meeting of the Kalamazoo County Board of Commissioners to order.
Invocation and Reflection (00:01:19)
An invocation was given to guide the board's decisions with a focus on justice and equity.

A member of the board gave an invocation, asking for guidance in making decisions that uphold dignity and promote justice and equity for the community.
Roll Call (00:02:57)
Roll call was conducted with eight commissioners present and one absent due to a family emergency.

The clerk conducted a roll call of the commissioners. Eight commissioners were present. Commissioner Morales was absent due to a death in her family.
Proclamations (00:03:42)
There were no proclamations presented during this meeting.

The agenda item for proclamations was addressed, and it was noted that there were none for this meeting.
Communications (00:03:50)
Annual reports from various departments were received, and a resolution from a neighboring county was acknowledged.

The board received several annual reports from departments such as the Equalization Department and the Human Resources Department. A resolution from Buren County supporting Senate bills was also received, along with a public hearing notice for a commercial rehabilitation district.
Approval of Minutes (00:06:42)
Minutes from previous meetings were approved with a motion passed unanimously.

The board approved the minutes from previous meetings. The motion to approve was made by Vice Chair Pro Tem and supported by Commissioner Wheeler. The motion carried with all in favor.
Approval of Agenda (00:09:13)
The agenda was approved with an addition under new business concerning a fire protection agreement.

Commissioner Wheeler moved to approve the agenda with an addition to consider a new business item related to an intergovernmental fire protection agreement. The motion was supported by Vice Chair Taylor and carried unanimously.
Public Comments (00:09:59)
Public comments were heard from community members on various topics including tourism and the opioid crisis.

During the public comment period, Jane from Discover Kalamazoo thanked the board for their support and mentioned the use of grant funds. Gwendolyn, a Northside resident, addressed the opioid crisis and the need for an alert system for bad drugs in the community.
Consent Agenda (00:16:42)
The consent agenda was approved unanimously without any items removed for separate discussion.

Vice Chair Taylor moved to approve the consent agenda as a single motion, which was supported by Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler. The motion passed unanimously with a roll call vote.
New Business - Fire Protection Agreement (00:19:46)
The board approved an intergovernmental fire protection and hazardous materials response agreement.

Commissioner Wheeler moved to approve the intergovernmental fire protection and hazardous materials incident response agreement, authorizing the chair to execute the agreement. The motion was supported by Vice Chair Taylor and passed unanimously.
Amendment of Purchasing Policies (00:20:46)
The board approved amendments to the purchasing policies to simplify and enhance local business opportunities.

Vice Chair Taylor moved to approve amendments to the purchasing policies, known as the Responsible Bidder Policy, which simplify the process and enhance local business opportunities. The motion was supported by Commissioner Wheeler and passed unanimously.
Housing Funding Agreement (00:23:17)
The board approved a housing funding agreement to support down payment assistance for single-family homes.

Vice Chair Pro Tem Heppler moved to approve a housing funding agreement to support a down payment assistance program for single-family homes in Kalamazoo County. The motion was supported by Vice Chair Taylor and passed unanimously.
Amendment to Grant Agreement (00:27:17)
The board approved an amendment to a grant agreement to extend its term without additional funding.

Commissioner Wheeler moved to approve an amendment to the Sector Strategies Employer Led Collaborative grant agreement, extending its term with no additional funding required. The motion was supported by Vice Chair Taylor and passed unanimously.
Reports and Administrator Comments (00:29:24)
The administrator provided updates on the county's housing initiatives and the importance of addressing the housing continuum.

The administrator shared updates on the county's commitment to housing solutions, emphasizing the importance of addressing the entire housing continuum and the community's expectations for action following the voter-approved housing millage.
Discussion on Community Leadership and Economic Decisions (00:35:56)
The community leadership discussed moral and economic commitments to improve Kalamazoo County, highlighting job creation and reduced costs in healthcare, education, and public safety.

The speaker emphasized the importance of community leadership and the shared responsibility of making smart economic decisions. They highlighted the benefits of creating new jobs in Kalamazoo County and reducing future costs related to healthcare, education, and public safety. The discussion also covered the impact of providing stability for children and families, which can significantly change their life trajectories.
Committee of the Whole Discussion and Housing TIF Policy (00:37:36)
The committee discussed the housing tax increment finance (TIF) policy, focusing on single-family housing projects and its potential impact on housing development in Kalamazoo County.

The committee had a productive discussion about the housing tax increment finance (TIF) policy, which is expected to be a game-changer for housing development in the area. The policy allows for the creation of TIF districts for large single-family housing projects, which is anticipated to significantly increase the number of houses built and enable the county to focus housing millage dollars on the most marginalized populations.
Budget Preparation and Recommendations (00:39:12)
The administration presented the budget preparation process, highlighting the importance of incorporating feedback and the role of the budget in county operations.

The administrator discussed the ongoing budget preparation, acknowledging the work of the team in putting together recommendations and incorporating feedback from discussions. The budget is seen as the most important task of the board, as it funds essential county services like courts, the Sheriff's department, and health services. The board works to find additional revenue sources and ensure the budget aligns with county values.
Community Reports and Initiatives (00:42:00)
Various departments provided updates on their initiatives, including leadership development, wellness incentives, and property assessment improvements.

Several departments provided updates on their initiatives. Human resources launched a leadership development program and expanded wellness incentives for employees. The equalization department implemented new mapping software for property assessments and provided training for assessors. The MSU extension reported on their educational programs and support for local agriculture. These initiatives reflect the county's commitment to strong governance and service.
Homelessness and Housing Initiatives (00:49:45)
County leadership discussed plans to address homelessness by renovating former county inn suites for families in need and partnering with housing agencies.

The county leadership is addressing homelessness by partnering with housing agencies and local municipalities. A key initiative is the renovation of the former county inn suites to provide housing for families in need. This project is in the early stages but is building momentum with community support. The goal is to provide stable housing and supportive services to help individuals rebuild their lives.
State Budget and Revenue Sharing Discussion (00:52:26)
The board discussed the impact of state budget proposals on county revenue sharing and the potential for a government shutdown.

The board discussed the implications of the state house of representatives' budget proposal, which could negatively impact county revenue sharing. There is concern about a potential government shutdown if no agreement is reached. The board encouraged advocacy with state representatives to ensure the best possible budget outcome for county services and employees.