Road Commission of Kalamazoo County - September 9, 2025 Board of County Road Commissioners Meeting

Updated 4 days ago

The board approves the final construction plans for the Comstock Avenue road project and discusses the sale of surplus real estate on Erie Street to Oshtemo Township for a trail project. Additionally, the board approves the purchase of new cab and chassis trucks and discusses local road contracts. The meeting includes updates on the road commission's projects and apprenticeship program.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:01)
The meeting of the Board of County Road Commissioners of Kalamazoo County is officially called to order.

The meeting is called to order by the Chair, initiating the formal proceedings of the Board of County Road Commissioners of Kalamazoo County.
Public Comment Guidelines (00:00:09)
Guidelines for public comments are outlined, allowing participants to speak at the beginning and end of the meeting.

Ms. Rider explains the guidelines for public comments, which include time limits, use of the podium for audio clarity, and instructions for participation via Zoom, including the use of the raise hand feature and chat for technical issues.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:12)
The Pledge of Allegiance is recited by all present, honoring the United States of America.

The attendees are invited to join in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, pledging loyalty to the flag and the Republic for which it stands, underlining the values of one nation under God with liberty and justice for all.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:55)
The agenda for the meeting is approved by the commissioners after a motion and support are provided.

The chair requests a motion to approve the agenda, which is moved by Commissioner Dickinson and supported. After ensuring no discussion from the audience or commissioners, the agenda is approved unanimously.
Approval of Minutes (00:02:29)
Minutes from the previous meeting are approved with corrections noted by Vice Chair Stower.

A motion to approve the minutes, as corrected for a repeated paragraph, is made and supported. The minutes are approved following confirmation of no further discussion from the audience or commissioners.
Approval of Payroll and Vendor Accounts (00:03:16)
The board approves the payroll and vendor accounts after a motion and support are provided.

Commissioner Thompson moves to approve the payroll and vendor accounts, with support provided. The approval is confirmed with no discussion or opposition from the audience or commissioners.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:03:50)
An opportunity for public comment on non-agenda items is provided, with a brief statement from Commissioner Gissler.

The Chair opens the floor for public comments on non-agenda items. Commissioner Gissler provides information about a new county website and advisory board openings, noting ongoing improvements and its robust content.
Correspondence - MDOT Mileage Certification Report (00:05:51)
The board receives a letter from MDOT verifying the total miles maintained by Kalamazoo County.

The Chair presents a letter from MDOT certifying the mileage of roads maintained by the county. The board receives the letter and refers it to file, acknowledging the information as part of routine certification.
New Business - Comstock Avenue Project Approval (00:07:18)
The board approves the final construction plan for Comstock Avenue from Sprinkle Road to River Street.

The Managing Director discusses the Comstock Avenue project, including resurfacing, storm sewer replacements, and curb work. The board approves the final plans and temporary easements after confirming details with the assistant county engineer.
Discussion - Offer to Purchase Surplus Real Estate on Erie Street (00:11:18)
The board discusses a written offer from Oshtemo Township to purchase surplus real estate for a trail project.

The Managing Director provides background on the Erie Street property and the township's interest in purchasing it for a trail. Oshtemo Township Supervisor Bell explains the public nature of the project and requests the property be sold for a nominal fee of one dollar. The board discusses the implications of the sale and the alignment with their policy.
Discussion on Real Estate Offer from Omo Township (00:32:06)
The board discussed various options regarding an offer from Omo Township to purchase real estate for a dollar.

The board considered alternatives for a real estate offer from Omo Township, including accepting the offer, countering it, or rejecting it. The discussion included questions about funding sources and the intended public use of the property. A motion was made to accept the offer.
Approval of Cab and Chassis Truck Purchase (00:37:15)
The board approved the purchase of cab and chassis trucks as part of the equipment improvement plan.

Discussion focused on the purchase of cab and chassis trucks for the Road Commission's five-year equipment improvement plan. Details included the type and configuration of trucks, expected delivery times, and maintenance considerations. A motion was made and supported to approve the purchase.
Approval of Asmo Township Local Road Contract (00:47:00)
The board approved a local road contract with Asmo Township for Green Meadows Road.

The board discussed and approved a local road contract with Asmo Township, specifically for paving and implementing traffic management measures on Green Meadows Road. The project is tied to the neighborhood traffic management policy, and the board recommended approval.
Public Comments on Non-Agenda Items (00:48:39)
Second opportunity for public comment on non-agenda items, with no comments received.

The board opened the floor for public comments on non-agenda items for the second time during the meeting. No comments were made by attendees or online participants.
Managing Director's Report (00:48:57)
The managing director provided updates on various projects and initiatives, including the apprentice program and upcoming open house.

The managing director reported on several topics, including the status of the chip seal program, the Pitcher Street project, and the apprenticeship program. An upcoming open house event was also announced to engage with townships and officials.
Commissioners' Time (00:55:39)
Commissioners shared updates and comments, including appreciation for the apprenticeship program.

During commissioners' time, members shared their updates, attended events, and commented on agenda items. The apprenticeship program was highlighted as a successful initiative, and commissioners welcomed new team members.
Adjournment (00:58:28)
The meeting was adjourned following a motion and vote by the board.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made, seconded, and approved by the board. The meeting was officially adjourned.