City of Kalamazoo - November 17, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Updated about 4 hours ago

During the Kalamazoo City Commission Meeting, retiring commissioners Don Cooney and Kiana Decker, along with City Manager Jim Ritsema, were honored for their service. The meeting included heartfelt speeches and formal recognitions. The newly elected commissioners and mayor were then sworn in, marking a transition in leadership. The meeting focused on celebrating past achievements and setting the stage for future governance, reflecting on the city's commitment to community and excellence.

Chapters

Call to Order and Roll Call (00:04:24)
The meeting of the Kalamazoo City Commission was called to order and roll call was conducted.

The meeting was called to order by the Chair for the Kalamazoo City Commission. It was noted that the meeting is a business meeting and not a committee meeting. Roll call was conducted by Clerk Boying, confirming the presence of the commissioners and the mayor.
Approval of Minutes (00:05:13)
The minutes from previous city commission meetings were approved with a motion and vote.

The Chair requested approval of the minutes from previous city commission meetings. A motion was made by Commissioner Kiana Decker and supported by Vice Mayor Hess. The motion passed with all in favor and no opposition.
Remarks and Recognitions (00:05:40)
Former city manager Ken Coard and others gave remarks and recognitions, honoring city commissioners and community members.

Former city manager Ken Coard gave remarks, honoring city commissioners for their service. He particularly acknowledged Commissioner Cooney and Commissioner Decker for their dedication. The recognition extended to the late Bob Beam, a supporter of Kalamazoo, and reflected on the service of Don Cooney as a city commissioner.
Proclamations for Departing Commissioners (00:10:00)
Proclamations were read honoring departing commissioners Kiana Decker and Don Cooney for their service.

The city commission held a session to honor departing commissioners Kiana Decker and Don Cooney. Proclamations were read recognizing their contributions to the city of Kalamazoo. Commissioners shared personal stories and acknowledgments of the impact both Decker and Cooney had on the community and their colleagues, highlighting their commitment to public service, equity, and justice.
Recognition of City Manager (00:35:00)
City Manager Jim Misma was recognized for his service to the city of Kalamazoo with a proclamation and words of thanks.

The city commission recognized City Manager Jim Misma for his dedicated service to Kalamazoo. A proclamation was read by Vice Mayor Hess, highlighting Misma's accomplishments, including financial management and organizational improvements. Misma expressed gratitude to the city staff and his family for their support during his tenure.
Farewell and Presentation to City Manager (00:40:42)
Retiring city manager gives farewell speech, highlighting career moments and gratitude. Presented with a key to the city as a token of appreciation.

The retiring city manager reflects on career achievements, expressing excitement for the future and gratitude for the opportunity to serve. A key to the city is presented as a symbol of appreciation for service.
Commissioner Comments on City Manager's Tenure (00:42:19)
Commissioners express gratitude for city manager's financial leadership and impact on city's development, stability, and response to challenges.

Commissioners praise the city manager's leadership during financial challenges, his role in stabilizing the city's finances, and his steady guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting his ethical leadership and the stable team he built.
Special Report from the Clerk (00:52:31)
Clerk presents the certified election results for the city, announcing the newly elected officials including the mayor and commissioners.

The clerk officially announces the election results, certifying the new city commission members, including the election of the mayor and city commissioners.
New Commission Swearing-In Ceremony (00:57:52)
Newly elected mayor and commissioners are sworn in, taking the constitutional oath of office and receiving pins as symbols of their duty.

The newly elected mayor, vice mayor, and city commissioners take their oaths of office, each pinned with a city seal pin to signify their commitment to serve the public faithfully.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (01:07:00)
Pastor Brown delivers an invocation, followed by the commission and attendees reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pastor Michael Brown leads an invocation, asking for wisdom and unity for the commissioners. The session follows with the Pledge of Allegiance, affirming commitment to the nation.
Public Comments (01:10:28)
Residents express concerns and hopes, focusing on law enforcement accountability, housing issues, and support for environmental protection.

City residents address the commission, raising issues such as police conduct, housing concerns, and the importance of protecting natural features, while expressing optimism for the new commission's potential to address these challenges.
Vice Mayor's Comments (01:16:00)
Vice Mayor expresses gratitude for election support, commitment to serving the community, and readiness to address city challenges.

Vice Mayor Duncan thanks the community for their support during the election, emphasizes a commitment to transparency and action, and expresses determination to uphold the city's values and address its challenges effectively.