City of Kalamazoo - November 17, 2025 City Commission Business Meeting

Updated about 4 hours ago

In their first session the 56th Kalamazoo City Commission reviewed a proposal for winter shelter funding to support the homeless, with contributions from the city, county, and Continuum of Care. Patrese Griffin presented for the Kalamazoo County Public Housing Committee. The meeting featured a report from the Kalamazoo County Public Arts Commission highlighting recent achievements like the Brush the Block Mural Festival. The Commission also appointed Patsy Moore as interim city manager to bridge the gap before the new city manager's term begins. Public comments addressed concerns about homelessness, environmental conservation, and public participation in local governance.

Chapters

Welcome and Introduction (00:01:38)
The meeting begins with a welcome and introduction of the newly seated commission members.

The meeting is called to order, and the newly seated commission members are introduced. The chair expresses pleasure at seeing everyone present and notes that this is the second business meeting of the day.
Call to Order and Roll Call (00:01:58)
The meeting is officially called to order, and a roll call is conducted to confirm attendance.

The chair calls the meeting to order, and Clerk Bley conducts a roll call. All commissioners and the mayor are present, confirming a quorum for the meeting.
Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance (00:02:26)
An invocation is given by a guest from Emmanuel Fellowship Church, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

Pastoral intern Joel Han from Emmanuel Fellowship Church delivers an invocation, praying for wisdom and guidance for the commissioners. The assembly then stands and recites the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Public Art Commission Year-End Report (00:04:42)
The Kalamazoo County Public Art Commission presents its year-end report, highlighting activities and future plans.

Commissioner Patrick Ksh Brier presents the year-end report for the Kalamazoo County Public Arts Commission. The report includes an overview of activities such as the Brush the Block Mural Festival and collaborations with local artists and organizations. The commission emphasizes its commitment to enhancing the vibrancy of Kalamazoo through public art.
Recognition of Building Blocks of Kalamazoo (00:10:48)
The Building Blocks of Kalamazoo organization is recognized for its contributions to community development.

Commissioner Hess reads a proclamation recognizing Building Blocks of Kalamazoo for its work in empowering resident groups to enhance neighborhood life. The organization celebrates its anniversary and is commended for its commitment to marginalized communities and fostering partnerships.
Adoption of the Formal Agenda (00:15:48)
The formal agenda for the meeting is adopted without changes.

The chair asks if any items from the consent agenda need to be moved to the regular agenda. Seeing none, the agenda is adopted as stands.
Communications from the City (00:16:11)
Updates on city initiatives including fall leaf collection and community open houses are provided.

COO Lamb provides updates on the city's fall leaf collection and upcoming community open houses regarding street safety projects. The city is also conducting a food drive to support Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes.
Clerk's Report (00:18:03)
Clerk Boley presents a report including a proposal for commission action on conservation efforts.

Clerk Boley informs the commission of a resolution received by his office that proposes staff initiate the acquisition of land for conservation purposes. He is available for any questions regarding the report.
Public Comment (00:18:48)
Members of the public express their concerns and suggestions on various issues impacting the community.

The public comment period allows members of the community to express their thoughts on any topic relevant to the commission. Speakers address issues such as homelessness, environmental conservation, and infrastructure concerns. Notable topics include support for increased winter shelter capacity and the preservation of green spaces.
Public Comments on Homelessness and Sheltering (00:36:33)
Community members express concerns about homelessness, the need for resources, and the importance of supporting sheltering initiatives.

Various community members, including Iris Potter and Shannon, speak about the challenges faced by the homeless community in Kalamazoo County. They highlight the need for more resources, support for hotel sheltering projects, and the importance of addressing the needs of medically fragile individuals. Concerns about the lack of support and resources for homeless individuals were raised, emphasizing the need for continued community and governmental support.
Discussion on Winter Shelter Program (00:44:03)
Speakers thank the commission for their support of the winter shelter agreement and discuss the realities and challenges of the program.

Michelle Davis and Andrea Trammell discuss the winter shelter program, thanking the commission for their support and highlighting the challenges of providing shelter access, especially during holidays and weekends. They emphasize the importance of continued funding and the need for additional resources to support the homeless population during the winter months.
Public Comment on Rezoning and Public Participation Policy (00:50:01)
Concerns raised about the city's public participation policy and its application in rezoning cases, urging better reflection of public input in reports.

A speaker raises concerns about the city's public participation policy, using a recent rezoning request as a case study. The speaker argues that the policy is being applied too narrowly and that staff reports should better reflect the substance of public feedback and community concerns about rezoning proposals.
Consent Agenda Items (00:58:21)
Consent agenda includes printer maintenance contract, lease of copiers, resolutions for project area certifications, and appointments to commissions.

The commission reviews and approves the consent agenda, which includes a cooperative contract for printer maintenance, a lease agreement for copiers, adoption of resolutions for project area certifications, and appointments and reappointments to the local Officer's Compensation Commission. The motion to approve items one through seven and postpone item eight is passed unanimously.
Regular Agenda - Agreement for Winter Shelter Support (01:01:05)
Discussion on approval of an agreement with United Way to support the winter shelter program; emphasis on community collaboration and funding gaps.

Chief Operating Officer Lamb presents the item on the regular agenda regarding an agreement with United Way South Central Michigan Continuum of Care to support Winter Shelter. Patrice Griffin, executive director for the Continuum of Care, provides an overview of the proposal to provide temporary winter shelter for the community. Discussion includes the need for additional funding and the importance of collaboration between the city, county, and community organizations to address homelessness effectively.
Shelter Coordination Discussion (01:07:21)
Discussion on shelter coordination, its importance, current gaps, and collaboration efforts to improve services for community members needing shelter.

The meeting included a detailed discussion on the importance of shelter coordination, which has been identified by the continuum of care as a critical need for several years. The coordination helps ensure that individuals have access to beds and other supports and services. It was emphasized that coordination is crucial for serving community members effectively and ensuring that no one is left out, especially during the winter months.
Winter Shelter Planning (01:09:05)
Commissioner questions about the proactive approach to winter shelter planning, lessons learned, and the importance of collaboration between city and county.

Commissioners discussed the proactive measures being taken for winter shelter planning, highlighting the importance of collaboration between the city, county, and other agencies. The discussion included reflections on past learning experiences and the need for continued improvement and readiness for future winters.
Temporary Winter Shelter Duration (01:10:55)
Discussion on the duration of the temporary winter shelter, budget contingencies, and planning for prolonged winter conditions in Michigan.

The commissioners discussed the operation period for the temporary winter shelter, which will run from December 1 to the end of March. They considered the unpredictability of Michigan's winter weather and the necessity of having budget contingencies for any unforeseen costs that may arise from extending shelter operations.
Public Comment on Shelter Items (01:12:35)
Opportunity for the public to comment on shelter-related items, with emphasis on shelter provisions for single adults and medically fragile individuals.

The commission provided an opportunity for public comments on the shelter items discussed, particularly focusing on the provisions for single adults and medically fragile individuals. The public was invited to share their views and concerns.
Interim City Manager Employment Agreement (01:15:55)
Discussion and approval of an interim employment agreement with Patsy Moore for the position of interim city manager during the transition period.

The commission considered and approved an interim employment agreement with Patsy Moore to serve as the interim city manager until the new city manager, Malcolm Hankins, starts. The agreement was negotiated to cover the transition period and ensure continuity in city management.
Commissioner Comments and Acknowledgments (01:22:00)
Commissioners shared comments, welcomed new colleagues, acknowledged community efforts, and discussed upcoming events and priorities.

During the commissioner comments section, several commissioners expressed their gratitude to the community, welcomed new colleagues, and discussed upcoming events like the holiday parade and tree lighting. They highlighted community efforts and priorities, emphasizing collaboration and community engagement.
Condolence Letter and Ceremony Attendance (01:36:42)
The mayor discusses a letter of condolence sent to a grieving family and attending a ceremony to honor the loss of a young community member.

The mayor expresses sorrow for the loss of young lives, noting that some events occurred outside Kalamazoo. A letter of condolence was sent, and the commission holds the family in their thoughts. The tragic loss of youth is particularly painful for the community.
Recent Election and Voter Participation (01:37:43)
The mayor thanks the community for participating in the recent election and discusses low voter turnout in local elections, fundraising challenges, and the importance of local politics.

The mayor thanks voters for their participation in the recent election, regardless of their choice. He highlights the low turnout in local elections, noting less than a fifth of registered voters participate. Fundraising and targeting voters are discussed, along with the effort required to run a campaign. The mayor reminisces about past media involvement in elections and addresses the current media landscape. He emphasizes the importance of local politics and the need for public engagement.
Motion to Enter Closed Session (01:43:56)
A motion is made and passed to enter a closed session to discuss privileged communication. The roll is called, and all commissioners vote in favor.

A motion is proposed to enter a closed session to discuss attorney-client privileged communication. Commissioner Hess makes the motion, supported by Commissioner Slaby. The clerk calls the roll, and all commissioners vote yes, passing the motion.
Adjournment (01:44:30)
The meeting is adjourned with a closing remark from the mayor expressing affection for the city of Kalamazoo.

The mayor concludes the meeting with an expression of love for Kalamazoo, officially adjourning the session.