Kalamazoo Township - Board of Trustees - November 24, 2025 Board Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

In the Township Board Meeting focusing on non-motorized improvements and zoning updates, the board reviews the completion of non-motorized pathway projects led by Ryan Russell of Prime Newhof. The projects enhanced sidewalk connections, including ADA ramps and pathways to neighborhoods like Grand Prairie. The board considers updating the master plan for future pathways due to increased costs and changing priorities. Additionally, zoning matters are discussed, with emphasis on small lot overlay districts and nonconforming lots to address housing demands. Intergovernmental cooperation with the City of Kalamazoo is explored as a strategy for future projects. The meeting also touches on the use of state funds for road projects and public comments on legal fees and yard waste options.

Chapters

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:07:34)
The meeting was officially called to order and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Trustee Leonard.

The business meeting was called to order with all members present. Trustee Leonard led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Roll Call (00:08:02)
Roll call was conducted, confirming a quorum with all members present.

A roll call was conducted by the Clerk. Present were Treasurer Miller, Trustee Glass, Clerk Mackey, Supervisor Combs, Trustee Leonard, Trustee Robinson, and Trustee Sherwood, thereby establishing a quorum.
Approval of Agenda (00:08:13)
The agenda was reviewed with no additions or deletions, proceeding as planned.

The chair asked if there were any additions or deletions to the agenda. Seeing none, the meeting proceeded with the agenda as presented.
Public Comment Period 1 (00:08:23)
The first public comment period occurred with no comments from attendees in person or on Zoom.

The floor was opened for public comments. Attendees were invited to step to the podium and share their comments, but no one came forward in person or on Zoom.
Consent Agenda Approval (00:08:47)
The consent agenda was approved unanimously as recommended by the superintendent and supervisor.

Clerk Mackey moved to approve the consent agenda as recommended. The motion was supported, and all members voted in favor, with no opposition. The consent agenda was thereby approved.
Public Hearing and Presentation on Non-Motorized Improvements (00:09:07)
Ryan Russell from Prine and New H presented on non-motorized pathway improvements, emphasizing completed projects and future planning.

Ryan Russell from Prine and New H delivered a detailed presentation on the non-motorized pathway projects. He highlighted the completed projects, specifically the sidewalk installations and ADA compliance upgrades. He also discussed the need to update the master plan due to changes in project costs and priorities, suggesting future planning sessions to develop a five-year capital improvement plan.
Questions and Discussion on Non-Motorized Improvements (00:16:14)
Board members engaged in a discussion with Ryan Russell about future planning and funding for non-motorized improvements.

Board members asked Ryan Russell questions regarding the next steps for planning non-motorized improvements. They discussed the possibility of facilitated meetings to develop new plans, the timeline for having a plan ready, and potential funding opportunities from state programs or intergovernmental cooperation.
New Business: Approval of Meeting and Holiday Schedule (00:18:18)
The board approved the meeting and holiday schedule as discussed in the previous work session.

A motion was made to approve the meeting and holiday schedule, reflecting discussions from the last work session. The schedule includes office closures and staff holidays. The board unanimously approved the motion after a brief discussion.
Board Reports (00:21:18)
Board members shared their reports, mostly extending Thanksgiving wishes, with some updates on township matters.

Each board member provided their report. Most members focused on wishing everyone a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Clerk Mackey shared a detailed report on small platted lots and the upcoming public hearing about the small lot overlay district, highlighting the challenges and proposed solutions for non-conforming lots.
Public Comment Period 2 (00:25:00)
The second public comment period included comments on township attorney fees and yard waste options.

During the second public comment period, a resident expressed concern over the high attorney fees for reviewing variances, urging the board to reconsider such costs. Another resident provided information on yard waste disposal options available to township residents and clarified some points from the work session.
Adjournment to Closed Session (00:31:00)
The board moved to a closed session to discuss a written legal opinion with its attorneys.

The board approved a motion to enter a closed session under section 8(1)(h) of the Open Meetings Act to consider a written legal opinion exempt from disclosure. A roll call vote was conducted, and the motion passed unanimously.