Road Commission of Kalamazoo County - January 13, 2026 Board of County Road Commissioners Meeting

Updated 1 day ago

The board discusses the implementation of seasonal weight restrictions to protect roads from damage during thawing periods. County Engineer Ryan Minkus brings a presentation on the impact of frost and thaw cycles on road conditions and the necessity of weight limits to prevent potholes. The board also addresses public concerns about road maintenance and approves the purchase of new wheel loaders to replace aging equipment. The meeting includes updates on road construction projects and plans for future road improvements. The Next Road Commission meeting is Tuesday, January 27th at 3PM

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:27)
The meeting of the Board of County Road Commissioners of Kalamazoo County was called to order.

The meeting of the Board of County Road Commissioners of Kalamazoo County was officially called to order, marking the beginning of the session.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:42)
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those present at the meeting.

Attendees of the meeting recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag, demonstrating their patriotism and unity.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:28)
The meeting agenda was approved with a motion and support from the commissioners.

A motion to approve the meeting agenda was made and supported. There were no objections, and the agenda was approved as presented.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:02:10)
Members of the public were given the opportunity to comment on items not listed on the agenda.

Supervisor Sorenson and Dave Noble provided comments and feedback on road-related issues and plans, including a five-year master plan for roads and issues with road conditions and ownership.
Approval of Minutes (00:05:41)
Minutes from the last meeting were approved following a motion and support by the commissioners.

The minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved. Commissioner Davis made a motion to approve, which was supported, and there were no corrections or objections.
Approval of Payroll and Vendor Accounts (00:07:50)
The payroll and vendor accounts were reviewed and approved as corrected.

The Board reviewed the corrected copies of the payroll and vendor accounts. A motion to approve these financial documents was made and supported, leading to their approval.
Presentation on Weight Restrictions (00:09:27)
A detailed presentation on seasonal weight restrictions and their impact on roads was given.

County Engineer Ryan Mki presented on the importance of seasonal weight restrictions in preserving road infrastructure. The presentation covered how weight restrictions work, how they are enforced, and their benefits in reducing road damage. The session also included a discussion on the enforcement process and common misconceptions about weight restrictions.
Questions on Road Protocols (00:30:14)
Discussion about protocols in place to avoid mistaken identity during vehicle stops.

The meeting discussed the importance of having protocols in place to prevent incidents of mistaken identity during vehicle stops, emphasizing the need to ensure safety and avoid potential misunderstandings between civilians and law enforcement.
All Seasonal Roads Project (00:30:35)
Discussion on converting seasonal roads to all-season roads with state funding assistance.

There was a discussion about the ongoing project of converting seasonal roads into all-season roads. The project is supported by state funds and involves updating maps to reflect current and future planned roads. The process includes monitoring and reviewing roads as they are reconstructed to determine their suitability for all-season use.
Seasonal Weight Restrictions (00:32:19)
Explanation of why some road commissions implement seasonal weight restrictions and others do not.

The discussion explained that road commissions have the discretion to implement seasonal weight restrictions based on regional needs and weather conditions. The law allows for flexibility in applying these restrictions multiple times a year if necessary to protect roads.
New Business: Wheel Loader Purchase (00:33:42)
Approval sought for purchasing two wheel loaders due to their extensive use and wear.

The meeting addressed the need to purchase two new wheel loaders as part of the capital outlay. The current loaders are worn out due to extensive use, especially in harsh conditions like salt exposure and storm cleanup. The purchase would include attachments and is based on favorable experiences with the vendor.
Public Comment (00:41:16)
Opportunity for public comment on non-agenda items was provided.

The board opened the floor for public comments on non-agenda items, but no comments were made by attendees either in person or online.
Managing Director's Time (00:41:38)
The managing director provided updates on career connect participation and upcoming meetings.

The managing director announced participation in a career connect event, where a plow truck demonstration would be conducted. Updates were also provided on upcoming meetings and conferences, including coordination with townships for joint meetings and updates on capital purchases.
Commissioners' Time (00:45:51)
Commissioners shared updates on their activities and community engagement.

Each commissioner shared updates on recent meetings with local townships, community engagements, and upcoming events. They also acknowledged the efforts of road commission staff and discussed topics like veterans' services and public appreciation for road maintenance.
Adjournment (00:52:22)
The meeting was adjourned after all items were discussed.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was unanimously approved by the commissioners, marking the end of the session.